Exclusive Stays – Mainpoint

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to Exclusive Stays – Mainpoint on City Road in Southbank, right after dodging the usual afternoon traffic snarl from the West Gate Bridge – you know, that stretch where everyone’s merging like it’s a game of bumper cars. It’s tucked into this buzzing part of Melbourne, just a stone’s throw from the Yarra River promenade, where joggers and tourists mix it up early mornings. Honestly, my first thought was how unassuming the entrance looked from the street – not flashy like some of the high-rises nearby, but once you step inside, it’s all sleek marble floors and that fresh, citrusy lobby scent that hits you like a welcome hug. Check-in was a breeze; the staff – a mix of locals with those easy Aussie accents – sorted me out in minutes, even throwing in tips on avoiding the crowds at the nearby Crown Casino. I mean, it’s peak season in summer, and Southbank can get packed with festival-goers spilling over from the Arts Centre, but they made it feel personal, like they actually cared if I found a good coffee spot (spoiler: try the little cafe on Sturt Street, it’s a hidden gem for flat whites).

What really sold me on this place, though, was the room – I had one on the higher floors with these massive windows framing the city skyline, the kind where you wake up to the sun glinting off the Eureka Tower and think, “Yeah, this is why I came to Melbourne.” The bed was ridiculously comfy, all plush linens that feel like they’ve been broken in just right, not that stiff hotel stuff you sometimes get. And get this, the kitchenette actually worked – I whipped up a quick brekkie with groceries from the South Melbourne Market, which is only a 10-minute walk away via Clarendon Street. Sure, there’s a bit of street noise if your window’s facing City Road, especially during rush hour (well, Melbourne’s version of it, which isn’t too bad compared to Sydney), but the double glazing keeps most of it out, and honestly, it adds to the urban vibe without being a deal-breaker. The pool area downstairs is a nice touch too – sort of compact, but perfect for a lazy afternoon dip after exploring the NGV gallery nearby. Oh, and parking? They have secure spots underground, which is a lifesaver in this area where street parking’s a nightmare during events like the Australian Open.

All in all, if you’re after a spot that feels like a home base in the heart of Southbank – close enough to tram it to Flinders Street Station in five minutes or wander over to the river for those sunset views – this is it. It’s not perfect; the Wi-Fi can lag a tad during busy evenings, but for a 4-star joint with a 9.3 rating, it punches above its weight. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially in the quieter shoulder seasons like autumn when the leaves turn along the Yarra and everything’s a bit more mellow. If you’re traveling solo or with a partner and want that mix of convenience and comfort without the over-the-top luxury price tag, Exclusive Stays – Mainpoint just nails it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $380. Deluxe Three-Bedroom Two-Bathroom Apartment with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Was good would defiantly stay again – Tim from Australia – 24 March 2025 (8/10)

  What could be improved: some chairs and Table on balcony would have been nice

• Great spot and great communication – Joel from Australia – 10 March 2025 (10/10)

  Great location
  
  What could be improved: Non

• Beautiful views, clean property – Tiana from Australia – 2 March 2025 (10/10)

  Tony was wonderful to deal with to check in, and check out was super easy. The apartment was beautiful and clean with a lovely view.

• We wwere in a rush for an awards night at fed square. Owner was there when he said he'd be there – Anderson from Australia – 25 October 2024 (10/10)

  The host met me at the location promptly very professional

• Pleasant – Alexander from Australia – 12 September 2023 (6/10)

  Host was late, so we were left waiting
  
  What could be improved: I expected larger premises for the price of $1800 plus in that area. I would book into a hotel next time and have three fully functioning separate rooms

• Disgusting & Catfish Property. Unhygenic, dirty and horrible staff. – Christopher from Australia – 13 November 2022 (1/10)

  nothing.
  
  What could be improved: The property was extremely unhygienic. blood stains on bedsheets, mould in the bathroom, holes in the wall which were releasing extremely large amounts of dust particles. The property was filthy and got all my friends sick from the air in the room. after complaining to the owner, we requested a refund. we weren’t sure the exact amount but we knew we spent around $3,000. in total we we were charged $3,500. the owner refused to refund the $500 and messaged us to say that they are refunding us on food will and that the issues found in the property are “not our problem”. Janice; the property manager on the other hand was amazing, helpful and very respectful. she was extremely understanding of the situation and did her very best to help. I would however not recommend this property to anyone. The photos advertised are a cat fish to what’s real life.

• Superb – Filbey from Australia – 16 April 2025 (9/10)

• Exceptional – Stell from Australia – 8 July 2024 (10/10)

• Very good – Sebastian from Australia – 21 May 2023 (8/10)

• Exceptional – Sayed from Australia – 4 March 2023 (10/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities