Johannesburg

Travel Guide

Photo provided by South African Tourism
Photo provided by South African Tourism
Photo provided by South African Tourism
Photo provided by South African Tourism
Lion Park which includes dangerous animals and zoo animals
Johannesburg surpriseseven the most experienced travellers. The city has many interesting culturalsites, beautiful attractions and a diverse population. And although there arestill some no-go areas in the city, most of the city is considered safe and ajoy to explore.

For beautiful views over the city, go to the Topof Africa viewpoint at the Carlton Centre.For a closer look, take a tour with a guide through Sowetoto see how some of the locals live. Soweto is a series of townships consistingof cheap and makeshift housing and infrastructure. While this area can beshocking for some, most visitors are pleasantly surprised by the livelyatmosphere and fascinating culture. The district also has some wild places, sowe recommend you don’t go there on your own going – take a professional tour.Experience the unique atmosphere of Vilakazi Street or visit the house whereNelson Mandela once lived. Visit other important places such as the HectorPetersen Memorial and the Regina Mundi Church.

Explore some historic parts of the city with avisit to Parktownor Newtown. There you will find historicalbuildings, as well as streets are lined with cafés, restaurants and shops. Walkaround the northern suburbs and see where the wealthier section of societylive, where you will find chic boutiques, bars and restaurants.

If you are interested in history, you certainly wantto visit some of Johannesburg’s top museums. Immerseyourself in the turbulent history of SouthAfrica at the Apartheid Museum. Take a walk on Constitution Hill andvisit the prison museums for more traces of the troubled history of the city. Ifart is your thing then a visit to the Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG) isdefinitely worthwhile here you will find a fantastic selection of local andinternational art.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city,you can take a stroll through the tranquil Walter Sisulu National BotanicalGarden. Or if you really want to get close to nature, head to the SuikerbosrandNature Reserve where you can organize a trip to the Lion Park and seethe famous wild animals of Africa.

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 Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City Mall.

Sandton
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O.R. Tambo

4/5(35 area reviews)

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

O.R. Tambo
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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
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
Johannesburg Botanical Garden showing a garden

Randburg

Unique features of Randburg include the golf courses and gardens. Make a stop by Emmarentia Dam or Johannesburg Botanical Garden while you're exploring the area.

Randburg
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
The price is €134 per night from 23 Jul to 24 Jul
€134
23 Jul - 24 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Kempton Park. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,678 reviews)
"Very accommodating"

Reviewed on 8 Jul 2025

City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport
@Sandton Hotel
@Sandton Hotel
3 out of 5
5 Benmore Rd, Sandton, Gauteng
Stay at this 3-star spa hotel in Johannesburg. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and 2 coffee shops/cafes. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (222 reviews)
"The location was great. Not too far from Sandton Center. The staff was wonderful. The hotel is modern in every aspect. No issues with our stay."

Reviewed on 7 Jul 2025

@Sandton Hotel
Premier Hotel OR Tambo
Premier Hotel OR Tambo
4 out of 5
73 Gladiator Street, Rhodesfield, Kempton Park, Gauteng
The price is €80 per night from 21 Jul to 22 Jul
€80
21 Jul - 22 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly hotel in Kempton Park. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,004 reviews)
"The property was exactly what was advertised amd much, much more. The food. The bed. The shuttle. The amenities. Most of all the people!!!! Adebayo Adeyanju was simply delightful. He was helpful, courteous, and informative. Most of all, he was a stellar professional. Thank you for making my holiday ..."

Reviewed on 9 Jul 2025

Premier Hotel OR Tambo
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 Johannesburg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (49 reviews)
"This place was recommended by a friend, it is exactly what she said it is. I say you’re a gem, love the atmosphere and the music it’s welcoming. Leno is also an awesome person. I will recommend this place to others."

Reviewed on 4 Jul 2025

BlackBrick Sandton Two
 BlackBrick Bedfordview ApartHotel
BlackBrick Bedfordview ApartHotel
3 out of 5
24 Johnson Rd, Germiston, Gauteng
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Germiston. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Melrose Arch Shopping Centre and Nelson ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (9 reviews)
"KEEP IT UP"

Reviewed on 10 Apr 2025

BlackBrick Bedfordview ApartHotel
Ellipse Executive Apartments
Ellipse Executive Apartments
5 out of 5
Karkloof Cres, Midrand, Gauteng
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Johannesburg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and onsite spa services. Popular attractions Montecasino and Mall of Africa ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (11 reviews)
Great choice for dinning options, upscale & safe
"Newer building in great location. Short walk to mall where many dinning and grocery options are available. The rooms are quiet. Our two bedroom unit had a washing machine and full kitchen. While the security procedures can be bothersome, you will feel very safe. I greatly appreciate them allowing ..."

Reviewed on 27 Jun 2025

Ellipse Executive Apartments
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%
4 - Good
13
4 - Good 62%
3 - Okay
5
3 - Okay 24%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

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

Keep it up

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

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

Stayed around Melville

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller

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

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