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Best Areas to Stay Near Rod Laver Arena: A Comprehensive Guide

Traveloka Team

17 Jan 2025 - 5 min read

Rod Laver Arena, located in the heart of Melbourne Park, is home to world-class events such as the Australian Open, big-name concerts and all types of lavish entertainment. Whether you're a sports fan, a music lover, or someone who likes to enjoy the buzz of the city, staying near the arena will make your Melbourne experience easier and more enjoyable.

Finding the right place to stay near Rod Laver Arena doesn't have to be a challenge. We'll guide you through things to do, nearby attractions and where to stay - whether you're looking to have fun or stay on a budget.

What's Happening at Rod Laver Arena?

Rod Laver Arena is not only famous for its name, but it's also an entertainment hub. Here's what you can expect when planning your visit:

The Australian Open: If tennis gets your heart racing, this is the place to be. As one of the four Grand Slam tournaments, it attracts the biggest names in the sport and fans from all over the world. Even if you're not a huge tennis fan, the atmosphere during the Australian Open is something you won't forget.

Concerts: When you think of your favourite artists-there's a good chance they've performed here. From pop icons to rock legends, Rod Laver Arena regularly hosts concerts that attract huge crowds.

Shows & Events: It's not just about tennis and music. The arena also hosts musicals, comedy shows and family-friendly events throughout the year. Keep an eye on the schedule - there's always something going on.

Things to Do Nearby

When you’re not catching a game or show, there’s no shortage of things to do around Rod Laver Arena. Here are some top picks:

Royal Botanic Gardens: Fancy a stroll in nature? These gardens are just a short walk away and offer lush landscapes, peaceful walking paths, and plenty of spots to chill out with a coffee or a good book.

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV): If you’re into art, you’ll love the NGV. It’s got everything from ancient artefacts to cutting-edge contemporary pieces. A cultural must-see.

Federation Square: This bustling square is a cultural hub with museums, galleries, and a variety of dining options. It’s a great spot for people-watch or enjoy a drink in the sun.

Southbank Promenade: Right along the Yarra River, Southbank is the place to go for riverside dining, boutique shopping, and live street performances. Perfect for a relaxed evening out.

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Tour

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Where to Stay: Hotels Near Rod Laver Arena

Whether you’re splashing out or watching your wallet, there’s a hotel for every traveller near Rod Laver Arena. Here’s a breakdown by budget:

Luxury Hotels

1. The Langham, Melbourne

This riverside gem is about a 20-minute walk or 5-minute ride to the arena. It’s all about elegance, with plush rooms, a fantastic spa, and stunning views over the city.

Price: starts from AU 345/room/night

Area: Southbank Promenade

The Langham, Melbourne

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9/10

Melbourne

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2. Crown Towers Melbourne

High-end doesn’t even begin to cover it. With a casino, gourmet dining options, and luxe facilities, this hotel offers a premium experience just 30 minutes away on foot and 10 minutes drive.

Price: starts from AU 433/room/night

Area: Whiteman Street, Southbank

Crown Towers Melbourne

•

8.5/10

Melbourne

AU$734

AU$637

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3. Grand Hyatt Melbourne

Located across Fed Square, this hotel has excellent facilities and is only about a 20-minute walk away.

Price: starts from AU 296/room/night

Area: Collins Street

Grand Hyatt Melbourne

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8.7/10

Melbourne

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Mid-Range Hotels

1. Mercure Melbourne Southbank

Close, comfortable, and convenient. Just 15 minutes from Rod Laver Arena, it’s a solid option for those looking for value without compromising on quality.

Price: starts from AU 189/room/night

Area: Southbank Promenade

Mercure Melbourne Southbank

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8.7/10

Melbourne

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2. Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank

Modern, clean, and offering complimentary breakfast. It’s also just 15 minutes away, making it a great choice for travellers who like to keep it simple.

Price: starts from AU 201/room/night

Area: Southbank

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3. Novotel Melbourne on Collins

A bit further out with 25 minutes by walking, but well-connected by tram, this hotel boasts an indoor pool and sleek rooms.

Price: starts from AU 219/room/night

Area: Collins Street

Novotel Melbourne on Collins

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8.5/10

Melbourne

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Budget Hotels

1. ibis budget Melbourne CBD

For those keeping it frugal, this compact hotel is just a 25-minute walk from the arena. Perfect for travellers who prioritise location over luxury.

Price: starts from AU 129/room/night

Area: Collins Street

ibis budget Melbourne CBD

•

8.5/10

Melbourne

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2. City Centre Budget Hotel

Basic but functional, with the added bonus of a rooftop terrace for evening views. About 25 minutes on foot.

Price: starts from AU 134/room/night

Area: Little Collins Street

City Centre Budget Hotel

•

8.4/10

Melbourne

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3. Space Hotel Melbourne

A budget-friendly option with a modern twist. Shared facilities keep costs down, but the vibe and design make it feel a step above typical budget stays. It’s roughly 30 minutes away by foot.

Price: starts from AU 52/room/night

Area: Little Collins Street

Space Hotel - Hostel

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8.7/10

Melbourne

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Getting Around Rod Laver Arena

One of the best things about staying near Rod Laver Arena is how easy it is to get around. Melbourne is a city that’s made for exploring, and here’s how you can do it:

Public Transport: Melbourne's trams are iconic for a reason-they're reliable, easy to navigate, and take you anywhere. There are 2 stations near Rod Laver Arena, Richmond and Jollimont. Trains are another option if you want to go further afield.

Walking & Cycling: Melbourne is wonderfully walkable, with scenic routes and dedicated cycling paths that make it a joy to explore on foot or by bike.

Food, Drinks, and Nightlife

After a day of sightseeing or cheering on your favourite tennis star, you’ll want to unwind. Lucky for you, the area around Rod Laver Arena has plenty of options:

Southbank: Perfect for riverside dining. Choose from fancy restaurants or casual eateries while enjoying views of the Yarra River.

Chinatown: A short tram ride away, Chinatown is packed with authentic Asian restaurants offering everything from dumplings to sizzling hot pots.

Fitzroy: For a more eclectic vibe, head to Fitzroy. Known for its cool bars, live music, and street art, it’s a great spot to let your hair down.

Flight to Melbourne

Tue, 6 May 2025

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Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)

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Fri, 23 May 2025

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Brisbane (BNE) to Melbourne (MEL)

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Wed, 14 May 2025

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Canberra (CBR) to Melbourne (MEL)

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Make Your Melbourne Stay Memorable

Choosing to stay near Rod Laver Arena means you’re not just close to the action—you’re in the heart of Melbourne’s cultural pulse. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays, the area offers something for everyone. Combine that with the city’s attractions, dining, and nightlife, and you’ve got all the ingredients for an unforgettable trip.

When it comes to planning your trip, Traveloka makes things simple. Whether you’re looking for hotels, flights, or fun activities, Traveloka has everything you need in one place.

The platform’s easy-to-use filters help you narrow down options by budget, location, and preferences, while customer reviews ensure you know exactly what you’re getting. Plus, you’ll often find competitive pricing that makes planning your Melbourne adventure a breeze.

Ready to plan your stay? Head to Traveloka now!