Punthill Apartment Hotel – Manhattan

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to Punthill Apartment Hotel – Manhattan on Flinders Lane last summer – you know, that narrow stretch right in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD where the laneways twist like some urban maze. It’s tucked away at 57 Flinders Lane, and honestly, if you’re driving in from the airport, good luck with the parking; the spots around here are a nightmare during peak hours, what with all the one-way streets and trams clanging by on Collins Street just a block over. But once I ditched the car at a nearby multi-story (pro tip: aim for the one on Little Collins, it’s cheaper than the rip-off lots closer to Fed Square), checking in was a breeze. The lobby’s got this modern, no-fuss vibe – think exposed brick walls that nod to the old warehouse feel of the area, and a front desk staff who actually know their stuff, like recommending the best coffee spot in Degraves Street alleyway, which is literally a two-minute stroll away. I mean, Melbourne’s all about those hidden cafes, right? And stepping out, you’re hit with that mix of espresso smells wafting from nearby roasteries and the distant hum of the Yarra River crowds – it’s lively, but not overwhelmingly chaotic, especially if you time your visit for shoulder season in autumn when the tourists thin out.

What really sold me on this place – well, it’s an apartment hotel, so the rooms aren’t your standard cramped hotel boxes. I stayed in one of the one-bedroom setups on the upper floors, and it felt more like crashing at a mate’s city pad than some sterile suite. There’s a full kitchenette with a proper stove and fridge (stocked up on fresh produce from Queen Vic Market, which is a quick tram ride away on the 19 line), and the bed was comfy enough – firm mattress, clean sheets that didn’t have that weird hotel starchiness. The bathroom’s got decent water pressure, though the shower could use a bit more space if you’re tall like me; I kept bumping my elbows, you know? Noise-wise, Flinders Lane can get a tad rowdy on Friday nights with the bar hoppers spilling out from spots like Hosier Lane’s street art scene – earplugs helped, but it’s part of the charm if you’re into that inner-city buzz. Oh, and the Wi-Fi’s solid for streaming, which was a lifesaver during a rainy afternoon when I bailed on exploring and just chilled with some Netflix. It’s rated about 7.6, which feels spot-on – not luxury-level polished, but practical and well-maintained for a 4-star joint. I even caught a glimpse of the rooftop terrace (sort of hidden, ask at reception), perfect for a sunset beer overlooking the skyline.

All in all, if you’re heading to Melbourne and want something that feels authentic without breaking the bank – especially for longer stays where you can cook your own brekkie instead of shelling out for overpriced hotel buffets – Punthill’s a solid pick. It’s right in the mix of things, steps from the NGV art gallery or a wander down to Southbank for dinner, but with enough apartment perks to make you feel settled. Sure, it could do with updating the decor in spots (those curtains have seen better days), but honestly, for the price and location, I’d book it again in a heartbeat. Just pack light – the elevators are on the smaller side – and embrace the laneway life; it’s what makes Melbourne tick.

Rooms

• Superior One Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Two Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed and 2 × 2 single beds for 4 adults, 1 child
• Three Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed and 4 × 2 single beds for 6 adults, 1 child
• One Bedroom Apartment – Stair Access with 2 × 1 double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Superior Two bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed, 2 × 2 single beds, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 5 adults, 1 child

Reviews

• Melissa from Australia (8/10)

  We were not offered breakfast
  Close to facilities

• Dannielle from Australia (7/10)

  Location

• Blake from Australia (7/10)

  Apartment itself was really nice and in an ideal spot for concerts or close to the city

• Anthony from Australia (8/10)

  Great location. 3 bedrooms. Space for six. Spotlessly clean. Comfortable beds and bedding

• Heather from Australia (9/10)

  Apartment was very spacious and clean. Good location in central Melbourne.

• Penny from Australia (8/10)

• Belinda from Australia (7/10)

  Location was fantastic as we were in Melbourne for the Moomba festival

• Elizabeth from Australia (7/10)

  Nice and close to where we needed to go

• Lynn from Australia (8/10)

  Location and size of apartment.

• Sarah from Australia (7/10)

  Relaxed environment

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities