Things to see and do in Johannesburg
Places to Visit
Apartheid Museum
A powerful tribute to South Africa’s turbulent past, the Apartheid Museum offers an immersive experience with exhibits on the apartheid era, its impact, and the country’s journey to freedom. A must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Constitution Hill
Once a notorious prison, Constitution Hill is now a vibrant cultural precinct and home to South Africa’s Constitutional Court. Explore its museums and exhibitions to understand the nation’s democratic history.
Soweto
Soweto is a historic township and a symbol of South Africa’s struggle for equality. Visit Vilakazi Street, the Hector Pieterson Memorial, and local markets for a deep dive into its cultural and historical significance.
Maboneng Precinct
The Maboneng Precinct is Johannesburg’s creative heartbeat, filled with art galleries, trendy cafes, and vibrant street murals. It’s a top spot for a Johannesburg culture tour and a hub for urban exploration.
Cradle of Humankind
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cradle of Humankind is one of the world’s most important paleoanthropological sites. Explore the Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng Visitor Centre for a journey into human origins.
Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City is a family-friendly theme park with thrilling rides, a mining museum, and underground tours that showcase Johannesburg’s gold rush history. Perfect for a fun-filled day.
Johannesburg Botanical Garden
The Johannesburg Botanical Garden is a tranquil retreat with lush gardens, walking trails, and a stunning rose garden. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation and nature lovers.
Lion & Safari Park
Located just outside the city, the Lion & Safari Park offers guided safari tours where you can see lions, cheetahs, and other wildlife up close. A great place to visit near Johannesburg.
Neighbourgoods Market
The Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein is a vibrant weekend market offering artisanal food, crafts, and live music. It’s a fantastic spot to soak in Johannesburg’s modern culture.
Suggested itineraries featuring Johannesburg
Kruger and the Kingdoms
7 Days | From $1399
South Africa
Best Of South Africa
8 Days | From $1199
South Africa
South Africa In Depth
15 Days | From $1749
South Africa
Super South Africa
8 Days | From $1999
South AfricaAccommodation choices for Johannesburg
Garden Court Sandton City
Just moments from Sandton’s famous mall, adjacent to Nelson Mandela Square, and a 2-minute walk from the Sandton Convention Centre, the Garden Court Sandton City hotel combines affordable rates and award-winning service in an ideal city-centre location.
Make yourself at home in one of 444 modern and relaxed en-suite rooms with air-conditioning, uncapped WiFi, DStv, city or garden views, a space to work, and a choice of queen or two double beds. Breakfast is included in room rates, and family travel is made extra affordable with two kids under 18 staying for free when sharing with adults.
The hotel’s big garden is a green space of calm in the city and the pool and gym make it easy to relax or keep your fitness routine. The popular Riffs Bar and Grill serves up a delicious gourmet pub-style menu in a laid-back and lively setting. Two small conference rooms can host meetings for up to 16 and self-service workstations will help you stay productive.
Garden Court Sandton City
This modern hotel is connected to the Sandton Convention Centre and located adjacent to Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City shopping centres. It offers an outdoor swimming pool, a gym and a terrace. The air-conditioned rooms at the Garden Court Sandton City are decorated in warm colours. Each is equipped with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a work desk and a tea/coffee maker. WiFi is available throughout the hotel. The Garden Court’s restaurant serves rich international dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. There is also a casual bar serving refreshing drinks and light snacks. Garden Court Sandton City offers free shuttle services between the hotel and the Sandton Gautrain station. Guests of the Court Sandton City can go for a stroll in the garden, or relax on a sun lounger by the outdoor swimming pool. The hotel also offers meeting rooms with state-of-the-art equipment.
Da Vinci Hotel
Featuring an infinity pool with cushioned loungers, this Sandton hotel offers a full-service spa and gym. DaVinci’s gourmet restaurant includes a sushi bar and serves a variety of European specialties. Set on Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City with its shopping mall and restaurants is right on the doorstep, while the property is a mere 550 m from Sandton Gautrain Station. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms feature contemporary white-and-black décor and a wall-mounted flat-screen TV. A minibar and a tea/coffee maker are provided. A full English breakfast is served each morning and can be cooked according to guests’ wishes. There is also an exclusive lounge with whiskey, wine, and cigars. DaVinci Hotel and Suites on Nelson Mandela Square is situated in Legacy Corner with 5,000 m² of retail and entertainment space. It is 16 km from the center of Johannesburg.
