If you want to be in the heart of the city with most of the tourist attractions on-hand, the Newtown area offers a great option. With the train station right on your doorstep, along with many of the museums and galleries a short walk away. Most hotels in this region are mid-range, although all budgets can be catered for.
The Rosebank area is a vibrant neighbourhood and one of the safest areas of the city to stay. A range of shops, restaurants and markets in the area, and good connections to tourist attractions via the Gautrain make it an easy option. Accommodation here tends to be slightly more expensive, with many of the larger hotel chain favouring this area.
Melville offers a young, student vibe with lots of bars and restaurants, as well as being close to green parks and nature reserves. Also considered to be a safe area to stay in, with the Gautrain making all areas of the city easily accessible.
For easy connections to the airport, Sandton has direct trains. This is the financial heart of Johannesburg and has many upmarket restaurants, galleries, and theatres to enjoy.