The Grand Hyatt, Melbourne

Discover A Melbourne Icon

The Grand Hyatt Melbourne opened in 1986 and very quickly became the place to stay in Australia’s most creative and ever-transforming city, Melbourne.

As a Sydney-sider I would often escape to Melbourne for a cultural and culinary injection and since its opening, the Grand Hyatt was where I chose to stay when I wanted to visit my favourite haunts by foot, day and evening.

For many years I loved its grand, art deco-inspired, gold facades and its floral arrangements. The luxury and the glamour did not change when it was newly renovated in 2011, it just became more sleek, elegant and modern.

Seasonal Note: Having visited the Grand Hyatt throughout all seasons over the years, I’ve found that Melbourne’s distinctive seasonal character makes each stay unique. In winter (June-August), the hotel’s central heating and cosy lobby create a warm sanctuary from Melbourne’s famously brisk weather and the Grand Club Lounge becomes an especially inviting retreat. Spring (September-November) brings racing season and the Melbourne Cup, when the hotel buzzes with fashionable energy. Summer evenings are perfect for walking from the hotel to outdoor dining along the Yarra River, while autumn offers spectacular foliage in the nearby Fitzroy Gardens—easily visible from higher floor rooms on the eastern side of the building.

Located prestigiously on Collins Street and what is known as the chic Parisian end of town, it is surrounded by the city’s heritage architecture, iconic skyscrapers, luxury fashion boutiques and fabulous cafes, bars and restaurants. It is also within walking distance of the theatre, sporting, business districts and of course Melbourne’s famous laneways.

The Grand Hyatt Hotel

Accommodations and Design

The rooms and suites are luxurious and spacious with the higher floors having panoramic views of either the river or city. I recommend the corner suites where you get the best of both. I am particular about many things in a hotel and one of my quirkier ones are hallways. In city hotels I like them to be elegantly moody, quiet, long and preferably with perfectly placed artwork. The Grand Hyatt has nailed that ambience. It really sets my mood whether I am leaving or returning to my room.

The 2011 renovation introduced a sophisticated colour palette of warm neutrals accented with deep burgundies and charcoals that perfectly reflects Melbourne’s elegant sophistication. The bathrooms feature Italian marble and premium June Jacobs amenities, while the signature Grand Hyatt beds consistently deliver some of the most restful sleep I’ve experienced in a city hotel.

What truly distinguishes the accommodations is the thoughtful attention to both technology and comfort—automated blackout blinds, intuitive lighting systems and generously sized work desks make these rooms as functional as they are beautiful. The sound insulation is remarkable for a city centre property; even during major events, the rooms maintain their sense of sanctuary.

Dining and Facilities

Whether I feel like a quick light breakfast or just a cup of tea while catching up on the news, I head to the Grand Club Lounge where the staff are always attentive and helpful. Guests in Club-category rooms and suites enjoy exclusive access to a lounge with floor-to-ceiling city views, all-day refreshments and evening canapés and wine. If you are travelling on business, the executive lounge is a perfect setting for meetings or some time in front of your lap top. But if you prefer a more substantial breakfast, head to The Collins Kitchen for an expansive buffet breakfast and delicious à la carte menu.

The Grand Club Lounge

The Collins Kitchen deserves special mention for its innovative “residential kitchen” concept divided into specialised stations (grill, wok, sushi, patisserie). This approach ensures each dish is prepared with expertise and precision, elevating hotel dining beyond the typical buffet experience. The restaurant’s breakfast offering—featuring locally sourced Victorian produce—consistently ranks among Melbourne’s finest.

The Collins Kitchen

Although I rarely use the impressive gym (I get my exercise walking for hours) I do use the pool and the spa to relax before dinner. Although this area has not been updated since the opening, I still find the ambience relaxing and well presented. Other facilities for the active guest include a rooftop tennis court, golf practice cages and a basketball half court.

Insider Tip: Request a room on floors 27-33 on the southeastern corner for spectacular views that capture both the Yarra River and the CBD skyline. For the best dining experience beyond the hotel, ask the concierge for directions to Hosier Lane, then look for a discreet doorway marked only by a small red light—this leads to Yakimono, one of Melbourne’s most exciting recent restaurant openings, serving contemporary Japanese cuisine in a setting that perfectly captures Melbourne’s hidden laneway culture. The Grand Hyatt’s longstanding relationships with Melbourne’s cultural institutions often translate to exclusive access for guests; inquire about priority tickets to NGV exhibitions or Melbourne Theatre Company performances during your stay.

What I Love About The Grand Hyatt Melbourne:

The prestigious Collins Street location at the chic Parisian end of town
The elegantly moody hallways with perfectly placed artwork
The spacious corner suites offering dual views of the river and city
The attentive staff in the Grand Club Lounge
The consistent luxury experience that has evolved gracefully since 1986
The seamless blend of historic grandeur with contemporary elegance
The impressive range of wellness facilities including the rooftop tennis court
The giant sculpted eagles at the entrance, honoring indigenous creator deity Bunjil
The central location that allows me to explore Melbourne’s cultural landmarks on foot

What to Expect: The Grand Hyatt Melbourne Experience

The Grand Hyatt Melbourne maintains its position as a luxury standard-bearer with a pricing structure that reflects both its heritage and ongoing evolution. Standard King Rooms typically range from AUD $350-450 during non-event periods, while Club access rooms command a premium of approximately AUD $120-150—a worthwhile investment for frequent travellers who appreciate the lounge amenities and personalised service. The hotel’s dynamic pricing responds dramatically to Melbourne’s event calendar; during major sporting events (Australian Open, Grand Prix) or cultural festivals (Melbourne Fashion Week, Comedy Festival), rates can increase by 50-70%. Unlike boutique properties that offer flat seasonal pricing, the Grand Hyatt’s rates fluctuate based on occupancy and demand. Their “Stay 3, Pay 2” packages represent excellent value during shoulder seasons (May-June, February March), essentially providing a complimentary night for longer explorations of Melbourne. The hotel’s World of Hyatt loyalty programme offers meaningful benefits for repeat guests, including room upgrades and late checkout privileges that enhance the overall value proposition.