Apartheid Museum
Gain a profound understanding of South Africa's apartheid era through powerful exhibits and personal narratives.
Good to know
Allocate ample time for reflection; arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
What this plan covers
This itinerary delves deep into Johannesburg's rich, often challenging, history and its thriving cultural scene. Perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking an authentic understanding of South Africa's journey, it covers pivotal historical sites, vibrant art districts, and immersive cultural experiences.
Culture 8
Sightseeing 1
Viewpoint 1
Food 2
Activity 1
Nightlife 1
Day 1
Apartheid Museum, Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial and 3 more
See the day
Day 2
Constitution Hill, Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG) and 3 more
See the day
Day 3
Origins Centre at Wits University, Wits Art Museum (WAM) and 2 more
See the dayOpening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.
Day 1
Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial
Pay homage to the students who protested against apartheid and learn about the pivotal Soweto Uprising of 1976.
Good to know
Located in Orlando West, Soweto; often visited as part of a guided tour of the township.
Vilakazi Street (Mandela House & Tutu House)
Walk the only street in the world home to two Nobel Peace Prize winners, exploring their former residences and the vibrant local atmosphere.
Good to know
Explore on foot; consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the street's significance.
Orlando Towers
Witness an iconic Soweto landmark, the vibrant cooling towers transformed into a canvas of local art and adventure.
Good to know
Great photo opportunity; consider a quick stop for a unique perspective of the township.
Sakhumzi Restaurant
Experience authentic township cuisine and a lively atmosphere right on Vilakazi Street, a true taste of local life.
Good to know
Popular for lunch and dinner; try traditional South African dishes from the buffet.
Day 2
Constitution Hill
Explore the former prison complex that held Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, now home to South Africa's Constitutional Court and a beacon of democracy.
Good to know
Join a guided tour to fully appreciate the complex history of the Old Fort, Women's Gaol, and Number Four prison sections.
Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG)
Discover a vast collection of South African and international art, reflecting the country's diverse cultural landscape.
Good to know
Located in Joubert Park; check specific exhibition schedules if you have particular interests.
Maboneng Precinct
Immerse yourself in Johannesburg's urban regeneration success story, a vibrant hub of art, food, fashion, and creativity.
Good to know
Best explored on foot; offers numerous cafes and restaurants for lunch and unique local boutiques.
Gold Reef City Theme Park (Museum Area)
Step back in time to Johannesburg's gold rush era, exploring a recreated 19th-century mining town and descending into a real gold mine.
Good to know
Focus on the historical mining tour and museum exhibits for a cultural experience; booking the underground tour in advance is recommended.
The Bioscope Independent Cinema
Enjoy an evening of independent film in the heart of Maboneng, showcasing local and international cinematic talent.
Good to know
Check their website for showtimes and film selections; a great way to experience local culture after dinner.
Day 3
Origins Centre at Wits University
Journey through the origins of humankind and explore ancient rock art, providing a deep historical context to the continent.
Good to know
Located on the Wits University campus; guided tours are available and enhance the experience.
Wits Art Museum (WAM)
Discover a remarkable collection of African art, including traditional and contemporary works, offering insights into diverse cultural expressions.
Good to know
Adjacent to the Origins Centre; check for special exhibitions that may be running during your visit.
Braamfontein
Experience the vibrant student and creative energy of Braamfontein, a hub for trendy cafes, street art, and unique dining.
Good to know
Perfect for lunch with many diverse options; explore the area on foot to discover hidden gems.
Lesedi Cultural Village
Immerse yourself in the traditional cultures of various South African tribes, experiencing their customs, music, and dance.
Good to know
Located outside the city, a car or organized tour is necessary; book ahead for cultural performances and traditional meals.
Where to stay
Hotels in Johannesburg
Book direct on our own Johannesburg hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.
Holiday Inn Johannesburg Sunnyside Park By IHG
Princess Of Wales Terrace Corner Carse O' Gowrie And Sunnyside Drive | Johannesburg, 2041, ZA
RPG Corporate Unit
111 Malibongwe Drive Robindale Randburg Johannesburg Sandton | Johannesburg, 2194, ZA
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Things to book
Tours and activities in Johannesburg
Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.
Standard tour
Experience Johannesburg Wine Tour Views and Luxury
Free cancellationFind deals
Activity tour
Half-day Safari Experience in Dinokeng
Free cancellationFind deals
Unstructured tour
Botswana self drive guided Safari
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Half Day Guided Tour in Soweto
Free cancellationFind deals
Multi day tour
7 Day Classic Kruger National Park Safari
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Soweto and Lunch Tour
Free cancellationFind deals
Standard tour
Cradle of Human Kind Tour - Maropeng and Wondercave Tour
Free cancellationFind deals
Multi day tour
4 Days - Best of Johannesburg with Kruger 2 Days Safari
Free cancellationFind deals
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Keep planning
More Johannesburg itineraries
Other ways to spend a few days in Johannesburg, from our own travel research.
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Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is 3 days enough for Johannesburg?
Yes, three days covers roughly four or five stops a day, including Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill and Origins Centre at Wits University.
Where to stay in Johannesburg for 3 days?
Stay near Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial, which keeps Apartheid Museum and Orlando Towers close by.
Which tours go with this Johannesburg itinerary?
Three tours fit this itinerary: «Johannesburg Historical, Apartheid Museum & Soweto», «Half-Day Walking Tour in Soweto» and «Soweto half day guided tour.Pick up and drop off».
What can you see at Apartheid Museum?
You can see exhibits and personal narratives about South Africa's apartheid era. Time needed: 3 hours.
How long do you need at Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial?
Time needed: 1.5 hours. The museum covers the students who protested against apartheid and the Soweto Uprising.
How long do you need at Constitution Hill?
Time needed: 2.5 hours. The complex includes the Old Fort, Women's Gaol, Number Four prison sections and the Constitutional Court.
What is there to see on Vilakazi Street?
You can visit Mandela House and Tutu House, the former residences on this street. Time needed: 2 hours.
What does Origins Centre at Wits University cover?
It covers the origins of humankind and ancient rock art, giving historical context to the continent.
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