Where to Stay in Johannesburg, South Africa 🇿🇦: 7 Best Areas & Hotels

🏠 Best Hotels:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: African Pride Melrose Arch, Autograph Collection
• ✨ 5-Star: Gallo Manor Executive Bed & Breakfast
• 🏨 4-Star: Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Holiday Inn Express Sandton-Woodmead by IHG
• 💸 Cheap: Mercure Hotel Bedfordview
• 🏢 Apartment: The Catalyst Apartment Hotel by NEWMARK
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg
• 🏩 For Couples: Gallo Manor Executive Bed & Breakfast

Quick guide to the best places to stay: 📋

• 💼 For Business Travel: Sandton
• 🛍️ For Shopping and Culture: Rosebank
• 💰 For Budget Travelers: Maboneng
• 🍸 For Nightlife and Dining: Melville
• 🌿 For Quiet Luxury: Parkhurst
• 🎓 For Students and Young Professionals: Braamfontein

1. Sandton – Where to Stay in Johannesburg for Business Travel

Business Hub. I’ve stayed in Sandton countless times for work, and it’s hands down the most convenient area for business travelers. The financial district puts you within walking distance of major banks, corporate offices, and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

Transport Links. The Gautrain station connects you directly to OR Tambo Airport in 15 minutes. I always recommend this over taxi rides, especially during rush hour when traffic can add hours to your journey.

Meeting Venues. Sandton Convention Centre hosts most major conferences and trade shows. Hotels here offer complimentary shuttle services, so you won’t waste time commuting between your accommodation and events.

Shopping Access. Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City Mall are perfect for grabbing last-minute business attire or client gifts. The area stays busy until late, so you can handle shopping after work meetings.

Dining Scene. The Grillhouse Sandton on Alice Lane serves excellent steaks for client dinners, open Monday to Saturday until 10:30 PM. For quick business lunches, I prefer The Baron Sandown on Gwen Lane, which offers Manhattan-style grilling and stays open until 11:45 PM weekdays.

Retail Hours. Sandton City operates Monday-Thursday 9 AM-7 PM, Friday-Saturday until 8 PM, and Sundays until 6 PM. The mall houses over 365 stores including Louis Vuitton and Apple, plus 11 movie theaters for after-work entertainment.

Business Facilities. Most hotels provide 24-hour business centers and meeting rooms. The area’s validated parking makes client meetings stress-free, and free WiFi is standard across restaurants like Trumps Grillhouse and Butchery.

Networking Spots. Hard Rock Cafe and Pappas on the Square offer relaxed atmospheres for informal business drinks. Both stay open late and cater to the international business crowd with familiar menus and reliable service.

Best Hotels in Sandton

Luxury Hotels

• Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton – This elegant Marriott property in the heart of Sandton offers sophisticated accommodations with modern amenities and easy access to Nelson Mandela Square and major business districts.
• Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg – Located directly above Sandton Gautrain Station, this luxury hotel provides seamless airport connections and premium business facilities with contemporary design.
• Hyatt House Johannesburg, Sandton – This upscale extended-stay hotel features spacious suites with full kitchens, perfect for business travelers and families seeking luxury accommodations in Sandton’s financial district.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hampton By Hilton Sandton Grayston – This reliable mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, and excellent value for money in the Sandton area.
• The Catalyst Apartment Hotel by NEWMARK – A contemporary apartment-style hotel providing spacious accommodations with kitchenettes, ideal for extended stays and business travelers seeking affordable luxury.
• The Hide in Sandton – This boutique property offers intimate accommodations with personalized service and modern design, providing excellent value in one of Johannesburg’s premier neighborhoods.

Best Hostels

• MINT Hotel 84 on Katherine – This modern budget-friendly hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with contemporary amenities, perfect for travelers seeking affordable accommodation in central Sandton.
• West Point Properties – These self-catering apartments provide budget-conscious travelers with spacious accommodations and kitchen facilities, ideal for longer stays in Sandton.
• Morningside Place with Private Gym – This unique budget option features apartment-style accommodations with access to private gym facilities, offering excellent value for fitness-conscious travelers.

2. Rosebank – Where to Stay in Johannesburg for Shopping and Culture

Cultural Quarter. You’ll find some of Johannesburg’s best art galleries and museums right here in Rosebank. The area buzzes with creative energy, and locals say it’s the perfect mix of culture and convenience for tourists.

Shopping Paradise. Rosebank Mall houses over 200 stores and stays open Monday-Saturday 9 AM-9 PM, Sundays until 6 PM. You can find everything from African crafts to international brands under one roof.

Art Scene. The Everard Read Gallery showcases contemporary South African art and opens Tuesday-Friday 9 AM-6 PM, weekends until 4 PM. Don’t miss the monthly First Thursday art walks when galleries stay open late and offer wine tastings.

Food Spots. Locals recommend Craft Restaurant for upscale dining – their lamb costs around R180 (€9). The best spot for casual meals is News Cafe, where burgers cost about R95 (€5) and they’re open until 2 AM on weekends.

Sunday Market. This place offers the best African crafts and jewelry shopping experience. You can find handmade pottery from R50 (€2.50) and beautiful beadwork starting at R30 (€1.50).

Transport Hub. The Gautrain station connects you to Sandton in 8 minutes and the airport in 25 minutes. Locals say this makes Rosebank perfect for tourists who want culture but need easy airport access.

Best Hotels in Rosebank

Luxury Hotels

• Radisson RED Hotel Johannesburg Rosebank – This contemporary lifestyle hotel features bold design and modern amenities in the heart of Rosebank’s cultural district, perfect for travelers seeking stylish accommodations with easy access to shopping and dining.
• Hyatt House Johannesburg Rosebank – An upscale extended-stay hotel offering spacious suites with full kitchens and premium amenities, ideal for business travelers and families requiring luxury accommodations in Rosebank.
• Southern Sun Rosebank – This established luxury hotel provides elegant rooms and comprehensive facilities in a prime Rosebank location, offering sophisticated accommodations with excellent service standards.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• CAG The Vantage Rosebank – A modern mid-range hotel offering comfortable accommodations with contemporary design and good value for money in the vibrant Rosebank area.
• Easy Stay - The Vantage Rosebank – This budget-friendly option provides clean, comfortable rooms with modern amenities, perfect for travelers seeking affordable accommodation in central Rosebank.
• The Median Serviced Apartment Collection – Offering apartment-style accommodations with kitchen facilities, these serviced apartments provide excellent value for extended stays in the Rosebank area.

Best Hostels

• The Wantage Suites – This budget accommodation offers suite-style rooms with basic amenities, providing affordable lodging for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers in Rosebank.
• CAG The Tyrwhitt – A simple, no-frills accommodation option offering clean rooms and basic facilities, ideal for travelers prioritizing location and affordability over luxury amenities.
• Hampton By Hilton Sandton Grayston – This budget-friendly property provides basic accommodations with essential amenities, perfect for travelers seeking economical lodging in the heart of Rosebank’s entertainment district.

3. Maboneng – Where to Stay in Johannesburg for Budget Travelers

Creative District. Maboneng transformed from industrial wasteland into Johannesburg’s hippest neighborhood. I’ve watched this area evolve into a vibrant hub where street art meets trendy cafes and affordable accommodation options thrive.

Budget Dining. Main Street Life serves hearty meals for R45-85 ($2.50-4.70), open Monday-Saturday 7 AM-10 PM. Pata Pata Restaurant offers traditional African dishes from R35-65 ($1.95-3.60) with live music Thursday-Saturday evenings.

Street Art Tours. Free walking tours run Saturdays at 10 AM starting from Arts on Main. The area features over 200 murals and graffiti pieces, making it Instagram-perfect for budget travelers seeking unique photo opportunities.

Nightlife Scene. Living Room rooftop bar offers city views with cocktails from R65-95 ($3.60-5.30). The area comes alive after dark with affordable bars, live music venues, and food trucks serving local street food.

Best Hotels in Maboneng

Luxury Hotels

• Fishbird Art Deco Villa – This stunning Art Deco villa in Kensington offers unique architectural charm with elegant period features and modern luxury amenities. The boutique property provides an intimate experience with personalized service and distinctive character that sets it apart from standard hotel accommodations.
• Holiday Inn - Johannesburg Sunnyside Park by IHG – A reliable international brand hotel offering consistent quality and professional service standards with modern facilities and comfortable accommodations. This property provides the security and amenities expected from a major hotel chain while maintaining competitive pricing.
• Alcazaba Hotel – This distinctive hotel offers Mediterranean-inspired architecture and design elements creating a unique atmosphere in the Johannesburg area. The property combines luxury amenities with cultural flair, providing guests with an memorable accommodation experience.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• LM Loft Maboneng – A contemporary loft-style accommodation in the heart of Maboneng’s creative district, offering modern amenities and stylish design at reasonable rates. This property perfectly captures the artistic spirit of the neighborhood while providing comfortable lodging for budget-conscious travelers.
• Mapungubwe Apartments – These serviced apartments provide excellent value with spacious accommodations and kitchen facilities, ideal for extended stays or families seeking more space. The property offers the convenience of apartment living with hotel-style services at competitive rates.

Best Hostels

• Popsy's Guest House – A charming guest house offering personalized hospitality and comfortable accommodations in a homely atmosphere. This family-run property provides excellent value for money with warm service and local insights that enhance the travel experience.
• Hampton By Hilton Sandton Grayston – This trendy hostel in Maboneng’s cultural quarter offers budget-friendly accommodations with a vibrant social atmosphere perfect for backpackers and young travelers. The property provides easy access to the area’s street art, cafes, and nightlife while maintaining clean, safe facilities.

4. Melville – Where to Stay in Johannesburg for Nightlife and Dining

Restaurant Row. You’ll find 7th Street packed with some of Johannesburg’s best restaurants and bars. This place offers everything from sushi to traditional South African braai, and most spots stay open until 2 AM on weekends.

Nightlife Scene. Locals recommend starting at Ant Cafe for craft cocktails around R85 (€4.30), then moving to House of Tandoor for late-night curry that costs about R120 (€6). The best spot for live music is Rumours Rock City, open Thursday-Saturday until 4 AM.

Bohemian Vibe. The area attracts artists, students, and young professionals who love the relaxed atmosphere. You can find vintage clothing stores, independent bookshops, and quirky coffee shops along the main strip.

Shopping Finds. You can find unique African art at Kim Sacks Gallery, open Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM-5 PM. The best spot for vintage finds is Milky Lane Vintage, where retro clothes cost R150-400 (€7.50-20).

Weekend Markets. Don’t miss the Neighbourgoods Market every Saturday 9 AM-3 PM at 44 Stanley Avenue. This place has artisanal food, craft beer, and handmade goods from local makers.

Student Area. The University of the Witwatersrand sits nearby, so you’ll find cheap student hangouts and late-night food spots. Locals say the pizza at Doppio Zero costs just R95 (€4.80) and tastes amazing.

Best Hotels in Melville

Luxury Hotels

• Agterplaas Guesthouse Pty Ltd – A charming bed and breakfast offering luxury accommodations with traditional South African hospitality and modern amenities. This property combines comfort with authentic local character, providing guests with a unique and memorable stay experience.
• Home Suite Hotels Rosebank – This premium hotel offers spacious suite accommodations with full kitchen facilities and upscale amenities in the nearby Rosebank area. The property provides luxury extended-stay options with professional service standards and convenient access to Melville’s attractions.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Motel Mi Pi Chi – A budget-friendly motel offering clean, comfortable accommodations with basic amenities at affordable rates in the Melville area. This property provides excellent value for money while maintaining convenient access to the neighborhood’s restaurants and entertainment venues.
• The Melville Quarters – Modern apartment-style accommodations offering good value with kitchen facilities and contemporary design in central Melville. This property is perfect for travelers seeking affordable comfort with the convenience of self-catering options.
• Saffron Guest House – A cozy guesthouse providing comfortable rooms with warm hospitality and reasonable rates in the Melville area. This family-run property offers personalized service and local insights while maintaining excellent value for budget-conscious travelers.

Best Hostels

• Melville Gap Guesthouse – This budget accommodation offers basic but clean rooms with essential amenities for backpackers and young travelers exploring Melville’s vibrant scene. The property provides affordable lodging with easy access to the area’s famous restaurant and bar strip.
• 7th Street Guesthouse – Located directly on Melville’s main entertainment strip, this budget guesthouse offers simple accommodations with unbeatable access to restaurants and nightlife. The property is ideal for travelers prioritizing location and social atmosphere over luxury amenities.
• Life on 3rd – A budget-friendly accommodation option offering basic rooms with friendly service in a convenient Melville location. This property provides affordable lodging for travelers seeking to experience the neighborhood’s dining and entertainment offerings without premium costs.

5. Newtown – Where to Stay in Johannesburg for First-Time Visitors

Cultural Heart. Newtown houses Johannesburg’s major cultural institutions within walking distance. The Market Theatre, Museum Africa, and Workers’ Museum cluster together, making cultural exploration effortless for first-time visitors.

Historical Significance. I always recommend starting your Johannesburg exploration here because Newtown tells the city’s complete story. The area showcases both apartheid history and modern transformation through its museums and monuments.

Food Markets. Neighbourgoods Market operates Saturdays 9 AM-3 PM with over 100 food stalls. Mary Fitzgerald Square hosts various events and food festivals throughout the year, creating authentic local experiences.

Transport Access. Park Station connects Newtown to all major areas via bus and taxi routes. The area’s central location makes day trips to Soweto, Pretoria, or the Cradle of Humankind easily accessible.

Best Hotels in Newtown

• 4 on Pritchard Luxury Suites – This premium luxury suite hotel in Newtown offers spacious accommodations with high-end amenities and sophisticated design. Located in the cultural heart of Johannesburg, it provides easy access to major attractions like the Market Theatre and Museum Africa while maintaining an upscale atmosphere.
• 84 On Marshall – An elegant boutique hotel featuring contemporary luxury accommodations with personalized service and modern amenities. This property combines sophisticated design with convenient location, making it perfect for discerning travelers seeking premium comfort in central Johannesburg.
• Lilian Lofts Hotel & Spa – A contemporary luxury hotel and spa offering stylish loft-style accommodations with comprehensive wellness facilities. The property features modern design elements and premium spa services, providing guests with a complete luxury experience in the heart of the city.

6. Parkhurst – Where to Stay in Johannesburg for Quiet Luxury

Upscale Residential. Parkhurst offers tree-lined streets and boutique accommodation away from Johannesburg’s hustle. I appreciate how this suburb maintains its village feel while providing easy access to major business districts and attractions.

Fine Dining Hub. 4th Avenue concentrates some of Johannesburg’s best restaurants within a few blocks. Craft Restaurant serves modern South African cuisine Tuesday-Saturday until 10 PM, while The Foundry offers artisanal coffee and brunch daily from 7 AM.

Shopping Experience. Parkhurst’s antique shops and designer boutiques operate Monday-Friday 9 AM-5 PM, Saturday until 2 PM. The area specializes in unique finds rather than mass retail, perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind pieces.

• Antique Stores: Multiple dealers along 4th Avenue, vintage furniture specialists
• Designer Boutiques: Local fashion designers, custom jewelry makers
• Specialty Shops: Art galleries, home decor stores, gourmet food suppliers

Peaceful Atmosphere. Unlike busy commercial areas, Parkhurst maintains residential tranquility. The suburb’s mature trees and well-maintained sidewalks make evening walks pleasant and safe for hotel guests.

7. Braamfontein – Where to Stay in Johannesburg for Students and Young Professionals

University District. Braamfontein buzzes with student energy from the nearby University of the Witwatersrand. I’ve noticed how this creates affordable dining options and vibrant nightlife perfect for budget-conscious young travelers.

Affordable Eats. Pata Pata serves traditional meals from R35-55 ($1.95-3.05), while The Great Dane offers pub food and craft beer Tuesday-Saturday until midnight. Student-friendly prices dominate the area’s restaurant scene.

Cultural Venues. The Wits Art Museum showcases contemporary African art Tuesday-Sunday 10 AM-4 PM with free admission. Neighbourgoods Market Braamfontein operates Saturdays 9 AM-2 PM, featuring local designers and food vendors.

Transport Links. Multiple taxi routes connect Braamfontein to all major areas. The central location provides easy access to both business districts and cultural attractions without premium accommodation prices.

Best Hotels in Braamfontein

Luxury Hotels

• The Parktonian All Suite Hotel – This spacious all-suite hotel in Braamfontein offers rooftop pool facilities, stunning city views, and convenient access to Johannesburg’s CBD and major business venues. The property provides apartment-style accommodations with separate living areas, making it ideal for extended stays and business travelers.
• Lucky Bean Guesthouse – An intimate boutique guesthouse in Melville featuring personalized service, charming garden settings, and prime location for accessing the area’s renowned restaurants and vibrant nightlife scene. This property offers a more personal luxury experience with attention to detail.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• CityZen escape: blackout ready – A budget-friendly apartment hotel with specialized blackout-ready features, perfect for short-term stays in the city center. This modern property caters to travelers seeking affordable accommodation with practical amenities and convenient urban location.
• SUN1 BEREA – A straightforward budget hotel in Berea offering essential amenities and no-frills accommodation for travelers prioritizing value over luxury. This property provides clean, basic rooms at highly competitive rates, ideal for budget-conscious visitors.

FAQ

What’s the best place to stay in Johannesburg?

Rosebank is the best place to stay in Johannesburg for first-time visitors, offering excellent shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. This neighbourhood combines upscale boutique hotel options with easy access to major business districts and the airport shuttle services.

Which Johannesburg accommodation offers boutique hotel luxury?

Several boutique hotel options in Rosebank and Melrose Arch provide luxury accommodations with personalized service and unique design elements. These Johannesburg hotels feature outdoor pools, spa facilities, and proximity to the city’s best shopping and dining venues.

Where should tourists choose to stay in Joburg?

Tourists should choose to stay in safe northern suburb areas like Sandton, Rosebank, or Melrose Arch for the best experience. These best neighborhoods offer easy access to top places like the Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg Zoo, and excellent places to eat.

What’s the safest neighbourhood to visit Johannesburg?

Sandton and Rosebank are among the safest areas to stay with 24-hour security and well-lit streets for visitors. These suburbs of Johannesburg offer luxury hotels, shopping centers, and reliable airport shuttle services to Tambo International Airport.

Which suburb offers best Johannesburg hotels near airport?

The airport area and nearby Bedfordview suburb provide convenient Johannesburg accommodation within 20 minutes of Tambo International Airport. Many hotels in town offer complimentary airport shuttle services and 24-hour facilities for transit passengers.

Where can visitors find affordable accommodation in Johannesburg?

Maboneng and Braamfontein offer budget-friendly guest house options and hostels for travelers seeking affordable stay options. These areas provide great value Johannesburg accommodation while staying close to downtown Johannesburg attractions and cultural sites.

What’s the best time to visit Johannesburg hotels?

The best time to visit Johannesburg is during autumn and spring months when weather is mild and hotel rates are reasonable. Many Johannesburg hotels offer special packages during these seasons, making it ideal for exploring South Africa’s top attractions.

Which area offers best shopping around Johannesburg?

Sandton and Rosebank provide the best shopping experiences with luxury malls, local markets, and designer boutiques within walking distance. These neighborhoods feature Rosebank Mall, Nelson Mandela Square, and numerous places to eat after shopping excursions.

Where should business travelers want to stay?

Business travelers should want to stay in Sandton near the convention centre and financial district for maximum convenience. This area offers high-end hotels, meeting facilities, and easy access to the heart of Johannesburg’s commercial activities.

What makes Rosebank one of the best places?

Rosebank is one of the best places because it combines cultural attractions, excellent dining, and boutique hotel options in one walkable area. The suburb offers easy Gautrain access, weekend markets, and represents one of Joburg’s most vibrant and safe neighborhoods for visitors.