Where to Stay in Melbourne for the Australian Open 2026
January in Melbourne means sunshine, tennis fever, and a city that never slows down. From the moment the first serve echoes through Rod Laver Arena, you know the tennis tournament is the height of the Australian summer experience.
That’s the magic of the Australian Open. Every summer, the city transforms into a global stage: a place where champions rise, fans from every corner of the world converge, and the atmosphere crackles with pure, joyful energy.
And, if you’re lucky enough to be part of it, where you stay can make all the difference.
Across Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, and John Cain Arena, more than 250 players will battle it out for tennis glory, and for two unforgettable weeks, the city lives and breathes the game.
But it’s not just about what happens on the court. Melbourne Park sits right on the edge of the city centre, meaning every match spills into a festival of summer music, food pop-ups, and riverside bars. Even if you’re not courtside, you’re still part of the story.
Credit: Visit Victoria
Finding the right Australian Open tennis accommodation means staying close enough to feel the buzz, yet comfortable enough to unwind when you need to. The tournament might be the highlight of your trip, but your time off the court is what turns your stay into an experience.
For tennis fans, location is everything. Staying close to Melbourne Park means you can walk or hop on a quick tram to catch the first serve of the day, then be back in time for sunset drinks by the Yarra River.
Areas around the CBD, Docklands, and the western end of the city are especially popular during the tournament, offering fast access to the stadiums along with an endless choice of dining, shopping, and nightlife.
These typically bundle together tournament tickets, accommodation, flights, and transfers, sometimes even including on-ground experiences like stadium tours or player meet-and-greets.
Aus Open packages are a convenient option (especially for first-time visitors), but often come with fixed dates and limited hotel choices, meaning less flexibility to explore Melbourne on your own terms.
That’s why many travellers are now building their own Australian Open experience instead of choosing a pre-set deal. By booking directly and choosing your own accommodation, tickets, and itinerary, you gain the freedom to shape your trip exactly how you want it.
Credit: Visit Victoria
Start your evening with a walk along the Southbank Promenade, where buskers play beside the Yarra River. Head across to Federation Square, a cultural hub that often screens highlights from the day’s matches and hosts pop-up events during the tournament.
For something a little different, wander through Melbourne’s famous laneways, like Degraves Street or Hosier Lane. You’ll find hidden espresso bars, boutique shops, and street art that changes almost daily.
If you’re craving a quick escape from the crowds, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer calm and shade, perfect for a morning walk before heading back to the courts. Or, soar high into the sky aboard a hot air balloon and watch the sunrise from above.
Grab a coffee and a pastry in Hardware Lane, enjoy modern Asian plates at Chin Chin, or sit riverside at Arbory Afloat with a spritz in hand as the sun dips behind the skyline. Want to discover more local favourites? Explore Melbourne’s hidden food gems, all within easy reach of Melbourne Park.
Yarra Valley
If you’ve got an extra day or two, step outside the city and see why Victoria’s landscapes are just as famous as its laneways. A short drive takes you to the Yarra Valley, where cellar doors and vineyard restaurants promise long, lazy lunches among rolling hills.
St Kilda
Credit: Visit Victoria
Prefer the coast? Start with St Kilda, Melbourne’s iconic beachside suburb and home to palm-lined boardwalks, boutique shops, and the famous St Kilda Esplanade Market every Sunday. Watch the sunset from the pier (and you might even spot a little penguin or two).
Mornington Peninsula
Venture a little further to the Mornington Peninsula, known for its pristine beaches, Peninsula Hot Springs, and boutique wineries. Explore seaside villages like Sorrento and Portsea for local art galleries, cafés, and coastal walks with sweeping bay views.
Great Ocean Road
Credit: Visit Victoria
If you’re in the mood for adventure, take the wheel and head west along the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. Stop for fish and chips in Lorne, walk through rainforests near Otway National Park, and finish at the Twelve Apostles.
If you’re looking for Australian Open tennis accommodation that already feels like part of the experience, Dorsett Melbourne gives you everything an official package promises, including style, comfort, and proximity, but with the personal touch of a stay designed around you.
Positioned on the edge of Melbourne’s CBD, and moments from Docklands and Melbourne Park, Dorsett Melbourne sits at the crossroads of convenience and style.
Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice the hotel’s signature mood: a refined blend of sophistication and warmth. The interiors pair contemporary Melbourne design with soft lighting, rich textures, and thoughtful details that feel both elegant and welcoming.
The guest rooms are designed for easy relaxation, with plush bedding, rainfall showers, and glittering city views. After a day at the courts, unwind in the indoor pool or spa, then enjoy local flavours and cocktails at Jin Bar, the hotel’s bar and restaurant.
Close to the courts, surrounded by culture, and designed for relaxation, Dorsett Melbourne puts you at the centre of it all. Book your stay direct at Dorsett Melbourne today and discover why it’s the perfect home base for your Aus Open 2026 adventure.
That’s the magic of the Australian Open. Every summer, the city transforms into a global stage: a place where champions rise, fans from every corner of the world converge, and the atmosphere crackles with pure, joyful energy.
And, if you’re lucky enough to be part of it, where you stay can make all the difference.
The Australian Open 2026: When and Where the Action Unfolds
The Australian Open 2026 — officially scheduled for mid to late January 2026 — will once again take over Melbourne Park, marking the start of another epic Grand Slam season.Across Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, and John Cain Arena, more than 250 players will battle it out for tennis glory, and for two unforgettable weeks, the city lives and breathes the game.
But it’s not just about what happens on the court. Melbourne Park sits right on the edge of the city centre, meaning every match spills into a festival of summer music, food pop-ups, and riverside bars. Even if you’re not courtside, you’re still part of the story.
Where to Stay for the Australian Open
Credit: Visit Victoria
Finding the right Australian Open tennis accommodation means staying close enough to feel the buzz, yet comfortable enough to unwind when you need to. The tournament might be the highlight of your trip, but your time off the court is what turns your stay into an experience.
For tennis fans, location is everything. Staying close to Melbourne Park means you can walk or hop on a quick tram to catch the first serve of the day, then be back in time for sunset drinks by the Yarra River.
Areas around the CBD, Docklands, and the western end of the city are especially popular during the tournament, offering fast access to the stadiums along with an endless choice of dining, shopping, and nightlife.
Understanding Australian Open Packages
When planning your trip, you’ll likely come across a range of Australian Open tennis packages designed to make travel simple.These typically bundle together tournament tickets, accommodation, flights, and transfers, sometimes even including on-ground experiences like stadium tours or player meet-and-greets.
Aus Open packages are a convenient option (especially for first-time visitors), but often come with fixed dates and limited hotel choices, meaning less flexibility to explore Melbourne on your own terms.
That’s why many travellers are now building their own Australian Open experience instead of choosing a pre-set deal. By booking directly and choosing your own accommodation, tickets, and itinerary, you gain the freedom to shape your trip exactly how you want it.
Plan Ahead for the Australian Open 2026
The Australian Open 2026 is one of the busiest and most exciting times to visit Melbourne, and a little planning goes a long way. Whether you’re coming for a single weekend or the full tournament, here’s how to make your trip smooth, simple, and unforgettable.Booking Tips and Travel Advice
- Book early. January is peak season, and Australian Open tennis accommodation near the action goes fast.
- Check match schedules to plan your days around the players you love.
- Use public transport. Trams and trains make it easy to get from your hotel to Melbourne Park and back again.
Making the Most of Your Melbourne Stay
When the final point is played for the day, Melbourne keeps the energy going. Whether you’re here for a few days or the full fortnight, there’s always something to see, taste, and experience just beyond the courts. Discover things to do in Melbourne beyond the Australian Open.Top Things to Do Between Matches
Credit: Visit Victoria
Start your evening with a walk along the Southbank Promenade, where buskers play beside the Yarra River. Head across to Federation Square, a cultural hub that often screens highlights from the day’s matches and hosts pop-up events during the tournament.
For something a little different, wander through Melbourne’s famous laneways, like Degraves Street or Hosier Lane. You’ll find hidden espresso bars, boutique shops, and street art that changes almost daily.
If you’re craving a quick escape from the crowds, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer calm and shade, perfect for a morning walk before heading back to the courts. Or, soar high into the sky aboard a hot air balloon and watch the sunrise from above.
Dining and Nightlife
Melbourne takes its food as seriously as it takes its sport. During the Australian Open 2026, the city’s restaurants and bars hum with the same excitement as the arenas.Grab a coffee and a pastry in Hardware Lane, enjoy modern Asian plates at Chin Chin, or sit riverside at Arbory Afloat with a spritz in hand as the sun dips behind the skyline. Want to discover more local favourites? Explore Melbourne’s hidden food gems, all within easy reach of Melbourne Park.
Day Trips and Summer Experiences Beyond the CBD
While the city’s laneways and rooftop bars have their own magic, the real charm of Victoria lies just beyond its edges. Within a few hours of the CBD, regional Victoria offers coastal towns and vineyards that turn a short tennis getaway into a summer adventure.Yarra Valley
If you’ve got an extra day or two, step outside the city and see why Victoria’s landscapes are just as famous as its laneways. A short drive takes you to the Yarra Valley, where cellar doors and vineyard restaurants promise long, lazy lunches among rolling hills.
St Kilda
Credit: Visit Victoria
Prefer the coast? Start with St Kilda, Melbourne’s iconic beachside suburb and home to palm-lined boardwalks, boutique shops, and the famous St Kilda Esplanade Market every Sunday. Watch the sunset from the pier (and you might even spot a little penguin or two).
Mornington Peninsula
Venture a little further to the Mornington Peninsula, known for its pristine beaches, Peninsula Hot Springs, and boutique wineries. Explore seaside villages like Sorrento and Portsea for local art galleries, cafés, and coastal walks with sweeping bay views.
Great Ocean Road
Credit: Visit Victoria
If you’re in the mood for adventure, take the wheel and head west along the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. Stop for fish and chips in Lorne, walk through rainforests near Otway National Park, and finish at the Twelve Apostles.
Stay, Play, and Experience the Best of the Aus Open with Dorsett Melbourne
If you’re looking for Australian Open tennis accommodation that already feels like part of the experience, Dorsett Melbourne gives you everything an official package promises, including style, comfort, and proximity, but with the personal touch of a stay designed around you.
Positioned on the edge of Melbourne’s CBD, and moments from Docklands and Melbourne Park, Dorsett Melbourne sits at the crossroads of convenience and style.
Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice the hotel’s signature mood: a refined blend of sophistication and warmth. The interiors pair contemporary Melbourne design with soft lighting, rich textures, and thoughtful details that feel both elegant and welcoming.
The guest rooms are designed for easy relaxation, with plush bedding, rainfall showers, and glittering city views. After a day at the courts, unwind in the indoor pool or spa, then enjoy local flavours and cocktails at Jin Bar, the hotel’s bar and restaurant.
Close to the courts, surrounded by culture, and designed for relaxation, Dorsett Melbourne puts you at the centre of it all. Book your stay direct at Dorsett Melbourne today and discover why it’s the perfect home base for your Aus Open 2026 adventure.
