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
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
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
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 Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve or Southgate Mall.

Johannesburg South
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
Johannesburg Botanical Garden which includes a park

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 NT$3,891 per night from Sep 3 to Sep 4
NT$3,891
NT$4,474 total
Sep 3 - Sep 4
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! (1,706 reviews)
"My husband and I always stay at a city lodge because we know what to expect and it’s comfortable. This time I was really needing assistance with the bage and was not able to reach anyone from the front desk. Other than that it was a great stay"

Reviewed on 2025/8/3

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 NT$2,742 per night from Aug 16 to Aug 17
NT$2,742
NT$3,153 total
Aug 16 - Aug 17
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! (1,005 reviews)
"This Hotel is what i expected. It has everything and the price excellent"

Reviewed on 2025/8/3

Premier Hotel OR Tambo
@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! (237 reviews)
"Super comfortable."

Reviewed on 2025/8/4

@Sandton Hotel
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! (52 reviews)
"I like everything about the property.."

Reviewed on 2025/7/10

BlackBrick Sandton Two
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 2025/6/27

Ellipse Executive Apartments
Mint Hotel Rosebank

Mint Hotel Rosebank

3.5 out of 5
9 Jellicoe Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg, Gauteng
Stay at this 3.5-star apartment in Johannesburg. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Rosebank Mall and Melrose ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (136 reviews)
"This might possibly be my home away from home."

Reviewed on 2024/12/15

Mint Hotel 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.

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Cities near Johannesburg