Let’s be honest, no trip to Melbourne is complete without a good old-fashioned pub crawl. Whether you’re chasing a frothy pint, a crispy parma the size of your head, or just a sunny beer garden to park yourself for the arvo, this city’s got you covered. From footy loving local pubs to schmick venues serving up craft beer and fancy feeds, there’s a pub for every vibe and every traveller.
So, if you’re in town, staying the weekend, or just keen for a cheeky pit stop on your way back to your holiday park (hint hint), these are the 7 Melbourne pubs worth raising a glass to. Read on, rally your mates, and let the good times pour.
1. Bells Hotel – Vibrant rooftop experience with panoramic views
Tucked away in South Melbourne, Bells Hotel is a triple threat; massive beer garden, sleek sports bar, and a cracking rooftop with city views. Perfect for a sunny arvo session or a balmy evening with mates, Bells brings big vibes and even bigger drink selections. With plenty of beer, cheeky cocktails, and a classic pub menu, it’s easy to see why this one’s a local fave. Bring your crew, grab a jug and take in that skyline. Cheers to that!
- Website: https://www.bellshotel.com.au
- Contact: (03) 9690 4511 [email protected]
- Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 10 am–1 am, Sunday 10 am–11 pm
2. Naughtons Parkville Hotel – Experience the history of a 150-year-old building
If you like your beer with a side of history, Naughtons Parkville Hotel is your go to. This pub has been pouring pints and spinning yarns since 1873, and it’s still going strong. Down the road from the Uni of Melbourne and the Royal Park, it’s a chilled, charming spot perfect for a long lunch or a lazy Sunday sesh. With polished interiors that still nod to its heritage, a cracking wine list, and elevated pub food (we’re talking slow-roasted lamb shoulder and oysters), Naughtons is where history meets modern comfort, and we’re absolutely here for it.
- Website: https://naughtonshotel.com.au
- Contact: (03) 9347 2255 [email protected]
- Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday 12 pm to late
3. Notting Hill Hotel “The Nott” – Award winning hotel with local legend status
Known locally as “The Nott”, this iconic pub cleaned up at the 2024 AHA State Awards, and it’s not hard to see why. Nestled in Melbourne’s southeast, the Notting Hill Hotel is a bit of a gem. With multiple bars, a vibrant beer garden, and live music, it’s got something for everyone. Whether you’re after a casual catch up or a big night, The Nott delivers every time.
- Website: https://www.nottinghillhotel.com.au
- Contact: (03) 0544 3031 [email protected]
- Opening hours: Daily 11:30 am – 11:00 pm
4. Hotel Collingwood – Frosty pints and hearty footy
Right in the thick of Melbourne’s cultural hot spot, Hotel Collingwood is a slick blend of old-school pub charm and modern hospitality. It’s the kind of place you can rock up in footy gear and still sip on a negroni without judgement. They’ve got some great deals throughout the week on your favourite foods and bevvies (Who can say no to a $10 Aperol Spritz), plus screens to catch the game. On top of that, their footy tipping events and trivia nights also create a great atmosphere for all to experience.
- Website: https://hotelcollingwood.com.au
- Contact: (03) 9417 2233 [email protected]
- Opening hours: Daily 12 pm – late
5. London Tavern Hotel – pre-game fun near the MCG
All the way back in 1936, Richmond Guardian called the London “a meeting place with a rich history.” Almost a 100 years later, the London Tavern Hotel is still standing, hosting mates grabbing a pint after work and sports fans making a pit stop before seeing a match at the nearby G. A retro vibe complete with a wood-panelled bar greets you when you enter, paying homage to its longevity and making you think, if these walls could talk. Grab a spot early to people watch and eat a hearty meal. This old school pub won’t disappoint.
- Website: https://www.londontavernhotel.com
- Contact: (03) 9428 6058 [email protected]
- Opening hours: Daily 12 pm – late
6. P.J. O’Briens – experience a true Irish pub and lively music
If you like your Guinness poured to perfection and your pub nights soundtracked by live tunes, P.J. O’Brien’s in Southbank is calling your name. This spot is the real Irish deal with cosy booths, timber everything, and the kind of warm, welcoming vibe that makes you feel like part of the family. However, things really kick off on the weekends with live music and a crowd that’s up for a dance, making it a perfect mix of craic and comfort.
- Website: https://www.pjobriens.com.au/melbourne
- Contact: (03) 9686 5011 [email protected]
- Opening hours: Daily 12 pm – late
7. The Oxford Scholar Hotel – Enjoy their vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city
Right near RMIT and smack bang in the middle of the CBD, The Oxford Scholar is where students, city workers and locals all come together for a pint and a feed. It’s had a bit of a glow-up in recent years and now boasts sleek interiors, an awesome cocktail list, and one of the best trivia nights in town. The vibe? Casual, cool, and just a little bit fancy. Whether you’re ducking in for a cheeky lunch or lining up some late night cocktails, the Scholar is a top tier city hangout.
- Website: https://www.theoxfordscholar.com.au
- Contact: (03) 9964 6976
- Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 11:30 – late, closed Sunday
Which Melbs pub do you fancy, first?
The Melbs bar scene – it’s a little rock‘n’ roll ‘she’ll be right,’ but no matter what you’re into, there’s really something for everyone. From chic bars with random locations like Ponyfish Island, to the rowdy pub culture the city is known for, Melbourne has it all. So, where to start – so many pubs, never enough time.
And if you’re staying at ATVM while working, let our list guide you on where to make the most of your time over the weekends. Cheers to your next escape or work trip! Are you ready to book your stay at ATVM and enjoy the best pubs, parks, and iconic spots that Melbourne has to offer?
Check out our availability today.
