About Johannesburg

 

Johannesburg, affectionately known as 'Jozi' or 'Jo'burg', is South Africa’s largest city and a dynamic cultural and financial hub that pulses with energy and diversity. Whether you're here for business or leisure, Johannesburg offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. For a luxurious experience, the affluent northern suburb of Sandton features high-end hotels, while more budget-friendly options can be found in the trendy Braamfontein area. Families will enjoy the family-friendly hotels in Rosebank, and design enthusiasts will appreciate the artistic vibe of Maboneng. No matter your style, Jozi has the ideal hotel to match your needs.

Johannesburg offers a dynamic mix of history, culture, and vibrant street life. Key attractions include the Apartheid Museum and Nelson Mandela's House in Soweto, which highlight South Africa’s poignant history. The artsy Maboneng precinct is a cultural hotspot, with its bars, restaurants, and music venues drawing in locals and tourists alike. The historic downtown area is full of colorful markets, while the Melville Koppies Nature Reserve and Constitution Hill offer insight into the city’s past and natural beauty. For a taste of local cuisine, visit the Yeoville Dinner Club or explore the bustling Fox Street and 7th Street for nightlife.

Nature lovers can escape to the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve or Johannesburg's many urban parks, including Rosebank and Zoo Lake. The city's rich gold mining history can be explored through sites like the Old Kromdraai mine, while a visit to the Lion Park provides a great wildlife experience. For a truly unique cultural experience, the Soweto Wine Festival is a must-see if you're visiting in September.

The best places TO STAY IN JOHANNESBURG

For a budget friendly stay

  • Motel Mi Pi Chi is a stylish, quirky spot offering great value accommodation, perfect for younger travelers seeking a contemporary vibe.
  • Arum Place Guest House provides a cozy, family-friendly experience, just moments from town. Enjoy a delicious English breakfast each morning in a homely and affordable stay.

For something truly special

  • Arguably Johannesburg’s finest address, The Saxon Hotel boasts stylish rooms and lavish dining, right in the heart of the city. Be sure to earmark an afternoon by the pool and for afternoon tea, plus don’t miss dinner at Qunu.
  • Johannesburg’s best new boutique hotel, The Peech, champions mix-match prints and quirky décor, blending traditional African styles with modern patterns. Guests will love the laidback, open-plan feel of the communal areas.

For foodies

  • One for the traveling gourmands, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa’s ‘Into The Woods’ menu has been picked right from their own vegetable garden. One of the best restaurants in Johannesburg, it enjoys a refined setting, with manicured grounds and opulent rooms.
  • Boasting a seasonally inspired, locally sourced, haute cuisine restaurant, Clico Boutique Hotel, also has a pool, expansive grounds, and stylish rooms. Foodies, get ready to be wowed.

For city chic

  • A sleek ten-room hotel, Atholplace Hotel is great for solo travelers and couples. Chic interiors set the scene for a very civilised stay. Ideally placed for exploring, and sunny afternoons by the pool.
  • Right in the heart of town, the trendy 54 on Bath boasts minimalist rooms, a champagne bar, and a very popular rooftop pool. A great stay in central Johannesburg.
  • A heritage stay in a former post office, Monarch Hotel is filled with period features and provides guests with a chic stay in a historic property. Centrally located, it’s great for exploring on foot.
  • Designed by acclaimed architect David Adjaye, Hallmark House is a fashionable hotel in an up-and-coming corner of town. Smart, jewel colored rooms are sparse yet inviting.
  • Pablo House is a stylish urban oasis blending wood, glass, and natural materials. With its sleek design and lush surroundings, it’s the perfect spot for a serene yet chic city stay at an unbeatable price.
  • The Michelangelo is nestled in the city’s heart. This glamorous five-star hotel offers gourmet dining and all the indulgences you’d expect. Experience sophistication and elegance in a top central location.

For a boutique stay

  • The perfect combination of modern meets heritage, The Residence’s contemporary structure is filled with antique pieces. Quirky outdoor spaces juxtaposed with classic interiors create a winning stay.
  • A delightful owner-managed stay, guests at The Parkwood are well taken care of. Comfy rooms, an inviting pool, plus a superb breakfast are included in the rate. It’s a great value yet charming stay.
  • A private house lovingly turned into a 15-bedroom boutique hotel, 10 2nd Avenue Houghton Estate, is a homely yet luxurious stay. Well looked after by your hosts, there’s a superb menu, spa treatments, and an outdoor pool to enjoy.

Great for couples

  • A thirty-minute drive from Johannesburg, Riboville is something truly special.  Offering total relaxation, guests can enjoy horse-riding, a swim in the pool, a stroll around the grounds, or an indulgent spa treatment. Adults-only, it’s ideal for a couples' getaway.
  • Adults only, The Munro Hotel provides guests with a romantic urban hideaway in the heart of Johannesburg. Opulent draped four-posters and plant-filled bathrooms create a Regency-feel, whilst outdoors, pretty ponds and leafy gardens offer total seclusion. Bliss.
  • For pure relaxation, Valley Lodge & Spa is the perfect couple’s escape, with an eighteen-hole golf course, fine dining, and a long list of relaxing spa treatments. Just a short drive from Johannesburg.

Travel information

  • Wherever you’re traveling to, the best time to visit Johannesburg is between November and February, when the temperatures generally remain in the 20°Cs. However the temperature is pretty good year round. For fewer crowds travel during the shoulder seasons: April, May and September to November.
  • With worldwide international flights to Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport and daily flights from and to all of South Africa’s major domestic airports, it’s very accessible. Though by European standards, public transport is limited, taxis are widely available, especially now that Uber has been introduced, making getting about easier and more reliable.
  • If you want to rent a car, contact our partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

  • Expand your search to include all our recommendations in South Africa.
  • Why not widen your search to nearby Pretoria or Gauteng province?
  • Or contact one of our gurus for advice.

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The best hotels in Johannesburg

Motel Mi Pi Chi

Johannesburg (Melville, )

A quirky owner managed guest house, located in the inviting neighborhood of Melville. Filled with turn of the century furnishings, each room boasts period features and bags of character. Snacks are available in the kitchen, and breakfast is included in the rate. Great value.

  • Value chic - A very retro chic stay in a cosy suburb of Joburg
  • Great walks - Through Melville Koppies Nature Reserve, just 1 km away
  • Restrictions on children - Children above the age of 12 are welcome
  • Sights nearby - Johannesburg Zoo is within easy reach
from $63 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Arum Place Guest House

Johannesburg

Charming owner managed guesthouse, located in the quiet suburb of Melville, yet within easy reach of the main sights of the city. Each room is a good size, with tea and coffee making facilities, en-suites, and sunny terraces. There's a pool and a hearty English breakfast served each morning.

  • Value chic - An excellent value stay within easy reach of the city's sights
  • Great walks - Through Melville Koppies Nature Reserve, less than 2 km away
  • Kayaking - On Emmarentia Dam
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from $68 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Pablo House

Johannesburg

A one of a kind modern, minimalist hotel within the popular neighborhood of Melville. Each room is light and bright, with colorful interiors and the best have their own private balcony. A superb breakfast is served, plus there's a popular on-site coffee shop, and restaurant. Excellent value.

  • City Style - A very chic stay in a smart neighbourhood of Joburg
  • Great walks - To Melville Koppies Nature Reserve
  • Kayaking - Emmarentia Dam
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from $78 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Hallmark House

Johannesburg

Located in a trendy corner of Johannesburg, this hip hotel, designed by acclaimed local architect David Adjaye provides guests with an excellent value, stylish stay. Each of its rooms is decorated in rich colors with vibrant prints and private balconies. A buffet breakfast is served.

  • Value chic - An excellent value stay in the heart of town - live like a local!
  • Local markets - Shop at Maboneng Market
  • Spa
  • Restaurant
from $96 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Monarch Hotel

Johannesburg

Dating back to the 1930s this former post office turned boutique hotel provides guests with a heritage stay amidst this characterful suburb of Johannesburg. Opulent suites include silk linens and capacious beds. Choose from indoor and outdoor dining and indulgent menus. A great stay.

  • Local exploring - A perfect spot to base yourself for exploring the city
  • Sights nearby - The Nelson Mandela Foundation is an interesting visit
  • Restrictions on children - Children above the age of 12 are welcome
  • Spa
from $147 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Riboville

Johannesburg (9 Waterfall Drive, Waterfall City, )

Boasting such picturesque views, you'd never believe you're just a 30-minute drive from beating heart of Johannesburg. Opulent suites, with enormous beds, are the height of luxury. This, combined with gourmet dining and equestrian facilities, is the perfect urban meets rural stay. Adults-only.

  • Total relaxation - A very sophisticated stay, on the outskirts of the city, designed to relax and unwind
  • Sights nearby - The Cradle of Humankind is a fascinating visit
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
  • Restrictions on children - Adults only
from $151 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

54 on Bath

Johannesburg

A slick city hotel in a convenient location in central Johannesburg. Each of its rooms has a minimalist New York loft feel, with moody palettes and plush textiles. Continental dishes are served at Level Four Restaurant or enjoy drinks at the champagne bar. Outdoors there's a very inviting pool.

  • City Style - Very luxurious hotel in a smart corner of Joburg
  • Local markets - The colourful African Craft Market is just 200m away
  • Sights nearby - Goodman Gallery is within walking distance
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from $155 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Parkwood

Johannesburg (Parkwood, )

Delightful owner-managed guesthouse with fabulous indoor-outdoor living. Each of the rooms is large, decorated in colorful palettes, and all the mod cons. Some with private terraces. There is an inviting pool, al fresco lounge areas, and well-maintained gardens. A superb breakfast is served.

  • Total relaxation - A tranquil stay within easy reach of the sights of the city
  • Restrictions on children - Children above the age of 12 are welcome
  • Sights nearby - Goodman Gallery is moments away
  • Great walks - Take a stroll to Zoo Lake
from $157 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Clico Boutique Hotel

Johannesburg

Sleek and modern boutique hotel boasting a popular gourmet restaurant. Focusing on its unique seasonally inspired menus it is a destination in itself - not to be missed. Rooms are light and airy, the best opening out onto a leafy garden with an outdoor pool. A great value stay.

  • Foodies - Boasting a gourmet restaurant, a destination in itself, foodies will love
  • Sights nearby - Goodman Gallery is within walking distance
  • Kayaking - Out on Zoo Lake
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from $163 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Peech

Johannesburg

Stylish boutique hotel boasting commendable eco principles, designer interiors, and superb dining. The Peech family have turned their family home into a sleek address in the inviting neighborhood of Melrose. Modern rooms are spacious with leafy garden views, and an inviting pool. A great stay.

  • City Style - One of Johannesburg's chicest addresses
  • Great walks - Through James and Ethel Gray park
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
  • Restrictions on children - Adults only
from $172 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

10 2nd Avenue Houghton Estate

Johannesburg (Houghton Estate, )

Grand private house turned hotel, located in one of Johannesburg's smartest locale's Houghton Estate. This 15-bedroom hotel provides guests with lavish suites, large bathrooms, an outdoor pool and spa treatments. Gourmet dining is on the menu, though guests should be aware no alcohol is served.

  • City Style - A stylish stay within easy reach of the city centre
  • Sights nearby - Pay a visit to the Nelson Mandela Foundation
  • Great walks - The Wilds Nature Reserve
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from $195 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Residence

Johannesburg

Nestled in the charming suburb of Houghton this refined hotel provides fabulous suites with Persian rugs and sparkling chandeliers. Some include private balconies with hot tubs. There is a superb spa, excellent dining, as well as an inviting pool and sunny gardens.

  • Total relaxation - Indulgent spa treatments, lavish rooms, in a leafy setting
  • Tennis Court - There are tennis courts for guests to use
  • Sights nearby - Munro Drive Viewpoint is only a walk away
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from $204 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

The Munro Hotel

Johannesburg

Located in a leafy suburb of bustling Johannesburg this charming B&B is a refined stay within an urban jungle. Trickling ponds and birdsong provide the soundtrack to your stay. Elegant rooms are filled with antique pieces, fine silks, and luxurious bathrooms. Lunch and dinner on request.

  • Romantic Break - An adults only, refined hotel, ideal for a break for two
  • Great walks - Through 'The Wilds' and the scenic Munro Drive Viewpoint
  • Sights nearby - Joburg Zoo is just a short distance away
  • Sailing - Boating on 'Zoo Lake'
from $217 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Michelangelo

Johannesburg

Slick hotel in the heart of Johannesburg's CBD yet within easy access to many of its most popular sights. Towering tall this smart hotel provides guests with all the amenities: a spa, pool, and large leisure complex. Rooms are decorated in a classic style, with lavish bathrooms.

  • City Style - Opulent address within easy access of Johannesburg's attractions
  • Sights nearby - Do not miss a visit to Mandela House
  • Swimming Pool - Indoor pool
  • Spa
from $254 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Southern Sun Montecasino

Johannesburg (Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways, )

A luxurious hotel located within the Montecasino complex, you're within walking distance of plenty of designer shops, restaurants, and bars. Bedrooms are made for lingering with smart bathrooms and modern amenities. An extensive breakfast is served.

  • City Style - A very grand stay within Johannesburg
  • Great walks - Johannesburg Botanical Garden is a perfect place to spend an afternoon
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
  • Spa
from $255 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa  

Johannesburg

A very sophisticated country house within an inviting suburb of Johannesburg. Dine on haute cuisine to your heart's content at "Into the Woods" the hotel's award-winning restaurant, or indulge in a spa treatment if that's more your style. Beautifully appointed rooms make it an idyllic stay.

  • Foodies - Boasting a fine dining menu, gourmands will love this stay
  • City Style - A very stylish stay in a smart suburb of Johannesburg
  • Restrictions on children - Children above the age of 12 are welcome
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from $353 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Atholplace Hotel

Johannesburg (Atholl)

A stylish hotel in Johannesburg, an ideal stop-off point for pre-safari trips, with a relaxed ambiance, a choice of two pools, pleasant gardens and a truly excellent restaurant with a changing seasonal menu. Explore the city or simply relax and recharge your batteries before the next adventure.

  • Hideaway - Days can be whiled away languorously in the gorgeous grounds, making the most of South Africa’s temperate climate
  • Sights nearby - Visit Nelson Mandela Square and discover the origins of mankind at the Sterkfontein Caves, an Unesco World Heritage Site
  • Swimming Pool - There’s a main pool with a deck and sunloungers, plus a family-friendly pool with a shallow end
  • Restaurant
from $447 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Saxon Hotel

Johannesburg

One of Johannesburg's finest hotels The Saxon provides luxurious lodgings in the heart of town. Sample Asian flavors at Qunu, a generous breakfast each morning, or high tea in the afternoon. Lavish interiors create a refined ambience whilst spa treatments are the height of indulgence.

  • Foodies - Fine dining, high tea, with many ingredients sourced from an organic vegetable garden
  • Spa breaks - Superb wellness programme: spa junkies will love
  • Tennis Court - Tennis courts and equipment available
  • Great walks - Through Hyde Park, just 1.5km away
from $625 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia