Exclusive Stays – Gallery Tower

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to Exclusive Stays – Gallery Tower on City Road in Southbank, right after dodging the usual afternoon traffic snarl from the CBD – you know, that bottleneck where Flinders Street feeds into everything. It’s tucked away just a stone’s throw from the Yarra River, so if you’re coming from the airport, it’s an easy 30-minute drive, but honestly, grab a tram from Southern Cross Station if you want to skip the parking hassle; spots here are limited and can get pricey during peak times like the Australian Open in January. I arrived around dusk, and the lobby had this sleek, modern vibe with those massive floor-to-ceiling windows letting in the city lights – sort of like stepping into an art gallery, which makes sense given the name. Check-in was a breeze; the staff were chatty Aussies who actually asked about my flight instead of just handing over a keycard, and they tipped me off about the best nearby coffee spot on Clarendon Street (pro tip: avoid the tourist traps by the river and head there for a proper flat white).

What really sold me on the place was how it balances that upscale feel without being stuffy – it’s a solid 4-star setup with an 8.3 rating that feels earned, you know? My room on the higher floors overlooked the Southbank promenade, and waking up to the hum of joggers and the faint smell of eucalyptus from the nearby parks was a nice touch, especially after a long day exploring. The beds are comfy, with those plush pillows that actually support your neck (I mean, I’ve stayed in fancier spots where they skimp on that), and the kitchenette came in handy for whipping up brekkie – though the microwave was a bit finicky, nothing a quick call to reception couldn’t sort. There’s a rooftop pool that’s blissfully quiet in the evenings, away from the Crown Casino crowds just down the road, but fair warning, it can get noisy on weekends when the bars along the river kick off. I wandered out one night and ended up at the Arts Centre for a show – it’s literally a five-minute walk, which is gold if you’re into Melbourne’s cultural scene. Oh, and the Wi-Fi is reliable, not that spotty nonsense you get in some older hotels around here.

All in all, if you’re visiting Melbourne and want somewhere that feels like a home base without the backpacker chaos of hostels or the over-the-top luxury prices of the CBD high-rises, this is your spot. It’s perfect for couples or small families – well, maybe not if you’ve got toddlers, as the elevators can be slow during rush hour – but for anyone chasing that mix of city buzz and riverside chill, it delivers. I’ve recommended it to friends heading down for the Grand Prix, and they loved how it’s close enough to Federation Square for easy day trips but far enough from the tram bells to actually sleep. At the end of the day, it’s those little authentic Melbourne moments, like grabbing gelato from a vendor on the promenade after dark, that make staying here worthwhile.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $324. Deluxe Two-Bedroom Two-Bathroom Apartment with 2 × 2 single beds, 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• It had everything we needed & was enjoyable – Hocking from Australia – 4 July 2025 (8/10)

  The security of the whole process from entering into the carpark to the doors on the apartment.
  
  What could be improved: The fridge had water leaking out of it.

• Very good – Paul from Australia – 9 June 2025 (8/10)

  Location was excellent, close to public transport and easy access to most of what Melb has to offer, including the arts, sporting
  and shopping precinct's.
  Very family friendly with great amenities.
  Kids loved the pool!
  Thanks for a great stay:)
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Whirlwind trip and perfect location for our brief stay – Cathrine from Australia – 16 March 2025 (8/10)

  Location, pool, gym

• Welcoming stay. Spacious. Fantastic views. – Nicole from Australia – 10 March 2025 (8/10)

  Amazing location
  
  What could be improved: Toilet needed repair

• Superb – Daniel from Australia – 10 January 2025 (9/10)

  Outstanding location and parking was great. Near good cafes, Southbank and plenty of areas to walk. This was great value for money and Alric who checked us in was early which helped us greatly inn37 degree heat

• extra charges apply – Lewis from Australia – 21 October 2024 (8/10)

  was a good place,none too different from what the photos show. Janice was very nice at check in. Our family all enjoyed staying there and kids loved the pool,spa and sauna🙂
  
  What could be improved: didn't like having an extra $500 bond thrown onto the price after I had paid for our trip 2 weeks in advance when the website states if you pay now you'll pay$0 upon check in! after you pay for your non refundable stay they slap another charge on top and it's too late to back out at that stage or they just keep your money. I feel as though this is deliberately dishonest

• We enjoyed the stay and was easy to access everything – Sell from Australia – 29 July 2024 (8/10)

  Location

• Unfortunately only had 1 night there. Would have loved to stay longer. Would recommend to anyone. – Christine from Australia – 26 August 2023 (9/10)

  Location was great. Tony the host was very helpful explaining everything to us and helping us find our way to a local theatre. Had to call him later for further directions and again told us where we needed to go. Thanks Tony.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Great 2bd Southbank accommodation with parking included. – Kristy from Australia – 10 June 2025 (8/10)

  Easy to access apartment in a great location close enough to walk to CBD. Great bedding configuration options – able to choose King/Twin beds for both rooms. Friendly and helpful staff. Parking included is great for regional visitors!
  
  What could be improved: $500 damage deposit required prior to stay.

• Superb – Brev from Australia – 11 April 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, walking to distance to everything in Melbourne! Close to lots of good eateries
  would book again

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities