Johannesburg Travel Guide

Tourist 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
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 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 The Zone @ Rosebank Shopping Center and Rosebank Mall while you're in town.

Rosebank
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 Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve or Gold Reef City Casino.

Johannesburg South
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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
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 ₹11,157 per night from 4 Aug to 5 Aug
₹11,157
₹12,830 total
4 Aug - 5 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Kempton Park. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and a 24-hour fitness centre. Our guests praise the breakfast ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,685 reviews)
"Such a convenient location and very friendly and welcoming reception staff."

Reviewed on 16 Jul 2025

City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport
@Sandton Hotel

@Sandton Hotel

3 out of 5
5 Benmore Rd, Sandton, Gauteng
The price is ₹6,467 per night from 18 Jul to 19 Jul
₹6,467
₹7,557 total
18 Jul - 19 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star spa hotel in Johannesburg. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a full-service spa and 2 coffee shops/cafes. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (224 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 ₹6,308 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
₹6,308
₹7,254 total
27 Jul - 28 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly hotel in Kempton Park. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,006 reviews)
"Excellent customer service, great amenities and extremely clean! Really enjoyed staying here and will book again in the future. Daily room service was awesome!! Only thing I’d add is a microwave in each room."

Reviewed on 15 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 Wi-Fi, free parking and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (50 reviews)
"I like everything about the property.."

Reviewed on 10 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 Wi-Fi, 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 Wi-Fi, free parking and on-site 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

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.

Cities near Johannesburg