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Essence Hotel Carlton

3.5 star property

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Photo gallery for Essence Hotel Carlton

In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes
Elevator
Exterior
Terrace/patio
Billiards

Reviews

8.0 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym
  • Breakfast available
  • Parking available
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
609 Swanston Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053
  • Place, RMIT University
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Queen Victoria Market
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Melbourne Central
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Airport, Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)
    ‪19 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Queen

Standard Queen | In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Standard Queen

7.8 out of 10
Good
(19 reviews)
  • 151 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Essence Queen Room

In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Essence Queen Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2

View all photos for Essence Twin Room

In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Essence Twin Room

  • Sleeps 2

View all photos for Standard Twin Room

In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Standard Twin Room

7.2 out of 10
Good
(7 reviews)
  • 151 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Deluxe Double Room

In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Deluxe Double Room

7.6 out of 10
Good
(7 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Essence Deluxe Queen Room

In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Essence Deluxe Queen Room

  • Sleeps 2

Standard Queen

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Economy Single Room

Economy Single Room | In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Economy Single Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Co Living Single Room

In-room safe, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Co Living Single Room

  • Sleeps 1

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About the neighborhood

Melbourne

Located in Carlton, Essence Hotel Carlton is within a 5-minute walk of popular attractions such as Melbourne City Baths and Lygon Street. Each of the 47 rooms at this 3.5-star hotel includes an electric kettle, an LCD TV, and free tea bags/instant coffee.

What's nearby

  • Lygon Street - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • RMIT University - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • University of Melbourne - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Queen Victoria Market - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Melbourne Central - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles

Getting around

  • Essendon Station - 9 min drive
  • Melbourne Central Station - 10 min walk
  • Melbourne, VIC (MEB-Essendon) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Hareruya Pantry - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Universal Restaurant - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Queensberry Hotel - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Fattie Prince - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Flovie Florist Cafe - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Essence Hotel Carlton

At Essence Hotel Carlton, guests have access to a 24-hour gym, free WiFi in public areas, and microwave in a common area. Self parking is offered for AUD 29.00 per night. The front desk has multilingual staff that can help with luggage storage, and offer advice about sights and eateries nearby. Additional amenities include a refrigerator in a common area, an arcade/game room, and a terrace.
Guests can enjoy LCD TVs and stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Other standard amenities include electric kettles, laptop-compatible safes, and ironing boards. Housekeeping is available on request.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include a 24-hour fitness center.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Height restrictions apply for onsite parking
  • Self parking on site (AUD 29 per night)
  • Limited onsite self parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym
  • Arcade/game room
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • Arcade/game room
  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage
  • Shared microwave
  • Shared refrigerator
  • Vending machine
  • Water dispenser

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Multilingual staff

Business services

  • Coworking space

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • Outdoor entertainment area
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 1 accessible parking space
  • Elevator (35 inch wide door)
  • Hardwood flooring in room
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible public washroom

More

  • 1 building
  • 5 floors
  • Built in 2013
  • Communal living room
  • Designated smoking areas (fines apply)

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • LCD TV

Food and drink

  • Electric kettle
  • Tea bags/instant coffee

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Laptop workspace
  • Laptop-compatible safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 2 percent for credit card payments
The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 8:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
The credit card used to book the reservation must be presented by the cardholder at check-in along with matching photo identification, and other arrangements must be coordinated with the property prior to arrival
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • One child 5 years old or younger stays free when using existing bedding

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

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

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Self parking fee: AUD 29.00 per night
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 2 percent

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

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
  • Check-in: 2 PM—-8:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers parking (fees apply).

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A credit card for incidental charges and a government-issued photo ID may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • Parking has height restrictions.

Property is also known as

Melbourne Tune
Melbourne Tune Hotel
Tune Hotel Melbourne Carlton
Tune Melbourne Carlton
ibis Melbourne Swanston Street Hotel Carlton
ibis Melbourne Swanston Street Hotel
ibis Melbourne Swanston Street Carlton
ibis Melbourne Swanston Street
Essence Hotel Carlton Hotel
Essence Hotel Carlton Carlton
Essence Hotel Carlton Hotel Carlton
ibis Melbourne Swanston Street Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Essence Hotel Carlton?

Essence Hotel Carlton offers free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Essence Hotel Carlton?

As of May 21, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Essence Hotel Carlton on Jun 4, 2026 start from $89, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What can I see near Essence Hotel Carlton?

This hotel is situated in Carlton within a 10-minute walk of Melbourne Central and Queen Victoria Market. You'll also find Collins Street and Bourke Street Mall less than a mile away.

Is there parking available at Essence Hotel Carlton?

Yes, parking is offered for AUD 29 per night. Though parking is limited parking, wheelchair-accessible parking is also available.

Does Essence Hotel Carlton include a casino on the premises?

No, Essence Hotel Carlton doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Essence Hotel Carlton?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

Is Essence Hotel Carlton a good place to stay for couples?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like a 24-hour gym plus some guestrooms include a city view and free WiFi.

Does Essence Hotel Carlton have a hot tub?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Essence Hotel Carlton have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, Essence Hotel Carlton doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will Essence Hotel Carlton allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Essence Hotel Carlton though service animals are welcome.

Does Essence Hotel Carlton have connecting rooms available?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to Essence Hotel Carlton?

The closest major airport to Essence Hotel Carlton is Melbourne, VIC (MEB-Essendon), which is 9.3 mi away (21 minutes by car). Another top airport is Melbourne Airport (MEL), which is located 13.7 mi away (25-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies at Essence Hotel Carlton?

No, there aren't any guestrooms at Essence Hotel Carlton that offer a balcony.

Essence Hotel Carlton Reviews

Reviews

8.0

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 292 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 449 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 163 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 67 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 30 out of 1001 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

7.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

Phillipa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Lovely staff, clean room and fabulous location
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

cameron

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Small but clean room. Pretty good location for anything happening in the city.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

Chris

Liked: Cleanliness
Clean , great staff , tiny rooms
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

4/10 Poor

Qurat-ul-Ain

Average at best And overpriced.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026

2/10 Terrible

byron

Traveled with family
Disliked: Amenities
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Sam

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

harry

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
clean and fresh, helpful staff very comfortable bed
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Earl

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Rebecca

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A value for money hotel close to shops, dining and transport. Rooms are small, but well appointed and clean.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

6/10 Okay

Asha

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
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
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lauren

Traveled with group, Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Parking was easy and secure. Easy walk into Lygon St.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

6/10 Okay

Dorinda

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Not sure the air con was working or the bathroom fan
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Rod

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Valerie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pei-shan

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matt

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing stay clean rooms good service and such easy access to the CBD of Melbourne A+
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice room
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Elsa

Traveled with family
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Ross

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Room was nice and clean and the staff were very nice and helpful. Good security parking
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

2/10 Terrible

Anthony

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amber

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I always enjoy staying at the Essence. It's a great location, has parking, and the rooms are a good size and clean.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melinda

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adam

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

glen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very helpful staff. Room was fine, bed comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

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