TOP 5 Areas Where to Stay in Johannesburg + HOTEL GUIDE

Aloha travelers! I’m super happy to welcome you on this fun virtual journey around South Africa’s largest city! A cultural hub of the country and one of the best places to visit in the world, Johannesburg is a wonderful place that combines two of my favorite things, skyscrapers and nature! Yep, I’m sure you all know Hillbrow Tower, the tallest building on the continent!

But that’s not the only thing that makes this city such a magical place to visit, the interesting Constitution Hill Museum and Apartheid Museum plus the stunning views will have you coming back for more really soon!

Enough of that now, I’m sure you’re ready to head to the airport! Let’s see where to stay in Johannesburg, South Africa! I’ve made a list of Johannesburg’s top accommodations options, from luxury to budget, which offers the best value for money. All you have to do now is book them ASAP, although it might be the country’s largest city, people all over the world come here, so book in advance to get the best deals!

Let’s go, Johannesburg, South Africa, is waiting!

If you are in a hurry

If you want to book now there quickly browse this list with the best hotels for where to stay in Johannesburg, all located in the Central Business District

Here’s a map with all the areas for where to stay in Johannesburg that I will be talking about in this post:

1. CBD (Central Business District) – where to stay for the first time

As you might’ve guessed, the Central Business District is right in the middle of the city, where all the action happens! This vibrant neighborhood, located 13 miles (21 km) from the International Airport, is filled with many attractions like the Museum of Africa. Most of them are within walking distance from your hotel, making the CBD one of the best places to stay in Johannesburg if you’re traveling here for the first time.

I know that many people love to find accommodation near the hustle and bustle of the city centre, that’s why you need to book your hotels in Johannesburg ASAP if you want to find the best rooms and amazing deals! And if you’ve come all this way, I highly recommend booking a trip to Cape Town too, I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this city!

The Central Business District is home to the biggest skyscrapers in the country, like the WeOriginate (Carlton Centre) building, which has a stunning observation deck and also serves as a shopping centre! This Johannesburg area is pedestrian-friendly, so you can walk around to explore all the cafes, restaurants, and bars, there are tons of those in the Central Business District!

On top of all the cultural attractions located right in the center, on the eastern side of the neighborhood you’ll find the Maboneng area. It is also known as the “place of light” and to be honest it has brought a new touch to the CBD. Made out of a few blocks, tons of cafes and trendy restaurants, Maboneng is the city’s new “hot” area. Take your friends and spend a super fun day in Maboneng!

Other accommodation options in CBD

Things to do in CBD

• Admire the city views from the observation deck at WeOriginate and check the shopping centre
• Visit the Standard Bank Gallery and see some beautiful art pieces in Johannesburg
• Learn new things about the country’s culture at the Museum of Africa
• Walk around the Nelson Mandela Bridge
• Explore the Johannesburg Gandhi Square
• Catch a play at the Market Theatre
• Have a delicious dinner at Che restaurant in Maboneng

2. Rosebank – trendiest place where to stay in Johannesburg

Located just 6 miles (9 km) north of the Central Business District, this district is a mix of chic residential houses and commercial spots that will give you a taste of the African culture but with a touch of European vibes.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during October or November, you’ll be able to admire Johannesburg’s jacarandas trees, which have the most beautiful purple flowers!

This hip and vibrant neighbourhood is super friendly, and it’s where all the young people who visit Johannesburg want to stay, not only because it has some of the best shopping stores in town, but it’s where you can party after the sun goes down!

Rosebank is the top location in the city to find amazing bars and clubs. It’s no wonder they hold their festivals and gay parade in this neighbourhood. And you’ll also find some cool markets, like the African Handicraft Market and Rosebank Flea Market.

Other accommodation options in Rosebank

Things to do in Rosebank

• Buy stylish things from the African Handicraft Market and Rosebank Flea Market
• Have a drink and enjoy some live music at Katzy’s Wine Bar
• Admire the art at the chic Everard Read Gallery
• Enjoy some outdoor activities at Zoo Lake in Johannesburg
• See some cool examples of African art at Kim Sacks Gallery and Craft Store

3. Melrose Arch – where to stay in Johannesburg for families

This stylish neighbourhood is located north of the Central Business District, right near the eastern border of Rosebank, and 13 miles (21 km) away from the International Airport. Melrose Arch is a convenient place to stay in town if you’re traveling with the family and you want to find hotels in a location close to all the attractions, but a bit further away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

There are some great parks perfect for families who are looking for outdoor activities in Melrose Arch. So if you love spending some quality time in nature with the children then this neighborhood is the perfect place to stay in Johannesburg for you.

The green areas inside and around the neighbourhood are perfect for biking, climbing, or hiking, and Acrobranch Melrose will make sure you stay safe while having the best time ever with your family. On top of that, you’ll find a fair share of amazing restaurants, bars, and cafes where you can eat the most delicious dishes, plus the Bluebird Shopping Centre which has some of the best shops!

If you love adventure as much as I do and you’re planning for a holiday somewhere near the beach, check these 10 things that you have to try in Zanzibar!

Other accommodation options in Melrose Arch

Things to do in Melrose Arch

• Have fun with the children at the Acrobranch Melrose in Johannesburg
• Check out all the cool shops at Bluebird Shopping Centre 
• Enjoy a relaxing walk at sunset with the children in the James & Ethel Gray Park
• Eat a delicious meal at Kcc – La Vie En Rose restaurant
• Spend a whole day with the family at Art Jamming in town

4. Sandton – best place to stay in Johannesburg for shopping

This suburb is located in the north part of the city, just 11 miles (18 km) from the Central Business District. Sandton resembles Johannesburg’s CBD although it’s a mixture of tall modern buildings, parks, and houses.

Many years ago, when the crime rate increased in the Central Business District, many companies moved their headquarters to this area. Although that issue has disappeared now, the company owners didn’t move, and now the area is home to Johannesburg Stock Exchange and other attractions.

I think this is a super convenient area as it’s located just a 15-minute ride with high-speed Gautrain from the O.R Tambo International Airport. But that’s not it, it’s certainly where all the shopping lovers amongst you should stay in Johannesburg. Sandton City Shopping is one of Johannesburg’s top locations for shopping and you could spend a lifetime checking out all the cool stores and restaurants!

After all that shopping you might want to spend some time outdoors, luckily for you it also has many parks and green areas where you can enjoy some outdoor activities. I think it’s simply perfect!

Other accommodation options in Sandton

Things to do in Sandton

• Take the kids to the playground at Mushroom Farm Park 
• Go on a family trip to the Sandton City Shopping and check the shops and restaurants
• Attend an event at Innesfree Park or go for a breath of fresh air
• Catch a sunset at Sandton Central Park in Johannesburg
• Explore the Nelson Mandela Square 

5. Melville – where to stay in Johannesburg for the local vibe

Located 4 miles (6 km) south of Rosebank, Melville is a cute little residential neighbourhood in Johannesburg, South Africa, and one of the oldest as well! It still has that South African charm that some hip neighborhoods have lost due to all the modern features so if you want to experience that local vibe this is the best area to stay for you!

Filled with farmhouse-style homes, tons of jacarandas trees, and a super diverse high street packed with restaurants and bars that are located within walking distance, Melville has managed to maintain its value and authenticity over time and attract more tourists every year!

Its close and convenient location to Johannesburg’s universities has made this area super popular with students so don’t be surprised if all the bars and restaurants are filled with young people and couples!

Other accommodation options in Melville

Things to do in Melville

• Visit Lindfield Victorian House Museum, one of Johannesburg’s best attractions
• Have a coffee at the Whippet 
• Go for a hike and enjoy some fresh air in the Melville Koppies East National Park
• Eat a delicious meal at Poppy’s Restaurant in Johannesburg
• Check out South Africa’s boutique shops in Melville

👑 Luxury price:	$180
Mid-range hotel:	$90
🛏️ Budget:	$50
🏠 Airbnb:	$60
💰Accommodation prices:	Low
📍Best Area:	CBD (Central Business District)
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	The Franklin Loft
👛 Best budget hotel:	Curiocity Backpackers

Frequently asked questions about Johannesburg

Conclusion

That was so much fun! I hope this post helped you decide where to stay in Johannesburg, South Africa, which boutique hotel to book, and which restaurant to check first.

There are tons of amazing hotels here but here are my two favorite ones both located in CBD, the best area to stay in the city

If I were you I would book all the Johannesburg hotels in advance, every tourist in the world wants to come here at least once and as you know all the good accommodations disappear super fast!

I want to hear all about your trip, which market you liked in Rosebank, at what restaurant you ate the most delicious food, and your opinion on the Constitution Hill Museum and the Apartheid Museum. Leave me a comment!

Safe travels,

Victoria