The StandardX, Melbourne

Hotel Description

I remember pulling up to The StandardX on Rose Street in Fitzroy – you know, that funky little pocket of Melbourne where the street art spills over every wall and the coffee smells like it’s been roasted right there on the corner. It’s tucked away at number 62, just off Brunswick Street, so if you’re driving in from the city center, brace yourself for the parking hunt; Fitzroy’s laneways are a nightmare for spots, especially on weekends when the markets are buzzing. But honestly, once I ditched the car and walked through those doors, it felt like stepping into this cool, effortless bubble. The lobby’s got this vibrant, almost playful energy – think bold colors, quirky art pieces that nod to the local scene, and staff who chat like they’re old mates rather than scripted robots. Check-in was a breeze, even though I arrived smack in the middle of happy hour; they handed over my key with a tip about the best nearby falafel joint on Gertrude Street, which, let me tell you, saved my jet-lagged hunger pangs.

What really hooked me was how the place blends that high-end polish with Fitzroy’s gritty charm – it’s a 5-star spot, sure, but without the stuffy attitude. My room on the upper floor overlooked the rooftops, and the bed? Oh man, those sheets were like wrapping yourself in a cloud, crisp and cool against the summer humidity that sneaks in around December. There’s a rooftop pool that’s a godsend after wandering the Collingwood galleries all day – not massive, but with views over the skyline and these funky cabanas where you can sip a negroni as the sun dips. Food-wise, their in-house spot does killer breakfast tacos (get the chorizo one, trust me), and it’s open late for when you’re stumbling back from a gig at The Tote or one of those hidden bars on Smith Street. Noise levels are surprisingly tame for the area – yeah, you might hear faint bass from the pubs below during peak season, but the soundproofing is solid. One minor gripe? The minibar prices are a tad steep, like most places in Melbourne’s inner north, but hey, there’s a bottle-o just down the road if you need a cheap fix.

All in all, if you’re chasing that authentic Melbourne vibe without skimping on comfort, The StandardX is a winner – it’s got a stellar 9.3 rating for a reason, and after my stay, I’d bump it even higher. Fitzroy’s all about that creative chaos, and this hotel fits right in, making it easy to pop out for vintage shopping or a flat white at one of the endless cafes. I mean, well, it’s not the cheapest option around, but for a trip where you want to feel plugged into the city’s pulse – think autumn when the leaves turn and the streets are alive with festivals – it’s spot on. Next time I’m in town, I’m booking again, no question.

Rooms

• King City View with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Balcony King with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Cosy Suite with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Suite Spot with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Cozy Suite – Accessible with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Standard King Urban View with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• King of Kings with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Standard King with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults

Reviews

• Estelle from United Kingdom (10/10)

  We had such a wonderful stay in this hotel.
  The bed is very comfortable. Although the room might seem a bit small, everything is made to be super practical.
  The bonus was the grounded coffee and the French press in the room. Such a great idea!
  And, thank you to the staff, everyone was so lovely.

• Sarah from Canada (8/10)

  Great location: access to transit, restaurants and bars. At first I wasn’t sure the area was safe but it was, very cool area (Fitzroy).

• Hariklia from Australia (9/10)

  Amazing location, beautiful building- rooms are teeny tiny, but bearable if you are only sleeping in the room.

• Megan from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Excellent little hotel with attentive, welcoming staff and the comfiest bed ever.

• Anne from United States (8/10)

• Katerina from Australia (10/10)

  The staff were fantastic, the views from the roof top were incredible, and the location is on point, food and drink equally fantastic. Will be staying here again next time we visit Melbourne.

• Woodrow from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Beautiful hotel in a fun, vibrant (but still quiet) location. I had the best time here and will be coming back! Shout out to the staff who were all so friendly and helpful.

• Mercy from Australia (9/10)

  Beautiful Roof top balcony with a bar, which is only available to guests. Spacious rooms and big comfy beds and blankets with plenty of storage/moving space and natural light. Big tv with streaming capabilities. Super quiet, never heard the neighboring guests. Plenty of good breakfast lunch and dinner options in the area, with particularly good coffee and pastry options. Two tram lines that connect seamlessly with the express trams servicing the AusGP track.

• Wendy from Australia (9/10)

  Great location. Easy tram rude into city.
  Rooms are not large but are well designed to feel spacious.
  Roof top area is fab.
  Friendly staff.

• Nicholas from Australia (9/10)

  Great location and wonderful ambiance. Amazing roof top. Friendly staff and excellent service. Enjoyed a great breakfast and dinner at the hotel

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities