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We didn’t need reminding that Victoria’s hotel game is strong, but it’s always nice to get some validation from a non-biased global cohort. Earlier this month, four Victorian hotels earned a place on Condé Nast Traveller’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards list for Australia and New Zealand – more than any other state in Australia.
Now in its 29th year, the annual awards are based on votes from the publication’s UK-based readership, celebrating the hotels, destinations and travel experiences that have left a lasting impression on travellers.
Leading the Victorian contingent is The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, which claimed second place on the Australia and New Zealand list with a score of 99. Occupying the upper levels of an 80-storey tower in the CBD, the hotel is known for its sweeping views across the city, Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges, alongside its sky-high infinity pool, top-tier spa and modern Australian restaurant, Atria.
W Melbourne also made the top five, landing in fourth place with 97.24 points. Located on Flinders Lane, the design-led hotel brings a very playful energy to the CBD, with 294 rooms, a collection of bars and restaurants, and that ultra-Instagrammable pool deck with next-level city skyline views.
Further afield, Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill placed 14th with a score of 93.7. Set across 34 acres of gardens, orchards and vineyards on the Mornington Peninsula, this country-house-style retreat is made for slow weekends filled of cellar-door visits, long lunches and lazy beach days. The estate has its own vineyard and cellar door, and its Dining Room showcases seasonal produce and picture-perfect views of the surrounding vines.
Rounding out the Victorian hotels is The Langham, Melbourne, which ranked 15th with 93 points. Sitting beside the Yarra River in Southbank, the longstanding luxury hotel is within easy reach of Melbourne’s arts precinct and CBD. Its classic interiors, river-facing rooms and signature afternoon tea make it a popular choice for special-occasion stays.
You can check out the full list of Aussie and NZ hotels that made this year’s list over here.
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