Prestigious lV59 1BR Apt City Center free parking#WSP59

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to the Prestigious lV59 on Spencer Street – you know, that stretch right near Southern Cross Station where the trams rattle by every few minutes and the air smells like fresh coffee from those little cafes tucked under the overpasses. It’s smack in the middle of Melbourne’s CBD, but honestly, finding free parking in this part of town feels like winning the lottery, especially if you’re driving in from the airport or out to the Yarra Valley for a day trip. I mean, I parked right there without circling for ages like you do in busier spots near Flinders Street. Check-in was a breeze – no stuffy lobby, just a quick code entry that made it feel more like arriving at a mate’s place than a hotel. The building’s got that modern edge, with sleek lines and big windows, but it’s not flashy; it’s practical, which suits Melbourne’s vibe, you know? And at night, when the city’s lights kick in, you can hear the faint hum of the city without it being overwhelming – well, unless there’s an event at Marvel Stadium down the road, then it gets a bit lively.

Stepping inside the one-bedroom apartment, it hit me how spacious it was for a city-center spot – none of that cramped hotel room nonsense. The kitchen had everything: a proper oven, dishwasher, even those little touches like fresh pods for the coffee machine that made mornings smell like a proper brew, not some watered-down lobby stuff. I actually cooked up a quick pasta one night using veggies from the Queen Victoria Market, which is just a 10-minute walk up Elizabeth Street – pro tip, go early on weekends to beat the crowds. The bed was comfy as anything, king-sized with those crisp sheets that don’t wrinkle, and the bathroom? Spotless, with a rain shower that washes away the day’s grime from wandering around Docklands or catching a tram to Southbank for dinner. It’s rated 9.5 for a reason – everything’s clean, modern, and functional, though I will say the Wi-Fi dipped a tad during peak hours (sort of expected in a busy area like this). But hey, with the free parking and that balcony view overlooking Spencer Street’s bustle – you can spot the old warehouses turned trendy bars – it felt like a home base rather than just a crash pad. Oh, and if you’re here in summer, the air con is a lifesaver; it hums quietly without that annoying rattle some places have.

Look, if you’re traveling solo or as a couple and want something more than a sterile hotel room without breaking the bank, this place is gold. It’s got that authentic Melbourne feel – close enough to hop on a tram to the laneways for street art or coffee at Degraves Street, but tucked away so you can unwind. Sure, Spencer Street can get noisy with traffic during rush hour, but the double-glazed windows keep most of it out, and honestly, that’s part of the charm of staying central. I’ve stayed in fancier spots, but this one’s got heart; it’s the kind of place where you linger over breakfast instead of rushing out. If you’re planning a trip, book it – especially off-season when the city’s quieter and you can really soak it in. You won’t regret it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $140. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Brilliant for one night or many – Cesare from Australia – 23 March 2024 (9/10)

  Check in/check out was convoluted and did not involve a human, but the instructions were clear, detailed and 100% correct. Location just a few metres from Spencer street trams, shops, and Southern Cross Station was excellent. The apartment was pretty clean and very spacious. It is very new and well equipped, although some teaspoons [none provided!], an egg flipper and a pair of tongs would make it perfect. The TV worked well, the couch was comfy, the bed was great as were the pillows and the washer/dryer (with included laundry powder – thank you!) worked like a charm. The included car park was a definite plus.
  
  What could be improved: The aforementioned lack of tea spoons! Also, at times there was an unpleasant stale sewage like odour from the bathroom which we could not pinpoint. With the car park, drive slowly and carefully otherwise it's easy to miss the allocated spot. Also, take great care as the car park also seems to be used as a racetrack by some guests/owners.

• Exceptional – Lauren from Australia – 23 May 2024 (10/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities