While we love to visit buzzy Sydney and the beaches of Perth, there’s a special place in our heart for Melbs. The cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne is a city best known for its rich arts, music, and theatre offerings, hidden laneways, world-class coffee and brunches, and of course, its love of sports. But it also houses a collection of charming hotels. One case in point? QT Melbourne, a popular hotel in the heart of the CBD that encapsulates everything it means to be a Melbournian.

While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Review of QT Melbourne

In this southern Australian city, you’d be hard-pressed to find a hotel more ideally located than QT Melbourne. Perched on a prime corner of the centre, on the intersection of Russell and Bourke Streets, guests are within striking distance of the best the city has to offer. There are the slick department stores of Bourke Street and the chic boutiques of the “Paris End” of Collins Street, the stages of the theatre district, the coffee-and-art-filled laneways, and so much more.

To match its location—and its former guise as the Greater Union Cinema—QT Melbourne engaged designer Nic Graham, of Nic Graham & Associates to fulfil its vision of creating “a luxury landscape where rules are meant to be broken” in its public spaces. Mission accomplished. The hotel’s aesthetics are at once cheeky yet refined, fun yet upscale, and a treat for all five senses. Think velvet detailing and tongue-in-cheek art, industrial-inspired elements and—in the lifts—provocative phrases being repeated in the sultry voice of a French woman.

The room

QT Melbourne guestroom
The rooms at QT Melbourne have a warm industrial vibe

Like the rest of the hotel, all 188 guestrooms and suites at QT Melbourne are an ode to the city. Masterminded by Shelley Indyk—of Sydney’s Indyk Architects—each bolthole features a dash of industrial chic, a heap of personality-driven creativity, and a touch of Melbournian insouciance.

Considering its city centre location, my QT Executive King room is more than generously sized, and features design-forward touches alongside all the creature comforts you could want. The centrepiece is the bespoke QT Dream Bed dressed in crisp white linens that’s the hallmark of every QT room. But there’s also an oversized counter that doubles as a fun minibar—filled with local snacks and drinks—and a worktable, along with a separate table-and-sofa set up that doubles as a lounge space and dining area. There are quirky light fixtures and art, and restrained pops of red and turquoise, but otherwise the room is tasteful in its simplicity, all whitewashed walls and wooden parquetry.

Perhaps the best part though is the oversized bathroom rendered mostly in black. The size of the open shower and bathtub is practically licentious, as are the decadent Kevin Murphy amenities and—a personal favourite—swish Dyson hairdryer.

The full monty

With the best of Melbourne at their doorstep, guests have every reason to leave the hotel and spend their time discovering the city’s cultural and gustatorial delights. But, as it turns out, QT Melbourne has a few aces up its sleeve to encourage guests to hang out right here.

On the mezzanine, Pascale Bar & Grill is a sophisticated, theatrical space where Executive Chef Paul Griffiths pairs the freshest local produce with well-executed grills and a curated wine list. Even guests who only make it in for breakfast are in for a treat. The menu includes made-to-order dishes—think upscale fry-ups, eggs, and even a lush ham and cheese croissant—and barista-blended coffee that are the perfect way to kick off a Melbourne day.

QT Melbourne rooftop bar with plants and views of the CBD
Don’t miss a chance to hang out on the rooftop during your stay

Upstairs, the Rooftop at QT Bar is among the best rooftop bars in the city—and it’s certainly the biggest. There’s a massive indoor area, anchored by the bar where mixologists deftly whip up craft cocktails, and a garden-like terrace boasting sweeping views of the Melbourne skyline. Order a Negroni, grab a perch, and soak it all in.

Of course, QT Melbourne is a five-star boutique hotel and as such, comes with everything it needs to meet lofty expectations. A fantastic location, attentive and friendly staff, solid food and drinks and—for those interested in the details—complimentary WiFi and a gym. But what really makes this hotel a great choice in a city spoiled with top-tier properties are its cheeky personality and just-punchy-enough design.

Learn more about QT Melbourne

But wait, there’s more…