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
Johannesburg surprises even the most experienced travellers. The city has many interesting cultural sites, beautiful attractions and a diverse population. And although there are still some no-go areas in the city, most of the city is considered safe and a joy to explore.

For beautiful views over the city, go to the Top of Africa viewpoint at the Carlton Centre. For a closer look, take a tour with a guide through Soweto to see how some of the locals live. Soweto is a series of townships consisting of cheap and makeshift housing and infrastructure. While this area can be shocking for some, most visitors are pleasantly surprised by the lively atmosphere and fascinating culture. The district also has some wild places, so we recommend you don’t go there on your own going – take a professional tour. Experience the unique atmosphere of Vilakazi Street or visit the house where Nelson Mandela once lived. Visit other important places such as the Hector Petersen Memorial and the Regina Mundi Church.

Explore some historic parts of the city with a visit to ParktownOpens in a new window or Newtown. There you will find historical buildings, as well as streets are lined with cafés, restaurants and shops. Walk around the northern suburbs and see where the wealthier section of society live, where you will find chic boutiques, bars and restaurants.

If you are interested in history, you certainly want to visit some of Johannesburg’s top museums. Immerse yourself in the turbulent history of South AfricaOpens in a new window at the Apartheid Museum. Take a walk on Constitution Hill and visit the prison museums for more traces of the troubled history of the city. If art is your thing then a visit to the Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG) is definitely worthwhile here you will find a fantastic selection of local and international art.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you can take a stroll through the tranquil Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. Or if you really want to get close to nature, head to the Suikerbosrand Nature ReserveOpens in a new window where you can organize a trip to the Lion Park and see the famous wild animals of Africa.

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 Rosebank Mall and The Zone @ Rosebank Shopping Center 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 Southgate Mall.

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 £99 per night from 23 Aug to 24 Aug
£99
23 Aug - 24 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! (1,700 reviews)
Layover in Johannesberg
"Very convenient for travel."

Reviewed on 26 Jul 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 £71 per night from 5 Aug to 6 Aug
£71
5 Aug - 6 Aug
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! (1,014 reviews)
Small improvements would go a long way
"This hotel has a lot going for it. Close to OR Tambo, with a half hourly shuttle service means getting to and from the airport is effortless. Comfortable rooms - albeit not well equipped for a Jo’Burg winter. Friendly staff good food etc and not overpriced. Three things let this hotel down badly: ..."

Reviewed on 22 Jul 2025

Premier Hotel OR Tambo
@Sandton Hotel

@Sandton Hotel

3 out of 5
5 Benmore Rd, Sandton, Gauteng
The price is £62 per night from 20 Aug to 21 Aug
£62
20 Aug - 21 Aug
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! (236 reviews)
"The hotel was beautiful, clean and friendly staff. Plenty amenities from restaurants to spas"

Reviewed on 26 Jul 2025

@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 Wi-Fi, free parking and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (51 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.

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