Sandton

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Nelson Mandela Square
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Johannesburg

Nelson Mandela Square

7.3
4.5/5
87 reviews
Nelson Mandela Square is located in the heart of Sandton, Johannesburg, and is an open-air shopping and dining precinct designed after European squares. The square is built in the Italian style ofSt. Mark's Square in Veniceand is connected to the adjacent Sandton City shopping center. Formerly known as Sandton Square, the square unveiled a bronze statue of Mandela, approx. 6m tall, in its center when it was renamed in 2004. This statue remains the visual focal point of the square and a landmark where visitors flock to take photos. The square is surrounded by dozens of boutique shops and restaurants serving international cuisine, including French, Greek, Italian, and African dishes. The open-air dining area offers a pleasant atmosphere and is popular with both locals and tourists. The fountain area is suitable for families with children, making it a great destination for shopping, dining, and leisure.Sandton · 191m from downtown
China Town, Johannesburg

China Town, Johannesburg

5.7
3.7/5
6 reviews
China Town, Johannesburgis located in the Cyrildene district on the east side of the city. The entire neighborhood stretches along Derrick Avenue and is one of the most representative Chinese communities in Johannesburg. Strolling down the street, you will see a mix of Chinese signs, Chinese-style building facades, Chinese supermarkets, and street-side vegetable stalls, with the rich Chinese urban streetscape creating a striking contrast with the local South African environment. The most eye-catching attraction in the neighborhood is the Chinese-style archway at the entrance. Decorated with traditional elements such as dragons and lions, it is both an important landmark of the Chinatown and a popular spot where tourists often stop to take photos. Continuing along the street, you can see Chinese shops and restaurants of various styles, where Chinese shop signs and street stalls together create a lively commercial atmosphere. During the Spring Festival, the neighborhood holds an annual street celebration, where traditional activities such as dragon and lion dances, gongs and drums, and fireworks take turns, immersing the whole street in a lively festive atmosphere.Johannesburg · 8.9 km from Sandton
Apartheid Museum
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Johannesburg

Apartheid Museum

6.9
4.7/5
58 reviews
The Apartheid Museum shows how 12 years after the end of apartheid in South Africa, the country that once practiced the notorious apartheid system has grown from "black and white" to a "rainbow country". Located in the southwest corner of Johannesburg, South Africa.Johannesburg South · 15.3 km from Sandton
Johannesburg Zoo
No. 5 of Family-friendly Attractions in South Africa

Johannesburg Zoo

5.5
4.6/5
29 reviews
Johannesburg Zoo is located in the leafy northern suburbs of Johannesburg. Established in 1904, it covers an area of approx. 55 hectares and is adjacent to Zoo Lake Park, making it one of the larger urban zoos in the area. The park is characterized by its rich variety of animal species and relatively open, naturalistic exhibits, combining wildlife viewing with green spaces. Inside the park, trees, lawns, walkways, and animal enclosures are intertwined, and the large green spaces within the urban environment provide a comfortable atmosphere for visitors. The zoo currently houses approx. 2,000 animals across more than 300 species. Large animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and rhinos are the main attractions, and visitors can observe their activities in different exhibit areas. Smaller but distinctive animals like red pandas and honey badgers are also found throughout the park, enriching the overall animal exhibits. The activity spaces for different animals are set up according to their habits, and visitors can explore them step by step along the park's walkways.Randburg · 7.1 km from Sandton
Gold Reef City Theme Park
No. 3 of Family-friendly Attractions in South Africa

Gold Reef City Theme Park

6.1
4.8/5
82 reviews
Gold Reef City Theme Parkis located on the site of a decommissioned gold mine south of Johannesburg and is a large, comprehensive theme park themed around South Africa's gold rush history. Set against the backdrop of the 1880s Witwatersrand Gold Rush, the park recreates a mining town that emerged during that era. It creates a rich historical atmosphere through vintage architecture, street layouts, costumed characters, and mining facilities. Peacocks can often be seen strolling leisurely through the streets, adding a touch of natural charm to the historical setting. The park's signature attraction is the underground mine experience. Visitors can follow a guide into the old tunnels of the abandoned mine, travel deep into the mining area along dark underground passages, observe gold-bearing veins in the rock layers up close, and learn about the working environment of early gold miners.Johannesburg South · 14.9 km from Sandton
Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct
No. 7 of Family-friendly Attractions in South Africa

Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct

4.9
4.6/5
11 reviews
Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct is not a mountain, but a museum. Old buildings and a newly built Constitutional Court together make up this museum. Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, it is a landmark of profound historical significance. It was once the site of an old prison and is now home to the Constitutional Court of South Africa. This place is not only a symbol of law and justice but also an important witness to South Africa's democratic process. Visitors can tour the old prison complex, including the notorious "Number Four" prison, where many anti-apartheid leaders were once imprisoned. Through these historical sites, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of South Africa's history of apartheid and the struggle for freedom. The Constitutional Court itself is also a building worth visiting, blending modern design with traditional African art elements, symbolizing the birth of South Africa's new constitution. Visitors can tour the court with a guide to learn about its design concepts and functions. Whether you are a history buff or an ordinary visitor, this place offers a profound cultural and educational experience.Johannesburg · 9.2 km from Sandton
FNB Stadium

FNB Stadium

5.7
Soccer City Stadium, formerly known as FNB Stadium, is located in Johannesburg, South Africa and is a famous stadium in South Africa. It is famous for hosting the opening ceremony and final of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and has become a mecca for football fans around the world. The design of the stadium was inspired by traditional African pottery and has a unique appearance, which is particularly spectacular when illuminated at night. The stadium can accommodate about 94,000 spectators and is an ideal place to watch football matches and large-scale concerts. In addition to sporting events, Soccer City Stadium also hosts various cultural events and concerts, attracting many internationally renowned artists to perform. Visitors can book a guided tour to learn more about the stadium's history and architectural features, and even have the opportunity to visit the dressing rooms and players' tunnel. The stadium is not far from the center of Johannesburg, and visitors can choose to drive or take public transportation. There are parking lots and catering facilities around the venue, making it convenient for visitors to enjoy delicious food before and after the event.Johannesburg South · 16 km from Sandton
Johannesburg Botanical Gardens
No. 7 of Spring Outings in South Africa

Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

4.5
4.8/5
32 reviews
The Johannesburg Botanic Gardens, located in the Emmarentia suburb of Johannesburg, South Africa, covers approximately 81 hectares and is a vital green and relaxing destination in the city. Originally a large rose garden built in the 1960s, the garden has been continuously developed to feature expansive lawns, a rich collection of trees, and distinctive themed gardens, including the Main Botanic Garden, the Rose Garden, the Shakespeare Garden, the Herb Garden, and the Hedgerow Demonstration Garden. The Main Botanic Garden features a diverse array of plants and trees from South Africa and around the world. The Rose Garden, with approximately 10,000 roses of various varieties, is ideal for weddings and photography. The Herb Garden features a variety of plants used in cooking, medicine, and beauty. The gardens include a swimming lake surrounded by extensive lawns and woods, a popular destination for residents. The gardens also feature a restaurant, a herbarium, and a library. Leveraging its rich natural water bodies and ecosystems, the Johannesburg Botanic Gardens offer a multifunctional space for both leisure and enjoyment, as well as a scientific and cultural experience.Randburg · 7.6 km from Sandton
Carlton Centre
No. 7 of Best Things to Do in Johannesburg

Carlton Centre

4.4
4.1/5
25 reviews
Carlton Centre is located in the heart of the Johannesburg CBD and is the second-tallest skyscraper in Africa. The top-floor observation deck offers a 360° panoramic view of the city. We recommend visiting on a clear day to avoid backlighting. After taking the elevator directly to the 49th floor, you will need to walk up a spiral staircase. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows, you can clearly identify landmarks such as FNB Stadium. The observation level features free telescopes and a photo exhibition on the city's history. English-language tours must be booked in advance via the official website. The ground floor connects to the Carlton Centre shopping mall, but we recommend walking for approx. 5 minutes to Main Street to experience the local markets. For self-drive, we recommend parking at the Rissik Street parking lot (extra charge), or take the subway and get off at Carlton Station. You can combine your visit with the nearby Apartheid Museum. We suggest planning this as a half-day city exploration route. Please note that the surrounding business district is crowded during lunch hours on working days, and it is recommended to leave valuables at your hotel.Johannesburg · 10.9 km from Sandton
Sandton Convention Centre

Sandton Convention Centre

4.1
The Sandton Convention Centre is located in the Sandton business district of Johannesburg, South Africa, and serves as an important venue for non-profit and commercial conference events. The center covers a large area and features a variety of flexible exhibition and conference spaces, capable of accommodating needs of different scales, from small, private meetings to large exhibitions and banquets. The architectural design emphasizes modernity and practicality, with advanced audiovisual and communication equipment, professional exhibition setup areas, and comprehensive logistical support inside to ensure events run smoothly. The surrounding environment is well-developed, with a concentration of hotels, shopping centers, and dining and entertainment facilities, making it easy for attendees to make one-stop arrangements. The Sandton Convention Centre, with its efficient service, convenient transportation connections, and close integration with local business and cultural activities, has become one of the iconic venues in the commercial core.Sandton · 338m from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Sandton

Featured Cultural experiences in Sandton

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Pretoria Highlights Audio Tour: Historical Landmarks and Cultural Heritage
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Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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Johannesburg Highlights Audio Tour: Architectural Heritage
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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20% off
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Johannesburg: Soweto, Mandela Museum & Apartheid Tour
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5.0/5
· 4 reviews
Duration: 3 hrs
Free cancellation
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5% off
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FromPKR 11,795.31PKR 12,416.12
Soweto: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, City Tour and Apartheid Museum
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Duration: 1 day
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Johannesburg: Maboneng Street Art & Culture Tour
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5.0/5
· 6 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
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FromPKR 9,436.24PKR 9,932.89

Free things to do in Sandton

What travelers say about Sandton

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LakesonJanuary 8, 2025
5.0
beautiful and scenery views 💕❤️ What a splendid beautiful place with lovely music and mouth watering cuisines and of course, a beautiful state of art theatre

Nelson Mandela Square

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omgeaJune 27, 2023
5.0
I feel like this street is the first one that Beijingers go to, and its style is very similar to the streetscape in Beijing.

China Town, Johannesburg

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Tania Akter (Bangladesh)November 6, 2025
5.0
🕊️ Apartheid Museum – A Powerful Journey Through South Africa’s HistoryThe Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is a deeply moving tribute to South Africa’s struggle for freedom and equality. Through powerful exhibits, photographs, films, and personal stories, it chronicles the rise and fall of apartheid with honesty and emotion. Visitors walk through thought-provoking displays that highlight the courage, pain, and triumph of those who fought for justice. The museum’s design itself—symbolic and immersive—creates a reflective atmosphere that stays with you long after your visit. A visit to the Apartheid Museum is not just educational but profoundly human, reminding us of the enduring value of dignity and unity. 🇿🇦 #SouthAfrica #Johannesburg #ApartheidMuseum #History #HumanRights

Apartheid Museum

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Explore-15September 8, 2023
5.0
We had a lovely time at the Johannesburg zoo. The zoo is very green, lush and spacious and has a great diversity of animals. it’s a very nice environment to stroll around and learn about the different animals.

Johannesburg Zoo

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Ms_CeeMay 30, 2023
5.0
I have been there twice , and wish to go back again …. did not explore it enough. it’s easy to navigate and find things around

Gold Reef City Theme Park

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DEAR张小球April 2, 2020
5.0
Constitution Hill is a place with beautiful natural scenery. Climbing up Constitution Hill, you can enjoy a very beautiful view of Johannesburg. It is called Constitution Hill because it is also a place where you can visit the history of South African serfs.

Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct

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Lavender and SunMay 8, 2023
5.0
The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens in South Africa was built on the basis of Jan Van Riebeeck Park in 1969. At that time, the overall design of the plant planting in the entire park was based on 42 families of trees as the framework, and other plants were planted according to their ecological habits and ornamental characteristics.

Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

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小鱼儿2015March 31, 2020
4.0
The tallest modern building in Johannesburg is also a commercial facility. The elevators here are very fast. Many multinational companies also come here to produce and work, which is a state of benefit.

Carlton Centre

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Sandton?

Don't miss these attractions in Sandton: Nelson Mandela Square, China Town, Johannesburg, and Apartheid Museum. If you like Cultural experiences, try 1-day tour to Soweto + Apartheid Museum + Mandela legend from Johannesburg, South Africa. If you enjoy Day tours, try Cultural village experience in Lesedi, South Africa (round-trip from Johannesburg).

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Cultural village experience in Lesedi, South Africa (round-trip from Johannesburg), Pretoria + Lion & Safari Park Day Tour with Round-Trip Departure from Johannesburg, and Pretoria and Cullinan Diamonds day tour in South Africa. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of October 28, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Sandton is around PKR 55,762.95 – PKR 101,387.17. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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