Exclusive Stays – Gallery Penthouse

I remember pulling up to the Exclusive Stays – Gallery Penthouse on City Road in Southbank, and honestly, it felt like I’d stumbled into one of those hidden gems that locals whisper about – you know, the kind that’s just a quick stroll from the Yarra River but tucked away enough to dodge the worst of the tourist bustle. It’s right there at 33 City Road, smack in the middle of that vibrant strip where the artsy vibe meets the high-rises, and let me tell you, arriving after a long flight from Sydney was a relief. The check-in was pretty straightforward, though a bit self-service with a key code system – I mean, no front desk drama, which is great if you’re jet-lagged and just want to crash, but it did take a minute to figure out on my phone. Once inside, though, wow. This place is a proper penthouse, all sleek and modern with these massive windows that frame the city skyline like it’s your personal art installation. (Hence the “Gallery” name, I suppose – there were even some abstract prints on the walls that made me feel like I was staying in a mini NGV exhibit.) The living area had this plush sectional sofa that begged for lounging, and the kitchen? Fully stocked with decent appliances – I whipped up a quick brekkie using stuff from the nearby South Melbourne Market, which is only a 10-minute walk if you cut through the promenade.

What really sold me on this spot was how it balances that urban buzz with actual comfort, especially for a 4-star setup with an 8.5 rating that feels earned. Southbank can get noisy during peak times – think weekends when everyone’s flooding Crown Casino or catching shows at the Arts Centre, both literally steps away – but up in the penthouse, it’s surprisingly quiet, with double-glazed windows that muffle the tram clangs from Clarendon Street below. I spent one evening on the balcony sipping a local pinot (picked up from a bottle shop on Queensbridge), watching the sun dip behind the Bolte Bridge, and it was pure magic – that golden-hour glow over the water, mixed with the faint hum of the city, you know? The bedrooms are spacious, with king beds that are comfy enough to rival pricier spots, though the bathroom could use a tad more counter space for all your toiletries (a minor gripe, but hey, who hasn’t dealt with that?). Parking’s a bit of a hassle if you’re driving – street spots are competitive, so I’d recommend the secure underground option they offer for an extra fee, or just hop on the free City Circle tram that’s right around the corner for getting to Flinders Street or the CBD.

All in all, if you’re hitting Melbourne for a mix of culture and convenience – say, exploring the laneways or catching a footy game at the MCG (a short uber away) – this penthouse is a solid pick. It’s not over-the-top luxurious, but it’s got that authentic Southbank charm that makes you feel like you’re living the local life, not just visiting. Well worth it for couples or small groups, especially in the shoulder seasons like spring when the crowds thin out and you can snag those river views without the summer heatwave. I’d go back in a heartbeat – actually, I already have plans to.