Call Now

Smart Stays In The City: Top 10 Things To Consider When Booking Serviced Apartments In Melbourne

A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Space for Comfort, Convenience, and Value

Blog / General / 2025 December 05, 2025
freshwater apartments in Southbank

Booking a serviced apartment in Melbourne can elevate your stay—whether it’s for business, relocation, a family trip, or an extended city escape. With the rise of modern, fully furnished accommodation options across the city, travellers now have more flexibility and comfort than ever. But with so many choices, how do you know which serviced apartment is right for you?

Here are the top 10 things to consider when booking a serviced apartment in Melbourne, ensuring you get the best value, comfort, and convenience for your stay.

1. Location and Accessibility

Location is one of the biggest factors affecting your stay. Melbourne is known for its diverse neighbourhoods—each with its own character and lifestyle.

  • Southbank is perfect for those who want to be near Crown, arts precincts, and riverfront dining.
  • Melbourne CBD offers unmatched access to business hubs, shopping, and public transport.
  • Docklands is ideal for modern, waterfront living with peaceful surroundings.
  • Richmond, St Kilda, and South Yarra offer easy access to dining strips, parks, and beaches.

Consider the following:
✔ Proximity to public transport (trams, trains)
✔ Walking distance to supermarkets, cafés, and attractions
✔ Safety and convenience of the neighbourhood

If you’re staying for business or long-term, being close to your daily destinations can save you valuable time.

2. Size and Layout of the Apartment

Serviced apartments come in various configurations, including studios, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and even 3-bedroom units.

Ask yourself:

  • Do you need extra space for working?
  • Are you travelling with kids or friends?
  • Do you prefer open layouts or separate living spaces?

A well-designed apartment can significantly improve your comfort, especially for longer stays. Look for properties that offer generous living areas, functional kitchen layouts, and thoughtful use of space.

3. Fully Equipped Kitchen and Laundry Facilities

One of the biggest advantages of serviced apartments is the ability to cook and do laundry—something regular hotels rarely offer.

Make sure your apartment includes:
✔ Full-sized fridge
✔ Oven and microwave
✔ Cookware and dining essentials
✔ Washing machine and dryer inside the apartment

This is especially important for long-term stays, families, and business travellers who want to manage their routines without relying on outside services.

4. Quality of Furnishings and Amenities

Comfort plays a major role in your overall experience. When browsing options, look for high-quality furnishings such as:

  • Comfortable mattresses
  • Modern sofas
  • Well-maintained appliances
  • Stylish interior décor

Many guests prefer properties that feel like a “home away from home.” For example, there are fully furnished serviced apartments in Southbank that offer modern interiors, complete amenities, and scenic views—perfect for both short and long-term stays.

5. Building Facilities and On-Site Services

Serviced apartments often come with hotel-like features, but not all buildings offer the same standard.

Top facilities to look for include:
✔ Swimming pool
✔ Gym or fitness centre
✔ Secure parking
✔ 24/7 security or concierge
✔ Luggage storage
✔ Business centre or coworking area

Make sure to check whether these amenities are included in your rate or if they come with additional fees.

6. Length of Stay Requirements

Some serviced apartments offer nightly stays, while others require a minimum stay (commonly 7, 14, or 28 nights). Long-term serviced apartments often provide:

  • Better weekly or monthly rates
  • More flexible leasing options
  • Larger apartment choices

If you’re relocating or staying for extended work commitments, inquire about discounted long-term packages.

7. Reviews and Guest Feedback

Before booking, take the time to read online reviews. These can give you valuable insights into:

  • Cleanliness
  • Staff friendliness
  • Noise levels
  • Accuracy of the listing
  • Wi-Fi speed
  • Safety and maintenance

Look for consistent patterns in feedback—both positive and negative. A property with strong, recent reviews is often a reliable choice.

8. Budget and Value for Money

Serviced apartments often provide better value than hotels, especially when considering the added benefits of kitchens, laundry, and larger living spaces.

When comparing prices, consider what's included:

  • Utilities (electricity, water, gas)
  • Internet/Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Cleaning service
  • Access to facilities

Sometimes, a slightly higher rate can offer far better value if more services are bundled in.

9. Safety and Security Features

Your peace of mind is crucial. Check for:
✔ Secure building entry (swipe access or key codes)
✔ 24/7 security or concierge
✔ CCTV in common areas
✔ Well-lit surroundings
✔ Safe neighbourhoods

For families or solo travellers, choosing a property with strong security measures can make the stay more comfortable and worry-free.

10. Flexibility of Booking and Cancellation Policies

Plans can change—especially for business travellers or those relocating.

Review policies carefully:

  • Is the booking refundable?
  • Can you modify your stay dates?
  • Are there penalties for early departures?
  • Does the property offer flexible rebooking options?

Flexible booking policies provide added security and reduce stress when unexpected situations arise.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right serviced apartment in Melbourne goes beyond price—it’s about finding a balance between convenience, comfort, and value. Whether you prefer the buzzing CBD, the scenic riverside charm of Southbank, or the calm waterfront vibe of Docklands, Melbourne offers diverse serviced apartment options to suit every type of traveller.

By considering these 10 factors—location, size, kitchen and laundry facilities, furnishings, building amenities, length of stay, reviews, budget, security, and booking flexibility—you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision for a memorable and comfortable stay.

Serviced apartments are designed to offer the best of both worlds: the space and freedom of home with the convenience of hotel-like amenities. With careful planning, you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free experience in one of the world’s most liveable cities.



Recent Posts
  • Public Transport Developments in Vi... tram in Melbourne
    Victoria’s public transport system is undergoing significant changes that are set to transform the way residents and visitors move across the state. From upgraded rail lines to expande...
  • Pet‑Proofing Your Apartment: What... petting a dog
    Bringing a pet into your apartment can be exciting — but before you let paws or claws roam free, a little preparation goes a long way. Pet-proofing helps protect your pet from hidden d...
  • Budget Travel Secrets: How to See M... travel in budget
    Travelling the world doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, with smart planning, resourcefulness, and a few insider tips, you can see more destinations, enjoy unique experiences, and...