Johannesburg City Guide | The City of Gold

Johannesburg is the most diverse, progressive and energetic city in South Africa, and the country’s best showcase for activism and optimism. The city has a well-established café culture and Soweto, one of the country’s most populous township. The bustling neighbourhood markets give you a taste of the local fields, vineyards, brewers, distillers and artisan foodies, with craft and design thrown in.

Where is Johanneburg?

Johannesburg is located in the Gauteng Province, situated in the northeastern part of the country on the Highveld Plateau. As the largest city in South Africa and one of the 100 largest urban areas in the world, it serves as the economic and cultural hub of the nation.

The weather in Johannesburg is different from other cities of South Africa like Cape Town. While the coastal region experiences dry summers and wet winters, Johannesburg is the opposite with summer storms and cold, dry winters

Things to Do in Johannesburg

Johannesburg is a major economic and cultural hub, so there are many things to do in this beautiful city. Learn about where humanity started, walk among awe-inspiring artworks, and dive into the vibrant culture of the city.

Explore Art Galleries

Johannesburg boasts a range of incredible art galleries to explore.

The Goodman Gallery – Located in Parkwood, this gallery has been a pillar in the artistic community in South Africa hosting collections from artists from around the world as well as local artists. Don’t miss out on wandering around the sculpture gardens to see artwork from William Kentridge, Hank Willis Thomas, and Edoardo Villa.

The Melrose Gallery – a Pan – African contemporary space that displays artworks from both established and up – and coming artists. This is a fantastic space to feel the pulse of the South African art landscape.

The Everard Read Gallery – Is the oldest commercial art gallery in Africa, it celebrated a centenary in 2013. This gallery hosts fine art from around the world and you will always discover incredible exhibitions to explore.

Visit the Maboneng Precinct to Get Inspired

The Maboneng has been reinvigorated by artists and business owners, an area in the inner city of Johannesburg. Once old man manufacturing buildings are now commercial workspaces, art galleries, restaurants, cafes, bars and boutiques creating an energetic, artistic destination to explore.

Tour this cultural melting pot for an in-depth guide on how this incredible place came to be. Make sure to stop at The Marabi Club for dinner and in the basement of the Hallmark House Hotel, this restaurant beckons people in with live jazz and vintage charm.

Learn About South Africa’s Past

For a more content around how Johannesburg and South Africa as a whole became the place it is today, take a trip into the past, and one of the main stops for this is the Apartheid Museum which details the rise and fall of apartheid in South Africa, explore exhibitions about what life was like under this cruel region as well as the uprisings that ensued that led to change and the first democratic elections of the country.

Another place to visit for an insight into the country’s past is Constitution Hill. Once a prison, it held prominent anti-a partied activists, including Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Joe Slovo, Albertina Sisula, Winnie Madikizela – Mandela, and Fatima Meer. Today, it is a museum and guests can go on guided tours to explore how it went from a prison to the home of the Constitutional Court of a democratic South Africa.

Find Out Where it All Began at the Cradle of Humankind

Near Johannesburg is a treasure trove of archaeological findings, filled in holes within humanity’s evolutionary history. The Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just 40 minutes from the suburb of Sandton and comprises a plethora of fossil sites where evidence of human lie has been dated back to millions of years.

Upon landing in Johannesburg and before head to your safari lodge, take a few days to explore the city. From the vibrant streets and art galleries to the world-class restaurants and luxurious hotels, for a perfect stay in Johannesburg.

Where to Stay in Johannesburg

There is wide range of accommodation in Johannesburg, the city is bursting with luxurious hotels that offer everything from five-star dining and exclusive spas to immaculate gardens complete with sublime pools.

The Peech

Set in the most picturesque indigenous gardens, a walk into The Peech is like going into an oasis in the city. For over 20 years, this boutique hotel found in Melrose has been enchanting guests – so much that it has been voted “Best Hotel in Africa” at the World Luxury Hotel Awards from 2019 to 2024.

Thanks to the addition of The Pot Luck Club, this hotel has become peachier. This iconic Luke Dale – Roberts restaurant moved to The Peech, further elevating the guest experience. The bold, internationally inspired small plates along with the impressive wine list and signature cocktails, have made it one of the best places to dine in Johannesburg.

Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa

Dive into complete tranquility at Fairlawans Boutique Hotel and Spa, thanks to the beautiful Balinese – style spa. The hotel has five indoor treatment rooms complete with enhanced mood lighting creating the perfect setting to be coaxed into relaxation. The heated pool with rimflow Jacuzzi, steam room, relaxation pools, and outdoor sales take the spa experience here to another level. Each of the suites have their own distinctive them, from French provincial to Eastern influence, and offer all the luxurious amenities you could ask for. When you are able to leave your well-appointed suite, the hotel is close to Sandton, one of the best shopping districts on the continent.

The Residence

The Residence is a boutique hotel in Johannesburg enjoying pride of place just 30 minutes away from OR Tambo International Airport and a few minutes from both Rosebank and Sandton City. The Jacaranda – lined streets lead you to this boutique hotel, a refined and comforting space that will delight.

Newmark The Catalyst Hotel

Located in Sandton, The Catalyst Hotel is a perfect hotel to stay in Johannesburg if you are looking for luxury and convenience. Not only is it close to the Gautrain and offers a complimentary shuttle service, it also boasts a spa complete with sauna and Jacuzzi as well as fine dining restaurant.

Situated just 20 minutes away from the hotel is the Fourways Farmers Market, a must-visit if you are in Johannesburg over the weekend. Situated in a gorgeous nature reserve, this market offers you the chance to indulge in delicious food, explore a range of stalls, and simply sit back and relax with a cocktail in hand.