ibis budget Melbourne CBD

We were on the 7th floor, in a room with a separate bathroom. The beds and pillows were comfortable, the linen and towels were clean, and the staff we met were really friendly and kind. It’s in a great spot on Elizabeth Street and was quiet at night. The floor and sofa had stains, though they were clean enough, and the bathroom was clean too, but the shower linoleum was lifting. A good cheap place to sleep.

Be aware that you don’t earn any Accor points for this stay. The hotel seems to treat conditions that should never be normal as acceptable. Half the rooms are dusty and dirty, with a strong unpleasant smell. When guests raise it, the reply is simply that it’s “normal because we are a budget hotel.” Being budget doesn’t excuse poor hygiene or neglect. Reception is often empty, and staff are rarely around and seem disengaged. Housekeeping doesn’t vacuum unless asked, and the cleaning doesn’t seem proactive or thorough. Guests shouldn’t have to request basic cleanliness. Calling this a “budget property” doesn’t excuse poor hygiene, lack of service, or missing basic hospitality standards. The stay was extremely disappointing and below an acceptable standard for accommodation.

The lighting was poor, and the air conditioner seemed about 30 years old with no remote. The mattress felt like cardboard, the pillows like balls of yarn, and the shower seemed to come straight from a caravan. Stay well away.

The location is really good, but I wouldn’t call this a good hotel, especially since it isn’t cheap. There were no hooks for clothes, which was a problem in the tiny shower. The TV was ridiculously big and not something I need in a hotel. A smaller one could have left room for hooks and given the shower more space. If you’re alone or only need somewhere to sleep, it’s fine. For a more comfortable stay, look elsewhere.