Nicknamed Jozi or Joburg, Johannesburg is the biggest and busiest metropolis in South Africa. Home to almost 5 million people in the city proper and surrounding suburbs, it’s the most populous urban area not just in South Africa but the whole continent.
Although overshadowed by Cape Town’s scenic beauty and Kruger’s famous safaris, Joburg still has lots to offer the curious visitor. The economic capital of the country, Jozi rose to prominence after gold was discovered in the1880s. Ever since, it has blossomed into a major hub for business, finance, arts and culture.
Beyond the glittering high-rises of the inner city, Joburg contains contrasts aplenty. Trendy neighborhoods and markets, poignant historic sites, vibrant nightlife, and abundant nature exist side by side. You can immerse yourself in urban energy or escape to rolling hills and reserves – all without leaving city limits!
Spend just 2 days here and you’ll get a taste of Joburg’s unique personality. See highlights of its storied past and present, enjoy food and culture, and experience the buzz of South Africa’s “City of Gold.”
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Day 1 Morning: Discover History and Culture
Begin your first day in Joburg by digging into the city’s long and complex history and cultural legacy.
Start in the downtown area and visit the Apartheid Museum, a sobering and impactful look into apartheid and the long struggle against it. An absolute must to gain deeper insight into this painful but important chapter of the nation’s past.
Expect to spend 2-3 hours here taking in the exhibits and immersive multimedia displays.
From there, head just down the road to the moving Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum. Learn about the pivotal 1976 Soweto student uprising and see heartbreaking photographs depicting the protests and violence that ensued.
Soweto itself is also worth exploring more broadly – drive or join a guided tour through the massive township to take in sprawling residential areas, bustling markets, shebeens, and street art.
Wrap up the morning with a stop at the acclaimed Constitution Hill complex, the site of the infamous Old Fort Prison and former Constitutional Court.
Wander through the old prison blocks, learn about life for political prisoners during apartheid, and admire the architecture of South Africa’s highest court, infused with the symbolism of democracy and freedom.
Day 1 Afternoon: Urban Exploration
After a sobering but enlightening morning, spend the afternoon experiencing Joburg’s vibrant urban character and diversity.
Start with the inner-city Maboneng Precinct – among the top things to do in Johannesburg. An artsy development full of lively restaurants, cafes, galleries and boutiques, stroll the pedestrian-friendly streets, duck into trendy shops like Arts on Main or Love Books, and enjoy a long lazy lunch on an outdoor patio.
The neighborhood buzzes with youthful creative energy and has a palpable sense of community.
Work off your lunch with a walk through nearby Nelson Mandela Square. Check out the towering bronze Nelson Mandela statue, then browse the upscale shops and department stores.
Exit onto Rivonia Road and head north a few blocks to Rosebank, another chic commercial and dining district.
Find cute boutiques and art galleries along the pedestrianized Stiemens Street, or unwind over coffee on the grassy lawns of Roses Garden.
As the afternoon winds down, find a rooftop bar in Rosebank to toast your first day in Jozi.
Day 2 Morning: Urban Green Spaces
Allocate the morning of your second day to connect with Johannesburg’s abundant green spaces and nature.
Start with the acclaimed Johannesburg Botanical Gardens just east of the city center. Strolling through these sprawling gardens is a lovely way to begin the day.
See impressive collections of cycads and succulents, wander through rose and herb gardens, relax by the lily pond and appreciate this urban oasis. Spend 1-2 leisurely hours here before heading over to Emmarentia Dam and Delta Park nearby.
Walk or jog along the paved pathways encircling Emmarentia Dam, a peaceful reservoir popular with residents.
Nearby Delta Park offers picturesque picnic spots, grassy fields, and green walking trails along the Braamfontein Spruit creek. Families flock here on weekends to spread blankets and enjoy the abundant outdoor space and amenities.
Round out the morning’s nature explorations with a trip slightly farther north to Melville Koppies Nature Reserve, one of Joburg’s hidden gems. This protected 150 hectare reserve has lovely hiking trails winding through valleys and ridges.
Spot an intriguing diversity of plant life, antelope, and zebra along the trails and take in panoramic city views from the high points on the koppies (hills). Spend 1-2 hours hiking here to round out your outdoor morning.
Day 2 Afternoon: Food and Shopping
After refueling your energy reserves with Joburg’s urban nature spots, dedicate the afternoon to experiencing the city’s vibrant food, drink, and shopping options.
Start by heading to 44 Stanley Avenue in the suburb of Milpark, a pedestrianized street lined with restaurants and boutiques. Enjoy a chilled South African white wine and leisurely lunch on one of the patios.
After lunch, browse the stylish shops and art galleries for gifts and souvenirs like jewelry and traditional crafts.
Work off that big lunch again by window shopping along Oxford Road in Rosebank. Find beautifully curated home goods at Monsieur, charming decor at Missibaba, or chic fashions at Marie Claire.
For lively streetwear, sneakers, and vintage threads, take a quick drive over to Braamfontein. Browse the stalls of the Neighbourgoods Market, then explore hip boutiques and stalls along Juta, De Beer, and Biccard streets.
As the afternoon winds down, head back to Maboneng Precinct for dinner and drinks along Market Street.
Find fun craft cocktails at Pata Pata or delicious tapas at Che Argentine Grill. Then browse the Sunday Market or watch street performers and musicians as you stroll between bars and restaurants.
Spend a laidback evening here capping off your quick but memory-making visit to Johannesburg. You’ve just scratched the surface of this endlessly vibrant and complex city.
Extend Your Stay
If you have more time in Joburg, there are many more exciting neighborhoods, markets, museums, and outdoor spaces still left to explore during an extended 3-5 day visit.
Top picks for additional sights include the massive Gold Reef City theme park, sprawling Lion Park sanctuary, bustling Pan Africa Market, and lively student and nightlife neighborhoods in Melville.
Day trip options allow you to escape the city and experience natural wonders like the Cradle of Humankind with its fossil sites and caves, hike through the Magaliesberg Mountains, or take an enlightening township tour of Alexandra.
A full 3-5 days provide ample time to experience the history, culture, nature, food, and nightlife that vibrant Johannesburg has to offer visitors.
Johannesburg Travel Tips
Here are some helpful travel tips for your trip to Johannesburg:
- Use Uber or trusted taxi services for transportation – avoid unmarked taxis. Uber is very affordable and convenient in Joburg.
- Always stay alert in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Keep valuables secure and don’t carry large amounts of cash.
- Many attractions and neighborhoods are very spread out, so plan transit time accordingly between locations.
- Bring or buy a local SIM card for your phone to access maps/internet when out exploring. WiFi is not always readily available.
- Drink only bottled water and be cautious with raw fruits/veggies outside restaurants.
- Stay in neighborhoods like Sandton, Rosebank, or Melville for close proximity to top sights and restaurants with less risk.
- Avoid walking alone at night, even around popular tourist areas. If you’re out late, take Uber point-to-point.
- Pack layers as Johannesburg’s high elevation makes the climate crisp in the morning and evenings.
- Carry small bills/change for paying cash minibus taxis, parking attendants, and vendors at markets.
- Book at least the Apartheid Museum in advance to skip the ticket line on arrival.
- Try traditional South African specialties like biltong, boerewors, and Melktert when dining out.
- Opt for day trips to Soweto, Cradle of Humankind, or Lion Park for easier navigation, rather than solo excursions.
- Be sure to include sun protection in your South Africa packing list as the high-altitude sun in Joburg can easily cause sunburn. Hats and sunscreen are also a must.
Johannesburg FAQs
What are the must-see attractions in Johannesburg for a 2-day visit?
The Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, Soweto Township, and Nelson Mandela Square are absolute must-sees to understand the history and culture in just 2 days.
What is the best way to get around Johannesburg?
Use Uber for safe and convenient transportation between neighborhoods and attractions in Joburg. Avoid unmarked taxis on the street.
Where should I stay for easy access to the top sights?
Stay in centrally located neighborhoods like Sandton, Rosebank, or Melville to be near most highlights and have plenty of dining options.
Is Johannesburg safe for travelers?
Johannesburg is generally safe if you use basic urban precautions: avoid walking alone at night, only take registered taxis, and be alert in crowded areas.
What language do people speak in Johannesburg?
English is widely spoken in Johannesburg, though many locals also speak native African languages like Zulu, Xhosa, and Sotho. Learning a few words of the local languages can be appreciated.
What is the best local food to try in Johannesburg?
Don’t miss trying South African specialties like bunny chow curry, boerewors sausage, biltong dried meat, and malva pudding.
What is the weather like in Johannesburg?
Johannesburg enjoys a mild, sunny climate year-round. Pack layers for cool mornings and evenings. October-April are the warmest months.
Read More about South Africa
Ultimate Guide for Visiting Kruger National Park
20 Amazing Places to Visit in South Africa
Monitoring Painted Dogs in South Africa
Save “Two Days in Johannesburg” for Later
Important Note: This post is a guest post by Billy! Billy is a travel blogger from Birmingham, UK. Born deaf in both ears, Billy has always loved geography and travel since a young age, but communication barriers and challenges meant a lack of confidence to go out and see the world.
For the past decade, Billy has taken epic global adventures on a budget – whether it’s European city breaks or months backpacking around Asia. Through his blog: BRB Gone Somewhere Epic, Billy dismantles the myth that travel is too expensive and that you can still enjoy hidden gems even in popular tourist destinations.
This is a perfect itinerary to spend two days in Johannesburg, South Africa. Would especially love to visit the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, Soweto Township, and Nelson Mandela Square.
Thanks for this post. We’ve traveled to South Africa before but have yet to visit Johannesburg. Looks like we’re due for a visit!
Africa is very high on my bucketlist. This post gives me a starting point of what I have to see if I ever get there. The Melville Koppies Nature Reserve has definitely peaked my interest.
So many things to do!! I’d love to check out the nature reserve + also see Nelson Mandela Square. Your tips are super helpful too — that’s helpful that they have Uber there!
Great itinerary advice. I am planning to visit and it will be handy.
Super helpful post, thanks for writing! really looking forward to my visit to SA now 😍
Fabulous and informative post, Billy! South Africa has been on my list for a long time and this gives me some great suggestions to put on my Johannesburg list. I know the Apartheid Museum and the Cradle of Humankind would tickle my history-loving side and the Maboneng Precinct would do the same for the artist in my soul, but I would get lost in the Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve.
Lyn | http://www.ramblynjazz.com
Great tips, would love to visit someday!
Great post. We had a son spend a summer here so this was fun to read.
I knew very little about Joburg before reading this post so it was fantastic to read about the variety of things to see and do. We would be very interested to learn about the history, the Apartheid Museum in particular looks to be an essential visit. We’d also very much enjoy the botanical gardens and Melville Koppies Nature Reserve. It’s also good to learn about some cool places to eat and drink – Rosebank looks great. Thanks for introducing us to this city!
Nice itinerary to get a first taste for Joburg. I was sold when you mentioned the many parks and the rooftop. I feel there is quite a lot to do and see in Joburg and it is a place that you can come back to over and over again and still discover something new. I appreciate the travel tips at the end as they provide a good insight into Joburg’s character outside of the fun sightseeing and touristic vibes.
Carolin | Solo Travel Story
I had recently been looking at what to see and do in Jo’burg for a future trip and this pretty much tells me a lot of what I need to know.
Good to know that the areas I thought were safe and good for staying were the same ones you mention.
It’s a pretty comprehensive guide to the city that I’ll definitely bookmark for when I eventually get there.
I get that JoBorg is overshadowed by Cape Town but it looks like a cool place to explore. The travel section tips are really helpful and easy to read so thanks for including them. I am intrigued by the colour and street art at Maboneng Precinct! I would spend time in the urban green spaces too because city life can exhaust me after a long time so nice to feel out in nature for a while too!
I haven’t been to Johannesburg yet and reading about one of South Africa’s coolest cities makes me ask myself, why my travels haven’t lead me there yet. Thanks for this friendly reminder Pam 😉 I’m looking forward to getting to know modern day Joberg. I have read some time ago that the city is reshaping its image through a wave of creative energy. It would be so nice to see all that and capture the city’s new spirit.
Jan – https://flyingbaguette.com/
I’ll admit I didn’t know a lot about Johannesburg other than people talking about safety. while you covered that with your handy tips, what people seem to miss out is all the wonderful things to see and do here. it seems like a really interesting city. I’d especially be interesting in learning some of the history at the apartheid museum, and trying some of the local food. it also looks like there are some epic day trips and activities in the surrounding areas
I stayed on Joburg once as I was transiting to/from Zambia, and I was so disappointed with the city. I stayed at a hostel and the owner would not let me walk around at all. He made me take a taxi to the Apartheid Museum (which was quite informative and emotional), but other than that I felt like I couldn’t do anything as a young solo female. That was, however, years ago, and I’d be curious to see how the city has changed since then. It sounds like there’s lots of other interesting things to do, so I’d love to give it another chance.
An excellent post about a city I’m very curious to visit. Whether it’s for its historical context, which we all know and have had the opportunity to follow, or as a metropolis with a vibrant culture to explore.
It’s definitely a city I’ve got on my bucket list!
I’m going to be spending 2 weeks in the Eastern Cape and am contemplating a couple of days in Jo’burg on the way home. Is it safe for a solo female traveller do you think?
I think if you practice general safety tips – being aware of your surroundings, etc, then you’ll be fine. I would be extra cautious traveling around the city at night though.