Coppersmith Hotel

This small, architect-designed hotel has a distinctly Melbourne vibe. The building's shell once belonged to a pub, and the furniture in each of the 15 rooms was custom-made by Australian designers. The property is restrained and elegant—more like staying in a large home than a hotel—and the South Melbourne location makes for a more relaxed home base than in more bustling parts of the city. Fresh flowers, a coffee machine, and Appelles Black Label bathroom products are included. Coppersmith Bistro presents tasty, seasonal dishes (the fish pie is a must-eat) and there's a rooftop terrace where guests can watch the sun go down.