9 Best 5-Star Hotels in Johannesburg: the Top Rated in 2025

Are you finally planning that trip to Johannesburg?

Maybe you’ve already booked your flight, and wondering what’s next. Well, you need top-flight accommodations, so you’re in the right spot.

I love Johannesburg for its history, its diversity, and its incredible selection of 5-star accommodations. (And, of course, for its vetkoek, or fat cakes. Try the ones at a Fat Cake City location. Trust me.)

I’m going to show you the 9 most sumptuous 5-star hotels in Johannesburg, all perfect for the traveller who doesn’t settle for less than the best.

Too long to read? ⬇︎

Whatever your plans are for your time in Johannesburg, you’re going to want a comfortable place to relax after a full day in the city. And you’re in for a treat!

These hotels are not just places to lay your head, but destinations in their own right. They offer unparalleled luxury, decadent dining, and views that are worth the trip alone.

So, whether you’re a luxury aficionado, are treating yourself for a special occasion, or are in town for an epic balloon ride perhaps, fasten your seatbelt and get ready for a wild ride through the lap of luxury.

Quick Guide: 5-Star Hotels in Johannesburg

9 Best 5-Star Hotels in Johannesburg

Johannesburg’s luxury hotels stack up against anybody’s!

1. Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa

⭐️ Rating: 9.6/10 | 🗺️ Location: Sandhurst (in Sandton) | 🏨 View it here

✻ Why This Hotel? The Saxton Hotel, Villas and Spa envelopes you in a world of elegance with a touch of African culture.

The Saxton Hotel, Villas and Spa includes:

• Each room adorned with African art
• Balcony views overlook the gardens and pool
• A rejuvenating spa and steam room
• A state-of-the-art fitness center
• Convenient airport shuttle service for a fee
• A prime location close to parks, attractions, and Gautrain stations
• Located in Sandhurst, the wealthiest suburb in the country, in Sandton

A downside to consider:

• Unfortunately, no furry companions are allowed

What a beautiful property! Even though it rained the first two days The Saxon was magical! Everywhere you look is a feast for the eye…and the cuisine was an amazing feast as well!

-Magdalene (read more reviews)

Your lavish journey can begin in one of their uniquely decorated rooms, each featuring exclusive African art that adds a cultural touch to your stay.

When you step out onto your private balcony with a morning coffee in hand, you’ll enjoy views of the garden and the pool.

During your stay, you could take advantage of the spa, steam room, and fitness centre for ultimate relaxation and wellness. The hotel also offers an airport shuttle service, making your travel logistics a breeze.

It’s located in the heart of Sandhurst, one of Johannesburg’s most prestigious suburbs. You are just moments away from parks, attractions, and Gautrain stations.

🐾 Please note that pets are not allowed.

Experience the best of 5-star Hotels in Johannesburg, where luxury meets culture at The Saxton Hotel, Villas and Spa.

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2. The Giglio Boutique Hotel

⭐️ Rating: 10/10 | 🗺️ Location: Bedfordview | 🏨 View it here

✻ Why This Hotel? The Giglio Boutique Hotel, set near the prestigious Observatory Golf Club, is a testament to elegance and service.

It offers:

• A multi-cuisine restaurant with American, Belgian, and Dutch selections
• A specialized breakfast restaurant
• Convenient ironing service and trouser press (fee applies)
• Fax and photocopying, meeting/banquet facilities (fee applies)
• Shuttle service and airport transfer (fee applies)
• Spa facilities for the ultimate relaxation
• A personal trainer onsite for your fitness needs
• Valet parking for your convenience
• Staff fluent in 7 languages for global accessibility
• Concierge service to assist you throughout your stay
• Hair salon and beauty services for a glamorous touch
• An outdoor pool for your enjoyment

One downside:

🐾 Regrettably, no four-legged pals are permitted.

“Beautifully appointed property. Staff are friendly and helpful. The restaurant is really great with flavorful dishes and a nice selection of wines

-Grace (read more reviews)

At The Giglio Boutique Hotel, every day is a celebration. You can wake up to a delicious breakfast, then maybe tee off at the nearby Observatory Golf Club.

Enjoy a feast of American, Belgian, and Dutch dishes at their restaurant for dinner. And when planning your day, the concierge service is always ready to assist.

You can maintain your fitness routine with the on-site personal trainer, or relax and rejuvenate at the spa. And remember to take a dip in the outdoor pool to wrap up a perfect day.

🐾 Please note that pets are not allowed.

Experience the best of 5-star Hotels in Johannesburg at The Giglio Boutique Hotel, where refined elegance meets impeccable service.

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3. Parkwood Boutique Hotel

⭐️ Rating: 9.8/10 | 🗺️ Location: Parkwood | 🏨 View it here

✻ Why This Hotel? Parkwood Boutique Hotel is the epitome of luxury. It blends elegance with ultimate relaxation.

The hotel prides itself on:

• Private patios with garden and pool views.
• A strategic location near a golf club, various restaurants, and a shopping mall.
• An outdoor swimming pool for refreshing dips.
• Laundry and ironing services (fee applies).
• An onsite spa offering rejuvenating treatments and yoga classes.
• Tours or classes about local culture for an immersive experience.
• Satisfying full English/Irish, vegetarian, and gluten-free breakfast options.
• Unrivalled comfort with highly-rated beds.
• Adults only

A couple of downsides to consider:

• ↓ Unfortunately, pets are not permitted
• ↓ There is no airport transfer service.

The Parkwood is a true oasis – lovely rooms and lounge area, a beautiful garden with a long pool in a wunderful quiet surrounding within walking distance to shops and restaurants in Rosebank.

– Katja (read more reviews)

Experience 5-star style in Johannesburg in a whole new light at Parkwood Boutique Hotel. The rooms are beautifully tranquil, and the comfort of the beds are highly rated for comfort.

You can polish your swing at the nearby golf club, and Sandton Shopping Mall and Zoo Lake are close by.

You’ll have access to a refreshing outdoor pool, and can indulge in a therapeutic session at the onsite spa. If you’d like to learn about the area, they also offer tours and classes about local culture.

The breakfasts are delicious, and provide a really welcome start to the day!

Please note that the hotel is adults-only.

🐾 Also, they maintain a no-pets policy.

At Parkwood Boutique Hotel, 5-star luxury merges seamlessly with the relaxing natural surroundings.

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4. The Cliffside Boutique Getaway

⭐️ Rating: 10/10 | 🗺️ Location: Randburg | 🏨 View it here

✻ Why This Hotel? The Cliffside Getaway offers unparalleled service, delivering a unique blend of luxury and comfort.

The hotel has:

• Breathtaking terrace and garden views.
• A beautiful outdoor swimming pool to cool off.
• Delicious continental, Full English/Irish, and vegetarian breakfast options.
• Onsite restaurant known for its excellent cuisine.
• Convenient ironing, dry cleaning, and laundry services (additional fee).
• Additional amenities like a sauna, fitness and yoga classes, personal trainer, and beauty services.
• Nearby hiking trails and golfing options for outdoor fun.
• Adults only
• Shuttle service is available for a fee.

A downside to consider:

🐾 Your best furry friend cannot accompany you.

This is by far the best hotel we’ve been to. Extreme attention to detail and amazing room with an even better view. Can’t wait to come back.

-Pieter (read more reviews)

Get ready to experience 5-star Hotels in Johannesburg like never before at The Cliffside Boutique Getaway. You can start the day with a dip in the outdoor pool or a workout with the personal trainer.

Their full breakfasts will start your day on a high note, and when it’s time to wind down, the sauna and beauty services are at your disposal.

If you prefer the outdoors, you’re just a stone’s throw away from a variety of hiking trails and an excellent golf course.

For your convenience, ironing, dry cleaning, and laundry services are available for a fee.

🐾 Please note that the hotel does not permit pets.

Book your stay at The Cliffside Boutique Getaway, and soak in the 5-star luxury in the beautiful suburb of Randburg.

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5. Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank

⭐️ Rating: 9.0/10 | 🗺️ Location: Rosebank | 🏨 View it here

✻ Why This Hotel? Hyatt Johannesburg Rosebank is a stone’s throw from the city’s major attractions and offers a suite of amenities tailored for comfort and convenience.

You can look forward to:

• Prime location in an energetic, multi-cultural district.
• Concierge services to assist with your city exploration.
• Proximity to a nearby golf club for golfers.
• Car rental service.
• Airport shuttle for easy travel (fee applies).
• In-room TV streaming services for entertainment.
• Comprehensive business facilities, including fax/photocopying, business center, and meeting/banquet facilities (fees apply).
• Convenient amenities like suit press, ironing service, dry cleaning, and laundry (fee applies).
• Additional services like babysitting/child services (fee applies)
• “Super-gym” open 24 hours.
• On-site convenience store for your necessities.
• Three on-site restaurants offering American, Belgian and Brazilian cuisines.
• Breakfast options like Continental, Full English/Irish, Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, and American.

A couple of negatives to consider:

• ↓ Pets are not permitted.
• ↓ Does not have a swimming pool.

This hotel was Absolutely Amazing! Great Staff, Great Food & Great Room! We Highly Enjoyed Our Stay!❤️

– Christy (read more reviews)

Your stay at Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank begins with checking into a comfortable room equipped with all modern amenities. These include streaming services on your in-room TV.

Choose from three on-site restaurants for a variety of dining options to suit every palate.

The on-site gym is well-equipped to help you maintain your workout routine. Business travellers will appreciate the comprehensive business facilities, including a business center and meeting rooms.

Additional services such as suit press, ironing, dry cleaning, and laundry are also available.

Those travelling with children can use the babysitting services for a fee. Golf enthusiasts will love the proximity to a nearby golf club.

And if you need to explore the city or need a ride to the airport, the hotel offers car rental and airport shuttle services for a fee.

🐾 No pets are allowed at the hotel.

In case you forgot to pack something, the hotel even has a convenience store for your urgent needs. All in all, Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank is an excellent choice if you’re looking for 5-star hotels in Johannesburg.

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6. 🐾 Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff

⭐️ Rating: 9.6/10 | 🗺️ Location: Randburg | 🏨 View it here

✻ Why This Hotel? Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff offers an unparalleled rendezvous of luxury and comfort.

Some of their standout features include:

• Family-friendly facilities and park-like areas.
• Comfortable beds that guarantee a good night’s sleep.
• A variety of breakfast options including Continental and Full English/Irish.
• Pet-friendly with no additional charges, pet bowls and baskets are available.
• Local cultural tours or classes, bike tours, and off-site horseback riding for an additional fee.
• Onsite spa and beauty treatments for your relaxation needs.
• Multi-lingual staff, competent in 15 languages, to cater to a diverse clientele.
• Shuttle services and airport shuttles are available for a fee
• Car rental services onsite.
• In-room amenities such as suit press, ironing service, dry cleaning, and laundry facilities for a fee.

“Excellent customer service!! Every single member of staff greeted us with a friendly smile and went above and beyond our expectations. When we returned to the Four Seasons at the end of our trip, the hotel welcomed us back with a tray of beautiful, delicious cupcakes (“Welcome Back!” written in sprinkles) in our room.”

-Deon (read more reviews)

At Four Seasons Hotel the Westcliff, rooms are comfortable with beds highly rated for comfort. The dining options cater to different tastes, with both Continental and Full English/Irish breakfasts served.

The onsite restaurant serves steak, seafood, and local dishes. It can cater to a variety of dietary requirements.

Pet owners will appreciate the hotel’s pet-friendly policy and the provision of pet bowls and baskets. For recreation, consider taking part in local cultural tours or classes, bike tours or off-site horseback riding.

Relaxation needs are taken care of with an onsite spa and beauty treatments. The staff speaks 15 languages, ensuring guests from different backgrounds feel welcome.

Shuttle services, airport shuttles and car rental services are available for a fee. In-room amenities such as suit press, ironing service, dry cleaning, and laundry facilities are also provided for a fee.

🐾 Pet-friendly!

Four Seasons Hotel the Westcliff is a great choice if you’re searching for 5-star hotels in Johannesburg.

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7. Hoeveld House

⭐️ Rating: 8.8/10 | 🗺️ Location: Sandton | 🏨 View it here

✻ Why This Hotel? Hoeveld House oozes old-world historical charm and boasts a lush, leafy garden.

Hoeveld is renowned for its:

• Continental and Full English/Irish breakfasts to kickstart your day.
• Proximity to the Inanda Club for horse lovers.
• Outdoor pool for a refreshing dip (closed May through August).
• Close distance to shopping and excellent restaurants.
• Services like suit press, ironing service, dry cleaning, and laundry for your convenience, for a fee.
• Adults-only environment.

↓ Negatives to consider:

• No pets are allowed
• No shuttle or airport transfer services
• No onsite restaurant

“A perfect highlight at the end of three weeks SA. Well located, not too far from the airport. Highly recommended.”

– Angelo (readr more reviews)

Hoeveld House, a 5-star hotel in Johannesburg, offers a unique and memorable hospitality experience. The amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, and for those who need it.

The hotel also offers services like suit press, ironing service, dry cleaning, and laundry, for a fee.

Choose between a Continental or Full English/Irish breakfast. For recreation, the hotel has an outdoor pool, making it a perfect oasis in the city, although it is closed from May through August.

However, its close proximity to shopping centers and excellent restaurants offsets this, and the Inanda Equestrian Club nearby is an added bonus.

🐾 Pets are not permitted.

Hoeveld House is definitely a place to consider among 5-star hotels in Johannesburg. The pricing is on the higher side, but the unique experience it offers is worth every bit.

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8. Sanctuary Mandela Hotel

⭐️ Rating: 10/10 | 🗺️ Location: Houghton | 🏨 View it here

✻ Why This Hotel? The sophisticated Sanctuary Mandela Hotel is a tribute to the high life. It offers a blend of top-notch service, unparalleled comfort, and accessibility to the city’s vital life.

The Sanctuary Mandela Hotel features:

• A premium shuttle service (fee applies)
• Airport shuttle (fee applies)
• Two world-class restaurants and a chic cafe/bar
• Proximity to lush parks and top-notch golf courses
• Prime location near shopping
• A lovely saltwater pool
• Convenient laundry service (fee applies)

One downside:

🐾 Unfortunately, it’s a no-go for your furry friends.

Impeccable Service by staff & Guest Relations. Top notch Restaurant. Exceptional breakfasts with your stay. Dinner cuisines & Cultural Experiences! History, wines & food ! Top Notch! Options are very plentiful , insanely delicious. Foods that soothes the soul . The ambience of the Boutique hotel is just simply Amazing! 

– Janeen (read more reviews)

At the Sanctuary Mandela, your luxury journey is their priority. Each day begins with a choice of dining experiences with a full English or Irish breakfast or our delicious vegetarian option.

And if you’d love to sample the delectable local South African cuisine, they’ve got you covered with their irresistible restaurant. There’s an additional restaurant as well as a cafe/bar nearby, as well.

The location is prime, in the wealthy suburb of Houghton Estate. This ensures easy access to Johannesburg’s premier shopping districts, relaxing parks, and top-rated golf courses.

The property sits next to the Nelson Mandela Foundation. It contains a wide variety of historical facts about the anti-apartheid hero.

Back at the hotel, you can unwind by the gorgeous saltwater pool. It’s a perfect retreat after a day of exploring. And should you have any laundry needs, there is a handy service ready to help (additional fees apply).

Plus, the front desk can arrange a shuttle for you, or an airport transfer (additional fee applies).

🐾 But I’m afraid pets will have to sit this one out.

Experience the crème de la crème of 5-Star Hotels in Johannesburg, where luxury and convenience meet at the Sanctuary Mandela.

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9. 🐾 Seven Villa Hotel & Spa

⭐️ Rating: 8.8/10 | 🗺️ Location: Sandton | 🏨 View it here

✻ Why this hotel? It offers an eclectic fusion of modern comforts, traditional African aesthetics, and a stunning riverside view.

The Seven Villa Hotel & Spa experience includes:

• Luxurious rooms with river views
• A restaurant offering sumptuous South African cuisines and steaks
• An outdoor pool and hot tub for relaxation
• A comprehensive spa and beauty services range
• Dry cleaning, laundry, suit press and ironing services
• Proximity to parks, bird sanctuaries, and Gautrain Sandton Station
• Pet-friendly accommodation, complete with pet bowls, treats, and a walking map.
• Shuttle and airport transfer services available for a fee
• Catering to the discerning traveller looking for a 5-star experience in Johannesburg

I had a fantastic week with excellent service and friendly people everywhere. Central location, Good food and nice surrounding garden and places to hang out on. I can really recommend this hotel!

– magnus (read more reviews)

Your luxury stay begins the moment you step into the Seven Villa Hotel & Spa. The rooms open out to an enchanting river view and the chic decor provides a homely yet sophisticated atmosphere.

If you’re ready for a dining adventure, head to the in-house restaurant that specializes in South African cuisine as well as steaks. The outdoor fireplace and picnic area add a relaxing charm to your experience.

Don’t forget to take a dip in the outdoor pool, or better yet, soak in the hot tub. If you’re up for some pampering, the spa and beauty services won’t disappoint.

🐾 And for those with pets, Seven Villa is an excellent choice – they’ll be taken care of with special pet bowls and baskets.

Located in the heart of Sandton’s business district and close to Gautrain Sandton Station, the hotel offers the perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. The nearby parks and bird sanctuary make for an ideal day trip.

The Seven Villa Hotel & Spa is an excellent choice for those seeking a luxury 5-star experience in Johannesburg.

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5-Star Hotels in Johannesburg: FAQ

What is the safest area to stay in Johannesburg?

According to crime statistics, the safest areas to stay in Johannesburg are Sandton, Melrose, Melville, Rosebank Mall, Norwood, Bedfordview, and Parkwood.

When looking for 5-star hotels in Johannesburg, check out options in these areas for a safer and more relaxed stay. Each of the hotels on this list is in a very safe area of Johannesburg.

‼️ Dangerous areas of Johannesburg

Areas such as Berea, Yeoville, Sunnyside, and Honeydew are some of the highest crime-rated areas in Johannesburg. They aren’t neighbourhoods that I recommend you stay in, or, especially, walk alone in at night.

However, there are some sights to see in them. Consider taking a walking tour if you’re interested in points of interest in one of these areas.

What is so special about 5-star hotels?

Hotels rated 5-star set a high standard for luxury and service. The appeal doesn’t lie in just the upscale amenities and rooms. It’s also in the superior customer service, the attention to personalized service, and the expertise of the staff.

These hotels ensure that every need is catered for, from multilingual staff and diverse dining options to wellness facilities and a suite of in-room services.

Whether you’re a food lover, a wellness enthusiast, or a pet owner, 5-star hotels in Johannesburg go beyond providing a place to stay – they deliver an unrivalled experience tailored to your desires.

Are there any good day trips from Johannesburg?

Absolutely! Try these out, and read more about them and others in this “Day Trips” article:

1. Pilanesburg National Park

If you’d love to explore the wild, Pilanesberg National Park is your ticket to ride (quite literally!). A wee bit of a jaunt, about 200 km from Johannesburg, it’s a day trip that promises to be worth every mile.

And here’s the kicker – it’s a malaria-free zone. Yes, you heard it right! So, you can leave your bug spray behind and enjoy an amazing safari experience.

2. Sun City

Sun City, near Pilanesberg National Park, is an exciting and luxurious destination. It features a top-notch golf course, a water park called the Valley of Waves, and an impressive range of amenities.

From wave pools and water slides to chill beach areas, Sun City offers a paradise of fun and relaxation. Plus, it is a malaria-free zone, allowing visitors to enjoy their stay without worrying about mosquitoes.

3. The Cradle of Humankind

About 50 km (or a little 30 miles) from Johannesburg, lies the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With fossils dating back 3.5 million years, it’s like your personal time machine to the dawn of humanity.

You’ll be shocked by the sheer volume of history within this area. And you thought Jo’burg was just about the hustle and bustle!

Summing It Up: 5-star Hotels in Johannesburg

Johannesburg has a great selection of 5-star hotels to choose from, each with its unique charm and amenities.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly hotel, a wellness retreat-style, or a pet-friendly option, there’s a 5-star hotel in Johannesburg that fits the bill.

Whichever option from this list you decide on, you’ll be staying in a safe, luxurious, and comfortable hotel. Enjoy!

Happy Travels!

More about South Africa:

 ➦ 30 Photos to Inspire You to Visit South Africa
 ➦ The Best Dive Sites in South Africa
➦ The Best Views and Experiences at The Three Rondavels in 2025
 ➦ 39 Amazing Facts About Kruger National Park You Never Knew

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