Melbourne hotels with pools for making a splash in the city

Located at Southbank, Crown Promenade Melbourne is just a short walk from the city’s central business district and shopping hub. Take a dip in the 25-metre indoor infinity pool and revel in views of the city skyline as you glide through the crystal water. Once you’ve cooled off, retreat to the comfort of a reclining sunlounger and continue your bird’s-eye watch over the bustling city.

In your airy room, you’ll be able to gaze across the city or Port Phillip Bay through floor-to-ceiling windows. Choose a Corner King Room to admire the scenery through a curved pane, or opt for a luxury suite on a top floor so you can sink into your own spacious spa bath. You’ll find the neutral colour palette and modern Australian artworks in your separate living space add a unique touch of local culture. Come dinner, head to onsite restaurant Mesh to savour modern bistro classics like slow-cooked lamb ribs and pan-fried salmon.

On the northern edge of the CBD, Best Western Plus Travel Inn Hotel provides visitors with affordable accommodation in one of Melbourne’s most popular neighbourhoods. Located within walking distance of the city centre and major attractions, you’ll also be able to explore Melbourne’s Italian precinct and Carlton’s thriving cafés and boutique shops. The hotel’s onsite restaurant might just tempt you to stay in, though, with tastebud-pleasing seasonal dishes like lamb shanks in red wine sauce and pan-fried barramundi.

The hotel’s tranquil outdoor courtyard is an inviting spot for some chill-out time before you take a dip in the heated open-air swimming pool. If you’ve booked a stay in a two-bedroom Family Room or King Spa Suite, you can luxuriate long into the evening in your own private spa bath.

The on-site bar is the ideal spot for a cheeky sundowner before you head out for dinner on famed Lygon Street. Make sure to save room for a scoop (or two) of award-winning artisan gelato from II Dolce Freddo, a seven-minute stroll from the hotel.

Much like Melbourne itself, Hotel Crown Metropol Melbourne fuses five-star luxury with contemporary edginess. You’ll be surrounded by cool stylings as soon as you enter the vast lobby, from the imposing curved staircase to eye-catching sculptures and deep-seated sofas on plush carpets. High on the 27th floor is where you’ll find the indoor heated pool, flush against soaring windows for a staggering view. Nab a cushy daybed on the sun-filled pool deck and crack into your holiday reading.

You can easily keep your fitness goals in check at the modern fitness centre, where personal trainers are available for tailored sessions. Visit the spa area after your workout for some indulgent relaxation in the aroma steam room and hot plunge pool.

When the greater city calls, you can walk to the Eureka Skydeck, the highest public viewing platform in the Southern Hemisphere, in just 13 minutes. The views continue at the hotel’s own 28 Skybar Lounge, where you can toast the evening with a spiced honey apple whiskey cocktail and a plate of succulent satay skewers.

In the heart of the city, Rydges on Exhibition Street puts you on the doorstep of Melbourne’s iconic theatre district. You’re a 10-minute walk from the colour and bustle of Chinatown – where you’ll find the city’s tastiest dumplings – and a short stroll from sights like Parliament House and St Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s also an ideal location for sports enthusiasts, being within easy walking distance to the MCG and Rod Laver Arena and a 15-minute tram ride from Marvel Stadium.

After a morning exploring Melbourne, head back to the hotel and dip your feet into the heated rooftop swimming pool, then soak up some sunshine from one of the wooden loungers. Light-filled guest rooms are sleekly decorated and offer views across the city centre. Book into a one- or two-bedroom apartment if you’re here for a longer stay, where your own kitchen and dining area will invite cosy evenings in with a homecooked meal. If you’d rather someone else do the cooking, wander down to the hotel’s own Locanda Restaurant and Public Bar to tuck into roast suckling pork or duck and chorizo ragu.

Pullman on the Park is a stone’s throw from Melbourne Fitzroy Gardens and an easy walk from energetic sporting hubs. Visiting sports fans will revel being able to see their favourite venues through the large windows in tastefully decorated guest rooms. For extra space, reserve a suite with a separate lounge and oversized soaking bath. Those who spring for an executive room or suite can enjoy exclusive access to the executive lounge – stop by for breakfast, all-day refreshments and pre-dinner drinks and canapés.

Take in the fresh air in the hotel’s outdoor pool, which overlooks the park and city skyline. Grab a selection of sweet and savoury delicacies from the neighbouring Laurent Bakery, then head to the gardens for a leisurely picnic lunch by the historic Cook’s Cottage. Of course, you can always admire the gardens from The Cliveden Bar and Dining back at the hotel. Built on the site of an 1887 mansion, the venue evokes its bygone past of glittering socialite parties. Admire the restored woodwork and original stained glass panelling while you nibble on manchego and corn croquettes with saffron aioli, or just order a gin martini à la Jay Gatsby.