The CBD puts you in the middle of the grid, close to laneways, galleries and the free tram zone. It's also where most of the big hotel towers are, and it can feel like a business district after dark on a weeknight.

Melbourne's inner suburbs are where locals actually live, eat and go out. Richmond, South Yarra, St Kilda and Middle Park are all within 15 minutes of the city by tram or train, and each one has its own strip of cafés, bars and restaurants. You get a more relaxed base, more space for your money, and a much better sense of what the city is really like.

If you're in town for the footy, the cricket, the tennis or a concert, Richmond is the place. The MCG, Rod Laver Arena and AAMI Park are all within walking distance, so you can skip the post-match tram crush and be back at your apartment while the crowd is still queuing.

Away from game day, Richmond is one of Melbourne's best food suburbs. Swan Street has wine bars, pubs and excellent restaurants, Victoria Street is the city's go-to for Vietnamese, and Bridge Road adds shopping and more places to eat. Richmond Station connects you to the CBD in a few minutes. Read more in our guide to staying in Richmond.

South Yarra is polished, central and very easy to get around. Chapel Street and Toorak Road are lined with boutiques, cafés and bars, the Royal Botanic Gardens are close by, and South Yarra Station is one of the best-connected stops on the train network.

It's a great all-rounder for first-time visitors, couples and anyone staying a little longer. It's also one of the few inner suburbs where you can find accommodation with free parking. Planning a weekend? Start with our favourite South Yarra brunch spots.

St Kilda is Melbourne's seaside suburb, and it has a personality all its own. The beach, the pier, Luna Park and the Palais Theatre are all here, along with the cake shops of Acland Street and the bars and restaurants of Fitzroy Street.

It's the right pick if you want sea air, sunset walks along the foreshore and a lively evening scene, with the city still a direct tram ride away. On Sundays, the St Kilda Esplanade Market is worth a wander.

Middle Park is the hidden gem of bayside Melbourne. It's a leafy, residential pocket between Albert Park Lake and the beach, with Armstrong Street's cafés, a classic local pub and a tram stop that takes you to the city or St Kilda in minutes.

It suits families, groups and longer stays, especially if you want two bedrooms and a full kitchen. Once a year it also becomes the best place in Melbourne to stay for the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, with the Albert Park circuit just metres away.

First time in Melbourne.

South Yarra or St Kilda. Both give you a lively local strip on your doorstep and easy transport into the city.

In town for an event.

Richmond for the MCG, Melbourne Park and AAMI Park. Middle Park for the Grand Prix.

Travelling with family or friends.

Middle Park, where two-bedroom apartments sleep up to four with a full kitchen and laundry.

Staying a week or more.

Any of the four. A self-contained apartment with a kitchen makes a long stay far easier than a hotel room, and stays of seven nights or more include weekly servicing.

Bringing a car.

South Yarra or St Kilda Blessington Street, which both include free onsite parking.

Here for the beach.

St Kilda or Middle Park, both a short walk from the sand.

What is the best area to stay in Melbourne for first-time visitors?

South Yarra and St Kilda are both great choices. They're within 15 minutes of the CBD by public transport, and each has its own strip of cafés, bars, shops and restaurants to explore on foot.

Is it better to stay in the Melbourne CBD or the suburbs?

It depends on your trip. The CBD is convenient for sightseeing and business, while inner suburbs like Richmond, South Yarra, St Kilda and Middle Park offer a more local experience, more space and easy transport into the city.

Where should I stay in Melbourne for the MCG?

Richmond. It sits right next to the MCG, so you can walk to the ground for the AFL, the Boxing Day Test or a concert, then walk home afterwards.

Where can I stay in Melbourne near the beach?

St Kilda and Middle Park are both a short walk from Port Phillip Bay, with trams running directly into the city.

Are serviced apartments a good option for longer stays in Melbourne?

Yes. A serviced apartment gives you a kitchen, more space and often laundry facilities, which makes a stay of a week or more much more comfortable than a standard hotel room.