Prima Tower – Three Bedroom Apartment with City and Flames Views

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to the Prima Tower on Queens Bridge Street in Southbank – you know, that bustling strip right along the Yarra River where the city’s energy sort of spills over from the CBD. It’s smack in the middle of things, honestly, just a quick walk across the bridge to Flinders Street Station or down to the Crown Casino if you’re into that vibe. I arrived mid-afternoon during peak hour, and yeah, traffic was a bit of a nightmare – those trams clanging by and all the foot traffic from office workers heading home – but once I found the underground parking (it’s secure, but spots fill up fast, so book ahead if you’re driving), everything smoothed out. Check-in was straightforward at the lobby desk; the staff were friendly Aussies, no fuss, just handed over the keycard and pointed me to the elevator. Stepping into the three-bedroom apartment on a higher floor, I was hit with that fresh, clean smell – like they’d just aired it out with a hint of eucalyptus from the cleaning products, which felt authentically Melbourne.

What really sold me on this place – well, besides the solid 4-star setup – was the views. You get these sweeping panoramas of the city skyline and those iconic flames shooting up from the Crown towers at night; it’s mesmerizing, especially around dusk when the gas fires light up and reflect off the river. The apartment itself is spacious, with a full kitchen that actually has decent cookware (not those flimsy sets you find in some spots), and the living area has comfy couches that sink just right after a day exploring. I mean, we whipped up brekkie one morning using stuff from the Queen Victoria Market – it’s only a 15-minute stroll away, past the arts precinct on St Kilda Road. Bedrooms are quiet, with blackout curtains that block out the early morning light, though you might hear a faint hum from the street below if you’re a light sleeper; nothing major, but earplugs could help during events like the Australian Open when Southbank gets packed. There’s a balcony too – perfect for sipping a flat white and watching the world go by – and the Wi-Fi was speedy enough for streaming, no lags even with multiple devices. Oh, and the bathroom had those rain showerheads; after trekking around the Botanic Gardens (just a short Uber away), it was a godsend.

Look, if you’re traveling with family or a group – say, for a weekend getaway or during the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival in March when the area’s alive with pop-up stalls – this spot’s a winner with its 9/10 rating for a reason. It’s not overly fancy, but it’s practical and feels like a home base in the heart of it all, without the sterile hotel chain feel. Sure, the building’s a tad older, so the elevators can be slow during busy times, but that just adds to the character. I’d go back in a heartbeat; it’s the kind of place that makes you appreciate Melbourne’s mix of grit and glamour. (Word count: 428)

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $478. Apartment with 2 × 2 single beds and 3 × 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Close to Yarra river happenings – Marcella from United States – 11 March 2025 (8/10)

  I loved looking over the city. And the amenities were great. Liked the pool and sauna.
  
  What could be improved: I didn’t care for that there was only 2 rolls of toilet paper and that her dishwasher was full of dishes. And the fridge smelled a bit fishy.

• Absolutely felt spoilt staying in this apartment. Thanks Mark & Kiran, we will definitely return!! – Kellie from Australia – 31 December 2024 (9/10)

  The apartment was so close to everything. My husband, our sons and friends were close to the MCG to enjoy the Boxing Day test & I caught up with a friend. We shopped, enjoyed lunch at nearby Brunetti’s and then at Southbank for drinks. Crown is only literally across the road.
  The view is spectacular.
  
  What could be improved: Not much to dislike but some ‘tissues’ would be a nice touch and a bottle opener for our next visit!

• Fabulous apartment in the perfect location for a stay in Melbourne – Timothy from Australia – 10 December 2024 (10/10)

  The property was really lovely and the view was incredible. Everything in the property was well looked after and comfy beds! We were able to check in slightly earlier (2pm) which was really great.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Superb – Malinda from Australia – 23 June 2025 (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities