Long forgotten on South Africa's tourist circuits, Johannesburg is a city not to be missed under any circumstances. Although it was at the heart of the dark history of Apartheid, it has risen from its ashes and continues to develop over time. The city's dynamism and energy make you want to discover its many facets; to wander through its typical neighborhoods until you reach the Central Business District, which is reminiscent of New York in many ways, without forgetting to spend time in its green spaces and stroll through its major museums. And you can't leave "Joburg" without paying homage to the great Nelson Mandela, whose legacy is celebrated in several places around the city. Here are the must-sees in Johannesburg, capital of Gauteng province.
1. A moment in history at the Apartheid Museum
You can't visit Johannesburg without thinking of Apartheid, a period of history that profoundly affected South Africa. The Apartheid Museum is entirely dedicated to this era, to the origins of the regime, the laws and rules in place, but also to the resistance and struggles for equal rights between blacks and whites. Of course, the museum also takes a close look at the work of Nelson Mandela, who eventually became President of the first democratic government. The discovery of numerous documents is fascinating, and provides a better understanding of Apartheid and the history of a country where tensions have still not disappeared.
2. What to do in Johannesburg Visit Constitution Hill
Another must-see in Johannesburg. Constitution Hill offers a tour of South Africa's new Constitutional Court, housed within the ramparts of Old Fort, a site built in 1892. The site is also known for having once been a prison where great political figures and activists such as Nelson Mandela, Robert Sobukwe and Mahatma Gandhi were held. The tour includes the men's section and the women's section, and as a whole provides an opportunity to learn more about the historical consequences of the struggle against apartheid.
We recommend taking part in this multi-stop bus tour, which takes in Joburg's suburbs and city center, Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum, among others.
3. Gastronomic delights at Neighbourgoods Market
Food and drink are always a highlight of any holiday, and Johannesburg is also full of places where gourmets can indulge. Located right in the center of the city, Neighbourgoods Market is a market where you can learn more about the products that the city's inhabitants love to eat on a daily basis. In short, it's the ideal place to brunch with friends or family, with a wide choice of burgers, fish, vegetarian cuisine, Indian dishes and some of the region's best organic wines. The place is trendy and offers a culinary break in a very pleasant atmosphere.
You can also book the "Taste of Africa" gastronomic tour where you can discover and taste the region's wide variety of African cuisines.
4. What to do in Johannesburg Visit the Mandela House Museum
The Mandela House Museum is, quite simply, the building in which South Africa's most internationally famous person lived in the 1940s and 1950s. The captivating story of this anti-Apartheid activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner is told through objects and documents that tell the story of his life, his struggles, his values and his body of work. It's hard not to be moved as you reflect on the different stages of his life. The Mandela House Museum is a fascinating testimony to the struggle for democracy and equal rights for all.
If you want to make the most of your time, you can opt for this guided tour, which takes in the four main Johannesburg attractions: Mandela House, the Apartheid Museum, the Constitutional Court and the prison.
5. Getting to Soweto
Soweto is one of the townships in South Africa where major clashes took place against apartheid. It is also the home of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, two former Nobel Prize winners. To make sure you don't miss any of the main sights, we recommend you book a tour with a guide , who will tell you all the most interesting anecdotes. You'll discover a lively neighborhood life and talk to residents who are proud to live in a place that is a true symbol of the struggle against apartheid. While you're in the area, don't miss the Hector Pieterson Museum, built by Nelson Mandela in 2002 as a tribute to a young boy who was killed during the Soweto riots that began on June 16, 1976.
6. A panoramic view from Top of Africa
Africa's tallest tower, the Carlton Centre, stands 223 m high in Johannesburg. The 50th floor, known as Top of Africa, can be reached by elevator. It offers a sublime 360° panorama of the entire city. It's fun to spot the city's main monuments and emblematic districts. While the skyscraper houses offices, some floors are also home to stores of all kinds. So, after taking in the breathtaking views, don't hesitate to enjoy a little shopping .
7. What to do in Johannesburg Visit the South African National Museum of Military History
South Africa was also involved in the Second World War. The South African National Museum of Military History, inaugurated on August 29, 1947 by Prime Minister Jan Smuts, is a tribute to the South Africans' involvement in the conflict, with numerous artillery pieces, medals, armored fighting vehicles, aircraft and works of art on display, including Neville Lewis's Lance-Corporal Job Masego and Alexis Preller's POW - Italy, 1943, two splendid paintings. Indoor tours are complemented by outdoor visits, and the museum is sure to captivate history buffs, adults and children alike.
8. A stroll through Newtown
Newtown is Johannesburg's cultural district. Once you've spotted the wooden statuettes evoking African art lining the sidewalks, you're sure to be in this part of town, where theaters and concert halls offer dense and diverse programming. At another time, you should also visit Museum Africa, an exceptional museum housing a rich collection of musical instruments, photographs and works of art from all over Africa. It's also from here that you can reach the Nelson Mandela Bridge, an impressive structure overlooking some forty railroad lines and the largest cable-stayed bridge in the country.
9. Take a photo in Nelson Mandela Square
The square named after South Africa's legendary president and great campaigner for peace and equality is home to a large statue of the man himself. A work of art that commands the utmost respect, as evidenced by the many people who come to admire it on a daily basis and take photos in front of it. It's located in Sandton City, where there's also a large shopping mall, hotels and offices. Once you've enjoyed the unique atmosphere of the square, you'll want to head for the restaurants on the square and in the surrounding streets. Many of them offer a choice of seafood, pizza or succulent African dishes.
10. What to do in Johannesburg Stroll through the Botanical Gardens
The Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, located near Johannesburg's lively Melville district, offer visitors a breath of fresh air . The park is particularly lively at weekends, with regular open-air concerts. The botanical part of the park includes a magnificent bonsai garden, a rose garden and a selection of medicinal plants. Visitors can relax and recharge their batteries in the calm, relaxing atmosphere around the lake, and spend a few peaceful hours there.
11. A stroll through Maboneng Precinct
Maboneng Precinct is one of the areas of the old town to have been rehabilitated. Take a stroll and you'll discover numerous restaurants, bars, trendy boutiques, artists' studios and galleries. It's a place where creativity flourishes and where young people of diverse ethnic origins meet. After a tour of the Museum of African Design, simply take the time to wander the streets and alleys, stop for a bite to eat and, when the sun goes down, join a rooftop garden. Another must-see is the Market on Main, held every Sunday morning, where artisans, artists and food specialists display their stalls in a convivial atmosphere.
Discover why Johannesburg's arts center is recognized worldwide as a thriving creative hub on this 2-hour guided walking tour !
12. What to do in Johannesburg Visit the Arts on Main district
Arts on Main is an area dedicated to art and culture, where visitors can discover art galleries, local designer boutiques, trendy restaurants and lively bars. On Sundays, the Market on Main attracts crowds of visitors who come to sample local and international dishes, listen to live music and buy handicrafts. Art lovers will be delighted to discover the district's many contemporary art galleries, featuring works by emerging and established artists. You can also explore the surrounding streets to discover colorful murals and renovated historic buildings that bear witness to the city's history.
13. Clothes shopping at Fashion District
This is the district not to be missed by fashion and shopping enthusiasts! Here you'll find fabrics, recycled clothes and peaceful cafés away from the hustle and bustle of the city. For those more specifically interested in the history of women's fashion, the Bernberg Fashion Museum is a must-see, although it's not located in this district. On the corner of Duncombe Rd and Jan Smuts Avenue, the museum presents an exhibition on the last two centuries of women's fashion.
14. What to do in Johannesburg Visit the Beer Museum (SAB World of Beer)
The museum is dedicated to the history of beer in South Africa and the famous SAB (South African Breweries) brand. You can discover the various stages in beer production, from hop growing to brewing, fermentation and bottling. The museum also offers beer tastings, guided tours and interactive exhibitions on the history of brewing in South Africa. At the end of the tour you can sample a variety of SAB beers, including special beers and limited editions. Beer lovers can also learn more about the different types of beer and food pairings.
15. Eating at the legendary Wandie's place
This typical little restaurant, once an underground during the Apartheid era, is steeped in history and offers a warm welcome... Originally, it was a gambling den where alcohol was sold, but it was also a place of gathering, discussion and entertainment, where dancing and singing took place. Even today, you can feel the vibrant energy that animates the streets of Johannesburg. The cuisine is excellent, offering typical dishes in a picturesque and historic setting. A must for those wishing to discover Johannesburg's history and culture.
16. Taste South Africa's culinary specialties
South Africa is a country rich in culinary flavors, offering a variety of traditional dishes that are a must-see. Meat lovers will be delighted to try "braai", the South African barbecue, where marinated meats such as boerewors, a spicy sausage, or springbok steak are grilled. Corn-based dishes are also very popular in South Africa, such as "pap", a corn porridge served with meat in sauce, or "mealie bread", a sweet corn bread. Seafood lovers can enjoy prawns, squid or fresh fish, often accompanied by rice and vegetables. Other South African culinary specialties include "bobotie", a dish made with spicy minced meat, raisins and almonds, baked with a layer of milk and eggs, or "bunny chow", a hollow bread topped with spicy curry.
Where to stay in Johannesburg?
Johannesburg, South Africa, offers a variety of neighborhoods in which to stay, each with its own charm and characteristics. Sandton is a chic, modern district, often considered Johannesburg's financial center. It offers numerous luxury hotels, shopping centers, restaurants and bars. Rosebank is known for its African market, boutiques, restaurants and lively atmosphere. It is also well served by public transport, making it easy to get around the rest of the city. Melville is a relaxed, bohemian neighborhood, with numerous cafés, bookstores, art galleries and vintage boutiques. It's popular with students and young professionals.
Discover our three favorite accommodations in Johannesburg:
- The ideal hotel for a business trip: Tladi Lodge
Tladi Lodge is a 4-star establishment that you can book here and offers luxurious en-suite rooms. It's well located for visiting the Johannesburg Zoo, the Montecasino and the South African Museum of Military History. Good to know: the hotel also offers meeting space and group rates.
- Family-friendly: St Peter's Place Boutique Hotel
St Peter's Place Boutique Hotel is an establishment bookable here featuring a trendy bar, refined dining room, outdoor pool, patio and landscaped garden. Hot breakfast is included in the room rate. Good to know, the hotel also offers free parking and is child-friendly.
- The most exotic: Hands on Retreat
Hands on Retreat is a guesthouse located a stone's throw from Sandton City, where you'll feel like you're in the countryside. Lots of greenery and a small river surround a house freshly decorated in a very African style. As the property also boasts a spa and treatment center, you'll always receive a welcome massage... and a pair of slippers! Tempted? Go here to book your stay!
What to do in Johannesburg with children
Johannesburg offers many fun and educational activities for children. Here are some of the best things to do in Johannesburg with children:
- Johannesburg Zoo is one of South Africa's largest zoos and home to over 2,000 animals, including lions, elephants, giraffes and monkeys. Children will love watching the animals and learning more about them.
- Gold Reef City is a theme park that offers a fun and educational experience for children. Children can enjoy rides, shows and guided tours to learn more about the history of the South African gold rush.
- The Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve is an ideal place for children who love nature and animals. Children can go hiking, watch birds and wildlife, and learn more about the region's flora and fauna.
- The Sci-Bono Science Museum is an interactive museum with fun and educational exhibits for children. Children can take part in hands-on science experiments, learn about space and technology, and explore the world of science.
How many days does it take to visit Johannesburg?
The length of a stay in Johannesburg depends on what you want to see and do, but in general, a stay of 3 to 5 days is enough to visit the city's main attractions.
On the first day, you can visit the Apartheid Museum to learn more about South Africa's history and struggles for human rights. On the second day, you canexplore Soweto, South Africa's largest township, and visit Nelson Mandela's home. On the third day, you can visit downtown Johannesburg and discover its skyscrapers, markets and art galleries.
If you have more time, you can also visit the Johannesburg Zoo, the Gold Reef City amusement park, or take a day trip to the Pilanesberg Nature Reserve to observe the wild animals.
Tempted by a vacation in South Africa, one of the most eco-friendly destinations in the world? Here are 2 tips:
- Get inspired by reading our articles "Top 10 safaris in the world" and "What to see and do in South Africa? The 25 must-sees".
Wondering what to do your first time in South Africa? Discover our dedicated article and find below the trendiest activities to do during a stay in Johannesburg:
Tempted by a vacation in South Africa? Take a look at our airfares and book now!
