When visiting Johannesburg, the best areas to stay are in the northern suburbs, which offer a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and apartments.
Best Areas to Stay
For each of the top neighborhoods, here's what you need to know:
Sandton (Johannesburg)
Best For: Luxury / Business
Vibe: Sandton is Johannesburg's financial hub, with a vibrant and upscale atmosphere, offering a range of high-end shopping and dining options. The area is well-connected to the rest of the city, making it a great base for business travelers.
Price Range: $150-$500/night
Pros: Excellent shopping and dining options, convenient location, safe and secure area.
Cons: Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, limited budget-friendly options.
Rosebank (Johannesburg)
Best For: Luxury / Family
Vibe: Rosebank is a trendy and upscale neighborhood, known for its vibrant atmosphere, with a range of restaurants, bars, and shops. The area is also home to the famous Rosebank Mall, which offers a variety of entertainment options.
Price Range: $100-$300/night
Pros: Vibrant atmosphere, excellent shopping and dining options, convenient location.
Cons: Can be noisy, limited budget-friendly options.
Melville (Johannesburg)
Best For: Backpacker / Budget
Vibe: Melville is a bohemian neighborhood, with a laid-back and artistic atmosphere, offering a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, including hostels and guesthouses. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars and clubs.
Price Range: $20-$100/night
Pros: Affordable accommodation options, vibrant nightlife, close to the city center.
Cons: Can be noisy, limited luxury options.
Braamfontein (Johannesburg)
Best For: Business / Luxury
Vibe: Braamfontein is a bustling neighborhood, with a mix of office buildings, shops, and restaurants, offering a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. The area is also home to the University of the Witwatersrand, making it a great base for students and academics.
Price Range: $80-$250/night
Pros: Convenient location, excellent dining options, close to the city center.
Cons: Can be noisy, limited parking options.
Fourways (Johannesburg)
Best For: Family / Luxury
Vibe: Fourways is a suburban neighborhood, with a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, offering a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to self-catering apartments. The area is also home to the famous Montecasino, a entertainment complex with a range of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Price Range: $100-$300/night
Pros: Family-friendly atmosphere, excellent entertainment options, convenient location.
Cons: Limited budget-friendly options, can be crowded.
Linden (Johannesburg)
Best For: Family / Budget
Vibe: Linden is a charming neighborhood, with a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, offering a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, including guesthouses and self-catering apartments. The area is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens, making it a great base for nature lovers.
Price Range: $50-$150/night
Pros: Affordable accommodation options, family-friendly atmosphere, close to parks and gardens.
Cons: Limited luxury options, can be quiet.
Accommodation Types
| Type | Price Range (USD/night) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $10-$30 | Budget/Social | Shared rooms and dorms, great for meeting other travelers |
| Guesthouses | $30-$100 | Mid-range/Local | Family-run establishments, offering a home-away-from-home experience |
| Hotels | $80-$250 | Comfort/Business | Range of options, from budget-friendly to luxury, often with amenities like pools and gyms |
| Boutique Hotels | $150-$500 | Experience | Unique and stylish hotels, often with a focus on local art and culture |
| Resorts | $100-$300 | Relaxation | Self-contained complexes, often with amenities like pools, spas, and restaurants |
| Apartments/Airbnb | $50-$200 | Long stays/Families | Self-catering options, often with kitchen facilities and more space than traditional hotels |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance, especially during peak season (June to August and December), to avoid high prices and limited availability.
- Use online booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb to compare prices and find deals.
- Consider negotiating prices, especially for longer stays or off-season bookings.
- Look for packages and special offers, which can include extras like breakfast, parking, or airport transfers.
- Read reviews and check the location before booking, to ensure you're staying in a safe and convenient area.
- Be aware of any additional fees or charges, such as parking or Wi-Fi costs.
- Use travel rewards credit cards or loyalty programs to earn points or discounts on your booking.
Safety & Location Tips
- Avoid staying in areas with high crime rates, such as Hillbrow and Yeoville.
- Choose accommodation in safe and secure areas, with good lighting and 24-hour security.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas.
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps, rather than hitchhiking or using unlicensed taxis.
- Keep valuables secure and be mindful of pickpocketing or theft in crowded areas.
- Consider staying in areas with easy access to public transport, such as the Gautrain or bus routes.