How to visit the districts of Johannesburg in one day?
Johannesburg is a bustling city and the economic heart of South Africa. If you have already visited the Soweto district (see our article this emblematic district of South Africa) then you can continue exploring the city, its markets, its art galleries, its museums or its shopping malls thanks to this guide. Focus on what you prefer by reading our list of favorite things to do in Johannesburg below.
Johannesburg Melville District Tour: 27 Boxes Market
Neighborhood Melville hosts the permanent market of 27 Boxes where you will find something to order a good breakfast and a good coffee. The atmosphere is pleasant and gives you a glimpse of the diversity that reigns in the city. It's a great way to start the day! You can then stroll through this trendy bohemian district which is home to many artists.
Explore all of Johannesburg's neighborhoods in South Africa in one day
The best way to see all of Johannesburg in one day is to take the red tourist buses (it facilitates transport between districts when you don't know). The 'City Tour' will take you to all districts of the city that you can explore on foot one by one. We recommend taking a tour in Downtown and if you like the art of stopping at Wits Art Museum. It houses an important collection of historical and contemporary African art. If you liked the apartheid museum and want to know more about this period then Constitution Hill is a must visit. It is a former prison which is today a constitutional court.
Tip: if you want to discover Johannesburg accompanied by a local, we recommend private tours offered by Civitatis. Simply select a language (top right on the site) to book a guide who speaks your native language. It's more expensive than the tourist bus but it's much better.
Book this tourMelrose Arch, Rosebank and Sandton: 3 “temple” shopping districts in Johannesburg, South Africa
If you're more in the mood for shopping, we recommend in order of preference Melrose Arch, Sandton and Rosebank. These posh neighborhoods of Johannesburg are full of shops, cafes, restaurants and lively bars where you can spend the whole day without getting bored.
Maboneng: dangerous district of Johannesburg transformed into the most hipster village in South Africa
maboneng is perfect for lovers of vintage stores, hipster cafes, rooftop bars and pop-up restaurants. This neighborhood in the heart of Johannesburg was once an industrial area but a private investor turned it into trendy village. It is filled with art galleries (notably the famous disused parking lot 'Arts on Main '), giant graffiti fresco and young fashion designers. All the multicultural youth of the city come to spend these evenings and weekends there (every Sunday they organize a giant food court). If you want to take a guided tour we recommend you Maboneng Precinct Walking Tour.
Book the best value for money B&B accommodation in Johannesburg, South Africa
After exploring the different districts of Johannesburg, we recommend that you sleep at Blu Trea Guesthouse that offers all the comfort you need at a low price. This guesthouse is pleasant with its small swimming pool, charming staff and clean and tidy rooms. In short, nothing to complain about! It is for us the B&B with the best value for money for accommodation in Johannesburg. In addition, the guest house is located in the Melville district which is central but above all it is one of the best areas of the city!
Check availabilityIf you want more options, you can always check out our article on the best accommodations in Johannesburg.
Our tips for a successful trip:
- Book your flight in advance to take advantage of the best prices
Airline ticket prices are cheaper when booked 6 to 3 months in advance. To be sure of getting the best price, we recommend using a flight comparator such as Skyscanner.
- Book your accommodation before departure to have access to the best offers
You will always find a room at the last minute, but the best located accommodations are necessarily those that are always full. That's why it's best to book your accommodations as soon as possible. We recommend going through Agoda which offers the best prices. In addition, this site allows you to be easily reimbursed in the event of cancellation.
- Skip the line to visit the most popular attractions
By booking your excursions in advance on Civitatis, you do not queue on site to get your tickets. Less time waiting = more time enjoying your vacation! Plus, their guided tours ensure you have a knowledgeable guide who speaks your language.
- Use a comparator to find a rental car at the lowest price
Save yourself hours of research with rentalcar.com. This comparator is the best way to find rental cars at the lowest prices.
- Don't leave without travel insurance
For us, it is unimaginable to leave without travel insurance. We recommend the one proposed by AXIS. This is the best guaranteed way to leave with peace of mind. However, consider taking out additional specialized insurance for activities not covered (such as skiing or scuba diving).
- Want more information about your destination?
Do not hesitate to complete the information present on this blog with a travel Guide. You can take it in your luggage and refer to it throughout your vacation.
To find out more about South Africa:
The itinéterre team
Itinéterre is a travel blog written by a team of expatriates and locals. They share their experiences so that you can enjoy the best tours in their countries. Their advice will help you plan your vacation easily as if a local is accompanying you!
