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Johannesburg, South Africa

Destination Guide

Johannesburg

South Africa

Best things to do in Johannesburg

19 curated attractions in Johannesburg, South Africa. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

September - April

Average temp

18°C/64°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Take care

About Johannesburg

The largest city in South Africa, Johannesburg owes much of its character to its history as a gold mining hub, which spurred rapid urban development and a volatile mix of cultures. This past is visible in the scattered remnants of mine dumps, the markets, and the diverse neighborhoods that reflect waves of migration. Key attractions like the Apartheid Museum and Vilakazi Street in Soweto offer a glimpse into the nation’s complex history, while the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens and Melville Koppies provide green respites in an otherwise urban landscape. People come for the rich history, arts scene, and as a starting point to explore nearby attractions such as the Cradle of Humankind.

Who it's for

Ideal for those interested in South Africa's history, art, and culture. Not recommended for visitors looking for a quiet or laid-back environment: the energy can be overwhelming, and the distance between attractions means you'll be doing a lot of traveling.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • Walking the city centre can take about an hour, but some areas are better explored by car or taxi
  • Public transport is rated good, with the Gautrain connecting key areas and the airport efficiently
  • Gold Reef City and the Apartheid Museum are a short drive apart, but plan for traffic during peak hours
Montecasino

Montecasino

Casinos
SOWETO TOWERS

SOWETO TOWERS

Adventure
Mandela's House

Mandela's House

Historic houses & mansions
Constitution Hill

Constitution Hill

History museums
James Hall Transport Museum

James Hall Transport Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Melville Koppies Nature Reserve

Melville Koppies Nature Reserve

National parks & nature reserves
Johannesburg Zoo

Johannesburg Zoo

Zoos
Maboneng Precinct

Maboneng Precinct

Streets & neighbourhoods
Nelson Mandela Square

Nelson Mandela Square

Squares & plazas
Market Theatre

Market Theatre

Theatres & opera houses
Apartheid Museum

Apartheid Museum

History museums
Vilakazi Street (Soweto)

Vilakazi Street (Soweto)

Streets & neighbourhoods
Gold Reef City

Gold Reef City

Theme parks
Gautrain

Gautrain

Science and Technology Exhibits
Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

Botanical gardens
Louis

Louis

Food
African Craft Market

African Craft Market

Local & craft markets
Johannesburg Art Gallery

Johannesburg Art Gallery

Art museums & galleries
Booth

Booth

Shopping

Where to eat in Johannesburg

The places worth planning a meal around.

4ways Farmers Market

4ways Farmers Market

★ 4.4 · 10,537 reviews

Cosmopolitan

Cosmopolitan

Modern South African · $$

★ 4.4 · 505 reviews

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