Top Neighbourhoods for the University Stays in Melbourne

Sanya
Author
Sanya Tandon •
10 min • Mar 24th, 2026

Melbourne is home to some of Australia’s leading universities, including the University of Melbourne, RMIT, and Monash University. Whether you’re a student, visiting academic, or a parent supporting a move, choosing the right neighbourhood can make all the difference.

From inner-city convenience to quieter suburban hubs, Melbourne offers a range of areas suited to short and extended university stays. Here’s a guide to the best neighbourhoods and where serviced apartment living can make your stay more comfortable.

Carlton - Ideal for University of Melbourne Stays

Carlton is one of the most convenient areas for those attending the University of Melbourne, offering a true student-focused lifestyle just minutes from campus.

  • Walking distance to the University of Melbourne
  • Lively atmosphere with cafés, libraries, and Lygon Street dining
  • Easy tram access to the CBD and surrounding suburbs

Best for:

  • UniMelb students
  • Visiting academics
  • Families visiting students

For stays near the University of Melbourne, Punthill properties in the CBD such as Punthill Little Bourke, Punthill Flinders Lane, and Punthill Manhattan offer a convenient base just a short tram ride away, combining proximity with apartment-style comfort.

Melbourne CBD – Best for RMIT & City Access

Melbourne CBD is ideal for students who want everything within reach, especially those studying at RMIT or attending multiple campuses.

  • Direct access to RMIT University
  • Walking distance to transport, libraries, dining, and retail
  • Central location for navigating the wider city

Best for:

  • RMIT students
  • International students settling in
  • Short-term study or courses

Stay close to campus with Punthill Little Bourke, Punthill Flinders Lane, and Punthill Manhattan, all located within easy walking distance or a short commute to RMIT and other city campuses.

Clayton – Best for Monash University Students

Clayton is the main hub for Monash University and suits those looking for a more suburban lifestyle during their studies.

  • Home to Monash University Clayton campus
  • Access to essential amenities and student facilities
  • Well-connected via public transport and major roads

Best for:

  • Exchange students
  • Long-term stays
  • Families visiting Monash students

For convenient access to Monash Clayton, Punthill Oakleigh is a nearby option, offering apartment-style accommodation within a short drive or public transport commute to campus.

North Melbourne & Inner-North – Well-Connected Alternatives

North Melbourne and surrounding inner-north suburbs offer a balance between affordability, connectivity, and lifestyle, making them a smart alternative to staying in the CBD.

  • Close to the University of Melbourne and RMIT via tram or a short commute
  • More relaxed, local neighbourhood feel
  • Easy access to public transport and key precincts

Best for:

  • Budget-conscious students and visitors
  • Longer stays
  • Those wanting a quieter base near the city

Punthill’s CBD locations provide a convenient nearby option, allowing guests to stay close to these areas while still benefiting from central access to universities and transport.

Why Serviced Apartments Are Ideal for University Stays

Serviced apartments offer a more flexible and comfortable alternative to traditional accommodation, especially for university-related travel.

  • More space than standard hotel rooms
  • Kitchen and laundry facilities for longer stays
  • Suitable for families, students, and professionals

Punthill apartment hotels are designed to support both short visits and extended stays, making them a practical choice for university life in Melbourne.

Choosing the Right Neighbourhood for Your Stay

The best neighbourhood depends on your needs and priorities. Consider:

  • Proximity: Walking distance vs public transport
  • Stay duration: Short-term vs long-term
  • Lifestyle: City convenience or quieter suburbs
  • Budget: Premium vs value-driven areas

Carlton and Parkville are ideal for University of Melbourne access, the CBD suits RMIT students, and Oakleigh is a strong option for those attending Monash Clayton.

Book Your University Stay with Punthill

With well-located properties across Melbourne, Punthill Apartment Hotels offer a flexible and comfortable stay for students, families, and professionals.

Whether you’re visiting for a few days or staying for a semester, you’ll have easy access to major universities while enjoying the space and convenience of apartment-style living.

FAQ on the Best Neighbourhood near Melbourne Universities

1. How far in advance should I book accommodation for university stays in Melbourne?

It’s best to book at least 4–8 weeks in advance, especially during peak periods like semester start dates, orientation weeks, and exam seasons when demand is high.

2. Can I find short-term accommodation while waiting for student housing in Melbourne?

Yes, serviced apartments are a popular option for short-term stays while securing long-term student housing, offering flexibility without long lease commitments.

3. Which Melbourne universities are easiest to access by public transport?

Universities like RMIT and the University of Melbourne are highly accessible via tram networks, while Monash Clayton is well connected by train and bus routes.

4. Is it better to stay in the city or closer to campus in Melbourne?