Search Ballarat hotels

Top reasons to visit Ballarat

• Rich Cultural Heritage: Discover Ballarat's fascinating history through its iconic landmarks and charming historic town.
• Ballarat Wildlife Park: Experience native Australian animals up close in a family-friendly environment.
• Scenic Reserves and Lakes: Enjoy the natural beauty of picturesque landscapes perfect for outdoor activities.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Explore local shopping centres, holiday parks, and engaging attractions suitable for all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from various options, including motels, romantic retreats, and business hotels, to suit every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels in Ballarat

Discover a variety of accommodation options in Ballarat, Victoria, perfect for every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking family-friendly motels, romantic retreats, or business-oriented hotels, Ballarat has something for everyone. Enjoy the charm of this historic city while staying in one of its best hotels, featuring comfortable amenities and convenient access to local attractions. Your ideal Ballarat escape awaits!

• Mercure Ballarat Hotel and Convention Centre: Nestled in the heart of Ballarat, the Mercure Ballarat Hotel and Convention Centre is a luxurious 4-star retreat perfect for families and relaxation seekers. This hotel boasts a spa-themed atmosphere, offering a full-service spa with a range of treatments including massage and aromatherapy. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, such as complimentary cribs and dedicated services for kids. Guests can unwind by the pool, which requires adult supervision, or explore the vibrant city centre right at their doorstep. A perfect blend of comfort and convenience for a memorable family vacation.
• Mid City Ballarat: Ideal for business travellers, Mid City Ballarat is a modern 4-star motel situated centrally in Ballarat. This property provides a professional atmosphere, featuring a comprehensive business centre equipped with a conference centre and meeting rooms. The central location allows easy access to local attractions and business hubs, making it a convenient choice for corporate guests. With its efficient service and comfortable accommodations, Mid City Ballarat is your gateway to a productive stay in the city.
• Ballarat Suites: Emphasising inclusivity, Ballarat Suites is a 4-star hotel that warmly welcomes LGBTQIA travellers. This sophisticated property, located centrally in Ballarat, combines a business-friendly environment with a supportive atmosphere for all guests. It offers essential facilities for business travellers while also promoting a sense of community and belonging. With its modern amenities and commitment to inclusivity, Ballarat Suites provides a unique experience for those looking to blend work with leisure in a welcoming setting.

Where to stay in and around Ballarat

Ballarat, Victoria, offers a rich cultural experience with its historical charm and friendly atmosphere. Visitors can explore the heart of Ballarat, including the iconic Town Hall and the fascinating historical town, perfect for family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. Nearby regions provide a relaxing vibe, ideal for excursions. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly options or a deeper dive into the city's heritage, Ballarat promises a memorable vacation for all types of travellers.

• Leigh Creek: A charming suburb located approximately 10 kilometres from Ballarat, Leigh Creek offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities and cultural experiences. While traveller arrivals remain relatively steady throughout the year, peak seasons in January and March to April see an influx of visitors eager to explore local shopping centres and entertainment venues. Highlights include historic sites and a nearby theme park, making it a great spot for families looking to blend education with fun.
• Lake Wendouree: Nestled around the picturesque shores of Lake Wendouree, this suburb is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking scenic views. With visitor numbers peaking in February and September to October, the area is perfect for romantic strolls and leisurely picnics by the water. Attractions include the lake itself, historic landmarks, and a history museum, all easily accessible from local education and shopping centres. Whether you're looking to unwind or enjoy a bit of adventure, Lake Wendouree offers something for everyone.
• Buninyong: Located close to Ballarat, Buninyong is an inviting suburb known for its outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitor numbers peak during March to April and December, reflecting its appeal for those wanting to explore the great outdoors or delve into local history. Popular activities include golfing on well-maintained courses and discovering historic sites, including a fascinating history museum and an historic village. Buninyong is an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Australian experience in a beautiful setting.

Things to do in and around Ballarat

Ballarat offers a fantastic mix of cultural experiences and outdoor activities, making it ideal for family vacations. Explore the local shopping centres and malls, or spend a day at the holiday parks for fun-filled adventures. This vibrant city is perfect for a day trip, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history and engaging attractions.

Shopping

In Ballarat, you can enjoy a vibrant shopping experience at the Mill Markets, a popular public market located 33.8km away, offering a unique array of gifts and antiques. If you're up for a drive, explore Portal 108 and the Daylesford Sunday Market, both around 22-37.0km away, for more treasures.

Recreation

Experience a round of golf at the Ballarat Golf Club, surrounded by lush green landscapes and a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. For a family-friendly outing, the Eureka Aquatic Center offers swimming and leisure activities in a welcoming environment, perfect for relaxation and fun.

Adventure

The Tangled Maze, located 17.7km from Ballarat, offers a fun-filled family adventure as you navigate through its intricate pathways. For hiking enthusiasts, the Werribee River Walk Trailhead, 27.4km away, boasts stunning scenery, while the Three Lost Children Walk Trailhead, 33.8km distant, invites you to explore its picturesque outdoor setting.

Nightlife

Experience a show at Her Majesty's Theatre, a cultural gem in Ballarat, perfect for families and couples alike. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you immerse yourself in the local arts scene, followed by a nightcap at a nearby bar to unwind and reflect on the evening's entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ballarat

Ballarat offers a variety of free attractions, such as Lake Wendouree and the Art Gallery of Ballarat, making it easy to explore on a budget. For transport, consider using the affordable bus services or walking, as the city is compact. Visit during February, May, or August for lower accommodation rates, and aim to book your stay on a Tuesday for the best deals. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly options by filtering for eco-certified hotels and package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ballarat are February, May and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, June and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ballarat is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Ballarat is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you tailor your travel experience by choosing your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can easily sort the results from the lowest to highest prices, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodations right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Ballarat hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Ballarat

Ballarat is a fantastic destination for a culture-themed family vacation, offering a range of outdoor experiences and historic attractions. Visitors can explore scenic reserves, picturesque lakes, and charming historic villages. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park for an up-close experience with native animals, along with other local sights that showcase the area's rich heritage and natural beauty.

• Sovereign Hill: Step back in time at this recreated gold rush village, where you can pan for gold, explore historic buildings, and engage with costumed characters. The immersive experience offers a glimpse into 19th-century life, complete with vibrant culture and fascinating stories.
• Lake Wendouree: Enjoy the picturesque scenery and tranquil atmosphere at this popular lake. Ideal for outdoor activities, you can stroll along the foreshore, indulge in a picnic, or partake in romantic boat rides—perfect for unwinding amidst nature.
• Kryal Castle: Experience a unique blend of medieval charm and modern conference facilities at Kryal Castle, located a short drive from Ballarat. With its dramatic architecture and themed events, it’s an intriguing venue for both business and leisure activities.

Best time to go to Ballarat

The best time to visit Ballarat can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ballarat falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Ballarat falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	64.8°F (18.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	61.0°F (16.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.0°F (12.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	49.1°F (9.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	57.6°F (14.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	61.5°F (16.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Ballarat

Flying into Ballarat offers several options through major airports in Melbourne. Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL) is approximately 88.5km away, with nearby luxury hotels like Stamford Plaza Melbourne, The Langham, and Hyatt Centric, all providing shuttle services. Avalon Airport (AVV) is 74.0km from Ballarat, with quality accommodation at Quality Hotel Bayside Geelong, Rydges Geelong, and Oaks R Suites Geelong, all within a short drive. Lastly, Essendon Airport (MEB) is about 93.3km away, featuring upscale hotels such as Grand Hyatt Melbourne, Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street, and Pullman Melbourne City Centre, all conveniently located for airport access.