Johannesburg

Travel Guide
Johannesburg - Gauteng featuring desert views
Urban renewal is underway in the nation's capital this is a city that is growing to embody the spirit of modern South Africa. 

Johannesburg is a place set to surprise even the most experienced travellers. Despite a troubled past, the city has some excellent cultural attractions, amazing sites and a diverse population. Although you will still need to be careful when visiting, there are many places where it is quite safe.

To get straight into the action, visit the slowly rejuvenating central business district. Certain parts should still be avoided, but others offer a good glimpse of life in the metropolis. For great views of the city, check out the Carlton Centre’s Top of Africa viewing area. 

Take a guided tour of Soweto to see how many poorer locals live. It’s a series of townships comprised of cheap or make-shift housing and infrastructure. The area might be shocking for some, but most visitors are pleasantly surprised by the lively atmosphere and fascinating culture. It can be rough in places, so don't venture there on your own. Experience Vilakazi Street's unique atmosphere or visit the house where Nelson Mandela once lived. See other important sites such as the Hector Pieterson Memorial and the Regina Mundi Church. 

For a look at some of the older districts in the city, check out Parktown and Newtown. You’ll find historic buildings, a diverse crowd and sidewalks lined with cafés, restaurants and shops. Make your way out to the northern suburbs to see where many of the city’s wealthier residents live. There are upmarket boutiques, bars and restaurants. 

History buffs will definitely want to visit a selection of Johannesburg’s museums. Explore the Apartheid Museum and learn about South Africa’s turbulent history. Take a tour of Constitution Hill to see more evidence of the capital's troubled history at the prison museums. Those with more of an eye for art should visit the Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG) for a great selection of local and international art. 

To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, stroll through the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. If you would like to go a bit further, go for a hike in the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve or organise a trip to Lion Park to see Africa’s most famous wild animal. 

Where to stay in Johannesburg

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Sandton

Travellers to Sandton praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Montecasino and Nelson Mandela Square.

Sandton
Johannesburg Botanical Garden showing a garden

Randburg

Unique features of Randburg include the golf courses and gardens. Make a stop by Cresta Shopping Centre or Johannesburg Zoo while you're exploring the area.

Randburg
Gold Reef City featuring a pond, a garden and rides

Johannesburg South

You'll enjoy the mountain views and museums in Johannesburg South. You might want to make time for a stop at Southgate Mall or Gold Reef City Casino.

Johannesburg South
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Rosebank

Rosebank is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Rosebank Mall and The Zone @ Rosebank Shopping Center while you're in town.

Rosebank
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Midrand

You'll enjoy the gardens and spas in Midrand. You might want to make time for a stop at Mall of Africa or Kyalami Racetrack.

Midrand
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O.R. Tambo

4/5(35 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in O.R. Tambo, Emperors Palace Casino and International Terminal Duty Free Mall are top sights worth seeing.

O.R. Tambo
Premier Hotel OR Tambo
Premier Hotel OR Tambo
4 out of 5
73 Gladiator Street, Rhodesfield, Kempton Park, Gauteng
The price is S$106 per night from 29 Mar to 30 Mar
S$106
per night
29 Mar - 30 Mar
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly hotel in Kempton Park. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
"Very nice hotel close to the airport."

Reviewed on 23 Mar,2024

Premier Hotel OR Tambo
Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport
Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport
4 out of 5
Jones Road, Kempton Park, Gauteng
The price is S$131 per night from 1 Apr to 2 Apr
S$131
per night
1 Apr - 2 Apr
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Kempton Park. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
"Convenient hotel close to the airport with regular shuttle. The breakfast and dining options are excellent. The room was a bit tired but clean and functional with a super comfy bed. Would definitely stay again."

Reviewed on 27 Mar,2024

Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport
City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport
City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport
3 out of 5
Above Multi-Storey Parkade 2, Level 5, OR Tambo International Airport, Kempton Park, Gauteng
Fully refundable
The price is S$131 per night from 5 Apr to 6 Apr
S$131
per night
5 Apr - 6 Apr
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Kempton Park. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,099 reviews)
"Great value."

Reviewed on 23 Mar,2024

City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
BlackBrick Sandton Two
BlackBrick Sandton Two
3.5 out of 5
22 Fredman Dr, Sandton, Gauteng
Stay at this 3.5-star aparthotel in Sandton. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Montecasino and Nelson Mandela Square ...
8/10 Very Good! (22 reviews)
"The staff was very approachable and helpful. Loved my green grass personal courtyard."

Reviewed on 14 Mar,2024

BlackBrick Sandton Two
The Capital on Bath
The Capital on Bath
3 out of 5
72 Bath Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg, Gauteng
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Johannesburg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast. Popular attractions Circa Gallery and The Zone @ Rosebank Shopping ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (130 reviews)
"I would highly recommend this place, the staff were courteous and helpful, the place was excellent to stay. Has air con and back up power which made the stay more comfortable. Keep up the good work."

Reviewed on 7 Feb,2024

The Capital on Bath
The Vantage - Rosebank
The Vantage - Rosebank
4 out of 5
23 Tyrwhitt Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg, Gauteng
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Johannesburg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and housekeeping. Popular attractions Rosebank Mall and The Zone @ Rosebank Shopping ...
9/10 Wonderful! (43 reviews)
"Great accommodations. Location close to restaurants, activities and train station. Friendly staff. Only negative is there isn't any air condition. Beds are more on the firm side."

Reviewed on 25 Mar,2024

The Vantage - Rosebank
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Reviews of Johannesburg

3.9
Guest rating
5 - Excellent
3
" "5 - Excellent 14.285714285714286%
4 - Good
13
" "4 - Good 61.904761904761905%
3 - Okay
5
" "3 - Okay 23.80952380952381%
2 - Disappointing
0
" "2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
" "1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
14 Mar 2020

I like Jo’burg. It is a bit gritty and you do have to be safety conscious but I felt safe there. I visited a great street food market called Neighbourgoods Market; 44 Stanley is also worth a visit. Melville has fun restaurants, bars and shops too

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
12 Sep 2019

Keep it up

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
28 Aug 2019

I came to visit a church which I watched regularly on the YouTube to see for myself what their services are all about. I saw it and I really enjoyed what I saw. Johannesburg is a very lovely place. I will surely come back.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
4 Jun 2019

Stayed around Melville

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
25 May 2019

Joburg is a bit rundown and whilst we had a great stay it’s a bit intimidating if you aren’t used to it.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
2 May 2019

An interesting place that deserves some time to properly experience the city. Could be a bit overwhelming.