Mr Gipps by Property Mums

I remember pulling up to Mr Gipps by Property Mums on a drizzly afternoon last spring – you know, one of those Melbourne days where the sky can’t make up its mind. It’s tucked away in that postcode 3067 area, right on the edge of Collingwood and Fitzroy, just a stone’s throw from Brunswick Street with all its funky cafes and street art. Honestly, if you’re not used to inner-city parking, it can be a bit of a hassle – I circled the block twice before snagging a spot on a side street off Smith Street, but hey, that’s Melbourne for you. The check-in was smooth, though; the staff – a couple of friendly Property Mums folks – handed over the keys with a quick chat about the best local brekkies, like that hole-in-the-wall spot on Gertrude Street where the coffee smells like heaven and the avo toast is worth the hype. Walking in, the place has this converted warehouse vibe, sort of industrial chic with exposed bricks and big windows that let in that soft, filtered light – not too flashy, but it feels authentic, like it’s part of the neighborhood rather than some sterile chain.

What really stuck with me was how the rooms balance comfort with that lived-in feel – mine was on the upper floor, overlooking a quiet laneway where you could hear the distant rumble of trams on Victoria Street in the mornings. The bed was plush, with those crisp white sheets that crinkle just right, and there’s a little kitchenette that’s a lifesaver if you’re staying more than a night (I whipped up a quick pasta using stuff from the nearby Coles on Smith). It’s rated a solid 8, and yeah, I get why – the Wi-Fi’s reliable for streaming, the bathroom’s got decent water pressure and those eco-friendly toiletries that don’t smell like chemicals, but honestly, the rooms aren’t massive, so if you’re traveling with a ton of luggage, it might feel snug. Still, it’s got that four-star polish without trying too hard; there’s a communal lounge downstairs with comfy couches and free herbal teas – I spent an evening there chatting with other guests about the best spots for live music on Johnston Street. And noise-wise, it’s pretty chill during the week, but come Friday nights, you might catch the buzz from nearby bars filtering in – nothing earplugs can’t handle, though, especially if you’re out exploring anyway.

Look, if you’re heading to Melbourne and want to skip the tourist traps in the CBD, Mr Gipps is a smart pick – it’s close enough to walk to the Yarra River trails for a morning jog or hop on the 86 tram to zip into the city center in under 10 minutes. I mean, during footy season at the MCG (which is just a quick Uber away), this spot gets booked up fast, so plan ahead. Sure, it’s not perfect – the elevator’s a tad slow, and breakfast isn’t included (but who needs it with all the eateries around?) – but for the price and that genuine Fitzroy energy, it’s worth it. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for a weekend getaway where you can wander the markets on weekends and feel like a local. If you’re after a place that blends comfort with the city’s creative pulse, this one’s a gem.

To book hotel in Melbourne for laneway art tours, travelers grab rooms early to pair coffee crawls with gallery nights in Fitzroy.