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Get InspiredAfricaSouth AfricaGautengJohannesburg

Johannesburg

Gauteng, South Africa
City·Dynamic, Bustling, Diverse
Johannesburg
Photo by Simon Hurry from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by Clodagh Da Paixao from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by Simon Hurry from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by tebogo losaba from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by Jacques Nel from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by Simon Hurry from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by Clodagh Da Paixao from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by Simon Hurry from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by tebogo losaba from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by Jacques Nel from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by Thomas Bennie from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by Gregory Fullard from Unsplash
Johannesburg
Photo by Tembinkosi Sikupela from Unsplash

Johannesburg, often referred to as Jo'burg or the City of Gold, is the largest city in South Africa and a major economic powerhouse. Situated in Gauteng, it is the wealthiest province and home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The city is steeped in history, with significant sites related to the apartheid era, including the famous Soweto township. Johannesburg is a melting pot of cultures, offering a vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary experiences, and bustling markets. It's a city that reflects both the challenges and triumphs of South Africa's past and present.

Johannesburg, often referred to as Jo'burg or the City of Gold, is the largest city in South Africa and a major economic powerhouse. Situated in Gauteng, it is the wealthiest province and home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The city is steeped in history, with significant sites related to the apartheid era, including the famous Soweto township. Johannesburg is a melting pot of cultures, offering a vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary experiences, and bustling markets. It's a city that reflects both the challenges and triumphs of South Africa's past and present.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

  • Rich history with significant apartheid-era landmarks.

  • Cultural melting pot with diverse communities.

  • Gateway to South Africa's economic activities.

  • Vibrant arts and cultural scene.

Before you go: Johannesburg essentials

  • Close access to Soweto, a key historical area for apartheid history.

  • Rich cultural heritage with museums and historical sites.

  • Diverse population with a mix of cultures and languages.

Getting Around

Johannesburg has a comprehensive public transport system including buses, trains, and taxis.

Local Cuisine

Try local dishes such as biltong and bunny chow at various eateries around the city.

Best For

Exploring South African history and vibrant city life.

Currency

ZAR R

Average Cost

$60-$120 p/day

Languages Spoken

English, Afrikaans, Zulu

Safety

Be cautious in crowded areas and avoid displaying valuables to prevent pickpocketing.

Cultural Sites

Visit Soweto for a deep dive into the city's apartheid history and heritage.

Best time to visit Johannesburg

March-MaySeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Johannesburg is pleasant with mild temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summers are hot and can be rainy, but the city is vibrant with festivals and events.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers cooler weather and is a great time to explore the city's cultural sites.

Winter

Winters are dry and mild, making it a good time for indoor activities like museum visits.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
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Where to stay in Johannesburg

Place
Place
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MINT Hotel Sandhurst

4.2(334)
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Welcoming, Comfortable, Upscale

Food & drink in Johannesburg

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tashas Nelson Mandela Square

4.3(2 K)
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Lively, Warm, Welcoming
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tashas The Marc

4.5(923)
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Sunny, Airy, Bustling
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Signature Restaurant

4.6(1,9 K)
johannesburg, Gauteng
Elegant, Bustling, Classy

Things to do in Johannesburg

Exhilarating Horseback Safari from Johannesburg
From $185

Exhilarating Horseback Safari from Johannesburg

5.0(5)
Duration: 5h
Johannesburg
Two day Kruger National Park Safari from Johannesburg
From $380

Two day Kruger National Park Safari from Johannesburg

4.8(38)
Duration: 48h
Johannesburg
Half Guided Day Tour of Soweto And Apartheid Museum
From $87

Half Guided Day Tour of Soweto And Apartheid Museum

4.8(690)
Duration: 4h
Johannesburg
Lion Walk Guided Tour Adventure
From $286

Lion Walk Guided Tour Adventure

5.0(1)
Duration: 4h
Johannesburg
Half Day Lion Park tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria
From $118

Half Day Lion Park tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

4.8(359)
Duration: 5h
Johannesburg
Lion & Safari Park
From $115

Lion & Safari Park

4.9(73)
Duration: 3h
Johannesburg
2 Day 4 Star Pilanesberg Safari
From $609

2 Day 4 Star Pilanesberg Safari

4.7(38)
Duration: 48h
Johannesburg
Soweto and Johannesburg Exclusive Full Day Guided Tour
From $109

Soweto and Johannesburg Exclusive Full Day Guided Tour

5.0(382)
Duration: 7h
Johannesburg
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Attractions in Johannesburg

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Apartheid Museum

4.6(7 K)
Johannesburg South, Gauteng
Educational, Reflective, Thought Provoking
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Gold Reef City Theme Park

4.5(39,8 K)
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Exciting, Family Friendly, Energetic
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Gandhi Square Precinct

4.2(11,7 K)
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Bustling, Historical, Urban
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Carlton Centre

4.0(20,6 K)
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Urban, Scenic, Tourist Friendly
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Sci-Bono Discovery Centre

4.5(2,7 K)
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Interactive, Educational, Family Friendly
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Mary Fitzgerald Square

4.2(1,9 K)
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Vibrant, Historical, Cultural
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Museum Africa

4.1(676)
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Educational, Cultural, Historic
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Place
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Johannesburg Art Gallery

4.2(1,1 K)
Johannesburg, Gauteng
Stately, Cultural, Educational