What to Do in Johannesburg in One Day

Johannesburg is a wonderful city to visit throughout the year. This vibrant metropolis is situated in South Africa and has everything from art galleries to live entertainment, fantastic shopping and mouth-watering eateries. For a trip brimming with culture and exploration, there is no better place to go than Johannesburg. 

If you’re seeking your next exciting adventure, Johannesburg has something for all. However, for those with limited time here, we have everything you need to know below for one day in the city. Keep reading to learn more about the fascinating sights and attractions, so that you can plan your trip here with all of these spots in mind. 

When is the Best Time to Visit Johannesburg?

Often, tours head to Johannesburg during a safari getaway. In particular, those visiting Pilanesberg National Park choose to spend some of their break exploring the bustling streets of this South African city. With this in mind, a trip here is perfect anytime from September to November. This is when the wildlife is most prevalent, allowing for great sightings, alongside lovely weather to explore Johannesburg. 

Expect temperatures to average around 19°C to 25°C during this time. You will also find that November is one of the warmer months here, great for those seeking plenty of sunshine and longer daylight hours. A day exploring Johannesburg in late spring or early summer is an excellent option for a range of holiday itineraries.  

How to Get to Johannesburg

A trip to Johannesburg is relatively easy as the popularity of the city means that there are international flights to Johannesburg O.R.Tambo International Airport. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a convenient safari destination, alongside the opportunity to explore this beautiful city. 

There are also great flights from Durban, Cape Town and many other frequented cities. So, anyone travelling in South Africa can also reach Johannesburg with ease. If you have planned a safari package in Pilanesberg National Park, many of these also include airport transfers. 

The Best Things to Do in Johannesburg

Now you know a little more about when to visit and how to get to the city, the next part of planning your trip is knowing the best things to see in Johannesburg. Luckily enough, we have gathered some of our top recommendations below, to help you organise your next getaway here. 

Top Attractions in Johannesburg

Nelson Mandela Square

With only one day to spend, you’re likely in pursuit of the top Johannesburg attractions. With this in mind, a must-visit sightseeing spot is Nelson Mandela Square. Here you will find a memorial statue for the late president, Nelson Mandela. This is a lovely part of the city and is also great for those looking to grab a bite to eat as there are plenty of eateries here. 

Soweto Towers

The Soweto Towers are another key attraction in Johannesburg tourism and something that you should certainly check out when visiting for the day. You can take a tour of the Soweto Towers, allowing visitors to explore structures that date back to the 1950s. These towers also provide an excellent photo opportunity as they are brightly coloured and an iconic part of the city’s history. 

What to See in Johannesburg

Vilakazi Street in Soweto

After you have seen the Orlando Towers or Soweto Towers, the next thing to do on your one-day trip to Johannesburg is to explore Vilakazi Street in Soweto. The street is about 2.5 miles from the towers, so can be easily accessed by those with limited time here. 

When exploring Vilakazi Street, there is the opportunity to check out Nelson Mandela’s house, alongside an array of fantastic restaurants. This neighbourhood allows tourists to get a true sense of Johannesburg, alongside the chance to uncover some of the city’s history.  

The Apartheid Museum

A trip to the Apartheid Museum is perfect for those looking to uncover more of South Africa’s history and is a must-visit spot in the city. Here you can learn more about racial segregation, browse the galleries and understand the discriminations that South Africans endured. The Apartheid Museum allows for an eye-opening experience and is something that all tourists should see when planning to explore Johannesburg. 

Souvenir Street

For those seeking some souvenirs to remember their travels to Johannesburg, a trip to Souvenir Street is a great option. Situated near the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum are the colourful stalls of Souvenir Street. Shoppers can browse the many arts and crafts on offer, alongside some authentic gifts to take home. 

Where to Stay in Johannesburg

Those who visit Johannesburg often look to extend their stay, as there is so much happening throughout the city. There are some amazing accommodations here, however, to get the most out of your visit, we recommend staying on safari with the opportunity to experience Johannesburg throughout your time here. 

You can explore the energetic streets of Johannesburg and then head to Pilanesberg National Park for luxurious lodgings, dramatic landscapes and fascinating wildlife.  The ideal combination of wilderness and city living gives tourists a rounded experience of South Africa, perfect for those enjoying their first trip here. 

Safari Near Johannesburg

One of the main draws to Johannesburg is the safari offering nearby. A popular choice is Pilanesberg National Park and with so much to see here, it comes as no surprise why. Stay in lavish lodges, get up and close to the Big 5 and experience all that South Africa’s wilderness has to offer. Plus, the easy access to Johannesburg means that visitors get the best of both worlds when staying here. 

Summary

It is clear to see that a one-day adventure in Johannesburg allows visitors to see much of what the city has to offer. With so many amazing attractions, alongside the opportunity to encounter a safari expedition, a trip here is sure to impress the whole family. Explore historical sites, iconic structures, fascinating wildlife and much more when enjoying a trip to South Africa.