Mercure Melbourne Southbank - Melbourne Cup 2026

Melbourne Cup Carnival 2026 – Stay at Mercure Melbourne Southbank

The Melbourne Cup Carnival, Australia’s premier horse racing carnival and event, is set to take place 31 October – 7 November 2026, at the iconic Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne.

Discover racing, fashion and entertainment, and ‘the race that stops the nation’, the Melbourne Cup on Tuesday 3 November at 3.00pm.

Stay in the heart of Melbourne, at Mercure Melbourne Southbank

Located on the Yarra River, in the vibrant Southbank precinct, Mercure Melbourne Southbank features modern, comfortable and convenient accommodation for your Melbourne Stay.

The hotel is located a short 2-3 minute walk from Flinders Street station, or alternatively  a short 15 minute drive to Flemington Racecourse, providing easy access for guests attending the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

Our hotel features spacious and contemporary rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout, luggage storage, 24/7 reception, and off-site parking with Wilsons Eureka Car Park just next door.

The hotel is walking distance to Southbank’s restaurant and bar precinct, making it a perfect choice for your Melbourne Cup Carnival stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from the hotel to Flemington Racecourse?
Public transport is easily accessible, with Flinders Street station a short 2 minute walk from the hotel. Guests can hop on a train directly to Flemington Racecourse.
Taxi and rideshare is also easy, with the hotel a short 15 minute car ride from the Racecourse.

Does the hotel offer parking?
Yes – the hotel offers discounted off-site parking with Wilsons Eureka Car Park, located next to the hotel. Guests can collect a parking ticket upon entry to the car park, and pay directly with the hotel at a rate of $40 per vehicle, per day.
Wilsons Eureka Car Park is located at 70 City Road, Southbank.

Are group rooms available for friends attending the Carnival together?
Yes — the hotel can accommodate group bookings, offering inter-connecting rooms or multi-room options.

Is there food available at the hotel?
Yes — Mercure Melbourne Southbank has an on-site restaurant and bar, Distrikt, featuring premium and local food and produce, plus happy hour and other food specials available.
The Southbank precinct at the hotel’s doorstep also features multiple eateries, also open late.

What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in at Mercure Melbourne Southbank is from 2:00pm, with check-out by 11:00am. For a smoother arrival, guests can skip the queue and use our new express self check-in kiosks, located in the lobby.

Does the hotel offer luggage storage?
Yes, complimentary luggage storage is available if you arrive before your room is ready, allowing you to explore nearby Southbank attractions, such as the Yarra River or Arts Precinct, stress-free.

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