The African Voyager

Johannesburg, South Africa

Where to stay in Johannesburg: the neighbourhoods you’ll love

Southern Africa • Stay • Where to stay in Johannesburg: the neighbourhoods you’ll love

Johannesburg’s best neighbourhoods for your next stay

Johannesburg is packed with character and picking the right area can change the way you experience the city. Johannesburg is home to areas that are alive with vibrant markets, artsy cafés and local galleries but you’ll also find areas that feature calm, tree-lined streets perfect for a relaxing stroll and a more laid-back visit. Finding the right area to stay is essential if you would like to experience Joburg in a way that suits your style. We’re sharing insights on the best areas in Johannesburg to stay, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. This guide will give you a clear picture of what each neighbourhood offers so you can get the most out of your time in South Africa’s largest city.

Rosebank

Rosebank is the heart of Johannesburg’s cosmopolitan life, effortlessly blending work, art and leisure. Here you can find lively shopping precincts and excellent dining spots, standout shopping spots include The Zone and Rosebank Mall, where you’ll find everything from luxury boutiques to local artisan markets. We love the Sunday Rosebank Rooftop Market, where you’ll find everything from handcrafted jewellery to spicy street food, all while enjoying a rooftop city view. This is also the perfect area if you are an art lover, Rosebank is home to many contemporary galleries like Circa and Everard Read. Plus, Rosebank’s central location and easy access to the Gautrain station mean you’re well-connected to the airport and other parts of the city.

Rosebank
Johannesburg
South Africa

Melrose

Melrose has this laid-back but polished ambience, a blend of city life and green spaces that’s hard to beat, making it one of Johannesburg’s most stylish areas to stay. This neighbourhood is home to Melrose Arch, an upscale precinct filled with modern eateries, chic shops and art installations that lend the area a trendy edge. Walking around Melrose Arch, you’ll feel a distinct European vibe, with wide pedestrian-friendly streets, outdoor dining and high-end fashion stores. For sports fans, the Wanderers Stadium is nearby, where you can catch a cricket game with locals. Melrose is also ideal if you love staying active – running paths, yoga studios and wellness spots are all part of this neighbourhood’s offerings.

Melrose
Johannesburg
South Africa

Sandton

Sandton is Joburg’s high-energy business hub, but there’s more to it than boardrooms and glass skyscrapers. Known as the richest square mile in Africa, Sandton serves up luxury on a silver platter, from fine dining to designer shopping. Nelson Mandela Square, marked by a large statue of Mandela himself, is a must-visit hub where you can explore premier restaurants and high-fashion boutiques. Sandton City Mall, one of Africa’s largest, also offers a shopping experience that’s hard to beat. If you are interested in art and culture, you’ll love the Peacemakers Museum which provides a thought-provoking look at South Africa’s journey toward peace.

Sandton
Johannesburg
South Africa

Mellville

Melville is the go-to for Joburg’s creative and easygoing crowd, with a distinct bohemian feel and beautiful tree-lined streets. There’s no mistaking the neighbourhood’s artsy soul – 7th Street is packed with indie cafes, thrift stores and little galleries. Melville’s laid-back vibe and friendly locals make it a favourite among artists and students. Nearby, Melville Koppies Nature Reserve is a heritage nature reserve with trails and city views, where you can hike and enjoy panoramic views of the city and take a break from the urban hustle.

Mellville
Johannesburg
South Africa

Parkhurst

If Joburg had a neighbourhood that felt like a cosy yet chic village, Parkhurst would be it. The main attraction of this area is 4th Avenue, Parkhurst’s café-lined main strip. It’s where you’ll find everything from artisanal bakeries and brunch spots to shops selling handcrafted home decor and vintage finds. We’ve noticed how pet-friendly it is too; plenty of cafes have water bowls and treats ready for four-legged friends, which only adds to the friendly neighbourly vibe. If you are interested in the local art scene, the area is also home to an array of galleries that showcase emerging local talent.