The hype
Reviewers are obsessed with the views and the pool, often calling it the 'best hotel in Melbourne' for pure spectacle.
The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne
$400-550/ night
Book this if You want the ultimate 'sky-high' flex with jaw-dropping views and don't mind a two-elevator commute to your room.
Why People Love It
- Lobby on level 80 offers an immediate 'wow' moment with panoramic Melbourne views
- Heated indoor infinity pool on level 64 is arguably the best hotel pool in the city
- Rooms start at level 65, guaranteeing unobstructed vistas from every single window
Quick Take: A glitzy, vertical sanctuary that feels more like a private jet in the clouds than a hotel connected to the street.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Service can be disjointed and 'chaotic' at breakfast, with some guests feeling the staff training hasn't quite caught up to the hard product's luxury price tag.
- You are a view junkie who wants to see the bay and mountains from bed
- You prioritize a high-end gym and pool experience over historic charm
- You want to be near Southern Cross Station for easy airport link access
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Generally good, though some reports of 'erratic' turndown service and missed restocking.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly pristine marble, but isolated reports of drainage issues in new rooms (e.g., slow draining tubs).
- Maintenance: Brand new building, so wear and tear is minimal, but watch for 'teething issues' like elevator glitches.
- Linens & towels: Immaculate. Plush, heavy towels and crisp Frette linens.
- Odors & scents: Signature Ritz-Carlton scent in lobby; rooms are fresh and neutral.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Wind whistling during extreme weather (rare but possible in high-rises)
- Hallway noise if near the elevator bank
Before you book
Good to know
- Check-in is on Level 80; don't get confused when the ground floor concierge directs you straight to the express lift.
- A 1.95% surcharge applies to all credit card transactions.
- The pool area includes a vitality pool, sauna, and steam room—pack swimwear even if it's winter.
What to pack
- Swimwear for the photogenic infinity pool
- Smart casual outfits for the Cameo bar (it's a vibe)
- Sunglasses (the glare at level 80 is real)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Corner Rooms (e.g., ending in 11 or similar) for dual-aspect views
- Victoria Harbour View rooms for sunset spectacles over the water
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms directly adjacent to the elevator lobby to minimize foot traffic noise
- East-facing rooms if you want to avoid morning sun glare waking you up early
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a Corner King room on a high floor (70+) facing Victoria Harbour for the best sunset views. Please ensure the room is located away from the elevator bank to minimize hallway noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is breakfast included?
Usually not. It's an expensive a la carte affair at Atria (~$60-80 AUD/person) unless booked in a specific package.
Can I park my own car?
No, it is valet-only at approx. $85 AUD per night. Nearby public parking is limited and inconvenient.
Is there a club lounge?
Yes, on Level 79. It requires booking a Club Level room or paying a hefty supplement, but offers 5 food presentations daily.
How far is it from the airport?
About 25-30 minutes by car, or a short walk to Southern Cross Station for the SkyBus (cheaper/faster during traffic).
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the indoor infinity pool on Level 64 is heated and open year-round.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are strictly prohibited unless they are certified service animals.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Cameo' bar on Level 80 has rare vintage spirits; ask the bartender for the 'secret' list if you're a connoisseur.
- ✨
You can access the Sky Lobby for the view even if you aren't staying, but you'll need a reservation at the bar to linger.
- ✨
Use the underground walkway to get to Southern Cross Station if it's raining.
5 things to know before you go
💡The double-elevator commute (Street -> L80 -> Room) adds 5-10 mins to every trip out.
💡Wind noise can be eerie on stormy nights due to the extreme height.
💡Housekeeping can be hit-or-miss with turndown service timing.
💡The ground floor entrance is discreet and can be hard for Uber drivers to find.
💡You are technically in the 'West Side Place' precinct, which feels a bit corporate and detached from Melbourne's laneway culture.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne is located and what's nearby.