Best Airbnb in Melbourne: How I Found The Prettiest Airbnb
Finding the best Airbnb in Melbourne can feel overwhelming. But for me, the magic of a trip isn’t found in a generic hotel room; it’s discovered by living like a local, and nothing captures that feeling better than the right home base.
Imagine waking up on a quiet Fitzroy street or sipping coffee on a balcony with Yarra River views. An Airbnb offers a richer connection to the city, giving you a real home base for discovering the charming cafes, bustling markets, and secret laneways.
This guide is your insider’s map. We’ll start with the single prettiest apartment I’ve ever found in the CBD, and then explore how you can find your perfect stay, matching the city’s best neighbourhoods to your unique travel style.
Key Takeaways
- Neighbourhood is Everything: Your experience in Melbourne is defined by where you stay. Choose the CBD for action, Fitzroy for culture, South Yarra for style, and St Kilda for beachside vibes.
- Think Beyond a Generic List: The “best” Airbnb is subjective. The ideal stay for a solo foodie is different from a family’s perfect beach pad. This guide helps you match the property and area to your specific trip.
- Smart Booking is Key: Melbourne is a city of big events. I’ll show you why booking ahead is crucial, how to decode reviews for those hidden gems (and warnings!), and what you need to know about the new 2025 short-stay rules.
- Live Like a Local: For me, the real magic of an Airbnb is stepping into the shoes of a Melburnian. Your chosen spot becomes your launchpad for discovering those charming local cafes, bustling markets, and secret laneways that don’t always make the tourist maps.
My All-Time Favourite: A Review of Melbourne’s Prettiest Airbnb
What made me fall in love with this place wasn’t just a single feature, but the flawless combination of design, comfort, and an unbeatable location. It’s the kind of apartment that makes you want to stay in, even when one of the world’s most exciting cities is waiting outside your door.
The Vibe: Modern, Cozy, and Absolutely Stunning
The moment you walk in, you understand. The apartment looks exactly like the pictures—a rare and wonderful thing. The furnishings are chic and modern without feeling cold, creating a space that is both stylish and genuinely comfortable. From the curated decor to the comfortable living area, it’s a space that feels like it’s been lifted from a boutique design magazine.
Location, Location, Location: The Heart of the CBD
An amazing apartment in a bad location is a missed opportunity. Thankfully, this spot is perfectly situated right around Bourke Street in the CBD. Its location is a masterclass in convenience.
It’s just a 15-minute walk from Southern Cross Station, the main hub where the Skybus from Melbourne Airport drops you off. This makes your arrival and departure completely seamless. More importantly, you are immersed in Melbourne’s world-famous cafe culture.
Legendary spots like Dukes Coffee Roaster and the iconic laneway cafe Manchester Press are just a short stroll away. Grabbing one of their amazing flat whites is a daily ritual you’ll quickly adopt.
How to Find This Specific Apartment
The original listing was titled Designer Melbourne CBD Apartment. Because listing names can change, the best way to find it (or one just like it) is to become a detective:
- Search with Keywords: On the Airbnb site, search for Designer Apartment Bourke Street CBD.
- Use the Map View: Zoom in on the area between Southern Cross Station and the main Bourke Street Mall.
- Look for the Visuals: Scan the listings for photos showing modern, high-end furnishings and read reviews for mentions of great style and location.
I’ve made it easy for you. You can start your search with the right keywords already plugged in by clicking the link below.
–> Search for a Designer CBD Apartment on Airbnb
Why It’s Still My Top Recommendation for 2025
This apartment isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s a launchpad. You have the city’s best attractions, shopping, and dining at your fingertips. After a day of exploring, you get to return to a quiet, beautiful space that feels like your own.
For anyone planning a trip to Melbourne, I cannot recommend it highly enough. It delivers everything you could want for a stylish, cozy, and perfectly central stay.
Melbourne’s Best Neighbourhoods & the Airbnbs to Match
While that designer CBD apartment is my top pick, it gets booked fast. Here’s how to find an incredible alternative by matching the perfect neighbourhood with the right type of stay.
The CBD: For Unbeatable Convenience & Epic Views
- The Vibe: Bustling, energetic, and always on. The CBD is the epicentre of Melbourne’s action, putting you steps from iconic laneways, major transport hubs, and world-class restaurants. It’s the ultimate convenience, especially for short trips.
- The Airbnb to Book: Look for a Designer High-Rise Apartment. The best ones feel like a boutique hotel suite and often come with amenities like a pool, gym, and sweeping views from the 20th floor or higher.
- Perfect for: First-time visitors, business travellers, and those who want a short walk home after a night out.
Fitzroy & Collingwood: For Authentic Local Charm
- The Vibe: Bohemian, edgy, and effortlessly cool. This is the heart of Melbourne’s creative soul, famous for its vibrant street art, live music, and endless vintage shops along Brunswick and Smith Streets.
- The Airbnb to Book: Seek out a Charming Terrace House or a Unique Warehouse Conversion. These historic homes offer character, comfort, and a direct connection to the local streetscape that is quintessentially Melbourne.
- Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, and culture vultures looking for a genuine local feel.
South Yarra & Prahran: For Fashion-Forward Style
- The Vibe: Posh, fashionable, and luxurious. Centred around the famous Chapel Street, this area is polished and sophisticated, home to designer boutiques, chic cafes, and acclaimed restaurants.
- The Airbnb to Book: A Chic and Stylish Studio. Perfect for a solo traveler or a couple, these places prioritize style and location over sheer size, placing you in the heart of the action.
- Perfect for: Couples and solo travelers who love fashion, food, and a luxurious atmosphere.
St Kilda: For Seaside Fun and Relaxation
- The Vibe: Eclectic, relaxed, and fun-loving. St Kilda offers a unique combination of beachside energy and bohemian spirit, with its iconic Luna Park and cake shops on Acland Street.
- The Airbnb to Book: A Family-Friendly Pad or Art Deco Apartment. Look for spacious homes with multiple bedrooms or breezy studios. Being able to walk to the beach and local parks is a massive advantage.
- Perfect for: Families and groups wanting to combine city exploration with beach time.
Southbank: For Arts, Culture, and River Views
- The Vibe: Modern, scenic, and cultural. Southbank is Melbourne’s premier arts precinct, home to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and Arts Centre Melbourne. The riverside promenade is lined with restaurants offering stunning city skyline views.
- The Airbnb to Book: A Modern Apartment with a Balcony. Prioritize properties overlooking the Yarra River or the city.
- Perfect for: Theatre-goers, art aficionados, and anyone who appreciates a good view.
My Pro Tips for Booking the Best Airbnb in Melbourne
Navigating the Airbnb booking process like a seasoned local can elevate your trip from good to great.
Know the 2025 Regulations
As of January 1, 2025, the Victorian Government introduced a 7.5% levy on all short-stay accommodation. This is automatically included in the final price on Airbnb. It’s now more important than ever to book with experienced hosts who have a long, positive review history. For official information, check resources like Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Book Well in Advance (Especially During Major Events)
Melbourne hosts huge events like the Australian Open and the Formula 1 Grand Prix. During these peak times, the best places disappear months in advance. For the best selection and prices, book your Airbnb at least three to six months ahead.
Become a Review Detective
Don’t just glance at the star rating. Look for specific comments on:
- Noise Levels: Is the apartment above a lively bar or on a noisy tram route?
- Host Communication: Is the host consistently praised for being responsive and helpful?
- Comfort Essentials: Reviewers will often mention bed comfort, water pressure, and whether the heating/air conditioning is effective—crucial for Melbourne’s variable weather.
Frequently Asked Questions about Melbourne Airbnbs
What is the best area of Melbourne to stay in?
For first-time visitors wanting to be central, the CBD is most convenient. For a more local, cultural, and “cool” vibe, I always recommend Fitzroy. South Yarra is great for fashion, while St Kilda is perfect for beach access.
Is it better to stay in Melbourne CBD or Southbank?
Choose the CBD to be in the thick of the shopping and laneway buzz. Choose Southbank for its arts precinct, modern feel, and stunning riverside restaurants with city views.
Is Airbnb legal in Melbourne?
Yes, Airbnb is legal in Melbourne. However, be aware of the 7.5% levy introduced in 2025. Always book with experienced hosts who have well-established listings and consistently positive reviews.
How much does an Airbnb typically cost per night in Melbourne?
Prices vary hugely. A private room might be $80-$150 AUD. A well-located one-bedroom apartment in the CBD or Fitzroy could range from $180-$350 AUD. You can find cheap Airbnb Melbourne options by looking at suburbs slightly further out or booking well in advance.
Are there any hidden costs for Airbnb in Melbourne?
- Service & Cleaning Fees: Typically 10–15% of base rate plus a flat cleaning fee of AUD 50–100.
- Extra Guest Fees: AUD 20–30 per additional guest per night.
- Possible Council Levies: During major festivals, some council areas may add short-term rental levies—always check with the host.
Can I find cheap Airbnbs near Melbourne Airport?
While direct airport listings are rare, suburbs along the SkyBus route—such as Footscray or Ascot Vale—offer cheaper nightly rates (AUD 100–130) and a 15–20 minute SkyBus or train ride to Tullamarine Airport. However, these areas trade centrality for cost savings.
Are Airbnbs in Melbourne safe for solo travelers?
- CBD & Southbank are well-lit, patrolled by police, and busy late into the evening—safe for solo guests.
In neighborhoods like Fitzroy and South Yarra, stick to well-reviewed listings and avoid dimly lit laneways after dark. - Always read recent guest reviews for any safety concerns (locking doors, secure access).
Final Takeaway
The best Airbnb in Melbourne isn’t a specific listing. It’s the one that perfectly complements the kind of Melbourne experience you want to have. It’s that apartment that makes you feel instantly connected to the city’s vibrant pulse or the quiet, charming house that becomes your personal sanctuary.
I’ve stayed in more Airbnbs than I can count, but this one?
Still the prettiest. Still my favorite. And yes, I’d book it again tomorrow.
Ready to start your own Melbourne Airbnb adventure? You can begin exploring the possibilities on the official Airbnb Melbourne, Australia website.
If you found this guide helpful, I’d love it if you shared it with fellow travel enthusiasts!
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