Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and its economic and financial hub. Much of its prosperity is built on mining and many of the industry’s leading companies are still based in the city. The city is also strong in the manufacturing, banking, IT, real estate and transport sectors. The ongoing revival of the city centre, plus measures to reduce crime, have improved safety for visitors.
Sleeping
Much of the accommodation in Johannesburg is concentrated in the city’s northern suburbs. Rosebank is home to a large number of hotels, plus malls, cafes, restaurants and bars. Some of the top options in the city include the Monarch Hotel, located minutes from the Rosebank Gautrain station, and nearby is the Hyatt Regency Johannesburg, while 54 on Bath has numerous business amenities available to guests. Tourism infrastructure in the city centre is improving
Eating
Johannesburg has a diverse dining scene and is home to some of South Africa’s finest restaurants. Cube Tasting Kitchen in the North Parktown suburb offers a unique 10-course tasting experience. Level Four, located inside the 54 on Bath hotel, is popular for business lunches. For great sushi check out Sandton’s Yamato restaurant and the Licorish Bistro offers South African fare with a modern twist.
Drinking
Johannesburg has a vibrant and diverse bar scene. For great views of the inner city, stop by the Living Room. The Artisan is a fantastic cocktail spot with an extensive tapas menu and Radium Beer Hall is one of Johannesburg’s oldest bars and has regular entertainment. For cool cocktails and a retro vibe visit the Cosmopolitan Hotel – built in 1899, the antique bar and unique exterior makes it a superb spot to relax.
Getting Downtown
Johannesburg is serviced by O.R. Tambo International Airport as well as the smaller Lanseria International. O.R. Tambo has a Gautrain station for services linking the airport with the Sandton district – a primary tourist area – and the rest of the city’s Gautrain system. There are plenty of car hire options at the airport and there is also a good choice of private express buses into the central business district. Licensed taxis with meters are also plentiful.
Must-see sites
Johannesburg’s cultural attractions include the Apartheid Museum, the South African Museum of Military History and Constitution Hill. Meet with a local guide and take a walking tour of some of the city suburbs or venture further afield for a tour of the famous Soweto township and Hector Pieterson Museum.
Getting there
British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and South African Airways all fly non-stop between London Heathrow and Johannesburg. KLM, Air France, Lufthansa, Etihad, Emirates, Qatar Airways and others offer one-stop options via their respective hubs.
