Victoria's third-largest city, Ballarat sits 1.5 hours north-west of Melbourne, in the striking Central Highlands. The city boomed on the back of the 19th Century gold rush, and its well-preserved historic centre reflects this intriguing past. Now a thriving modern city, Ballarat is still home to a number of heritage-focused accommodation options. Chosen for their style, amenities and location, our pick of the best places to stay in Ballarat offers both classic landmark hotels and hip contemporary gems, perfect for a city break to remember.

Tour Ballarat’s historic heart on foot or two wheels, admiring imposing Victorian buildings set along leafy lanes with buzzy cafes and boutiques. Pop into the Art Gallery of Ballarat to see the collection of colonial-era, contemporary and indigenous artwork, delve into the region’s gold mining history at Sovereign Hill, or visit the Eureka Centre Ballarat. Creative workshops at the Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades include silversmithing, basket weaving, chair making and more, and there’s a great programme of performances at Her Majesty's Ballarat.

Sunny days are ideal for exploring the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, wandering around Lake Wendouree or spotting Australian wildlife in 26-hectare Ballarat Wildlife Park. If you’re travelling as a family, the maze and inflatable theme park of Kryal Castle are not to be missed. Return to one of the best places to stay in Ballarat for cosy evenings by the fire.

The Best Places to Stay in Ballarat

For Boutique Chic

• The Provincial is an elegant heritage hotel with 23 inviting rooms, suites and apartments. Think whitewashed walls, statement patterned headboards atop big cosy beds, and vintage furnishings. Gather at trendy Lola's resto-bar — named for a 19th-century exotic dancer — for flavoursome seasonal cusine paired with top-notch regional wines. A characterful and romantic hotel.
• Hotel Vera has just seven hip suites in a 19th-century Ballarat mansion. Understated spaces feature modern art by female Australian artists, warm blue, pink, burnt orange or green tones, and indulgent marble bathrooms. Restaurant Babae is a fine dining favourite. Named for the co-founder's beloved grandmother, this is a wonderfully intimate boutique base.

For Great Value

• Craig's Royal Hotel dates back to the 1850s, with carved wooden furnishings, wrought iron bedsteads, patterned wallpapers and draped burgundy, gold and white textiles. Heritage buffs will appreciate the sense of history and old town setting — all at very reasonable rates. There's a popular restaurant and wine bar, too.
• Oscar's Hotel & Cafe Bar has just 13 simple guest rooms in a gold rush-era hotel in the centre of town. Friendly and affordable, this local landmark has updated events spaces for weddings and parties. A comfortable, low-key choice with a relaxed restaurant famed for its pizzas.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Melbourne Airport, and take an hour and 15 minute taxi to your destination in Ballarat. Many hotels will also be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
• The wider Victoria region is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Summers (December to February) are warm and pleasant, with temperatures hovering at around 26°C. Visit in March or November for fewer crowds and good hotel deals — Ballarat can be very busy during the peak summer months.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Melbourne.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Victoria.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.