Johannesburg is usually skipped over for South Africa's more attractive city in the west, Cape Town. This is unfortunate because within hours of arriving, Johannesburg quickly turned into one my favourite cities. The culture, nightlife, and people suck you in hard so that you find it difficult to ever leave. To enjoy the city you just need to dig under the surface a little bit and ignore its harder edges. You'll easily find that there are many interesting things to see and do in Johannesburg.

Johannesburg, like any modern city has some world class accommodation options. This guide provides some of my personal favourite places to stay in the city as well as some more unique accommodation options.

If you're looking for some itinerary options while in South Africa, check out Where to Go in South Africa and Itineraries for South Africa.

Best Budget Options in Johannesburg

Curiocity Backpackers (hostel)

A hostel with some serious style, Curiocity is located in the heart of Johannesburg’s Maboneng precinct. Curiocity offers interesting tours of the city and surrounding areas as well as regular planned activities like their twice weekly workout sessions, pub crawls, and bicycle tours.

Facilities include an on-site bar, with some excellent coffee to start your morning, a jacuzzi to help cool off in summer, and a large balcony to watch the world go by. They also offer some unique accommodation options, like a Loft and their quirky Relay Space Program

Check out their reviews on Trip Advisor

Get the latest prices: Hostelz.com

Once In Joburg (hostel)

Once in Joburg has a well designed common area, one of the best I’ve seen. Dorm rooms only have two bunks and private rooms are more like a hotel room. If you've never stayed in a hostel, you won't notice the difference!

This hostel is great for those who are seeking the communal benefits of a hostel - common room, shared kitchen and organised activities - but also like the comfort and privacy of a well-maintained hotel. Breakfast is also included.

Get all the full details in my detailed review.

Check out their reviews on Trip Advisor 

Get the latest prices: Hostelz.com

Best Eco Hotels in Johannesburg

Thaba Eco Hotel

Thaba is actually a great all-rounder. It offers award winning dinning on site, it's affordable and family-friendly and provides a touch of luxury with dramatic views of the South African bush. 

There's an Eco Kids program on offer as well as nature walks, mountain bike trails and bird watching for the big kids. Thaba Eco Hotel is a great option if you would prefer to relax and enjoy the nature surrounding the city and visit the sites within Johannesburg on day trips.

Check out their reviews on: Trip Advisor

Get the latest prices: Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

Best Luxury Hotels in Johannesburg

Four Seasons Hotel - The Westcliffe

With five modern restaurants, bars and lounges and a full-service spa, this hotel makes it difficult to actually leave so you can explore the city. The Westcliff in Johannesburg is a stylish urban resort elevated on a hillside with panoramic views across the Johannesburg Zoo and the prestigious neighbourhoods of the city.

Check out their reviews on: Trip Advisor

Get the latest prices: Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel

Experience the ultimate in pampering at this central Marriott Hotel. The African Pride Melrose Arch Hotel specialises in luxury and is great for business travelers, families and those looking for an opulent getaway with the benefit of being in the heart of Johannesburg.

African Pride has a chic design and world class service. You won't be left wanting for anything during your stay! The best part is, when you're ready to take a break from all that opulence, you're steps away from the best shopping and dining that Johannesburg has to offer.

Check out their reviews on: Trip Advisor

Get the latest prices: Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

Want more on South Africa? Check out the latest here!

This post includes affiliate links. When you make a purchase via these links, I receive a small percentage at no additional cost to you. Very small but very appreciated.