Local Escapes

The Best Cheap Stays In Melbourne For 2024

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Finding a spot to lay your head in Melbourne can be a pricey venture these days. Lucky enough there are still a few different spots around town that are prime for pulling up stumps without busting the bank. 

Here are the best cheap stays in Melbourne for 2023: 

Room With A View

SOUTHBANK 

Just as it's written on the tin, this Southbank stay comes with spanking vistas of the surrounding inner-city and river below. Adorned with a Parisian aesthetic, this cleanly furnished and light-filled stay is an ideal escape while staying in Melbourne, just a close walk to the CBD and parks and is even loaded with a balcony for sunset hangs or morning coffees. 

A Sanctuary In The Heart Of Thornbury

THORNBURY

A true encapsulation of the northside, this Thornbury sanctuary is a peaceful stay that brings all the charm of the region. A short stroll to the High Street of Thornbury and Northcote, an oasis of bars, restaurants and even the picture house sits on your doorstep. Inside the stay is a well-manicured collection of colourful modern furnishings, plant life and even a back deck which is prime for the warmer months. 

The Schoolhouse 

WINDSOR

Set just back from the vibey Windsor end of Chapel Street, The Schoolhouse is a breezy high-ceiling stay housed inside a former school hall. Inside is a minimal yet eclectic mix of vintage and antique stylings, a real laid-back space, ideal for either parking or hitting the town with the tram to St Kilda on your doorstep and a short 10-minute trip in the car to the CBD. Book it here 

1-Bedroom In Funky, Inner City Period Home

CARLTON

The classic Victorian workers' cottage, this Carlton spot has had the full Melbourne treatment, now a bonafide northside staple. Resting just off Nicholson Street you've got Rathdowne and Lygon on one side and Fitzroy North and Brunswick Street a short walk on the other. Inside this retrofit stay, there's a motley collection of colourful artwork, couches and plantlife to retreat to. 

Swedish Inspired, Sunny, Spacious

RICHMOND

Two-storeys of light-filled Scandi refuge, this Richmond stay is a no-brainer for a cheap stay in Melbourne. Positioned in the leafy streets between Bridge Road and Swan Street, the house boasts a breezy open-plan living with plenty of space to kick back, with a wide open deck overlooking the city and a peaceful upstairs lounge with a daybed and softwood furnishings. 

Stylish South Yarra Apartment 

SOUTH YARRA

Set back in the leafy streets of South Yarra, this minimalist apartment is an ideal stay for those wanting close proximity to the action but with the option for seclusion. Set with an open-style living room and kitchen there's even a balcony and patio that overlooks the region, ideal for a morning coffee, or you can opt for the nearby Toorak Road shops. Book it here

Beautiful Queen Room

FLEMINGTON

They say the west is best, tucked away in Flemington, this charming cottage stay is an ideal way to explore the western region of Melbourne. Emitting peaceful neighbourhood vibes, the white-washed walls and polished timber floors have that homely feel and the plethora of nearby cafes, bars and pubs will have your days and nights filled. 

Private Room In Warehouse Apt

NORTH MELBOURNE

Channelling that sky-high aesthetic of an inner city loft, this cleanly spaced apartment in North Melbourne is an ideal cheap stay. It's close enough to the city if you're looking to get out and about, but also far enough to avoid the bustle and quieten the pace. The converted former fire station has a wide view of the CBD, it's also just a quick stroll to the main drag with the vibrant cafe and bar scene of the suburb. 

Check out more of the best: 

Image credit: Airbnb (supplied) 

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