If you’re looking for a place to dance, grab a rooftop drink, or just enjoy good music after dark, Melbourne has you covered. This city doesn’t slow down at night, and once you know where to go, neither will you. Whether you love house music, disco, or just need to let off some steam after a long week, these 10 spots are where locals go for a great night out.
We’re not talking about touristy spots; these are real clubs, loved by locals who know how to party. These 10 picks are places we’ve actually tried ourselves. If we haven’t been there, we won’t recommend it. Let’s check them out!
Best Nightclubs in Melbourne
1. The Toff
2f/252 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
The Toff is one of those places that surprises you, in the best way. Hidden inside Curtin House on busy Swanston Street, this spot has two totally different vibes in one venue. On one side, it’s a cozy cocktail bar, great for catching up with friends over drinks. On the other, it turns into a live music venue with local DJs, bands, and events like Now. Here. This.
You might even find yourself dancing in what feels like an old train carriage—yep, really. It’s stylish but still relaxed, and it’s known for mixing Melbourne nightlife, live performances, and underground DJ sets all under one roof.
Best for: Unique music nights, a chill drink before hitting the dance floor, and one of the cooler spots in Melbourne CBD.
2. Circus Bar
199 Commercial Rd, South Yarra VIC 3141
If you’re looking for a wild night out, Circus Bar in South Yarra is the place. The whole venue has a fun, steampunk circus vibe; think neon lights, quirky decor, and a mix of cool and crazy energy. There are two dance floors: one dark with heavy beats, the other bright and full of colour.
The music is usually tech house, and the crowd is always up for a good time. It’s busiest on Fridays and Saturdays, but don’t be shocked if Sundays get just as loud.
Best for: Big nights out, fun party themes, and dancing with a friendly crowd in one of Melbourne’s most electric nightlife spots.
3. La La Land
Level 1/125 Hardware St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
La La Land is where style meets good vibes. Located in the heart of Melbourne, this club has a classy feel with comfy lounges, soft lighting, and a dance floor that’s perfect for a night out with friends or even a date.
The music is fun and high-energy, you’ll hear a mix of hip hop, RnB, house music, and club hits that keep the crowd moving. It’s popular with the glam crowd, and the drinks menu is just as polished as the place itself.
Best for: Dressing up, dancing to your favourite party tracks, and soaking up the stylish side of Melbourne nightlife.
4. OneSixOne
161 High St, Prahran VIC 3181
OneSixOne is a well-known spot with a rooftop bar in Prahran, and it’s been a favourite in the Melbourne club scene for years. The venue has multiple levels, so you can start your night with a chill drink on the rooftop and end it dancing downstairs like there’s no tomorrow.
It’s known for its deep, driving house music, and things really kick off late. Their most famous event is Breakfast Club—a party that actually starts at 8am on a Monday. Yep, you read that right.
Best for: Late-night and early-morning dancing, deep house lovers, and rooftop vibes with a fun and energetic crowd.
5. Revolver Upstairs (Revs)
229 Chapel St, Prahran VIC 3181
Revs is a Melbourne icon and one of the best nightclubs, no doubt about it. If you live here and haven’t been at least once, people will be surprised. It’s a little rough around the edges (okay, very rough), but that’s part of the charm. Located on Chapel Street, it’s open almost all weekend and known for its wild, anything-goes vibe.
Upstairs, the DJs play everything from gritty techno to deep disco. Downstairs, there’s a Thai restaurant serving up food to keep you going well into the night (or morning).
Best for: Non-stop parties, weekend-long dancing, and experiencing a true Melbourne nightclub legend.
6. Angel Music Bar
12 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Angel Music Bar might sound like just a bar, but it’s so much more. Right in the heart of the Melbourne CBD, this spot is known for its top-quality sound system (a Funktion-One, for the sound nerds) and music that’s made for real listeners.
It feels a bit like a small Berlin-style club: dim lighting, a cool crowd, and DJs spinning everything from rare vinyl to deep electronic cuts. People come here to actually enjoy the music, not just take selfies.
Best for: Music lovers, chilled nights with proper sound, and a more underground vibe in the city.
7. The Night Cat
137-141 Johnston St, Fitzroy VIC 3065
If you’re into live music, The Night Cat in Fitzroy is a must-visit. It’s not your usual nightclub; it’s a place where you can dance to funk, jazz, Latin, and soul played live by real bands. The stage is right in the middle of the room, so the music surrounds you from every side.
It’s perfect if you want something different from the usual DJ sets. Whether it’s a fun salsa night or a groovy live jam, the energy here is always welcoming and fun.
Best for: Live shows, dancing with strangers (in a good way), and a real Melbourne music experience.
8. Section 8
27-29 Tattersalls Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
Section 8 is one of Melbourne’s most unique laneway bars. It’s built from old shipping containers, covered in graffiti, and completely open-air. No dress code here, just good music, good people, and a raw, street-style vibe that feels real.
You’ll hear everything from hip hop and bass-heavy beats to underground electronic music, with DJs often playing outside while the crowd moves around picnic tables and concrete floors.
Best for: Outdoor dancing, a casual crowd in streetwear, and one of the most original party spots in the Melbourne CBD.
9. Miscellania
Level 2/401 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Miscellania is more than just a club, it’s a community. Sitting above Swanston Street, this rooftop venue is known for its inclusive, queer-friendly vibe and events run by local music crews like UMAMI and Techworld.
The music here is always fresh and creative, mixing different styles and sounds. It’s the kind of place where no one judges you, you can just be yourself, dance how you want, and enjoy the night.
Best for: Rooftop dancing, safe and open-minded spaces, and supporting Melbourne’s underground music scene.
10. The Bottom End
579 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
The Bottom End is one of those hidden clubs in the Melbourne CBD that’s loud, messy, and full of energy, in the best way. It’s a big venue with multiple rooms, and the music hits hard with techno, house, and everything in between.
This place isn’t about looking cool; it’s about dancing for hours, losing yourself in the music, and being part of the real underground scene. Saturday nights are huge here, with a crowd that shows up to move, not stand around.
Best for: Heavy beats, warehouse-style partying, and a proper night out with people who love the music.
Conclusion:
There you have it! The 10 Melbourne’s best nightclubs, where you can dance all night, enjoy live music, sip rooftop drinks, or just let loose with your mates. From sweaty dance floors to smooth jazz stages, this city knows how to throw a good party, no matter your style.
Just remember, while the nights might be wild, the mornings can come with surprises—like that unexpected leak or flooded floor after a big weekend.
If that happens, Water Damage Restoration Melbourne is here to help. We’re locals too, and we’ve got your back when things get messy. Whether it’s a burst pipe, water damage, or emergency clean-up, we’re just a call away.
Now go enjoy your night, and we’ll be here if you ever need a hand the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best techno clubs in Melbourne?
If you’re looking for the best techno clubs in Melbourne, you can head to Revolver Upstairs or The Bottom End, they’re both known for big beats and late-night energy. Miscellania also hosts awesome underground electronic nights with local DJs.
What time do Melbourne nightclubs close?
The time that Melbourne nightclubs close usually depends on the venue. Most clubs close around 3AM, but places like Revolver and Circus Bar often stay open much later. If you’re still going strong, Onesixone has a Monday morning party that kicks off at 8AM, called Breakfast Club.
Can I wear casual clothes to Melbourne clubs?
You can’t always wear casual clothes to Melbourne clubs. Clubs like Section 8 and Miscellania are pretty relaxed—come as you are. But if you’re going to The Toff or La La Land, it’s a good idea to dress a little nicer, think smart-casual or party-ready.
Are there any open-air dance venues in Melbourne?
There are open-air dance venues in Melbourne for an outdoor vibe. Section 8 is the go-to; it’s open-air and full of energy. The rooftop at Miscellania is another great spot. You can also check out Angel Music Bar or Bourke Street Courtyard for open-air events and live DJ sets.
Are there LGBTQ+-friendly clubs in Melbourne?
There are definitely LGBTQ+ friendly clubs in Melbourne. Miscellania, Poof Doof, and Angel Music Bar are all known for being safe, inclusive, and welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community. You’ll find great music, open-minded crowds, and a positive vibe.
