It's something that Melburnians can take deep pride in, other states might have the weather but our bustling late-night music culture and good-time mentality is second to none in this country.
We're home to some of the most innovative and renowned nightclubs world over—with dancefloors loaded every weekend and serious talent both local and international taking to the decks.
If you're after an evening on the town, a late-night shuffle or need somewhere to keep the fire burning, here are the best nightclubs in Melbourne for 2023:
Revolver Upstairs
PRAHRAN
An oldie but a goodie, what best nightclub in Melbourne list would be complete without its after-hours institution. Ascending the staircase into the adult playground of Revs is basically a Melburnians right of passage ever since the 72-hour party has been on rotation first opening back in 1992. Once inside you'll find a grooving dancefloor and heaving bar with plenty of nooks and crannies to park up and chew the fat. A hotbed for DJs and selectors, Revolver has seen some of the world's foremost talent take to the cage and continues to set the standard.
New Guernica
COLLINGWOOD
The once fairy-tale and jungle aesthetic of New Guernica situated deep in the CBD has picked and parked itself on Smith Street. After 12 years in the city, the beloved nightclub is breathing new life into the Collingwood region with its effortlessly vibe-filled dancefloor. Each weekend sees a new flurry of party-program energy pour into the intimately-spaced nightclub with a plethora of events such as artist side shows, afterparties and more.
HER Music Room
CBD
Head up to level one at HER and you'll saunter into what's known as MUSIC ROOM, which does exactly what it says on the tin and so much more. This space has been modelled off the listening bars found across Tokyo and Europe, focusing on hi-fi sound with an intimately-spaced dancefloor that's ideal for a late-night boogie. The entire musical program has been curated by Melbourne's DJ Jnett so expect an eclectic mix of rare grooves and residencies, making selections from the 3000+ records that line the shelf behind the bar.
Brown Alley
CBD
Set within the walls of the Colonial Hotel on the bottom end of Lonsdale Street, Brown Alley continues to reign as one of the best nightclubs in Melbourne. Favoured as an event spot for the city, this Victoria-era building with two large-size dance floors is typically teeming with punters for one-night-only events, side shows, and venue takeover parties.
Angel Music Bar
CBD
Situated inside the former bones of the heavy-venue Korova, Angel Music Bar is an accessible audiophile haven for great music, perfect sound (proudly boasting a Funktion One system) and genuinely good times. While small in stature this venue is a prized commodity in the Melbourne music community with regular appearances from some of the top local talent. The upstairs dancefloor is where it is at most weekends and the track selections and inviting atmosphere cement Angel as one of the best nightclubs in Melbourne.
Poof Doof At Chasers
SOUTH YARRA
Right in the thick of it of Chapel Street, Poof Doof and its infectiously good times is a staple of Melbourne's nightlife. The entirely LGBTQIA+ and ally-friendly party runs till dawn every Saturday night and features a collection of local and international DJs as well as performers, entertainers and more. There are two dancefloors so you're sure to find something suited to your musical taste with a mix of house and techno to the latest pop hits, hip hop and more. It may only be on once a week, but it's one of the best nightclubs Melbourne has to offer.
Glamorama
FITZROY
A staple of Brunswick Street, Glamorama has steadily remained as one of the best nightclubs in Melbourne due to its good vibes and welcoming nature. With lines that snake down the main Fitzroy strip, Glamorama welcomes one and all to knock back a few and get sucked into their late-night disco ethos.
Sub Club
CBD
A more clandestine operation, Sub Club is tucked away on Flinders Court in the city and is an amalgamation of art including live performances, projection works, immersive displays as well as music and community all set within a subterranean basement space. Typically providing heavier varieties of house, dance and techno the Melbourne nightclub which is open to 7am has become a go-to for those wanting to keep the night going.
Check out Melbourne's best bars over here.
Image credit: Glamorama (Matt Ruderman)