Exclusive Stays – The Centurion

Exclusive Stays – The Centurion Overview

I remember pulling up to Exclusive Stays – The Centurion on Whiteman Street 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 stone’s throw from the Yarra River but tucked away enough to dodge the worst of the tourist chaos. It’s at 83 Whiteman, right across from the Crown Casino complex, so if you’re into a bit of nightlife or grabbing a quick bite at Nobu without much hassle, this spot’s a winner. I arrived around dusk during peak summer season – think December vibes, when Melbourne’s all buzzing with events – and check-in was a breeze, even though the lobby gets a tad crowded with folks spilling over from the casino. The staff were super friendly, chatting about the best tram routes to the CBD (hop on the 109 from Clarendon Street, it’ll save you a walk), and they sorted my parking in their underground lot without any fuss – though fair warning, it can fill up fast on weekends, so book ahead if you’re driving.

What really sold me on the place was the rooms – mine was this spacious one-bedroom suite on the higher floors, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river and that glittering skyline. You wake up to the soft hum of the city below, maybe a faint whiff of coffee from the promenade cafes drifting up, and the bed? Oh man, it’s one of those plush setups where you sink in and forget about jet lag. I mean, it’s not ultra-luxury like some five-star joints, but for a solid four-star rating of 8.6, it punches above its weight – the kitchenette came stocked with decent appliances, perfect for whipping up brekkie if you don’t fancy the overpriced room service. There’s a gym and pool downstairs too, nothing flashy, but clean and quiet in the mornings before the families hit it. One minor gripe: the Wi-Fi can be spotty during busy times, like when everyone’s streaming after a long day at the Australian Open (it’s super close to Rod Laver Arena, by the way – walking distance if you’re into tennis). But overall, it felt authentic to Melbourne’s vibe – that mix of urban energy and laid-back charm, with the occasional tram bell clanging in the distance and the texture of those crisp linen sheets making you linger.

Look, if you’re planning a trip to Melbourne and want somewhere that feels connected without being overwhelming, The Centurion’s your bet – especially in the shoulder seasons like spring or autumn, when Southbank’s promenade is alive with street performers but not packed to the gills. I’ve stayed in fancier spots, but this one left me with that warm, “I’d come back” feeling, you know? It’s practical for explorers – easy access to the NGV art gallery or a riverside stroll to Federation Square – and at the end of the day, it’s the little things, like the fresh towels that smell faintly of eucalyptus or the balcony where you can sip a flat white while watching the world go by, that make it memorable. Just don’t expect total silence at night if there’s a big event on; otherwise, it’s a solid choice for couples or solo travelers who appreciate value with a view.

Facilities