As the urban heart of South Africa, Johannesburg has an unmistakable buzz. It’s friendly and laid-back, with a glut of cultural and historical attractions to explore. Nicknamed Jo’burg by locals, the sprawling city can feel a little intimidating at first. But give it a chance, and you’ll quickly fall under its spell.

Things to Do

By far, one of Johannesburg’s biggest attractions is the Apartheid Museum. Using film, photos, artefacts and personal accounts, it’s a powerful recollection of South Africa’s apartheid period.

Touted as one of the most successful urban renewal projects in the world, the trendy Maboneng neighbourhood houses a colourful line-up of contemporary galleries, concept restaurants, hip cafes and art studios. Don’t miss some of the city’s biggest sights, including Walter Sisulu Square, Vilakazi Street, Hector Pieterson Memorial and the Mandela House Museum.

Johannesburg embraces its controversial past, with guided tours of the Soweto township offering a unique glimpse at South Africa’s fight for freedom. Check out Constitution Hill for a string of fascinating museums, or head to the family-friendly Gold Reef City for a winning combination of thrill rides and historical exhibits.

Not far from the city's borders, an array of South African adventures await. A popular day trip is the Lion & Safari Park, where you can get up close and personal with big cats. Nearby Pretoria is home to stunning parks and gardens, while UNESCO listed Cradle of Humankind is one of the richest paleoanthropological sites on the planet.

Getting Around

If you’re on a budget, travel like the locals and ride Johannesburg’s shared minibus taxis. There’s a standard fare for intercity journeys, but you’ll need to know where you’re going. You can also navigate the local Rea Vaya bus system, or sign up for a city sightseeing bus tour.