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
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
Default Image

Fourways

Travelers like the shopping in Fourways, and Fourways Mall is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Fourways
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 ¥17,180 per night from Sep 26 to Sep 27
¥17,180
¥20,176 total
Sep 26 - Sep 27
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! (1,760 reviews)
"Really a top notch hotel, excellent breakfast and dinner options, right next to airport."

Reviewed on Sep 19, 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 ¥11,265 per night from Sep 27 to Sep 28
¥11,265
¥12,955 total
Sep 27 - Sep 28
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! (1,007 reviews)
"P"

Reviewed on Sep 16, 2025

Premier Hotel OR Tambo
Holiday Inn Johannesburg Airport by IHG

Holiday Inn Johannesburg Airport by IHG

4 out of 5
O.R. Tambo Airport Johannesburg, Boksburg, Gauteng
The price is ¥9,602 per night from Oct 25 to Oct 26
¥9,602
¥11,152 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Boksburg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (691 reviews)
"The property was lovely. They have a little bar where the prices were very reasonable. The staff was helpful when we had questions and were friendly. The only “complaints” we had were that our sink in our room was blocked up and drained suupppeeerrr slowly, and the air conditioner didn’t work well. ..."

Reviewed on Sep 17, 2025

Holiday Inn Johannesburg Airport by IHG
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 ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (58 reviews)
An example in Service delivery
"Ideally situated. Doesn’t appear to have been built as a hotel so passages are more office-looking corridors. Staff are unbelievable the service is of the highest standards"

Reviewed on Sep 8, 2025

BlackBrick Sandton Two
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! (141 reviews)
"This might possibly be my home away from home."

Reviewed on Dec 15, 2024

Mint Hotel Rosebank
BlackBrick Sandton One

BlackBrick Sandton One

3 out of 5
25 Fredman Dr, Sandton, Gauteng
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Johannesburg. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton ...
7/10 Good! (17 reviews)
Nice spot
"Great space Nice facilities Needs a better couch though"

Reviewed on Apr 2, 2025

BlackBrick Sandton One
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