Johannesburg South Africa 2 Day Itinerary

Johannesburg: A 2-Day Itinerary for the Curious Traveler

Things to Know:

  • Safety: Johannesburg can have safety concerns. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and don’t display valuables. Use reputable transportation services and stay in safe areas.

  • Transportation: While public transport exists, it’s often unreliable and potentially unsafe. Opt for ride-sharing services (Uber, Bolt) or taxis for the most convenient and safe travel experience.

  • Weather: Johannesburg has a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters. Be prepared for varying weather conditions by checking the forecast before your trip.

Where to Stay:

For a 2-day stay, consider these options based on your budget:

  • Luxury: The Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa (renowned for its luxury and historical significance)
  • Mid-range: Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel (conveniently located near the Gautrain station)
  • Budget: Numerous hostels and guesthouses in vibrant areas like Melville or Maboneng offer safe and affordable accommodation.

Day 1: History and Heritage

Morning:

  • Apartheid Museum (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Begin your day with a powerful journey through South Africa’s history at the Apartheid Museum. This world-renowned museum offers a chilling look at the system of apartheid, its impact on the people and the country’s fight for freedom.

  • Lunch (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM): Enjoy a traditional South African meal at Mama Afrika Restaurant, known for its delicious local cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.

Afternoon:

  • Constitution Hill (2:30 PM - 5:30 PM): Explore the historic Constitution Hill, a former prison complex that now houses a museum and historical precinct. Learn about the struggles against injustice and the triumph of democracy at this former site of imprisonment and resistance.
  • Dinner (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Experience a vibrant mix of cultures and cuisines at The Orbit Jazz Club & Bistro in Braamfontein.

Things to do:

  • Morning: Visit the Apartheid Museum (allow 3-4 hours).

  • Midday: Explore the bustling street food scene in the city center, enjoying dishes like bunny chow, boerewors rolls, and braai (South African barbecue) skewers.

  • Evening:

    • Enjoy a traditional South African meal at The Orbit Jazz Club & Bistro, where you can savor local flavors and experience live music.
    • Dinner & Drinks: Indulge in a delicious dinner and drinks at a restaurant with a view, like Marble Restaurant at the Rosebank Art & Craft Market (Rosebank Mall) or The Grillhouse in Sandton City.

  • Evening:

    • Enjoy a traditional South African barbecue experience at a “braai” spot.

  • Day 1: Evening:

    • Dinner and a Show: The Orbit Jazz Club is known for its delicious food and world-class entertainment.

Things to consider:

  • Time: This itinerary assumes you’ll have a full day in Johannesburg. You can adjust the timings based on your personal preferences and the specific opening hours of the places listed.
  • Transportation: Travel time between activities and venues can vary depending on traffic, but this itinerary allows for flexibility with transportation times.

Things to know about the city:

  • Melville: A vibrant neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere, independent shops and restaurants, and lively nightlife.

Things to Eat:

  • The Grillhouse (Sandton): Explore the flavors of South Africa at this award-winning restaurant. Indulge in their famous “steak with a view” - a delicious meal where you can witness the bustling city life.

  • Neighbourgoods Market: Enjoy a diverse culinary experience with local food vendors offering a variety of dishes, from traditional South African cuisine to international flavors.

Things to know about transportation:

  • Uber/Bolt: These ride-sharing services are widely available and convenient for getting around the city.

  • Transportation Tip: Consider using public transport (and being prepared for its limitations) or taxis for travel.

  • Transport:

    • Gautrain: A modern train system connecting various parts of Gauteng, including Johannesburg.

  • Safety: This itinerary assumes you’ll be using safe and reliable transportation options.

Things to do:

  • Explore the vibrant culinary scene:

Visit one of the many restaurants in Melville that offer a variety of cuisines, from traditional South African fare to international dishes.

  • Enjoy a delicious meal and a vibrant atmosphere: Melville’s restaurants are known for their tasty food and lively ambiance.

Transport:

  • Public transport: The “Gautrain” (a fast train system) can be a good option for getting around the city.

  • Explore local cuisine:

  • Things to do:

    • Visit the Cradle of Humankind: Immerse yourself in the origins of humanity with this fascinating archaeological site.

Day 2: The Day of Discovery

  • Visit the Apartheid Museum (morning):

Experience the rich history and culture of Johannesburg through its vibrant street food scene, museums, and historical sites.

  • The “Braai” experience: Enjoy a traditional South African barbecue meal at a restaurant with a local focus on this unique culinary style.

  • Food & Drinks: Indulge in a variety of cuisines by exploring the many restaurants in the city center.

Morning:

  • Explore the vibrant nightlife:

Experience live music, theatre, or art exhibitions in the evening.

  • Visit Neighbourgoods Market (afternoon): Enjoy the bustling afternoon atmosphere and explore the offerings at this local favourite.

  • Indulge in a variety of food options: The market offers a wide range of local delicacies, from braai skewers to international cuisine.

  • Enjoy the “Gautrain” experience:

  • Explore the vibrant “Gautrain” (a great way to travel around) and experience the city’s diverse culinary scene.

Food & Drink:

  • Enjoy a variety of delicious meals from local food vendors at The Grillhouse, while reflecting on the cultural and culinary influences that shape this unique venue.

  • Catch the “Gautrain” (the city’s vibrant public transport system) to the Neighbourgoods Market in the afternoon.

  • Explore:

  • Visit a local coffee shop like “Truth Coffee Roasting” or “The Local Grill” for a caffeine boost and a taste of local flavour.

  • Enjoy

  • The “Gold Reef City Theme Park” offers a variety of food stalls, restaurants, and entertainment options.**

  • Transport:

    • Take a ride on the “Gautrain” (a fast train system that connects Johannesburg to Pretoria).

Things to note for the itinerary:

  • This is just a suggestion and can be adapted to suit your interests.
  • Consider including specific times for each activity, as well as information about the time of day the best activities are available in Johannesburg.
  • You can add more detail to the “Transport” section, depending on the distance from your accommodation to the various destinations.

For a 2-day itinerary:

  • Day 1:

Start with a visit to the “Truth Coffee Roasting” and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee.

  • Lunch: Indulge in a meal at one of the restaurants nearby the “Gold Reef City” theme park, such as “The Orbit” or “The Grillhouse”.

  • Enjoy other local experiences like visiting the bustling Maboneng Precinct, exploring the history of the city at the Apartheid Museum, or experiencing the vibrant nightlife.

  • Enjoy the day at a local restaurant:

  • Enjoy a traditional South African barbecue meal and experience the “Gold Reef City” for its cultural significance and unique atmosphere.

Transportation:

  • Public transport: This is a great option for getting to and from different parts of the city (e.g., “The Constitutional Hill” or “The Nelson Mandela Museum”).

  • Things to do:

  • Explore the vibrant city of Johannesburg:

    • Visit “Constitution Hill” in the morning.
    • Take a tour: Learn about the history of apartheid and the struggle for freedom at this historically significant site.

  • Enjoy a variety of local cuisines:

  • Experience the culinary diversity of the city by visiting food markets and restaurants. The “Neighbourgoods Market” is a great option to enjoy a variety of food stalls and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Enjoy a show:** Catch a live music performance or theatrical production at “The Orbit”.

Enjoy a variety of international dishes:

  • Experience the “Gold Reef City” theme park for its local flavors.

  • Enjoy a traditional braai in the evening: This could be at a restaurant, but it’s even more authentic (and fun!) to enjoy a “braai” with friends and family.

  • Enjoy a “braai” meal: This is a great way to experience a traditional South African barbecue

  • Enjoy a “braai” with local flavors:

  • Enjoy a “braai” and explore the culinary diversity of Johannesburg.

  • Consider experiencing a “braai” at a restaurant specializing in South African cuisine.

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere:

  • Explore the “Truth Coffee Roasting” and enjoy a variety of South Africa’s delicious food.

  • Consider:

    • The Neighbourgoods Market for a diverse culinary experience.
    • “The Grillhouse” (a popular restaurant and bar):

  • Enjoy the “Cradle of Humankind” and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Food:

  • Explore the variety of food stalls available at “The Cradle of Humankind” or “The Local”

  • Enjoy the unique flavors of South Africa:

  • Enjoy a “Cradle” experience:

  • Explore the rich history and culture of Johannesburg through the various "

  • Enjoy the vibrant culinary scene that "

This itinerary is just a starting point, you can customize it based on your interests and the time of day.

Remember to be mindful of safety and use reputable transportation options in Johannesburg.