The 10 best hotels in Pretoria

Menlyn Boutique Hotel is the epitome of what a great boutique stay does right; delivers that hard-to-find balance of comfort and class without ever feeling pretentious. The rooms are elegant without being over the top, with wooden floors, velvet headboards, contemporary art and soft ambient lights that make everything feel cozy.

The pool area is a hidden little haven, perfect for lazy afternoons with a book and a cocktail. But what really sets it apart is the attention to detail. There’s nothing quite like waking up at a place to staff who remember your coffee order, beautifully plated meals at the restaurant and a general sense that they actually care about your stay. It’s quiet, stylish and incredibly comfortable.

If you need a bit of extra relaxation (who doesn’t?), you’ll enjoy the well-equipped spa. It offers everything from deep tissue massages to detoxifying facials.

209 Tugela Rd, Ashlea Gardens, Pretoria, 0081

If you want a countryside escape without leaving the city, Irene Country Lodge is the perfect pick. This lakeside retreat leans into the old-world Irene charm, with impossibly green gardens and a British countryside vibe to the rooms and décor thanks to high-beamed ceilings, rich fabrics and deep bathtubs.

The lodge is also home to the award-winning Camdeboo Day Spa, where the heated therapy pool and outdoor sauna make for an easy afternoon of relaxation. But the real draw here is in the setting. It’s perfect for long walks on the farm, high tea in the gardens and leisurely breakfasts at Meadow Green Restaurant, where their fresh-from-the-farm cheese selection is a must. It’s a great spot for a romantic getaway, a wellness weekend or just a much-needed breather from city life.

Nellmapius Dr, Irene, Centurion, 0062

Tucked away on a 20-hectare working farm, The Rasmus is one of Pretoria’s best-kept secrets. Guests arrive via a wooden footbridge leading to a grand double-story homestead, complete with arched windows, red brick walls and a striking turret that adds to its fairy-tale appeal. There’s a definite ‘hidden gem’ feel to it - unassuming from the outside but full of small luxuries inside.

The rooms are airy and spacious, with a modern-meets-classic aesthetic thanks to high ceilings, leather armchairs and hand-painted koi fish murals above the beds - a subtle nod to the huge koi pond at the entrance. Breakfast here is the stuff of dreams with buttery croissants, farm eggs and strong coffee best enjoyed on the outside deck overlooking the farm. Unlike large hotels, there’s no spa or gym, but that’s not the point. The charm here lies in the peace and quiet.

28 Pretorius Ave, Erasmus Park, Pretoria, 0181

Pretoria’s answer to an Italian villa getaway, Castello di Monte is pure old-school romance. Perched on a hilltop in Waterkloof, the views stretch out for miles, best enjoyed from one of the many terraces or from the gardens below.

The interiors are straight out of a Tuscan dream, with ornate chandeliers, intricate frescoes and four-poster beds draped in crisp white linens. Though it’s grand, it’s a small hotel, which means personalised service and attention to detail at every turn. They take the notion that breakfast is the most important meal of the day very seriously, and put up a proper spread. While there’s no full restaurant, guests can arrange private dining experiences with dishes like duck confit or fresh seafood.

If you’re looking for a romantic place that feels more like a European escape than a city stay in South Africa, this is it.

402 Aries St, Waterkloof Ridge, Pretoria, 0181

Apogee Boutique Hotel and Spa is a converted house (ok, mansion) up in Waterkloof Ridge with sweeping views of the city. One of the most upscale options in the city, it has a huge focus on spotlighting contemporary South African art. The suites feature handpicked paintings from local artists, while the gardens and courtyards have sculptures and statues galore. The floor-to-ceiling windows give it a bit of a gallery feel, tossing out the notion that Pretoria hotels should be traditional and historic.

Rooms are high-end and spacious, with gorgeous artwork in deep colours and bold patterns, deep soaking tubs, plush robes, Egyptian cotton sheets and premium coffee machines. The on-site restaurant is one of Pretoria’s most exciting, offering an evolving menu with dishes like beef tataki or truffle risotto. The spa is another feather in their cap - and all in all, it’s clear that Apogee is one of the most modern stays around in the capital city.

212 Johann Rissik Dr, Waterkloof Ridge, Pretoria, 0181

As far as Pretoria hotels go, The Maslow at Time Square is as big and bold as they come. Set within Menlyn’s entertainment district, it’s the go-to for anyone wanting a city stay with everything on their doorstep. The rooms are contemporary and comfortable, with great city views and all the modern amenities you’d expect.

But the real selling point here is access to the goings-on in the city. Right below, you’ve got a massive casino, top-tier restaurants, bars and a concert venue that regularly hosts some of the country’s biggest acts. Next door is Menlyn Mall. And just down the road is Hazelwood.

The hotel’s infinity pool overlooks the Time Square area, so you can have your drinks and a swim while you people watch all night. It’s not for those looking for a quiet retreat or a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, but if you want to be in the heart of the action, this is the spot.

209 Aramist Ave, Menlyn, Pretoria, 0181

For a taste of the Winelands without leaving Gauteng, Kievits Kroon is the answer. This sprawling estate just outside Pretoria is known for its Cape Dutch-inspired architecture, tree-lined walkways and impressive spa. The rooms vary from comfortable classics to more luxurious suites, all with a relaxed, country feel.

The spa is a standout, with heated pools, hydrotherapy circuits and a range of treatments that make it a wellness destination in its own right. And because you won’t feel like setting foot anywhere outside of the estate during your stay, the food has to be amazing too. Luckily, this is no boring hotel restaurant. You can eat breakfast, lunch and dinner at Kievits Kroon, and there’s both buffet-style and à la carte options available, featuring South African flavours with a fine-dining touch.

They’re inventive about their special package offers, which often feature fine dining meals, wine pairings, outdoor cinema nights, picnics and more.

41 Reier Rd, Kameeldrift-East, Pretoria, 0035

The upmarket eastern suburbs of Pretoria are mostly residential, but there are a few hidden gems for travellers too. The five-star Woodpecker Inn is a five-room, family-run boutique hotel. Its location inside the Woodhill Golf Estate means you have access to the golf course, driving range and estate clubhouse. In fact, you’re right on the golf course - so you can even watch some golf and learn by osmosis as you lounge around in your room.

The Woodpecker Inn’s stone exterior and green canopies feel like they could’ve come out of the Scottish Highlands, and the interior continues that theme with rooms and common areas which feel both homely and elegant, a true BnB from yesteryear.

There’s no full restaurant, but breakfast is included and plenty of dining options are a short drive away. If you prefer a low-key, comfortable stay over big-name luxury, The Woodpecker Inn delivers on charm and service.

43 Emfuleni Rd, Woodhill Golf Estate, Pretoria, 0076

If you’re heading to a game at Loftus Versfeld, this is where you want to stay… especially if the Blue Bulls win and you need to be nearby for the post-match celebrations. Pretoria is passionate about its rugby, so expect plenty of energy in the surrounding bars and restaurants after the game, no matter who you're cheering for. But fair warning: if you’re supporting the enemies and partying after, you’ll need to be ready to change shirts or buy lots of brandies to apologise to the locals for their bad luck.

Located right next to the stadium and only a couple of kilometres from the Union Buildings, Protea Hotel Loftus is modern, convenient and built for sports fans and business travellers alike.

With contemporary, comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar and pool, Protea Hotel Loftus ticks all the boxes if you’re heading over for a big match and want a stay which is well-located and well-priced.

416 Kirkness St, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0007

Perched up on a hill in Erasmuskloof, this five-star boutique hotel overlooks the Kloof and the famous Erasmus Castle for which the area is named. If you do only one thing during your stay, you’ll want to grab a sundowner at The Gazebo, a small covered terrace with the best views in the area. South Africans are proud of their sunsets for good reason, and watching the sky turn orange as it bids farewell to the city for the day is a must-do with this vantage point.

Inside, you’ll find the hotel to be a mixture of mid-century and modern charm; chandeliers meet modern art, and striking black and white murals are counterbalanced with pops of burnt orange and sea green. Each of the ten rooms is individually decorated, but all remain classy and keep the mid-century modern theme throughout.

568 Johannes St, Erasmuskloof, Pretoria, 0048

*This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content.