Sometimes the best kind of holiday is one where you don't leave the city — you just experience it differently. That was exactly our mindset when Sam and I checked into Oakwood Premier Melbourne for a weekend couples staycation, and what unfolded was a truly sensational escape just minutes from home but a world away from the everyday.
Travelling solo for work instead? We also stayed at Oakwood Premier for a business-focused staycation — read that review here.
Arrival & First Impressions
From the moment we arrived, we knew we were in for a memorable staycation in a great part of the city. The hotel's striking entrance, featuring a tranquil waterfall wall inspired by a bird's-eye view of the Yarra River, set a luxurious tone. Inside, triple oversized brass mesh chandeliers and Mika Utzon Popov's dramatic vertical art installation — also paying homage to the Yarra — took our breath away. It felt like we were walking into a modern gallery rather than a hotel lobby.
Well appointed modern hotel with everything a couple could need for a weekend staycation.
Views are spectacular and unique compared to many other hotels.
A well appointed kitchen is a hit.
The Executive Room
After a warm welcome at the front desk, we made our way to our superb Executive room. With plush bedding, sleek finishes, a rain shower, a coffee machine, a digital concierge tablet, and even a fully equipped kitchen, we had everything we needed for ultimate comfort. But the real showstopper was the breathtaking view — Melbourne stretched out in all directions, and we paused to simply take it all in through a striking afternoon, pink sunset, full moon at night, and glowing sunrise.
Night views are just as spectacular as views during the day.
Evening One: Lobby Oak Lounge
We kicked off our stay with drinks and dinner at the Lobby Oak Lounge, a stylish and intimate bar on the ground floor. We couldn't resist a classic G&T featuring That Spirited Lot Gin and a glass of wine. We shared outstanding salt and pepper calamari with a zingy citrus salad and fries, followed by a delicious Sicilian pizza loaded with buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto and salami. Paired with a glass of Bests Cabernet, it was the perfect low-key start to our evening.
Oak Lounge offers superb casual dining.
Exploring the Neighbourhood
From the hotel we ventured out to explore more of the sights of Melbourne. A stroll along the Yarra River promenade is a must, taking in the arts precinct including NGV, the Arts Centre, Federation Square, and the colourful street art of Hosier Lane. Also nearby you can explore DFO South Wharf, pick up a few finds at South Melbourne Market (which we explored the next morning), and scope out Marvel Stadium for a footy match.
Plenty of Melbourne attractions within walking distance.
Walking distance to Melbourne icons.
We even walked to iconic Hosier Lane famous for its street art.
Melbourne takes on another personality of its own after dark.
Breakfast at Fivth
After a restful night's sleep in our cloud-like bed, we headed down to Fivth Restaurant on Level 5 for the epic breakfast buffet. It was one of the better hotel breakfasts we've had — a tempting mix of pastries, a full hot buffet, and an omelette station that made everything fresh to order. We lingered over coffee, plotting out our day.
After all that dining it was time to hit the excellent hotel gym.
Hotel Facilities & South Melbourne Market
The hotel has some incredible facilities, so we made time to explore before heading out. We checked out the fully equipped 24-hour gym, with stunning views of the city keeping us motivated. Sam relaxed in the Residents' Lounge with a good book, soaking up the natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows. We also poked our heads into the co-working space known as The Hub, and the Games Room — complete with billiards, arcade machines and beanbags — a great option for families or groups of friends.
Arguably Melbourne's best market is nearby (check opening times).
Nothing like a weekend stroll in South Melbourne Market.
Thanks to Oakwood's unbeatable location, we spent the rest of the morning exploring South Melbourne Market by foot. You really can do it all without needing a car.
Lunch at Strato Melbourne
The absolute highlight of our stay was lunch at Strato Melbourne, the hotel's crown jewel perched on the 40th floor. With 360-degree views that swept across the city, it felt like dining in the clouds. Sam started with a Beyond Violet cocktail while I chose a Japanese whisky cocktail. Wine also impressed — Sam sipped a glass of 2022 Frankland Estate Chardonnay to complement seafood while I went for the Henschke Kyneton Red.
We shared a plate of Pacific oysters, half natural and half topped with apple gel, and the most divine roasted scallops with capers, broccolini, and a silky sauce vierge.
Scallops were a joyous dish.
For mains, I couldn't go past the 500g Riverine rib eye, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavour. Sam's miso-glazed King Salmon was equally impressive. The Salmon dish almost "stole the show" from the steak.
We shared sides of rosemary roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli, finishing with a creamy Bergamot cheesecake that was both fragrant and indulgent, and a delicious Earl Grey Cremeux. The experience was multi-sensory — sophisticated yet approachable, elevated yet grounded in quality local produce.
Cocktails with dessert was the perfect option.
The Verdict
Every moment at Oakwood Premier Melbourne felt thoughtfully curated — from the design and service to the location and dining. The team were warm and accommodating throughout, and we loved that the hotel offers great deals with nearby attractions, making it a smart choice for locals looking for a luxe weekend or visitors wanting to be in the thick of it all. For us, our staycation at Oakwood Premier was a true escape — a chance to fall in love with our city all over again from a new perspective.
Also explore these related guides:
• A Business Traveller's Staycation at Oakwood Premier Melbourne
• 50 Things to Do in Melbourne