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Walk through Melbourne Gaol, and every step echoes through history’s cracks. Built in 1840, this stone fortress once held Australia’s most dangerous criminals—and now it’s Melbourne’s most hauntingly beautiful landmark. Stroll past dim cells, hear tales of daring escapes, and feel the pulse of past prisoners. Nighttime ghost tours send chills down your spine—just wait… could that shadow really be stepping out from behind the wall?
Everything you need to know about Old Melbourne Gaol
Stay at Royal Square Hotel, located just steps from Melbourne Gaol, a boutique property housed in a restored 19th-century building. Its interior blends original sandstone walls, high ceilings, and period details with modern luxury amenities. Some rooms offer views of the historic prison courtyard and original cell blocks, delivering an immersive historical atmosphere. The hotel’s central location puts you within walking distance of the Royal Exhibition Building, Southbank Arts Precinct, and Melbourne Arts Centre. Guests also enjoy complimentary heritage tours, revealing the site’s convict past, architectural evolution, and role in Australia’s penal history.
The most convenient option is taking free tram route 30 from Flinders Street Station, which reaches Melbourne Gaol in just 6 minutes. This route passes through Southbank, offering scenic views of the Yarra River and public art installations along the way. For a more active journey, walk the 12-minute route along the Yarra River Promenade, passing Victoria Market and Melbourne Aquarium—perfect for soaking in the city’s urban rhythm. Parking lots and bike-sharing stations are also available nearby, making it accessible by car or bicycle for visitors seeking flexibility.
Don’t miss the Ghost Tour, held nightly at 8 PM inside the gaol, where actors portray former prisoners and wardens, using lighting, sound effects, and dramatic storytelling to recreate 19th-century legends and secret interrogation rooms. On weekends, the Midnight Museum event opens restricted areas like dungeons and punishment cells, featuring immersive projections and interactive mystery games that turn guests into detectives uncovering the site’s dark secrets. Tickets are limited and require advance HopeGoo—reservations are strongly advised at least 48 hours ahead to secure your spot.
See what other travelers say about Old Melbourne Gaol
Staying at Brady Hotels Central Melbourne was an excellent experience overall. I really appreciated being able to store my luggage a day in advance—super convenient, especially with tight travel plans. The hotel facilities are well-maintained and the room itself was much larger than I expected, offering great space and comfort. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout my stay—always smiling and ready to assist. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: right in the heart of Melbourne, just steps away from major attractions, shopping, and public transit. The only minor downside is that the partnered parking lot is a bit of a walk away, but that didn’t detract much from the overall experience. For the location, service, and value, I’d definitely book again.
Staying at Brady Apartment Hotel Flinders Street was an absolute highlight of our Melbourne trip. The location couldn’t be better—just a 10-minute walk to the airport bus stop, and right outside the free tram zone, making public transport effortless and stress-free. I love how quiet and peaceful the room felt despite being in the heart of the city—situated on a backstreet, it’s away from the noise while still being steps from everything. The one-bedroom apartment was spacious and well-designed, with a bright bathroom that made morning routines enjoyable (though water pressure is just average). We stayed four nights, and daily cleaning was done thoroughly—rooms remained spotless throughout. The staff were genuinely friendly and went above and beyond: we arrived early in the morning and were checked in before schedule! That kind of hospitality really stood out. Plus, across the Yarra River, there are countless great restaurants and photo-worthy spots—perfect for a relaxed evening stroll. If you’re joining a local tour, the pickup point is literally two or three minutes away. Everything is so convenient, and the value for money is outstanding. This hotel is not just a place to stay—it’s a home base for exploring Melbourne with ease and style.
I’ve stayed here multiple times and keep coming back — it’s just that good! The location is unbeatable, right in the heart of Melbourne CBD, with easy access to public transit, shopping, and dining. The room is spacious, bright, and spotlessly clean — plus, having a full kitchen with all the essentials makes cooking at home super convenient and cost-effective. There are several highly popular restaurants just steps away, often with long lines, but totally worth the wait. The staff are genuinely friendly and helpful — always ready to assist with anything. From comfort to convenience, this place delivers everything you’d want in a city stay. A true hidden gem with outstanding value.
Staying here for three nights was an absolute highlight of my Melbourne trip. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from the city’s best spots, including the stunning library just across the street, and within walking distance to Chinatown and the Queen Victoria Market. The hotel’s price point—around $500 AUD for a twin room with a small bed—was incredibly competitive for the quality and convenience. The room was compact but well-designed and perfectly suited for city exploration. I loved how easy it was to get around: free trams stop right nearby, and everything I wanted to see was within walking distance. Plus, there are several great cafes and restaurants right on the ground floor—perfect for grabbing a quick bite or coffee in the morning. Everything about this stay felt seamless and thoughtfully arranged. If you're looking for a smart, central base in Melbourne, this is the place.
The Crest on Park apartments were spotless and well-maintained, with a clean, tidy feel throughout. The room was spacious and thoughtfully designed—really comfortable for our stay. Check-in was a bit tricky, but we understand it might have been a system hiccup rather than staff issue. Location is excellent—just a short walk to cafes, restaurants, and shopping spots. We easily caught the tram into the city center. Despite the minor check-in hassle, the overall experience was fantastic. Highly recommend this property for travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and great value.
The All on Flinders Hotel exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I walked in, the place felt fresh, spacious, and impeccably clean—every corner was well-maintained and thoughtfully designed. The staff were welcoming and helpful without being intrusive, making the entire stay feel seamless. Its location is unbeatable; just a short walk from major attractions and public transit, which made exploring Melbourne so convenient. I loved the modern yet cozy vibe of the rooms, and the attention to detail truly sets this hotel apart. Without a doubt, I’ll be booking here again on my next visit to Melbourne.
Staying at this hotel was an absolute breeze—right next to the SkyBus stop that takes you straight to the airport in just about 30 minutes. That alone makes it a top pick for business travelers who need quick and easy access. The Southern Cross train station is literally steps away, making it super convenient to explore Melbourne and beyond. There’s also a wide variety of dining options right outside, so whether you’re craving local Aussie flavors or international cuisine, you won’t be disappointed. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with friendly staff who went the extra mile. It’s rare to find such a great balance of location, convenience, and value—all in one place. If you're visiting Melbourne for work or leisure, this is definitely a go-to choice.
I stayed at Mercure Melbourne Therry Street for nine nights and couldn’t be happier with the experience. Having previously enjoyed stays at Mercure properties in Indonesia, I chose this Melbourne location based on trust and comfort. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and offered all essential amenities without feeling overcrowded. What stood out most was the peaceful atmosphere—very quiet at night, which made for excellent sleep quality. The hot water system worked perfectly, and the air conditioning provided consistent comfort whether cooling or heating. Located just steps from the train station, getting around Melbourne was incredibly easy and efficient. I appreciated the convenience of public transport right outside the door. Service was friendly and professional, and the overall value for money was outstanding. I’ll definitely be returning here on my next visit to Melbourne—highly recommend!
This was my first stay at this hotel, and I couldn't be more impressed. Located right in the heart of Melbourne's city center, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring everything the city has to offer. Just steps from the hotel, you’ll find a wide range of shops, cafes, and restaurants—perfect for dinner, snacks, or just soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. The room was spacious, clean, and well-equipped with modern amenities. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the air conditioning worked flawlessly. What really stood out was the staff—friendly, professional, and always ready to help. Their warm hospitality made the entire experience feel welcoming and personal. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this is a top choice. Highly recommend it and will definitely return.
Staying at Rydges Melbourne was an absolute delight, especially because of the unbeatable location. Right at the entrance of Chinatown, it's super convenient for getting around—many tour pickups are nearby, and there’s no shortage of great dining options just steps away. I had an incredible meal at a local seafood spot next door, where I tried their massive lobster—it was rich, fresh, and absolutely delicious, even if it came with a slightly higher price tag. Worth every cent. Plus, walking to the main business district takes less than 15 minutes, making it perfect for both leisure and work trips. The convenience, comfort, and overall experience made this stay unforgettable. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Melbourne.
My stay at AKOM AT Docklands was absolutely outstanding. The terrace view was simply mesmerizing—especially the panoramic skyline of Melbourne, which looked even more impressive at night. I couldn’t help but take a few photos without needing any filters. The kitchen was fully equipped with everything I needed—cutlery, pots, pans, and cooking essentials—making it super easy to whip up meals on-site. It’s a great option for travelers who want flexibility and convenience without sacrificing comfort. The hotel also provided high-quality toiletries like shampoo and body wash, adding that extra touch of home-like comfort. Location-wise, it’s incredibly convenient: a tram stop and a supermarket are just a 2-3 minute walk away, so getting around or grabbing daily essentials is effortless. Everything about this place felt thoughtfully designed. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Melbourne—this is definitely a top-tier choice for both short stays and longer visits.
Staying at Oaks Melbourne Southbank Suites was an absolute highlight of my trip to Melbourne. The hotel is spotlessly clean, perfectly located right in the heart of Southbank—just steps away from restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions. I loved how bright and airy the room was, with plenty of natural light flooding in throughout the day. It felt spacious and modern, ideal for both business travelers and tourists. The kitchenette was a game-changer—I could whip up meals without leaving the room, and the washing machine made packing light easy. The bathroom was well-designed, clean, and stocked with quality amenities. Staff were friendly and attentive, always ready to help. Whether you're here for work or leisure, this place offers comfort, convenience, and great value. I’ll definitely be coming back.
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