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Melbourne has long been amongst Australia's most popular city break destinations — and deservedly so. The city is bursting with long, lazy brunch spots, quirky galleries, chic boutiques and lively bars and restaurants. Explore friendly neighbourhoods on foot or by bicycle, discovering hidden family-owned eateries, farmers' markets and vintage shops. Romantic walking trails, along the scenic Yarra River or through the Botanic Gardens, abound, as do world-class museums. Whether you're travelling to town for a foodie festival, a shopping trip or a glitzy urban honeymoon, Melbourne also offers some magical places to stay. We think that the most romantic hotels in Melbourne are scattered throughout the city, with intimate hideaways, elegant boutique townhouses and some striking five-star spots featuring soothing spas and glamorous restaurants. Melbourne is nothing short of marvellous — as are its hotels.
For Boutique Elegance
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- The Lyall Hotel oozes classic elegance, with guest rooms clad in soothing grey, cream and burnt orange. Indulgent marble bathrooms and tree-facing terraces are lovely additions to serene private spaces. Treat yourself to hydrotherapy and relaxation treatments at the Lyall Spa before tucking into seasonal specialities at the buzzy bistro. A boutique gem for romantics in upmarket South Yarra.
- The Royce Hotel aims to dazzle and delight, with glittering chandeliers, chrome accents and lots of glass in glamorous bar and restaurant spaces. Formerly the city's first luxury automobile showroom, this hotel has a seriously cool 1920s feel, with slick guest rooms, and a fabulous cocktail menu. Gorgeous.
- Zagame's House packs a punch when it comes to food and design. Serene, understated rooms and suites are decorated in deep blue, white and grey tones, with clean lines and a real sense of conscious design. The Lygon Street setting will thrill foodies, who find themselves on the edge of Little Italy. Start your morning at in-house 1851 Coffee + Kitchen and round off evenings of exploring at the well-stocked Lord Lygon Wine Bar. One for hip couples.
For an Intimate Hideaway
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- United Places Botanic Gardens is a collection of 12 superb, design-led suites set just opposite the city's beautiful Botanic Gardens. Tranquil and intimate, these spaces feature velvet-upholstered sofas, big cosy beds, private balconies for aromatic morning coffees and verdant views. Breakfasts are served in-suite by private butlers each morning, and sister restaurant Matilda 159's innovative Australian cuisine is the stuff of dreams. Bliss.
For High-Rise Luxury
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- Sofitel Melbourne on Collins is a chic, high-rise hotel with 363 French-inspired rooms and suites on lively Collins Street. Big cosy beds are topped with crisp white linens, set opposite blue velvet armchairs and glass side tables. French shutters open to reveal city views, whilst sensational seasonal fare is served at No.35. With sixteen major exhibitions held each year in the hotel’s public spaces, this is a luxurious choice for romantic creatives in the city.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne offers all that one might expect from this exceptional luxury hotel group. Well-heeled holidaymakers and honeymooners will adore the sleek, sophisticated rooms and suites with panoramic city views and slick brass details. Unwind at the serene spa, sink into the indoor pool, or sip cocktails at Cameo, the city skyline glittering in the background.