Known as the economic heart of South Africa, it attracts visitors with its vibrant arts scene, rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic urban energy. We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Johannesburg based on expert recommendations and thousands of genuine guest reviews. All of our recommended hotels have a review rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
Best cheap hotel in Johannesburg: The Garden Court Sandton City
Best boutique hotel in Johannesburg: The Peech Hotel
Best luxury hotel in Johannesburg: The Westcliff Four Seasons Hotel
Best hostel in Johannesburg: Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers
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The Satyagraha House, located in the quiet Johannesburg suburb of Orchards, offers a deeply moving glimpse into history. Built in 1907 by German-Jewish architect Hermann Kallenbach, the home was specifically designed for his close friend, Mohandas Gandhi. Known as the "Kraal," the building features two distinctive rondavels that mimic traditional African hut architecture, reflecting the pair's shared commitment to a simple, ascetic life.
Lonely Planet“A wonderful urban sanctuary, Satyagraha is built around the Kraal, a 1907 traditional African-style thatched house where Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi lived between 1907 and 1908 with the owner and his friend Herman Kallenbach. This innovative guesthouse offers seven chic minimalist rooms.”
The Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa in Johannesburg is a sanctuary of refined elegance tucked away in the exclusive suburb of Sandhurst. Originally built in 1990 as a private residence for billionaire Douw Steyn, it has since transformed into one of the city’s most prestigious boutique hotels. Its history is deeply intertwined with South African leadership; after his release from prison, Nelson Mandela famously retreated here to complete his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom.
Fodors + 3 more“In the exclusive suburb of Sandhurst, adjacent to the commercial and shopping center of Sandton, the Saxon Hotel has repeatedly received awards for its excellence. Heads of state have stayed here, including Nelson Mandela, who came here after his release from prison and to work on his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Johannesburg.
Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff in Johannesburg is a stunning hillside sanctuary that feels like a chic, terraced village. Originally built in 1997 as a luxury residential enclave, it was transformed into the city’s premier hotel, draped along the Westcliff Ridge. Its unique design allows the property to cascade down the hillside, offering guests unmatched, panoramic views over the lush, tree-lined northern suburbs.
Fodors + 2 more“The iconic Westcliff, now under the Four Seasons banner and with a $56-million revamp has been transformed into the paragon of a luxurious urban resort, while renowned chef Dirk Gieselmann has been whisked from France to oversee both the new View and Flame restaurants.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Johannesburg.
Pablo House is a boutique art hotel perched atop one of the highest points in Melville, Johannesburg. This unique property is celebrated for its stunning, panoramic views that stretch across the city and the nearby Melville Koppies Nature Reserve. It functions as a serene, bohemian-inspired sanctuary that feels far removed from the urban bustle, despite being located in one of the city's most lively neighborhoods.
Telegraph“Johannesburg is all about the right vibe, and this funky little guesthouse, located in one of the city’s coolest neighborhoods, has it in spades. With elevated views, well-appointed rooms and a great atmosphere, the excellent-value rate is the final clincher.”
Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa is an elegant urban sanctuary tucked away in Morningside Manor, Johannesburg. Originally a ten-acre family residence once belonging to the Oppenheimer family, the property has transformed into a luxurious estate while retaining the charm of a bygone era. Its sprawling, lush gardens and mature trees create a peaceful atmosphere that feels miles away from the city's frantic pace.
Fodors“Located in a residential area, this gracious boutique hotel was once a private home owned by the Oppenheimer family. Each individually decorated suite mimics classic Eastern and European style with large windows that overlook the manicured gardens that are spread across 5.7 hectares (14 acres). The large grounds, with their sweeping lawns and rose beds, play host to picnics in the summertime and romantic private dinners after sunset.”
Ten Bompas is a sophisticated, intimate boutique hotel located in the leafy suburb of Dunkeld West, Johannesburg. Originally a private residence, this property has been transformed into a tranquil retreat that masterfully balances a "home away from home" atmosphere with high-end luxury. It is particularly noted for its focus on privacy and personal service, housing only ten unique, spacious suites.
Lonely Planet“In the upmarket neighbourhood of Dunkeld West, and within walking distance of several nice places to eat and shop, is this sleek hotel with ten spacious, elegant rooms. Dark wood and savannah hues colour an exquisite private collection of African art. Its restaurant, named the Winehouse after Amy Winehouse, is secretly one of the top fine-dining restaurants in Jo’burg.”
The Peech Hotel in Johannesburg is a serene boutique retreat located in the leafy suburb of Melrose. Originally a 1950s private family residence, the property was purchased by James Peech in 2002 and lovingly transformed into an iconic hotel, which first opened its doors in 2004. It has since expanded across two acres, blending the original heritage architecture with modern, thoughtfully designed annexes.
New York Times + 2 more“An eco-friendly spread in the suburb of Melrose — not far from the Melrose Arch shopping development — the Peech Hotel has 16 rooms clustered around a lush garden. Tribal masks, animal-hide rugs and patterned armchairs add warmth to the hotel’s industrial-chic look.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Johannesburg.
54 on Bath is a chic, five-star boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Johannesburg’s trendy Rosebank suburb. Originally known as The Grace Hotel, it underwent a multi-million rand transformation by Tsogo Sun in 2010. Today, it is celebrated for its sophisticated, monochromatic interior design, which pairs elegant black-and-white accents with crystal chandeliers and a curated photography collection that pays homage to Johannesburg.
Lonely Planet + 2 more“Best described as ‘urban chic’, this sexy number is a short amble from Rosebank’s shopping malls. The 75 rooms are spacious and elegantly restrained, and the uber-cool 4th-floor garden terrace and pool deck is a great place to decompress.”
Tucked away on a quiet, jacaranda-lined street in Rosebank, the Clico Boutique Hotel is a serene oasis in bustling Johannesburg. The property is built around an 80-year-old Cape Dutch homestead, offering a charming mix of heritage architecture and contemporary luxury. Founded by Jeanette Schwegman, the hotel’s name is a playful nod to her favorite champagne, Veuve Clicquot, setting the tone for a stay defined by elegance and celebration.
Fodors“This small, upmarket guesthouse in central Rosebank is an old Cape Dutch house with a gracious garden that offers good value in an area known for expensive accommodation. It has an engaging mix of old and new—Oregon pine floorboards, antique inlaid-wood side tables from Morocco, custom-made couches, and modern, whimsical sculptures like one by Anton Smit, of a woman floating above water.”
Hallmark House in Johannesburg is a striking architectural landmark situated in the heart of the Maboneng Precinct. Originally a diamond-polishing factory built in the 1970s, the 66-meter-high modular structure was transformed into a stylish urban hotel and residential complex by the renowned British-Ghanaian architect David Adjaye.
New York Times + 2 more“With Johannesburg’s inner city booming in recent years, the only thing missing was a luxury hotel catering to high-end travelers not keen on staying in the tony suburbs. Last year’s opening of the Hallmark House changed that: The 46-room hotel, which occupies two floors of a building designed by David Adjaye, has stellar skyline views and is close to all the action in the Maboneng Precinct.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Johannesburg.
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Fodors, Forbes, Telegraph, Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Fodors, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
New York Times, Telegraph, Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Fodors, New York Times
Recommended by:
Fodors
Recommended by:
New York Times, Telegraph, Lonely Planet
For a 3-star hotel, you have to pay around $80 per night and for a 4-star hotel, you would be looking at $130 per night. If you’re after a luxury 5-star Johannesburg hotel, then you can expect to pay around $250 per night.
The best areas to stay in Johannesburg are: CBD, Sandton, Melville, Melrose Arch or Rosebank. Please read our extensive guide about where to stay in Johannesburg. It offers a great overview about each area, including the museums, attractions and other things, as well as the best place to stay in each area.
If you are on the hunt for an affordable hotel, then you should consider reserving The Garden Court Sandton City. It is a great option for those on a budget, as it provides good value for your money. Additionally, the hotel is in a suitable location, and professional travelers have given it their approval. Moreover, the guests who have stayed at the hotel have shared positive reviews. We also have a list of the best cheap hotels in Johannesburg.
If you fancy a bit of extravagance but prefer to stay away from the well-known chain hotels, then The Peech Hotel in Johannesburg is an excellent option for you. This hotel has been very well-reviewed by travelers and experts alike. For more information on other cool hotels, take a look at our list of the best boutique hotels in Johannesburg.
If cost is not an issue, The Westcliff Four Seasons Hotel is a great option for those seeking a luxurious hotel in Johannesburg. This establishment offers exceptional customer service, is situated in an ideal location, and has garnered high reviews from customers and travel experts alike. To discover more 5-star hotels, take a look at our selection of the top luxury hotels in Johannesburg.
If you're searching for a well-priced private room or comfy dorm in Johannesburg, Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers is worth a look. The hostel has been highly praised by backpackers. Additionally, we have compiled a shortlist of the finest hostels in Johannesburg based on thousands of reviews from backpackers.
When it comes to planning a romantic getaway, there is nothing more important than choosing a cozy hotel. We recommend Sanctuary Mandela if you want to make your stay in Johannesburg truly memorable.
To begin the day on a positive note, the 54 on Bath Hotel is a great choice if you're seeking accommodations in Johannesburg with a fantastic morning meal. Those who have recently stayed there have provided magnificent reviews about the breakfast provided at the hotel.
If you and your family are considering a holiday getaway to Johannesburg, travelers who have gone there with their families have had excellent feedback about voco Hotel Johannesburg.
There are many things to do in Johannesburg and the surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in Johannesburg:
Pilanesberg Nature Reserve Game Safari
Visit Pilanesberg Game Reserve on a full-day safari from Johannesburg, where over 7000 animals roam freely. Have the chance to see the big 5 animals (elephants, rhinos, leopards, buffalos, and lions). Enjoy 2 extensive game drives in a jeep with a guide and a delicious lunch. Price: $172. More info.
Soweto Guided Bicycle Tour with Lunch
Embark on a fun and unique tour experience as you explore the urban complex of Soweto on a bicycle. Get to experience the township like a local. Get a glimpse of Hector Pietersen Museum, Mandela House and Tutu House. Price: $37. More info.
2-Day Kruger National Park Safari from Johannesburg
With an afternoon safari and a morning safari, this adventure not only gives you an opportunity to see the BIG 5, but also takes you to the most respected national park in the whole world. The drivers and guides are well-trained to give you the safari of a lifetime. Price: $526. More info.
More things to do in Johannesburg
Johannesburg, affectionately known as Jozi or the City of Gold, occupies a unique place in the South African landscape, having risen from a dusty, desolate highveld site to a global metropolis in barely a century. Its history is inextricably linked to the discovery of gold in 1886, a seismic event that triggered a frantic rush of prospectors, fortune seekers, and laborers from across the globe. This sudden influx transformed a quiet pastoral landscape into a bustling, industrial mining camp, setting the stage for a city defined by intense ambition, rapid expansion, and deep-seated societal divides that would later become the epicenter of the struggle against apartheid.
Today, Johannesburg stands as the economic engine of Africa, a sprawling, vibrant, and relentlessly energetic urban center. It represents the quintessential African city of transformation—constantly reinventing itself while grappling with its complex past. It is a place of stark contrasts, where glistening glass towers in Sandton overlook the dense, resilient neighborhoods that pulse with the entrepreneurial spirit and cultural diversity of a truly cosmopolitan population. It serves as a testament to human resilience and ambition, acting as a melting pot of languages, arts, and innovation that defines the contemporary South African identity.
Beyond its widely known status, Johannesburg holds intriguing secrets. Few realize that the city is effectively an artificial forest; despite being located on a high-altitude grassland, it boasts over ten million trees, making it one of the largest man-made forests on the planet. Furthermore, it is famously the largest city in the world not built on a major coastline, river, or lake. Perhaps most remarkably, the city sits atop a massive network of over 6,000 kilometers of abandoned mine shafts, effectively creating a “hollow” city beneath the surface that serves as a silent, subterranean reminder of the industry that birthed its existence.
Get to know the city even better by reading our guide about where to stay in Johannesburg, covering the best areas for visitors, cool things to do, and much more.
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