South Wharf (Southbank)

Pan Pacific Melbourne

★★★★★

Pan Pacific Melbourne is the best address for anyone attending an event at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, and a calm, comfortable riverside base for leisure travellers too. It stands at 2 Convention Centre Place in South Wharf, the riverside precinct just west of Southbank, with a direct connection to the convention centre, which hosts more than a thousand events a year. Floor-to-ceiling windows in many rooms look over the Yarra River and the city skyline, and the hotel feels spacious and understated rather than flashy. Room types range from Deluxe Rooms and Family Queen Rooms, which suit families with children, to Premier King City Skyline Rooms, Pacific Club rooms with lounge access, and a choice of suites, including two-bedroom suites with skyline or bay views and the Panoramic Suite. Dining is centred on Dock 37 Bar and Kitchen, a wine bar and kitchen; Cafe Orr serves brunch and lunch; and the Pacific Club Lounge offers high tea and panoramic views. In-room dining is available. Outside, South Wharf's riverside promenade has bars and restaurants in restored wharf sheds, and the DFO South Wharf outlet centre is across the road. Southern Cross Station is about a five-minute tram ride or 15-minute walk, and Southbank, Crown and the Melbourne Skydeck are within walking distance along the river. The trade-offs are distance from the laneways, which takes a tram ride or a longer walk, and the convention crowds that can fill the lobby during big events. Parking is available in the DFO car park opposite at a discounted guest rate, with valet also offered, making it one of the more practical options for drivers.

Choose a City Skyline room or suite for the best views, especially at night, when the city lights reflect in the river. Families should look at the Family Queen Room or a two-bedroom suite, which offer more space than most city hotels. The Pacific Club is worth considering for business travellers or anyone who wants a quieter lounge for breakfast and evening drinks.

Plan around the convention calendar. When major events are on, rates rise and the hotel is busy; outside those times it can be good value for the standard. The riverside walk to Southbank and the Arts Centre is a pleasure, and trams to the CBD and St Kilda are nearby.

Compared with the Marriott in Docklands, Pan Pacific is closer to Southbank and the convention centre, while the Marriott has the rooftop pool. Compared with The Langham further east along the river, it is quieter and often a little more affordable. It suits conference visitors, families wanting space and drivers who value easy parking.