Suburbs

Johannesburg’s central business district (CBD) is a fascinating blend of heritage and innovation. Its skyline is punctuated by architectural gems that tell the story of the city’s rich past, now standing alongside some of the most exciting urban renewal initiatives in the country. The CBD remains a bustling commercial hub, home to several corporate headquarters and vibrant shopping areas. One such hotspot is Small Street, located in the eastern part of the inner city, which is part of the city’s expansive Fashion District - a 30-block zone featuring a public square and Fashion Kapital, the only permanent public-space catwalk in the world and headquarters of the Fashion District Institute.

Popular tourist attractions in the area include the Carlton Centre, one of Africa’s tallest buildings and the historic charm of Main Street. To the east lies the dynamic Maboneng Precinct, a thriving mixed-use cultural and lifestyle hub that includes Arts on Main and Main Street Life. Nearby, Emirates Airline Park offers world-class sporting events at one of South Africa’s premier stadiums. Surrounding the CBD are some of Johannesburg’s most character-filled suburbs, including Newtown and Braamfontein, Fordsburg, Melville, Milpark, the historic ridges of Westcliff and Parktown and the leafy enclaves of the “Parks”, as well as Rosebank, Greenside, Cyrildene and Kensington.

Synonymous with business and shopping, Sandton is home to Johannesburg Stock Exchange, as well as 75% of company headquarters located in South Africa. Aside from the banks and gleaming corporate headquarters you’ll find a plethora of hotels, restaurants, bistros, bars, clubs and shopping malls. Sandton is surrounded by the lush leafy suburbs of Hyde Park, Athol, Morningside and Bryanston, Randburg, Fourways, Melrose Arch, Norwood and Alexandra Township.

Proclaimed as a Native Township in 1912, Alexandra was one of the few areas where blacks could own land during the apartheid years. Covering only 6.7 square kilometres, this historic township has a vibrant booming population, known for their fierce resistance during the years of oppression. Given its contemporary history, the township is best exploded through the eyes of the locals, so guided cultural tours are exploded through the eyes of the locals, so guided cultural tours are recommended.

Top attractions in Soweto include: Vilakazi Street (the only street in the world which has been home to two Nobel Peace Prize Laureates), The Mandela Family Museum and Hector Pieterson Museum, as well as the Walter Sisulu Square in Kliptown, where the Freedom Charter was signed and adopted in 1995. Eat, drink, be merry and mingle with the locals in one of the many welcoming restaurants. Located in the outskirts of Soweto is the FNB Stadium (Soccer City), host to the opening and closing matches of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa, among many other match fixtures, and subsequently, a line-up including international rugby matches and live concerts. With a design replicating the shape of a calabash, this state of the art stadium is the largest in Africa, with the capacity to host 94 0000 fans.

The south of Joburg features a colourful Portuguese community and fabulous Portuguese cuisine and Italian seafood restaurants. This area is worth visiting to explore sites and attractions including, but not limited to, the Kliprivierberg Nature Reserve, the James Hall Transport Museum with its collection of vintage vehicles, as well as Gold Reef City and the adjoining Apartheid Museum. Soweto, the most famous township in the country, if not in the world, is located here and boasts a wealth culture and historic attractions.

Steeped in gold rush history and rich in natural beauty, Joburg West offers a blend of heritage, adventure and suburban charm. Anchored by the historic mining towns of Krugersdorp and Randfontein, the area is dotted with old churches, heritage buildings and reminders of Johannesburg’s early industrial boom. Today, it’s a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, with attractions like the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens and the Cradle of Humankind just a short drive away.

Suburbs such as Roodepoort, Weltevreden Park, Honeydew and Muldersdrift offer a mix of residential calm and commercial convenience, with shopping centres, schools and entertainment venues aplenty. The area’s countryside feel is balanced by a growing arts and food scene, particularly in Muldersdrift, where farm-style eateries and wedding venues abound. Whether you're chasing history, nature, or a slower pace of life, Joburg West delivers it with a distinctly local flair.