Most people associate the CBD with going to work but many Australian 5-star hotels in the city offer luxurious packages on weekends when the business travellers have all gone home. Whether you’re craving a sophisticated night out, want a fun Melbourne getaway with the kids, or would love to discover some of Hobart’s most fascinating historical secrets, the best staycation hotels in Australia have got you covered.

Mayfair Hotel, Adelaide

The Mayfair Hotel in Adelaide was once the grand Colonial Mutual Life Building and has developed a reputation as the place to stay in Adelaide. Enjoy the ultimate family movie night with in-room movies, treats delivered to your door and a delicious buffet breakfast which includes a honey trolley with individual pots of different flavours, including honey from the hotel’s own rooftop apiary.

InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, Melbourne

InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto is a local landmark with grand neo-gothic architecture and some of the best suites in Melbourne with each one themed to reflect the suite’s name. Wine lovers won’t want to miss the Yarra Valley Suite. Some rooms have internal balconies overlooking the atrium which are ideal for people watching.

Henry Jones Art Hotel, Hobart

Art meets history at the boutique Henry Jones Art Hotel which was originally the IXL Jam Factory. This charming historic hotel has one of the best restaurants in Hobart and an intriguing past. Don’t miss the complimentary daily art tour, which includes fascinating tales about Hobart in the late 1800s and reveals why there are jam splashes on the wall and foreign newspapers wrapped around some wooden beams.

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Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, Sydney

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour is definitely not just for conference delegates. With a stunning rooftop infinity pool, superb in-house dining at the chic Atelier restaurant, and a sophisticated club lounge overlooking Darling Harbour, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic weekend getaway. Its enviable location also puts you right in the heart of the Sydney’s cultural precinct.

W Brisbane, Brisbane

With its glam pool deck, stunning Brisbane River views, and lauded in-house restaurant, Three Blue Ducks, W Brisbane makes it tempting not to leave the hotel. Even the most affordable rooms are huge, with many guests mistakenly assuming they’ve been upgraded to a suite. Utilising the hotel’s position on the river, the Wet Deck bar is one of the best spots in town for enjoying cocktails with a view.

Hilton Darwin, Darwin

Hilton Darwin’s friendly staff have a down-to-earth charm that personifies everything that is great about visiting the Northern Territory. Rooms at the Hilton Darwin are larger than the industry norm and have decor that reflects the Northern Territory’s earthy colours. The hotel’s classy club lounge is virtually empty on weekends, making it easy to snag a prime window seat with harbour views.

Disclosure: The writer loves nothing more than enjoying a staycation in her home town of Brisbane. If you love a bargain, keep a lookout for discounted packages at luxury CBD hotels on the weekend when all the business travellers have gone home.

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