If you only have a day to spare in Jo'burg, don't worry. There is still plenty you can see and do in this accessible city. The best way is to plan the things you want to see most and be prepared to get side-tracked along the way as you come across unexpected sights, friendly locals and edible temptations.
Here is an idea of how you can spend 24 hours in Johannesburg…
07.30 Wakey Wakey
Owned by author Heidi Holland, The Melville House offers bright, colourful and clean en-suite bedrooms and a self -catering apartment. This lovely guest house is expertly run by the well-known writer herself. While there, you could find yourself sharing breakfast with international professionals working in NGOs, academics from universities, journalists from around the world and even famous filmmakers. Sociable and entertaining with beautiful gardens and a plunge-pool all in the heart of Johannesburg's trendy artists' quarter, make this a must stay for your one night.
09.30 Magical History Tour
Perhaps the most vital thing to experience in Johannesburg is its history. Told through various locations, some of the best to visit are the Constitutional Court, built on the site of the notorious Fort Prison; the Museum of Apartheid, which uses stunning interactive displays to show the beginnings, effects and end of the Apartheid system and finally Vilakazi Street; made famous by its former residents, two Nobel Peace Prize winners, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. The house Nelson Mandela came back to on his release from Robben Island lies on this street, a landmark of the Apartheid struggle. Take a local guide with you to Soweto.
12.00 Lunch in the Township
While in Soweto, stop for lunch at Wandie's Place. This Soweto institution began life as an illegal drinking den or Shebeen as they are locally known. Looking like a traditional Soweto house, this place serves fantastic local food from grilled meats to crushed corn and beans. The long tables guarantee you'll be sitting alongside a resident or two of the area so be sure to strike up conversation for an insight into township life.
13.30 Take a Walk on the Wilder Side
After a dose of local culture and history, take some time to unwind in the beautiful surroundings of Jo'burg Zoo. A whole host of incredible animals live here from snow leopards to the Siberian tiger among hundreds of others. With open enclosures giraffes, zebra's and elephants look more at home here than they ever will at London zoo! If you're legs are giving out then why not grab a chauffeur driven buggy to wiz you around.
15.00 Shopping African Style
For a dose of retail therapy, take a walk to the Bruma Lake Flea Market. With over 620 traders selling everything from antiques and clothes to curios, textiles and furniture you're sure to find a bargain or two and if not it's certainly a feast for the eyes! Resembling a fisherman's village, the local area is lovely for a stroll as you gaze at all the goods on offer and sample some of the tasty local treats being cooked by the waterside.
17.30 Time for a Cocktail
Suggesting the Holiday Inn as a cocktail venue may seem strange but it's well worth a visit to the Skye Bar, located on its 9th floor. Order a cocktail, grab a seat by the window and admire the spectacular panorama at your leisure. Plush and comfortable with chandeliers and comfy chairs, it's really the view that makes this bar. If you are looking for somewhere to take a loved one for a special occasion, then this is definitely the place for a romantic evening. Book flights to Johannesburg and watch the dun go down together, with a sun downer or two.
20.00 Dinner Adventures
Moyo, at Melrose Arch, has definitely won the hearts and minds of Jo'burg locals and visitors alike. This large restaurant is spectacular from the moment you enter it, with swathes of cloth draped from the ceiling, comfy cushions and cosy nooks, wooden beams and lanterns; this place is a feast for all the senses. At night it is softly lit, with candles floating on the water outside. Cuisines from Senegal to Ethiopia, Egypt and Africa fill the mouth-watering menu. The wine list is equally extensive. Make sure you get a table that overlooks the stage as there are often live music performances to compliment dinner. For a moment of calm, after your meal, why not retire to the Cigar Lounge where you can luxuriate in a huge chair while contemplating your African adventure and planning your return flights to Johannesburg!
Here is an idea of how you can spend 24 hours in Johannesburg…
07.30 Wakey Wakey
Owned by author Heidi Holland, The Melville House offers bright, colourful and clean en-suite bedrooms and a self -catering apartment. This lovely guest house is expertly run by the well-known writer herself. While there, you could find yourself sharing breakfast with international professionals working in NGOs, academics from universities, journalists from around the world and even famous filmmakers. Sociable and entertaining with beautiful gardens and a plunge-pool all in the heart of Johannesburg's trendy artists' quarter, make this a must stay for your one night.
09.30 Magical History Tour
Perhaps the most vital thing to experience in Johannesburg is its history. Told through various locations, some of the best to visit are the Constitutional Court, built on the site of the notorious Fort Prison; the Museum of Apartheid, which uses stunning interactive displays to show the beginnings, effects and end of the Apartheid system and finally Vilakazi Street; made famous by its former residents, two Nobel Peace Prize winners, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. The house Nelson Mandela came back to on his release from Robben Island lies on this street, a landmark of the Apartheid struggle. Take a local guide with you to Soweto.
12.00 Lunch in the Township
While in Soweto, stop for lunch at Wandie's Place. This Soweto institution began life as an illegal drinking den or Shebeen as they are locally known. Looking like a traditional Soweto house, this place serves fantastic local food from grilled meats to crushed corn and beans. The long tables guarantee you'll be sitting alongside a resident or two of the area so be sure to strike up conversation for an insight into township life.
13.30 Take a Walk on the Wilder Side
After a dose of local culture and history, take some time to unwind in the beautiful surroundings of Jo'burg Zoo. A whole host of incredible animals live here from snow leopards to the Siberian tiger among hundreds of others. With open enclosures giraffes, zebra's and elephants look more at home here than they ever will at London zoo! If you're legs are giving out then why not grab a chauffeur driven buggy to wiz you around.
15.00 Shopping African Style
For a dose of retail therapy, take a walk to the Bruma Lake Flea Market. With over 620 traders selling everything from antiques and clothes to curios, textiles and furniture you're sure to find a bargain or two and if not it's certainly a feast for the eyes! Resembling a fisherman's village, the local area is lovely for a stroll as you gaze at all the goods on offer and sample some of the tasty local treats being cooked by the waterside.
17.30 Time for a Cocktail
Suggesting the Holiday Inn as a cocktail venue may seem strange but it's well worth a visit to the Skye Bar, located on its 9th floor. Order a cocktail, grab a seat by the window and admire the spectacular panorama at your leisure. Plush and comfortable with chandeliers and comfy chairs, it's really the view that makes this bar. If you are looking for somewhere to take a loved one for a special occasion, then this is definitely the place for a romantic evening. Book flights to Johannesburg and watch the dun go down together, with a sun downer or two.
20.00 Dinner Adventures
Moyo, at Melrose Arch, has definitely won the hearts and minds of Jo'burg locals and visitors alike. This large restaurant is spectacular from the moment you enter it, with swathes of cloth draped from the ceiling, comfy cushions and cosy nooks, wooden beams and lanterns; this place is a feast for all the senses. At night it is softly lit, with candles floating on the water outside. Cuisines from Senegal to Ethiopia, Egypt and Africa fill the mouth-watering menu. The wine list is equally extensive. Make sure you get a table that overlooks the stage as there are often live music performances to compliment dinner. For a moment of calm, after your meal, why not retire to the Cigar Lounge where you can luxuriate in a huge chair while contemplating your African adventure and planning your return flights to Johannesburg!