Johannesburg, South Africa

15 Best Things to Do in Johannesburg

Start with these 15 and you have seen the Johannesburg that travelers rate highest.

Ranked by traveler review volume across 56 places we track in Johannesburg. Updated monthly.

  1. Apartheid Museum

    Museum

    The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is one of the most powerful museums anywhere, an unflinching, brilliantly designed account of South Africa's system of racial segregation and the long struggle to overthrow it.

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  2. Gold Reef City

    Park & nature

    Gold Reef City is a large theme park and casino complex in Johannesburg, built on the site of a real, historic gold mine, giving it a unique double identity as both a thrill-ride amusement park and a…

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  3. Constitution Hill, Johannesburg

    Museum

    Constitution Hill in Johannesburg is a historic site that once held political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, in its grim cells.

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  4. Johannesburg Zoo

    Park & nature

    The Johannesburg Zoo is a sprawling 55-hectare facility located in the leafy suburb of Parkview, offering a home to over 2,000 animals from around the world.

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  5. Ponte City

    Landmark

    Ponte City, a 54-story cylindrical residential tower, is one of Johannesburg's most recognizable landmarks. Its distinctive shape and height make it visible across the city.

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  6. Maboneng Precinct

    NeighborhoodFree entry

    Located just east of Johannesburg's city center, Maboneng Precinct is a shining example of urban renewal.

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  7. African Craft Market of Rosebank

    MuseumFree entry

    The African Craft Market of Rosebank is a bustling open-air market located in the upscale Johannesburg suburb of Rosebank.

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  8. Carlton Centre

    Landmark

    The Carlton Centre is a 50-story skyscraper in downtown Johannesburg, once the tallest building in Africa.

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  9. South African National Museum of Military History

    Museum

    The South African National Museum of Military History in Johannesburg's Saxonwold district offers a comprehensive look at the country's military past, from colonial conflicts to modern peacekeeping.

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  10. Honest Travel Experience (Johannesburg)

    Landmark

    Honest Travel Experience (Johannesburg) is a unique nightlife tour that takes visitors beyond the typical tourist spots to explore Johannesburg's authentic after-dark scene.

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  11. Arts on Main

    LandmarkFree entry

    Arts on Main is a dynamic cultural complex located in the Maboneng Precinct, one of Johannesburg's most creative neighborhoods.

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  12. Rosebank Sunday Market

    MarketFree entry

    Rosebank Sunday Market is a bustling weekly event held in the heart of Johannesburg, drawing locals and tourists alike.

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  13. Ingrid's Safaris - Day Tour

    Park & nature

    Ingrid's Safaris offers an immersive day tour from Johannesburg, taking you into the heart of South Africa's wild landscapes.

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  14. Satyagraha House Museum

    Museum

    The Satyagraha House Museum is a significant historical site located in the Orchards suburb of Johannesburg.

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  15. Acrobranch Melrose

    Park & nature

    Located within the leafy James & Ethel Gray Park in Johannesburg, Acrobranch Melrose offers an exhilarating outdoor experience for adventure seekers of all ages.

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The full picture, restaurants included, lives in the categories below.

Attractions & sights

Landmarks, museums, neighborhoods

56 places

Restaurants

Where to eat

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Day trips

Escapes near the city

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Experiences & tours

Book things to do

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Photo spots

Best views

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Wellness

Spas & relaxation

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Off the beaten path

10 hidden gems in Johannesburg

Like Spurwing Tourism Services and Glatt Safaris - Kosher Safaris, loved by reviewers, skipped by tour groups.

See them →

Get outdoors

12 outdoor adventures near Johannesburg

Gold Reef City (5 km away) and more, all within 100 km.

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After dark

14 best bars & nightlife spots

The 11th Floor Restaurant and Marble Restaurant lead the night.

Go out →

For the kids

14 things to do with kids

Gold Reef City and more the whole crew will rate.

Bring them →

Date night

12 romantic spots for couples

Gold Reef City at two-person pace.

Slow down →

Costs nothing

13 free things to do in Johannesburg

Verified free entry, Maboneng Precinct included.

Spend nothing →
Best things to do in South Africa
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