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From63US$ /night
Check-in
14Mar2026Select date
Check-out
15Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

609 Swanston Street, Melbourne, Australia, 3053
-
Close to Carlton Gardens
Very good
7.6
7.7
/10
3.3
3.5
/5

Location

Essence Hotel Carlton is strategically located on the fringe of Melbourne CBD, offering easy access to major attractions. Guests can take a short walk to explore the Melbourne Museum and the Royal Exhibition Building. The famous Lygon Street, known for its Italian dining precinct, is also nearby, providing numerous local eateries.

Rooms

The hotel offers cosy and stylishly appointed rooms designed for relaxation after a day's exploration. Rooms are equipped with essential comforts ensuring a pleasant stay. Each accommodation option is crafted to support a stress-free environment for every guest.

Amenities

Essence Hotel Carlton provides key amenities to enhance guest experience, including a gym and a recreation area. Guests can also take advantage of BBQ facilities available on-site. With 24-hour reception and daily housekeeping, convenience is a priority for those staying at the hotel.

Accessibility

The hotel is conveniently located near transportation options, providing easy access throughout Melbourne. Guests can seamlessly navigate to popular shopping destinations like the Queen Victoria Market and Melbourne Central Shopping Centre. This location allows for an engaging city exploration experience.

Wellness and Recreation

Guests can maintain their fitness routines in the hotel's well-equipped gym. The recreation area stands as a spot for relaxation and leisure activities. Additionally, the outdoor BBQ area encourages social gatherings and casual dining experiences.

Highlights

Location: Near Melbourne Museum and Royal Exhibition Building

Rooms: Cosy, modern accommodation with comfortable rooms

Amenities: 24-hour reception and daily housekeeping

Accessibility: Short walk to Queen Victoria Market and Melbourne Central Shopping Centre

“In Melbourne's Carlton, the hotel places you a short walk from the University of Melbourne and Lygon Street's dining scene. Expect contemporary, sci-fi inspired design, plus practical touches such as a communal kitchen and games room that set it apart. It's a solid choice if you're seeking a base that balances city access with neighborhood charm.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Single Room Single Bed only
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
Deluxe Queen Room
2 persons
175 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Queen Room
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Twin Room
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Heating
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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
Facilities: Very good
7.8/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Laundry

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Game room

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Sun terrace
  • BBQ facilities
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
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Essence Hotel Carlton Location

609 Swanston Street, Melbourne, Australia, 3053
Map view
609 Swanston Street, Melbourne, Australia, 3053
Nearby
Museum
Old Melbourne Gaol
1900 ft
Lygon Street
Lygon Street
1900 ft
Restaurants
Cafe Crema On Swanston
600 ft
488 Swanston St
Toto's Pizza House
1200 ft
101 Lygon St Carlton
The First Bigmama
800 ft
466 Swanston St
IL Dolce Freddo
1300 ft
116 Lygon Street
Lambs Restaurant
1100 ft
98-100 Lygon St Carlton
ILoveIstanbul
1000 ft
95 Lygon St
Saigon Pho Carlton
1200 ft
106 Lygon Street
Shukufuku Japanese Bento
1400 ft
126 Lygon St
Artee Cafe
1400 ft
62 Lygon St
Don Tojo
1800 ft
164 Cardigan St
Explore Melbourne
Nearby Attractions
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Old Melbourne Gaol
Old Melbourne Gaol
7 minutes' walk
Former jail with rich history. Offers guided tours and exhibits about infamous prisoners.
Lygon Street
Lygon Street
7 minutes' walk
Known as Melbourne's Little Italy, famous for its dining options and vibrant atmosphere.
Carlton Gardens
Carlton Gardens
12 minutes' walk
Beautiful park featuring historic buildings and stunning floral displays, ideal for picnics.
National Gallery of Victoria
National Gallery of Victoria
25 minutes' walk
Home to a vast collection of international and Australian art. Free general admission.
Yarra River Cycling
5 minutes' drive
Rent bikes and enjoy scenic cycling along the Yarra River. Rental services nearby for convenience.
Flagstaff Gardens
16 minutes' walk
Relaxation hub in the city. Perfect for yoga and meditation amidst lush greenery.
Melbourne Zoo
Melbourne Zoo
25 minutes' walk
Thrilling animal encounters in a well-maintained open setting. A great day out for families.
Cafe Crema On Swanston
Cafe Crema On Swanston
3 minutes' walk
Charming cafe known for its delicious coffee and breakfast options. Vegan choices available.
Toto's Pizza House
Toto's Pizza House
5 minutes' walk
Casual dining spot favorite for handcrafted pizzas. Cozy atmosphere with local ingredients.
Lambs Restaurant
Lambs Restaurant
4 minutes' walk
Family-style restaurant with hearty meals and friendly service. Great for group dining.
Arts Centre Melbourne
Arts Centre Melbourne
25 minutes' walk
Vibrant arts venue featuring concerts and performances. Weekly events for all ages are available.
Federation Square
Federation Square
20 minutes' walk
Cultural precinct hosting art exhibitions and events. Great place for family-friendly entertainment.
Getting around town
City Centre
Melbourne15 min  ·  4000 ft
Airports
Essendon Fields Airport (MEB)22 min  ·  9.0 mi
Tullamarine Airport (MEL)33 min  ·  13.3 mi
Train
Flagstaff Train Station14 min  ·  3700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-20:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site (reservation might be needed) at AUD 29 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, German, Italian, Danish, Chinese, Hindi, Bahasa Indonesian, Malay, Thai, Tagalog / Filipino
Number of floors:
5
Number of rooms:
47
Former name
Ibis Melbourne Swanston Street

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay
Review score
Based on 355 verified reviews
7.4/10
Very good
74%
Recommend
Breakfast
8.7/10
Cleanliness
8.0/10
Comfort
8.1/10
Facilities
7.8/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.3/10
Location
8.9/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.1/10
Staff
8.8/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Clean room
Good bed
Great shower
Cons
Rude staff
Guest reviews
based on 1152 reviews
7.6/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Essence Hotel Carlton
What are the check-in and check-out times at Essence Hotel Carlton?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is at 10:00.
How far is Essence Hotel Carlton from the nearest airport?
The hotel is 22 km from Melbourne Airport.
What fitness facilities are available at Essence Hotel Carlton?
Guests can enjoy a 24-hour fitness centre and a games room.
Are there any dining options available near Essence Hotel Carlton?
Nearby restaurants include Wokks, Humble Rays, and Queensberry Hotel, all within 0.5 km.
Does Essence Hotel Carlton provide parking options?
Private parking is available on-site for 29 AUD per day, but a reservation is needed.
What amenities are available in the rooms at Essence Hotel Carlton?
Rooms include air conditioning, a 32-inch flat-screen TV, and a private en suite bathroom.
What kind of facilities does Essence Hotel Carlton offer for disabled guests?
The hotel features facilities that cater to disabled guests, including a lift and wheelchair access.
How close is Essence Hotel Carlton to local attractions?
The hotel is located within walking distance of Queen Victoria Market and the Royal Exhibition Building.
What entertainment options are available for children at Essence Hotel Carlton?
Children can enjoy the games room and access to communal kitchen facilities.
Which popular attractions are near Essence Hotel Carlton?
Nearby attractions include the Melbourne Museum, RMIT University, and Lincoln Square, all within walking distance.
What services are provided at the front desk of Essence Hotel Carlton?
The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage services.
Is internet access available at Essence Hotel Carlton?
Free Wi-Fi is available in all guestrooms and public areas of the hotel.
What are some highlights of staying at Essence Hotel Carlton?
Highlights include access to an indoor courtyard, a games area, and modern guest amenities.

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