Things to do in Johannesburg

A Melting Pot of Different Flavors

Eating out in this city is cultural experience, not just a culinary one. For over 100 years, people have flocked here from all over the globe, all bringing their own style of cooking and unique flavors with them. You can find authentic African staples, Asian dishes from all over the continent, European tastes, and South American cuisines. Try the Troyeville Hotel or Restaurante Parreirinha for Portuguese and Mozambique dishes, Wombles for great steaks, Randlords for tapas and fantastic views of the city or Little Addis for beautiful Ethiopian meals. Also, it is a pleasure to wander down the restaurant strips of Braamfontein, Parkhurst, Norwood, and Soweto until you find something that catches your eye. Visitors can find a range of eateries, from street vendors and food trucks to fine dining and family restaurants.

A day out for Art Lovers

The Johannesburg Art Gallery houses a collection of Dutch, British, European and South African art, ranging from the 17th century up to the present. There are fifteen exhibition halls displaying works by prestigious international artists such as Monet and Picasso. Get to know works by South African artists too, like Walter Battiss, Gerard Sekoto, and Pierneef.

Escape the Noise of the City

The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens have been open daily to the public since 1987. They are named after Walter Sisulu, an ANC member who helped fight for a democratic South Africa alongside Nelson Mandela. Not only can you stroll the grounds and discover all sorts of native flora and fauna, but there is also an education centre, a conference hall, a training centre and a restaurant. It makes for a most relaxing day out.

A Major Part of South African History

Oppression was a big part of South Africa's history, and the Apartheid Museum strives to educate visitors to the city on what was a turbulent time in the country's history. Exhibits explain what the country was like for the citizens of South Africa in those days, telling the story of the racial segregation the black inhabitants had to endure between 1948 and 1994. There are 22 exhibition areas detailing the state-sanctioned system that divided races.

See the View from the Top of Africa

The Carlton Centre, in the downtown area, has been the tallest building in Africa since 1973. Nicknamed the "Top of Africa", it is 223 metres tall and has fifty floors, of which the topmost is an observation deck where visitors can marvel at the spectacular panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas.