Views from The 509

Views from The 509 Overview

I’ll be honest – when I first heard about Views from The 509, I wasn’t sure what to expect from a place tucked away on Fox Street in Jewel City. But you know what? Sometimes the best discoveries happen when you venture into areas that aren’t plastered all over Instagram. This four-star spot sits in one of those neighborhoods where Johannesburg feels authentically itself, not like it’s trying to impress tourists.

The name really delivers on its promise – the views are actually pretty spectacular, especially if you snag one of the upper floor rooms. You can see the city sprawling out in all directions, and honestly, there’s something mesmerizing about watching Joburg wake up in the morning from up there. The rooms themselves have this comfortable, lived-in feeling that I really appreciated. Nothing too fancy or intimidating, just solid comfort with thoughtful touches that show someone actually cares about the guest experience. The beds are proper comfortable (and I’m picky about mattresses), and the bathrooms are well-appointed without being over-the-top. What I found refreshing was how the staff genuinely seemed to know the area – they gave me directions to a fantastic local restaurant that I never would have found otherwise, and warned me about which streets get busy during rush hour.

Parking was surprisingly easy, which anyone who’s driven in central Joburg will tell you is no small thing. The neighborhood has this interesting energy during the day – there’s always something happening on the streets below, but it’s not chaotic or overwhelming. I mean, it’s definitely urban, so don’t expect countryside quiet, but the sounds are more like city life humming along rather than jarring noise. What really won me over was how the place strikes this balance between being professional and feeling personal. You get the amenities and service level you’d expect from a four-star property, but without that sterile hotel chain atmosphere that can make you feel like you’re sleeping in a business center. The staff remembers your name, asks how your day went – small things that actually matter when you’re traveling. If you’re looking for somewhere that gives you a real taste of Johannesburg rather than some sanitized tourist bubble, this place hits the mark. Just don’t expect it to hold your hand if you’re not comfortable navigating an actual working city neighborhood.

Johannesburg travel planning should be done early, especially during peak season when the city hosts internationally celebrated events and festivals in Newtown and other iconic cultural districts.

Views from The 509 Accommodations

Reviews of Views from The 509

• Good – Dimamelo from South Africa – September 15, 2025 (7/10)

  Close to the shops
  
  What could be improved: Inconsiderate neighbours who plays loud music early in the morning.

• Wonderful – Kamohelo from South Africa – August 28, 2025 (9/10)

  The cosmetics are top notch
  
  What could be improved: Wifi is slow

• Great stay! – Mercedes from Dominican Republic – January 7, 2025 (9/10)

  It was well equipped. Coffe, tea, smart tv, beautiful view with a top roof !
  
  What could be improved: The codes everytome i come in and out

• Best – Tshepo from South Africa – December 13, 2024 (8/10)

  EVERYTHING WAS GOOD
  
  What could be improved: We didn't have microwave to warm our food

• Very Good – Thato from South Africa – November 21, 2024 (8/10)

  The roof top
  
  What could be improved: Parking is an issue for a longer stay

• Excellent – Elia from Tanzania – October 26, 2024 (9/10)

  There was no breakfast at all. As it's a fully furnished apartment, I do not even think if providing breakfast would be feasible.
  
  What could be improved: Maybe the TV. At one point I wanted to watch some local (South African) and international matches but couldn't.

• Wonderful – Ndesi from South Africa – July 29, 2024 (9/10)

  The environment and room were very nice

• Very Good – Senzekile from South Africa – February 26, 2024 (8/10)

  What could be improved: Someone tried to open our door without knocking😥😥

• A wonderful stay with good views of Joburg. – Tshepo1984 from South Africa – February 11, 2024 (8/10)

  A buzzing youthful place in the city with access to shops and restaurants.
  
  What could be improved: The lack of parking. On the ad it was priced at R150 per day but when you get to the place, the parking was not available. I had to look for secure covered parking which was convenient. Outside parking for overnight use I would not recommend.

• I really enjoy my stay it was like me being at home.the room was perfect, the view it's beautiful – Rudzani from South Africa – January 3, 2024 (8/10)

  The room was perfect 👌 and it had a emergency kit box which I liked a lot,Condom, pads and pantyliner. The building was safe and clean.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

Surroundings

Facilities