CryptoTraveler
cryptotraveler

Show prices in

Choose a currency for your trip.

More currencies

More crypto

Prices refresh when you change currency.

Find your next stay

Essence Hotel Carlton

Melbourne - VIC · Australia

Swanston Street, 609View location

8.0/10Excellent1,001 Reviews
Cleanliness8.6/108.6
Service8.6/108.6
Comfort7.6/107.6
Condition8.0/108.0
Location9.0/109.0
Neighborhood8.6/108.6
Amenities7.8/107.8
See all ratings
Check availability Pay with crypto or card

Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About Essence Hotel Carlton

Just 5 minutes' walk from the University of Melbourne and Lygon Street, and 2 tram stops from the center of the city. It is 10 minutes' walk from RMIT University, Queen Victoria Market and Melbourne Museum. Melbourne Airport is 35 minutes' drive away.

Essence Hotel Carlton offers rooms featuring a 32-inch flat-screen TV. Guests enjoy access to an indoor courtyard, gym, communal kitchen and a games area.

All air-conditioned rooms feature a safety deposit box and a work desk (except twin rooms). Each room has a private private bathroom with a hairdryer.

The hotel also offers a 24-hour front desk and a guest self laundry. There is parking onsite (subject to availability and booking is required) at $29/day/vehicle. Early check in and late check outs are chargeable at $25 per hour.

Read more about this hotelShow less

On arrival, a valid ID is required for verification as well as a physical credit card for pre-authorisation.

With a stay at Essence Hotel Carlton in Melbourne (Carlton), you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Melbourne City Baths and Lygon Street. This hotel is 0.3 mi (0.4 km) from University of Melbourne and 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from RMIT University.

Make yourself at home in one of the 47 air-conditioned rooms featuring LCD televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Private bathrooms with showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include laptop-compatible safes and desks, and housekeeping is provided on request.

Featured amenities include multilingual staff, luggage storage, and laundry facilities. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.

Popular amenities

Free WiFi
Parking available
Concierge
Laundry
Gym
Entertainment
Smoking areas
Business facilities
Accessible facilities

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 2:00 PM
Check-in until 8:00 PM
Check-out until 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age 18

Hotel policies

No rollaway/extra beds available No cribs (infant beds) available Parking height restrictions apply Events/parties not allowed Professional property host/manager Property does not offer onsite COVID-19 testing Property does not require health documentation at check-in Pets not allowed Service animals are allowed Service animals are exempt from fees/restrictions

Cleaning and safety

Sanitization
Cashless transactions are available

Important information

  • Property Alerts

    You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

    • A damage deposit of AUD 101 will be collected before check-in.

    We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

  • You need to know
    • One child 5 years old or younger stays free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding.
    • Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
    • Parking height restrictions apply.
    • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
  • Special Instructions
    The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM. If you are planning to arrive after 8:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. The credit card used to book the reservation must be presented by the cardholder at check-in along with matching photo identification. Other arrangements must be coordinated with the property prior to arrival. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
    • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
    • This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
    • Cashless transactions are available
    • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
    • Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
  • Minimal age
    18
  • Optional fees
    • Secured self parking fee: AUD 35 per night

    The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • Spoken Language

    Hindi

    Chinese (Cantonese)

    Malay

    English

    Chinese (Mandarin)

    Indonesian

    Spanish

Nearby attractions

Melbourne City Baths 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Lygon Street 0.4 km / 0.2 mi
University of Melbourne 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
RMIT University 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Carlton Gardens 0.6 km / 0.4 mi
Melbourne Central 0.7 km / 0.4 mi
State Library of Victoria 0.7 km / 0.4 mi
Old Melbourne Gaol 0.7 km / 0.4 mi
Queen Victoria Market 0.7 km / 0.5 mi
QV Centre 0.8 km / 0.5 mi
Emporium Melbourne 0.9 km / 0.6 mi
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre 1 km / 0.6 mi
Royal Exhibition Building 1 km / 0.6 mi
Melbourne Museum 1 km / 0.7 mi
Hardware Lane 1.1 km / 0.7 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • Total number of rooms: 46
  • hotel
  • American Express
  • JCB
  • Diners Club
  • MasterCard
  • Visa
  • Wheelchair-accessible
  • Car parkExtra charge
  • Key Collection
  • 24-hour reception
  • Check-in hour
Show 37 more facilities & services
  • Check-out hour
  • Late Check-outExtra charge
  • Mobile phone coverage
  • Wi-fi
  • Secure parkingExtra charge
  • LaunderetteExtra charge
  • Multilingual staff
  • 24-hour security
  • Air conditioning in public areas
  • Smoke detector
  • Hotel safe
  • Lift access
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Bicycle storage
  • Concierge
  • Sun terrace
  • Gym
  • Luggage room
  • Oven
  • Dining area
  • Clothes dryer
  • BBQ facilities
  • Grill/BBQ
  • Electric kettle
  • Towels and bed linen
  • Printer
  • Photocopier
  • FaxExtra charge
  • TV lounge
  • Game room
  • Deposit on arrival
  • Identification card at arrival
  • No hen/stag or any other parties allowed
  • Non-smoking establishment
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
  • Credit card is compulsory as a deposit, no deposit in cash is accepted
Meal plans

Meal plan types

Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.

RO

Room Only

Accommodation only. Meals are usually not included.

Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • DOUBLE DELUXEDOUBLE • DELUXEDBL.DX

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    DOUBLE DELUXE

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.DX

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Double or Twin DELUXEDouble or Twin • DELUXEDBT.DX

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    Double or Twin DELUXE

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBT.DX

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Double or Twin CAPACITY 2Double or Twin • CAPACITY 2DBT.C2

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    CAPACITY 2

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    Double or Twin CAPACITY 2

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    CAPACITY 2

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBT.C2

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SINGLE STANDARDSINGLE • STANDARDSGL.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–1 • Adults: max. 1 • Children: max. 0
    Room type
    SINGLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    SINGLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–1 • Adults: max. 1 • Children: max. 0
    Room type
    SINGLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SGL.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SINGLE ECONOMYSINGLE • ECONOMYSGL.EY

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–1 • Adults: max. 1 • Children: max. 0
    Room type
    SINGLE
    View / characteristic
    ECONOMY

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    SINGLE ECONOMY

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–1 • Adults: max. 1 • Children: max. 0
    Room type
    SINGLE
    View / characteristic
    ECONOMY

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SGL.EY

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Room DELUXERoom • DELUXEROO.DX

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    Room DELUXE

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: ROO.DX

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Double or Twin STANDARDDouble or Twin • STANDARDDBT.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    Double or Twin STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBT.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Room TWO BEDSRoom • TWO BEDSROO.2B

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    TWO BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    Room TWO BEDS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    TWO BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: ROO.2B

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • TWIN STANDARDTWIN • STANDARDTWN.ST-1

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    TWIN
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    TWIN STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    TWIN
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: TWN.ST-1

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE STANDARDDOUBLE • STANDARDDBL.ST-1

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    DOUBLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.ST-1

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE DELUXE QUEEN BEDDOUBLE • DELUXE QUEEN BED • 1 Bedroom • 16 m²DBL.DX-QN
    DOUBLE DELUXE QUEEN BEDPhoto unavailable3 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    16 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Queen-size bed 150-154 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE QUEEN BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room amenities

    • Bathroom: 1
    • Hairdryer
    • TV
    • Radio
    • Internet access
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Ironing set
    • Wi-fi
    Show all 13 amenities
    • Alarm clock
    • Toiletries
    • Desk
    • Housekeeping
    • Electric Kettle: 1

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    DOUBLE DELUXE QUEEN BED

    Room photos

    3 photos

    Select a photo to open the full-screen viewer.

    Photos illustrate the room type; your assigned room may vary.

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    16 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Queen-size bed 150-154 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE QUEEN BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.DX-QN

    Room amenities

    • Bathroom: 1
    • Hairdryer
    • TV
    • Radio
    • Internet access
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Ironing set
    • Wi-fi
    • Alarm clock
    • Toiletries
    • Desk
    • Housekeeping
    • Electric Kettle: 1

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Double or Twin DELUXEDouble or Twin • DELUXEDBT.DX-7

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    Double or Twin DELUXE

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBT.DX-7

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • SINGLE DELUXESINGLE • DELUXESGL.DX

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–1 • Adults: max. 1 • Children: max. 0
    Room type
    SINGLE
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    SINGLE DELUXE

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–1 • Adults: max. 1 • Children: max. 0
    Room type
    SINGLE
    View / characteristic
    DELUXE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SGL.DX

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Double or Twin CAPACITY 2Double or Twin • CAPACITY 2DBT.C2-4

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    CAPACITY 2

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    Double or Twin CAPACITY 2

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–6 • Adults: max. 6 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    Double or Twin
    View / characteristic
    CAPACITY 2

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBT.C2-4

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Room STANDARDRoom • STANDARDROO.ST

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    Room STANDARD

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: ROO.ST

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • Room RUN OF HOUSERoom • RUN OF HOUSEROO.RO

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    RUN OF HOUSE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    Room RUN OF HOUSE

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
    Room type
    Room
    View / characteristic
    RUN OF HOUSE

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: ROO.RO

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE QUEEN SIZE BEDDOUBLE • QUEEN SIZE BEDDBL.QN

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    QUEEN SIZE BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

    Check availability

    Essence Hotel Carlton

    DOUBLE QUEEN SIZE BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    QUEEN SIZE BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.QN

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about Essence Hotel Carlton

8.0
Excellent
1,001 Reviews
Cleanliness
8.6 /10
Service
8.6 /10
Comfort
7.6 /10
Condition
8.0 /10
Location
9.0 /10
Neighborhood
8.6 /10
Amenities
7.8 /10
100 reviews shown
8/10
Excellent
30 May 2026
Kate
Clean and convenient location. Very small rooms.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
24 May 2026
Damian
Easy parking. Friendly staff. Easy early check in. Close to all areas.
Self
4/10
Poor
19 May 2026
Paul
It was basic place to stay, keycard not able to grant access after hours relying on people to open door. Unmanned front desk after 9pm making it difficult to get card fixed. Location was good staff friendly
Self
10/10
Exceptional
30 Apr 2026
Anthony
Great stay. Very clean and worthwhile
Business
10/10
Exceptional
03 Apr 2026
Vanessa
Wonderful stay - will definitely stay here again.
10/10
Exceptional
29 Mar 2026
Philip
Great location, trams right outside, very close to amenities and city centre
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
20 Mar 2026
Grace
Very compact rooms with little room to move or store luggage, with one side of the bed only accessible by climbing across the bed. The room was very cold and temperature control was difficult/inaccessible.
Self
4/10
Poor
02 Mar 2026
Victor Allan
The room had a single bed only. I have never booked a room anywhere in the world that had a single bed only. The manager helped by charging extra for a camp stretcher. This hotel is pleasant convenient and has nice staff but this episode disappointed me.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
25 Feb 2026
Isabel
Reception staff were friendly and no trouble to stow my luggage as I arrived early and room wasn’t ready. Twin bedroom, clean and tidy, great shower. However, the air conditioning wasn’t working and reception had left for the night so room was quite cold, otherwise for the one night stay was very convenient location.
Self
8/10
Excellent
17 Feb 2026
Phillipa
Lovely staff, clean room and fabulous location
Self
8/10
Excellent
08 Feb 2026
cameron
Small but clean room. Pretty good location for anything happening in the city.
8/10
Excellent
31 Jan 2026
Chris
Clean , great staff , tiny rooms
4/10
Poor
27 Jan 2026
Qurat-ul-Ain
Average at best And overpriced.
2/10
Poor
25 Jan 2026
byron
I made two phone calls to ensure my son, who was arriving 2 hours before us, was able to park his car underneath. I was assured both times that he could and that it would go straight to my credit card. It did not. He had to pay for both vehicles and because we had not checked in, he parked his car but was then stuck in the elevator for 20 minutes as he had no 'room key' to exit. The staff allowed him to enter (once he paid) but did not warn him that he would be trapped in there as no key was issued yet. He used the emergency phone in the lift to eventually get out (20 minute ordeal) and I had been assured it would be fine by two staff on separate phone calls. NOT HAPPY AT ALL!
On top off that, the doors to the bathrooms are frosted glass AND do not close properly or lock. When you share a room with your late teenage kids, you'd like them to have some privacy.
This is my last stay there and we go regularly to Melbourne to visit our son who lives down there.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
10 Jan 2026
harry
clean and fresh, helpful staff very comfortable bed
8/10
Excellent
01 Jan 2026
Rebecca
A value for money hotel close to shops, dining and transport. Rooms are small, but well appointed and clean.
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
31 Dec 2025
Asha
Room and shower are a bit tiny. Good pressure, volume and temp in the shower. Stone throw away from metro stop. Accessible to everything in CBD
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
16 Dec 2025
Lauren
Parking was easy and secure. Easy walk into Lygon St.
Business Friends
6/10
Pleasant
27 Nov 2025
Dorinda
Not sure the air con was working or the bathroom fan
Business Self
10/10
Exceptional
21 Nov 2025
Valerie
Essence was close to my destination and easily accessible. I didn't find a suitable place for an evening meal nearby. (The place where I went was extremely noisy.) Maybe I needed to look harder.
I would certainly revisit Essence.
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
20 Nov 2025
Pei-shan
Good
10/10
Exceptional
05 Nov 2025
Matt
Amazing stay clean rooms good service and such easy access to the CBD of Melbourne A+
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
03 Nov 2025
Andrew
Very nice room
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
21 Oct 2025
Ross
Room was nice and clean and the staff were very nice and helpful. Good security parking
Self
10/10
Exceptional
14 Sep 2025
Amber
I always enjoy staying at the Essence. It's a great location, has parking, and the rooms are a good size and clean.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
04 Sep 2025
Melinda
We had a great stay. Top floor room was lovely and quiet, and had enough room for multiple suitcases. Really convenient for the areas we were visiting.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
26 Aug 2025
glen
Very helpful staff. Room was fine, bed comfortable.
Self
8/10
Excellent
12 Aug 2025
Paul
Enjoyed the stay it was convenient for the reason I was there
Business Self
8/10
Excellent
05 Aug 2025
JOHN
Twin Rooms (while suiting our needs) are too small
Leisure Friends
8/10
Excellent
21 Jul 2025
David
Was a very busy time the sleep was much needed.
Business Partner
8/10
Excellent
04 Jul 2025
Pamela
the room is clean, the shower felt fab, the staff was kind. what more does one need for a one night stay?
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
29 Jun 2025
Cassi
The hotel was great, staff were friendly. Clean, but small rooms. The carpark was easy. Unfortunately there are a lot of personal belongings and old mattresses in the car park, making parking challenging.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
25 Jun 2025
Donna
Comfy bed. Lovely outdoor area & indoor nooks.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
25 May 2025
Amber
It's a great area that is easy to get to. Nice that it has parking although it is a small underground garage. Room was clean, comfy beds.
Leisure Partner
2/10
Poor
19 Mar 2025
Brooke
Most unhygienic hotel I’ve ever stayed at.
Leisure Friends
8/10
Excellent
22 Feb 2025
Amber
I have stayed a few times here now. The location is great for walking to many events around the city. Having a hotel with parking is a plus as well and cheaper than finding a spot in a parking garage. The room was nice and a good size.
Noise from the hall this time was a problem. At 4:30 am for nearly 30 mins people were opening and closing their doors over and over leading to loud clicks and bangs as they opened and closed them. I don't know what was happening and why people needed to constantly be in and out of their rooms over and over banging doors.
Leisure Self
6/10
Pleasant
12 Feb 2025
Keith A

A real mixed bag in a good location

The hotel has a perfect location, convenient to public transit and walking distance to so much that one would want to do or see. The reception staff was super nice and accommodating, and the beds were supportive without being hard. The room , however, was not cleaned on three of the six days we were there, and we had to repeatedly request clean towels as a result. It is the smallest hotel room I have ever stayed in, and the lack of a desk or a chair was a fatal detail that made our stay less than comfortable. There is virtually no usable counter or table space. It was difficult to maneuver around the limited space and there is nowhere to put suitcases or even to unpack clothing. The bathroom is also small, though it is well designed and was comfortable, though not enough to make up for the room problems.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
27 Jan 2025
Scott
This is the 2nd time I have stayed here and while the rooms are on the small side, they are always clean and tidy. The hotel is walking distance to Lygon St and the Royal Exhibition Building which is great and there is a tram stop out the front which goes straight to the CBD area
Business_and_leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
25 Jan 2025
John
I would stay there again. A small room but well equipped and very clean. Some construction noise but generally quiet. Good value for the price.
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
03 Jan 2025
Adam
Great little hotel within walking distance of Lygon Street, Melbourne Central and Vic Markets. Had a morning appointment and the hotel let me leave my car in their carpark until my appointment was finished at no extra charge. Staff were very friendly and helpful.
Self
8/10
Excellent
20 Nov 2024
Alana
Very close to public transport and easy access to the property. Room was clean, with a very accessible shower, however, no fan system for the shower heat (hence notice about keeping door fully shut so as to not activate alarm system).

Bed was very comfortable but a little close due to the size of the desk in room.

Otherwise, a wonderful stay.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
18 Nov 2024
Sally
The hotel's name is unique, as its \"essence\" was totally more from what l had to leave to be able to stay there at extremely short notice🙏🙏
10/10
Exceptional
18 Nov 2024
Hayley
Great facilities, helpful staff
Leisure Family_with_children
8/10
Excellent
17 Nov 2024
Victoria
Modern but small room. Very clean and well serviced. Fairly decent location relative to Queen Victoria Mkt . Laundry machines are $10. Filtered water available on main floor.
10/10
Exceptional
03 Nov 2024
Amber
In a nice area in Carlton, quiet and very walkable down Swanston to the main CBD area. Close to Queen Victoria market as well, tram right outside. Staff were friendly and helpful, car park was secure, underground.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
21 Oct 2024
Emma
Great location. Clean room. Good accessible bathroom. My only criticism is that I asked for an accessible room and I didn't find out that I wasn't getting one until I had checked in. This was frustrating because I had chosen this hotel because it came up in a search of accessible hotels.
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
17 Oct 2024
Adam

Great location in Carlton

Great location for my trip. Pleasant staff who were very helpful.

Had an appointment a short walk away and they let me leave my car in the hotel carpark after checkout until I returned. Very grateful for that.

Short walk to Lygon Street for dining.

Would definitely stay here again.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
03 Oct 2024
Darryl
Hotel 7 staff were very good
8/10
Excellent
13 Jul 2024
Trudy
Good
10/10
Exceptional
28 Jun 2024
Trini
Great place to stay
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
10 Jun 2024
courtney
Room was clean, very affordable, and by far the comfiest beds ive ever sleep on when travelling!!! such a great location aswell!
Leisure Friends
4/10
Poor
22 Apr 2024
Dahir
The room was not clean, when I asked if they could someone, they didn’t anyone!
Business Self
4/10
Poor
05 Apr 2024
Michelle
We dont like it basically because the room is so small . it is hard for 2 people to walk around.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
26 Mar 2024
Paul
Great space and location.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
24 Mar 2024
Kym
Comfortable room. Very close to what I needed and good value for money!
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
22 Mar 2024
Verified traveler
Very good location and excellent services
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
19 Mar 2024
Rhys
There was no wall sockets near the bed and while I didn’t think this would be an issue. It was. The rooms are also small and boring. Very average for the price I paid. I probably wouldn’t recommend or stay again as having a phone next to me while it charges was important at this time of stay
Partner
6/10
Pleasant
08 Mar 2024
Angela
A very ordinary and basic hotel. Very handy and perfect position for our needs.
Literally no where in the bathroom to put personal items, semi blocked bathroom sink and a dirty bin.
Leisure Family
6/10
Pleasant
25 Feb 2024
Enda
Access problems with tram works. Machines going all night.
Business
8/10
Excellent
23 Feb 2024
Dee
Comfortable bed and showers, clean and had everything I needed for a short stay.
Business Self
10/10
Exceptional
20 Feb 2024
Rock
Staff members were helpful rooms were what we after
8/10
Excellent
26 Jan 2024
Stephen
Clean and affordable
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
20 Jan 2024
kerry
Room had everything you would require for short stay,mine was 1 night, small rooms but comfortable great location
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
20 Jan 2024
Raffaele

Comfortable Clean Convenient Courteous Quiet

Essence Carlton was a great place to stay. Staff were great. Room was well presented and clean and it was diligently serviced daily. Bed and pillows were very comfortable. TV and remote worked well. AC was ready to use and worked well cooling from17-23C. Sure the room was small but we expected that. The tram stop was conveniently located 50m down the road. Room 341 was quiet with a window which opened to a grassed area. Great value for money hotel.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
18 Jan 2024
George

Good stay

The Good
Clean room with shampoo and towels
The Bad
They could offer more soap pellets
Self
8/10
Excellent
17 Dec 2023
Sarah
Good location, very affordable but small rooms. Minimal parking and amenities. Nice and clean with friendly staff.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
11 Dec 2023
Russell
Staff at Essence were so polite and helpful. 5 star assistance from them. Thankyou
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
09 Dec 2023
Saman Sarker
I would have given it a 5 star. It was clean and all and overall it was a good experience. But it had lack of stuffs and service. They only have room cleaning once in the day and thats basically it. There is also no in-room calls and facilities like that. However, the rooms were very clean. And I didn't had much difficulties tbh. Recommended.
Business Self
2/10
Poor
04 Dec 2023
Jiya
Sleeping on a park bench would have been more comfortable. The mattresses are the cheapest… they sink and send you both into the middle… add that to a massive lump of a pillow and you have the worst night imaginable. We didn’t expect five star but literally the worst accommodation/bed ever and we have been backpackers and traveled in remote places.
Leisure
8/10
Excellent
28 Nov 2023
Emma
It was a bit noisy, to much street noise.
10/10
Exceptional
28 Nov 2023
Phuong
Thank you to the hotel's staff: reservation, reception and house keeping teams for good services, kind and professional manner. The room we stayed was new, clean and quiet We had a nice stay.
10/10
Exceptional
27 Nov 2023
Mitchell
We had a great stay
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
25 Nov 2023
Kimberly Alessandra
It was a nice and comfort room for a reasonable price.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
26 Oct 2023
Melanie
Great little getaway spot in Melbourne - will come again.
4/10
Poor
22 Oct 2023
Sally
Room was very basic and not clean. Fee to park car on the property was excessive. Overall not impressed with the visit.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
08 Oct 2023
Rachel
Great location
6/10
Pleasant
08 Oct 2023
Richard
The room could definitely be cleaned better, particularly the floor which was quite dirty in places.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
23 Sep 2023
Byron
Clean simple rooms for the solo traveller. Plus conveniently located a short walk from the Lygon St restaurants. Close to a couple of great local pubs The Lincoln and Queensbury Hotel.
Business_and_leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
11 Sep 2023
Rhonda
Great spot, friendly staff and perfect location. Walking distance to Lygon St, and just easy! Thanks for connecting us with this gem! Best suited if you just need a comfy bed for the night. The rooms are small but comfortable, and there are lots of options around for entertainment and dining.
Business_and_leisure Family
4/10
Poor
10 Sep 2023
Cire
Good
6/10
Pleasant
10 Sep 2023
THAD
Hair dry was unsafe and unusable.
8/10
Excellent
17 Aug 2023
Chester
This is a good budget hotel in Carlton. The rooms are small, but they're clean and there's a good use of space. It's right on the tram line, so rooms on the street are noisy, but those on other sides are reasonably quiet.
Business Self
8/10
Excellent
10 Aug 2023
Bryce
Nice easy stay
Leisure Self
4/10
Poor
31 Jul 2023
Roger
I have pretty simple requirements for a hotel. Clean, quiet, and a comfortable temperature. Unfortunately, I was disappointed by this one -- very disappointed for the price at the high end of midrange. This is not a midrange hotel, it is a cheap student dorm offering their unused rooms as a hotel.

I knew it would be small, but I was shocked to actually see it: I banged my elbows on the wall when taking off my coat, the suitcase stand was 2/3 the size of my case and there was no room for a wardrobe. Presumably the students do their homework in the common because there is no room for anything like a desk.

With the AC set on maximum, it barely moved a thread next to the vent; eventually I got so hot (in midwinter!) I had to open the window to get to sleep. (Which was made more difficult because the window catch was broken -- and greasy.) Of course, the open window made the loud street noises even worse. The feeble AC might also contribute to the black mould in the tiny bathroom -- but then again, there were also dust bunnies and hair on the carpets, so ... Oh, and the room safe didn't work.

On the plus side, the shower was bizarrely huge compared to everything else. Rest of the bathroom, you bang you shins on the toilet bowl whilst cleaning your teeth. Shower, you could get 6 people in there if it rocked your boat. Also, a very convenient tram stop for getting into the city.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
25 Jul 2023
Damian
Loved the location, clean and comfortable
8/10
Excellent
23 Jul 2023
Rosemary
Neat hotel on tram route in good location. Compact clean rooms (have stayed here once before) great shower.
I did have a problem with the air con and couldn't get it to go below 22 degrees, but thankfully the rooms have opening windows.
4/10
Poor
23 Jul 2023
Joanne
There was an error with my booking. I had booked for a standard twin room but when I got to the room it was a Queen bed room. I was then told that the twin rooms were booked for the night when I had booked a month in advanced. I didn't receive any confirmation closer to the date and my email stated it was a twin room. All they could offer me were to stay in the room or have two separate rooms. When I asked again they only offered a late checkout. I was disappointed as it was not what I had booked for and I was not informed ahead of time whether or not it was okay.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
22 Jul 2023
David
Clean, quiet, and comfy. Everything you need for a short stay.
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
16 Jul 2023
Paula
Reception staff very polite friendly and helpful
Late check was very appreciated
Thanks
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
11 Jul 2023
Nicole
Most comfortable bed ever!!!!
Business
4/10
Poor
09 Jul 2023
Daniel
Tv didn't work shower had mold in it
Business Self
10/10
Exceptional
07 Jul 2023
Holly
I was very happy with the Accommodation and location. Excellent place to stay.
Business_and_leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
06 Jul 2023
Dominique
Excellent thank you
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
02 Jul 2023
Sophie
I really enjoyed the fabulous service from the people on the front desk. The rooms was mostly clean except for mould in the shower and a dirty tissue that was left on the floor. Overall, a great place for a one night stay while travelling through Melbourne.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
28 May 2023
Froni
Nice and convenient. Very friendly and professional staff. Thank you.
Business Self
8/10
Excellent
26 May 2023
Stratia
Very basic but nice for over night stay. It’s tiny.
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
20 May 2023
MIchael
Convenient location. Pleasant staff
Business Self
8/10
Excellent
18 May 2023
Jacinta
It was very clean and professional. Bed was comfy.
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
07 May 2023
Chelsea
Clean and simple room. Bed was comfortable. Walkable to CBD and tram available on Swanston Street.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
07 May 2023
Sally
It was clean. Smallest room I’ve ever stayed in but was only there for a bed so not an issue

Location & surroundings

Essence Hotel Carlton
Swanston Street, 609, Carlton, Australia

Explore the mapShow on Google

Hotels Nearby

Compare other stays close to this hotel. Choose travel dates to check availability.

Explore the map
Show 46 more nearby hotels

Essence Hotel Carlton

27 hotel photos