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 showing zoo animals and dangerous animals
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

New Pedestrian bridge over Grayston

Sandton

A noteworthy feature of Sandton is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City Mall.

Sandton
in Johannesburg, South Africa

Rosebank

Rosebank is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Rosebank Mall and The Zone @ Rosebank Shopping Center while in the area.

Rosebank
Johannesburg, South Africa
A great place to hang out...

O.R. Tambo

4/5(135 area reviews)

While visiting O.R. Tambo, you might make a stop by sights like International Terminal Duty Free Mall and Emperors Palace Casino.

O.R. Tambo
Default Image

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 showing a garden, a pond 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 Gold Reef City Casino or Apartheid Museum.

Johannesburg South
Johannesburg Botanical Garden which includes a park

Randburg

Unique features of Randburg include the golf courses and gardens. Make a stop by Johannesburg Botanical Garden or Cresta Shopping Centre 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 $118 per night from Apr 25 to Apr 26
$118
per night
Apr 25 - Apr 26
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 ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,590 reviews)
"We always stay at City Lodge OR Tambo. It is conveniently located to the airport, helpful & friendly staff, always clean rooms & delicious buffet breakfast. Really good value for money."

Reviewed on Mar 24, 2025

City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport
Premier Hotel OR Tambo
Premier Hotel OR Tambo
4 out of 5
73 Gladiator Street, Rhodesfield, Kempton Park, Gauteng
The price is $86 per night from Apr 25 to Apr 26
$86
per night
Apr 25 - Apr 26
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! (1,002 reviews)
"Comfortable place to stay"

Reviewed on Mar 20, 2025

Premier Hotel OR Tambo
Radisson Hotel and Convention Centre OR Tambo Airport
Radisson Hotel and Convention Centre OR Tambo Airport
4.5 out of 5
Estate 154, Corner 3rd & 6th Avenue, Bredell, Kempton Park, Gauteng
The price is $61 per night from Apr 4 to Apr 5
$61
per night
Apr 4 - Apr 5
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Kempton Park. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 indoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (218 reviews)
"The Staff was so welcoming and helpful, Great hospitality!"

Reviewed on Mar 22, 2025

Radisson Hotel and Convention Centre OR Tambo 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.
The Leonardo
The Leonardo
5 out of 5
75 Maude Street, Sandton, Gauteng
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Johannesburg. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton ...
9/10 Wonderful! (41 reviews)
"Great place"

Reviewed on Jan 14, 2025

The Leonardo
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! (39 reviews)
Great location and felt very safe.
"Very safe place to stay in Sandton. It's a short walk to the shops, Nelson Mandela square and good restaurants. The pool is tiny but still good in the heat. The coffee spot in reception was great. It's great for young people but not really designed for young families."

Reviewed on Nov 22, 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 business-friendly aparthotel in Johannesburg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Melrose Arch ...
9/10 Wonderful! (141 reviews)
Great option near to the Wanderers
"A fantastic hotel, located a 5min walk from the Gautrain station. The hotel had a security guard at the main gate, a bar and offered a good breakfast."

Reviewed on Feb 5, 2025

The Capital on Bath
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

4.1
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
45
5 - Excellent 37%
4 - Good
51
4 - Good 41%
3 - Okay
22
3 - Okay 18%
2 - Disappointing
3
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
2
1 - Terrible 2%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Overall experince is just awesome....

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

I loved the city & glad that I was able to uber around town.

4/5 - Good

Pat

Lively nightlife. Excellent dining options

4/5 - Good

N.Willis

Was just scared of the crime rate

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Lots of history and things to see.

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler

It wasn’t safe to move around the city after 3 clock

Cities near Johannesburg