Novotel Melbourne Preston

Hotel Description

You know, I pulled up to the Novotel Melbourne Preston on a drizzly afternoon last spring, right there on Bell Street in Preston – that stretch where the traffic hums along like it’s got somewhere important to be, but not in a chaotic way, more like the steady pulse of Melbourne’s northern suburbs. I mean, if you’re coming from the airport, it’s an easy 20-minute drive up the Tullamarine, dodging the usual peak-hour crawl, and honestly, finding parking was a breeze – they’ve got this undercover spot that saved me from the rain. Check-in was smooth, the staff were chatty without being over-the-top, and they even tipped me off about the best time to hit the nearby Preston Market for fresh baklava (Saturdays before 10am, if you want the good stuff). My room on the fourth floor overlooked the street, but the double-glazed windows kept the noise down to a low murmur – you could hear the occasional tram rattling by on High Street, but it was kind of comforting, like the city’s heartbeat without the full roar.

What really stuck with me was how the place balances that chain-hotel reliability with some genuine local flavor. The rooms are spacious, with those plush beds that make you sink in after a long day exploring – I crashed hard after wandering over to Thornbury for coffee at one of those hole-in-the-wall spots on St Georges Road. There’s a decent gym and pool downstairs (heated, thank goodness, because Melbourne weather can turn on a dime), and the on-site restaurant does a solid brekkie buffet – think fresh croissants that actually taste like they’re from a bakery, not some factory line, plus avocado toast with a twist of native lemon myrtle. Oh, and if you’re into craft beer, it’s a short walk to the Moon Dog Brewery in Abbotsford – I popped over one evening and it was buzzing, but the hotel’s bar held its own with local taps. That said, the Wi-Fi could be spotty in the evenings when everyone’s streaming – nothing major, but pack a book just in case. The whole vibe feels modern without trying too hard, you know? Clean lines, soft lighting, and that faint eucalyptus scent in the lobby from their diffusers – subtle, but it reminds you you’re in Australia.

All in all, if you’re looking for a base that’s not smack in the CBD chaos but close enough for a quick 15-minute tram ride down to Federation Square, this Novotel’s a smart pick. It’s got that 4.5-star polish with an 8.3 rating that feels earned, especially for families or business travelers who want value without the fuss. I stayed during the quieter shoulder season in April, when rates dip and the place isn’t overrun, but I’d bet it’s lively come summer with events at the nearby Darebin Arts Centre. Well, minor gripe: the coffee in the room pods isn’t amazing, so head to the cafe strip on Plenty Road instead. But honestly, for the comfort, the location’s underrated perks – like being near authentic Vietnamese eats in Springvale if you drive south – and that easygoing Melbourne charm, I’d book it again in a heartbeat. It’s the kind of spot that makes you feel like you’ve got the city figured out, without even trying.

Rooms

• Studio Apartment with Queen Bed with 2 × 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Studio with Kitchenette with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Deluxe Double Room with Two Double Beds with 2 double beds for 4 adults, 1 child
• Standard Double Room with 1 double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Deluxe King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Superior King Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Deluxe Queen Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Superior Queen Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Executive Suite with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Deluxe Suite with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Superior Twin Room with 2 single beds for 2 adults, 1 child

Reviews

• Kathryn from New Zealand (9/10)

  Perfectly located for what I wanted. Room was great and enjoyed using the gym.

• Anthony from Australia (8/10)

  Friendly staff, the restaurant had some good food.

• Sofia from Australia (8/10)

  Good location and not too far from the CBD. The room was clean, spacious and had a large TV. Easy check-in & check out process.

• Trevor from Australia (9/10)

  Extremely clean comfortable bed. Staff were A1.

• Eva from Australia (9/10)

  Staff was very friendly

• Jeffrey from Australia (8/10)

  Very comfortable and Clean room and cleaning staff maintained the standard during our stay. Quiet ambience.

• Trudy from Australia (8/10)

  Very clean and modern.

• Adrienne from Australia (8/10)

  Check in fast and easy. Standard double room was very spacious and well appointed. Room and bathroom was very clean.
  Secure underground parking.
  Stampton restaurant food was very nice and well priced.
  Cafe in reception area, good coffee and lovely danishes.
  Good location, direct route from airport.

• Vanessa from Australia (8/10)

  Room upgrade. Cleanliness and helpful staff

• Raymond from Australia (8/10)

  Great bed , Very quiet

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities