11 Amazing Places to Stay in Pretoria

I recently had the opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Pretoria and discover some truly incredible places to stay. If you’re planning a visit to this vibrant city, then you’re in luck because I’ve compiled a list of 11 stunning accommodations that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. The Grand Marigold Hotel – This elegant hotel offers luxurious rooms with stunning views of the city. You’ll be treated like royalty as you indulge in the hotel’s top-notch amenities and world-class service.

2. The Serene Garden Guesthouse – If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, this charming guesthouse is the perfect choice. Surrounded by lush gardens, you’ll find tranquility and relaxation at every corner.

3. The Urban Oasis – Located in the heart of the city, this modern boutique hotel offers stylish rooms and a rooftop pool with panoramic views. It’s the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring.

4. The Historic Manor House – Step back in time at this beautifully restored manor house. With its vintage charm and elegant decor, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a different era.

5. The Nature Retreat – Nestled in the outskirts of the city, this eco-friendly lodge offers a serene escape surrounded by nature. You can explore the nearby hiking trails or simply relax by the fireplace.

6. The Artistic Hideaway – This unique guesthouse showcases the works of local artists, giving you a taste of Pretoria’s vibrant art scene. Each room is a masterpiece in itself, featuring original artwork and creative design.

7. The Family-Friendly Haven – If you’re traveling with little ones, this family-friendly hotel is the perfect choice. With spacious suites and a range of amenities for kids, it’s a home away from home for the whole family.

8. The Cosy Cottage – This charming cottage offers a cosy and intimate atmosphere. With its comfortable furnishings and warm decor, you’ll feel right at home as soon as you step through the door.

9. The Luxury Apartments – If you’re looking for a home away from home, these fully equipped apartments are the perfect choice. With their modern amenities and stylish decor, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

10. The Boutique Bed and Breakfast – This intimate bed and breakfast offers personalized service and attention to detail. You’ll be treated to a delicious homemade breakfast and warm hospitality.

11. The Wellness Retreat – If you’re in need of some pampering, this wellness retreat is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. With its spa facilities and holistic treatments, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and renewed.

No matter which accommodation you choose, you’re guaranteed to have a wonderful stay in Pretoria. Each of these 11 places offers something unique and special, adding to the charm of this incredible city. So go ahead and book your stay, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in Pretoria.

When it comes to South Africa, most people think of Johannesburg. But its sister city, Pretoria, has so much to offer. It may not be as well-known, but it has its own unique charm and hidden treasures. Instead of just passing through on your way to other destinations, I encourage you to stay a night or two and explore all that Pretoria has to offer.

Imagine feeling like you’re on top of the world at the brand-new Protea Hotel by Marriott. If you’re a rugby fan, you’ll love the fact that it’s conveniently located near Loftus Versveld.

Now, you might be wondering, how can we truly know if the number one accommodation is really the best? While I value and appreciate guest reviews on TripAdvisor, I also believe it’s important to have a comparative voice. That’s why, when I’m researching a destination, I don’t solely rely on peer reviews. Instead, I take a comprehensive approach.

For instance, when I was exploring accommodations in Pretoria, I scoured TripAdvisor and various other online sites. After carefully analyzing the options, I came up with a longlist of 17 places to inspect for myself. Out of those, the following accommodations made it to the top of my list.

Here’s what I discovered:

1. The Best Hosts

Edward House

Ranked number 53 out of 397 B&Bs/Inns on TripAdvisor

Let me tell you about this amazing house in Waterkloof. It’s owned by Jenny and John Robertson, and they take really good care of it. The house is in a peaceful area, surrounded by fancy ambassador residences and right across from the Pretoria Country Club. There are four rooms upstairs, and they are all super cozy. You’ll have the perfect space to relax and unwind. There’s even a guest lounge, a reading room, and a dining room that opens up to a garden full of beautiful birds and a swimming pool.

The decor in the house is a bit old-fashioned, with lots of fancy fabrics like brocade, lace, and tapestries. But don’t worry, it’s really comforting and cozy. The owners really value quality, and that shows in every detail, even down to the choice of pillows.

And let me tell you about Jenny and John – they are such interesting people! Jenny is actually a novelist. She writes these amazing historical romances under the name Ivy May Stuart. So if you’re a book lover, you’ll definitely have something to talk about with her. John, on the other hand, is a walking encyclopedia when it comes to South African history. He knows so much, it’s incredible!

Now, let’s talk about breakfast. Jenny’s breakfasts are absolutely delicious, and people can’t stop raving about them. It’s definitely something you don’t want to miss out on. And if you fancy a little lunch outing, you can take a stroll to the country club. There’s a restaurant called The Terrace that’s really popular, and it’s the perfect spot for a nice meal.

But here’s the best part – if you don’t feel like going out, you can actually have meals at Edward House. All you have to do is ask!

ROOM TIP If you’re looking for a cozy and intimate experience, I highly recommend the Olive Schreiner room. Although it may be the smallest, it has its own unique charm. Unlike the other rooms, it doesn’t have French doors that open onto a balcony. On the other hand, if you’re a fan of golf and enjoy a scenic view while you relax, you should definitely consider staying in the Cecil John Rhodes room. It offers a picturesque view of the golf course.

COST The cost for staying in these rooms starts at R450 per person, which includes breakfast.

2. Best self-catering

Akanani Apartments

If you prefer a more independent and flexible stay, you might want to check out the Akanani Apartments. According to TripAdvisor, they rank at No. 60 out of 153 speciality lodgings.

If you find yourself in Arcadia, Pretorius Street is the place to be. This apartment-hotel may be in the heart of the city, but it offers a peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle. As soon as you walk through the entrance and get your key, you’ll be able to unwind in your modern and comfortable flat. The apartments are secure, well-equipped, and conveniently located.

Inside, you’ll find an open-plan layout with a cozy lounge area, a dining table, and a desk. The furniture is contemporary and stylish, and there’s even a fascinating mural-map of the Gautrain line to add a unique touch to the decor. The kitchen is fully equipped if you feel like cooking your own meals, but there’s also an on-site dining room that serves breakfast every morning.

When it comes to amenities, you’ll have everything you need. The apartments have air conditioning and Wi-Fi, and they are cleaned and serviced regularly. Some apartments even have interleading doors, making them perfect for families or groups. Parking is never an issue, as there is ample space available, and security is provided around the clock for your peace of mind.

ROOM TIP If you’re looking for a great view of the surrounding streetscape, I recommend staying on the fourth floor. For a bit more space, you can ask for Room 311 or 411, as these corner units are a bit bigger. Alternatively, if you prefer a less urban experience, you might want to consider the Waterhouse Guest Lodges.

COST The cost for a night at Akanani is R750 for two people.

3. The Finest Historic Find

Brooklyn Manor

Ranked number 99 out of 397 bed & breakfasts/inns on TripAdvisor.

If you’re a fan of the Arts and Crafts movement, you’ll fall in love with Brooklyn Manor. This stunning building was created by Gordon Leith in 1927. Before becoming an architect, Leith trained as a sculptor under Anton van Wouw. He later became the preferred architect of the Transvaal elite, taking over from Sir Herbert Baker. Leith was responsible for designing several prominent buildings, such as Joburg’s Central Railway Station, Barclays Bank, and the SA Reserve Bank.

Brooklyn Manor is one of Leith’s most beautiful residential projects, and fortunately, its intricate design remains intact. In 2011, Sunette and Pieter Krogh purchased the property and carried out renovations. They also owned Osborne House, another of the area’s elegant B&Bs, but chose to concentrate on Brooklyn Manor.

The house features four en-suite bedrooms on the upper floor, with an additional four located in the former stables behind the pool courtyard. The decor is simple yet welcoming, and if you want, you can enjoy a delicious dinner upon request.

Welcome to the Room Tip! I’m here to help you find the perfect room for your stay. Let’s take a look at some options:

Room 7: Charming and Self-Catering

Room 7 has a unique feature – an original stable door! It’s a cozy choice if you prefer self-catering. You can have the freedom to prepare your own meals and enjoy the comfort of your own space.

Room 5: Perfect for Twins

If you’re looking for a twin room, Room 5 is the best choice for you. It’s designed to accommodate two people and offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

Let’s talk about the costs:

The cost for both options is R650, and it includes breakfast. If you’re sharing the room with someone else, the price is per person.

4. Lily Rose: The Most Beautiful Guest House

Amongst the many guest houses out there, Lily Rose stands out as the best-looking one. It has been ranked number 196 out of 397 B&Bs/Inns on TripAdvisor, so you know it’s a popular choice!

Hey there! Can you believe it? There’s this amazing spot in Moreleta Park, just 20 minutes away from the city center. And when the sun sets and those crickets start chirping in the Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve, it’s like stepping into a serene paradise. The best part? The B&B I’m gonna tell you about is right smack in front of that 100-hectare reserve, home to tons of cool animals like springbok, impala, blesbok, and zebra.
Now, let me tell you, the inside of this place is just as stunning as the outside. Natasha van Vuuren, the owner, doesn’t have any fancy decor degrees, but she’s got a natural talent for it. She adds these awesome pops of color to an otherwise stylish black-and-white palette. Trust me, it works! She’s got this knack for blending vintage and modern vibes, and it’s so refreshing.

So, here’s the scoop. Natasha already had two B&B rooms in her own house, and they were a big hit. But she recently bought and revamped this beautiful house with seven guest rooms. Each room has its own private bathroom – fancy, right? And get this – they all share this super cool open-plan kitchen, dining, and lounge area. Oh, and did I mention the three stunning verandas? You can just chill out there and soak up the peaceful vibes.

You’re gonna love the cozy vibes here. The on-site manager, Brunus Ndifor, will make sure you feel right at home. You can kick back and relax in your PJs all day – talk about the good life! But hey, there’s just one thing to keep in mind. The Wi-Fi is a bit weak and has some limits. So, if you need to stay connected 24/7, you might have a bit of trouble. But hey, who needs Wi-Fi when you’ve got all this beauty around you, right?

ROOM RECOMMENDATION If you’re searching for the perfect room, I highly recommend Room 7. Trust me, it’s worth the extra R150. This room boasts a beautiful bathroom and a king-size bed. Plus, it has a private veranda with an amazing view. Another great option is Room 2, which also features a veranda.

PRICING You’ll be pleased to know that the starting price for this accommodation is R400 per person if you’re sharing. And if you’re hungry in the morning, you can enjoy a tasty breakfast for only R60 per person.

5. The Best Atmosphere

The Protea Hotel by Marriott Pretoria Loftus Park

Ranked as the 94th best B&B/Inn by TripAdvisor out of a total of 397 options.

Hotels weren’t originally on my list, but when I caught sight of the rooftop pool bar at this brand-new Protea by Marriot, I couldn’t resist including it. And I’m glad I did. The hotel itself offers all the usual amenities, with its sleek and contemporary corporate-style decor – nothing to write home about. But once you step onto the rooftop, you feel an overwhelming urge to order a cocktail and raise a toast to Pretoria. The atmosphere is funky, with giant animal-shaped inflatables bobbing in the pool. And the view is simply breathtaking. From up here, you can see Pretoria spread out beneath you, a lush green expanse of trees, rolling hills, and the distinct silhouettes of two iconic landmarks – the Voortrekker Monument and a section of the Union Buildings. And if you turn around, you’ll see Loftus Versfeld stadium looming in the background. On the weekday afternoon I visited, there was already a good crowd enjoying the view. And on weekends, the place is packed with locals who come to soak it all in. It’s a real treat to stay at a hotel that’s so popular, you don’t even need to leave to feel like you’re part of the city.

ROOM SUGGESTION Take a look at the rooms – they offer similar amenities, but prices vary based on size and view. I recommend choosing the least expensive option and enjoying the rooftop.

PRICE Starting at R722.50 per person for bed and breakfast.

CONTACT Call 012-030-0420 or visit marriott.com

6. Top B&B in the neighborhood

Muckleneuk Manor

Ranks third on TripAdvisor out of 397 B&Bs/Inns

ROOM TIP I’ve got a selection of seven rooms for you to choose from. Two of them are deluxe, which means they’re bigger and have air conditioning. Room 7 has an amazing view, but I personally prefer Room 2. It’s tucked away below with a cute little courtyard.

COST The price is R400 per person if you’re sharing a room. And if you want breakfast, it’ll cost you an extra R48 per person.

CONTACT If you want to get in touch, just give me a call at 060-907-0050 or visit my website at muckleneukmanor.co.za.

7. Best find

Pierneef’s Kraal

Pierneef’s Kraal is ranked number 182 out of 397 B&Bs/Inns on TripAdvisor.

When I stumbled upon the remains of an ancient kraal on a two-hectare plot of land, I knew it was meant to be. I called it Elangeni, which means ‘place of the sun’ in Zulu. With my own hands, I built my home on this land in 1939. Over the years, I expanded the homestead, constructing rooms with their own entrances and even a spacious outdoor hearth. I made sure to leave nesting holes for the swallows that I cherished so much. To add beauty to the surroundings, I planted trees in the garden and cared for them diligently until my passing in 1957.

Fast forward almost six decades later. The title deeds for the property end up on the desk of conveyancing attorney Chris de Beer. Curiosity piqued, Chris visits the old home of South Africa’s iconic artist. Located in Lynnwood Manor, just a short drive east of the city center, he finds the place in a state of disrepair. The buildings are filled with debris, and the thatched roofs have disintegrated over time. However, my stonework still stands tall amidst the neglect.

But Chris and his wife Anette see the potential. They make a bold decision to save this piece of architectural history. It takes them five long years to restore the homestead, and many people question their sanity. Even their children were initially distraught at the idea of calling this rundown place home. But now, as we sit together enjoying a marvelous breakfast, gazing out of the charming, slightly crooked cottage-pane window that I once installed next to the fireplace, we can all be grateful for their madness.

ROOM TIP If I were you, I’d choose any of the seven beautiful freestanding rooms at this place. While all the rooms are great, Room 7, also known as Pierneef’s bedroom, is the largest. There’s also Room 3, which comes with its own tower, and Room 5 with its cozy atmosphere. So many lovely choices!

COST The cost for one person sharing a room, including breakfast, is R797.50.

Worth a Look

8. Waterhouse Guest Lodges

There are three guest houses available here, and they’re all fantastic. You can choose between self-catering or bed and breakfast options. The houses have been renovated beautifully and are located in great neighborhoods like Muckleneuk, Waterkloof, and Waterkloof Ridge. Personally, I really liked the one on Lawley Street. The cost starts at R475 per person sharing. Check out their website at waterhousegl.co.za.

9. The Sculpture Yard

Hey there! Let me tell you about these amazing places to stay. They’re not your usual hotels, but they offer a unique experience that you’ll love! ��

First up, we have two self-catering apartment-style units located on the property of André Prinsloo, the sculptor who helped create the famous Nelson Mandela statue. How cool is that? ��

If you choose to stay here, you’ll also have the chance to meet André’s wife, Heleen, who is a tour guide. She can help you plan an exciting and personalized itinerary based on your interests. Isn’t that fantastic?

The price for these units starts at R550, and you can bring extra guests for only R100 each. So, you can accommodate up to three people in each unit. It’s a great deal, don’t you think? ��

Now, let me tell you about two more wonderful places:

10. Wolf Unit

Located in Rietvalleirand, the Wolf Unit is a beautifully furnished, architect-designed cottage with two bedrooms. The best part? It’s situated in a spacious garden, giving you lots of room to relax and enjoy the luxury. Sure, it’s a bit far from the city center, but the value and space you’ll get in return are totally worth it! The price for this amazing cottage starts at R1,150, and it can accommodate up to five people. What a steal! ��

11. Studio@55

Imagine staying in a garden cottage equipped with everything you need for a self-catering getaway. Well, that’s exactly what Studio@55 offers! With a cozy fireplace and sliding doors that open to a large pool, you’ll feel right at home here. And the best part? It’s only R457.50 per person for bed and breakfast, if you share the room with someone. Talk about a great deal! ��‍♂️

So, there you have it! Three incredible places to stay that offer a unique experience and great value for your money. Whether you choose the self-catering units, the Wolf Unit, or Studio@55, you can’t go wrong. Book your stay now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! ��

Experience These Unforgettable Activities in Pretoria

Discover the best of what Pretoria has to offer with these must-see attractions and activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant South African city.

First, head to the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary and enjoy a refreshing drink on their deck. Take in the serene surroundings and watch as beautiful birds soar through the sky.

For an authentic culinary experience, treat yourself to a traditional breakfast at the Pretoria Boeremark. From 5.30 to 9.30 in the morning, you can savor delicious local dishes that will satisfy your taste buds.

Shopping enthusiasts will delight in the variety of unique stores and markets scattered throughout Pretoria. Explore The Cowhouse, The Sheds, Duncan Yard, Hazel Food Market, and Irene at Smuts Market. These vibrant spots offer a range of products, from artisanal crafts to fresh produce.

Immerse yourself in South Africa’s rich history by visiting both the Voortrekker Monument and Freedom Park. These architectural wonders hold deep symbolic significance and provide insight into the country’s past. Take a moment to appreciate the monumental beauty and reflect on the stories they tell.

No trip to Pretoria is complete without a visit to the Union Buildings, where you can capture a selfie with the bronze likeness of Nelson Mandela. This iconic spot pays tribute to the beloved leader and serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy.

If you’re a beer lover, you’re in for a treat. Pretoria boasts several fantastic breweries where you can sample the local beer. Check out Leaky Tap, Capital Craft, Drayman’s, and Bullcook & Company for a true taste of South African brews. Don’t miss the Capital Craft Beer Fest on June 15, featuring great music and an incredible atmosphere.

For a peaceful and picturesque experience, visit the National Botanical Garden, home to over 198 bird species. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and keep your eyes peeled for some beautiful feathered friends.

Finally, embark on a steam-train day trip with Friends of the Rail. This nostalgic adventure is perfect for both history buffs and locomotive enthusiasts. Enjoy the scenic views and unwind as you chug along on this unique and memorable journey.

Make the most of your time in Pretoria by exploring these incredible attractions. Whether you’re seeking nature, culture, or tasty delights, this city has it all.

Photos: Melanie van Zyl