Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Johannesburg Gems: Chic Stays, Cool Cafés & Must-See Spots in the City of Gold 🌆✨

Two Hearts emoji 39 items
Jozi’s got stories, skyline views, and style for days — here’s where to stay, sip, shop, and soak up the vibe. Welcome to Joburg — a buzzing blend of culture, creativity, and urban energy. Whether you're here for a luxe layover or ready to deep dive ...
Sections
6
 
 
 
 
 
 

✨ Where to Stay

Handpicked hotels that give serious style, comfort, and Insta moments — whether you’re in Sandton, Melrose Arch, or the artsy corners of Maboneng.

 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Experience 5-star luxury at The Saxon Boutique Villas in Johannesburg—where elegance meets serenity. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa, Johannesburg
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Discover urban sophistication at Hallmark House Hotel in vibrant Maboneng—a perfect blend of modern design and local culture. Ideal for creative travelers, couples, and families.
Hallmark House by BON Hotels
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Why it’s fab: Think sleek, homey luxury meets smart tech — this is boutique hospitality done right. Stylish interiors, amazing location, and a rooftop pool to seal the deal.
Home Suite Hotels Rosebank
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
A sustainable, eco-chic hideaway that feels like a private garden retreat in the city. African art, bespoke service, and modern elegance — it’s loved by creatives and conscious travelers. Highly recommendable!!
The Peech Hotel, Johannesburg
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
A leafy escape with vintage charm, warm hosts, and cottagecore energy. Feels like staying with stylish friends — without compromising privacy or polish.
Little Forest Farm, Magaliesburg
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Indulge in world-class elegance at Four Seasons The Westcliff, perched atop one of Johannesburg’s most prestigious hills. Perfect for romantic getaways, luxury seekers, and families.
Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff

☕ Where to Sip

Coffee is a love language in this city — and Joburg locals take it seriously.

 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Discover artisan coffee perfection at Father Coffee, one of Joburg’s most beloved specialty cafés. A must-visit for coffee enthusiasts, remote workers, and foodies
Father Coffee, Johannesburg - 73 Juta Street Braamfontein - Restaurant Reviews, Phone Number & Photos -
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Experience South Africa’s first specialty coffee roastery at Bean There, where every cup tells a story of sustainability and craftsmanship. A must-visit for coffee purists, eco-conscious travelers, and slow coffee lovers. Bonus Local Tip: Try their "...
Bean There Coffee Roastery, Johannesburg -
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Why it’s fab: A local fave. Modern, stylish, and brunch-worthy. Get their signature coffees or lavender latte and pair with a killer eggs benedict.
The Whippet Coffee Linden, Randburg
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Why it’s fab: A vibey little spot on the trendiest street in Parkhurst. Great for people-watching and those cute cappuccino moments.
Nice on 4th, Johannesburg
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Escape to Croft & Co., where bistro elegance meets laid-back Joburg charm. Perfect for brunch lovers, remote workers, and foodie explorers.
Croft & Co, Randburg
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Why it’s fab: New on the scene and all about good design, great taste, and even better pastries. A hidden gem for those in-the-know.
Loof Coffee, Johannesburg
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Discover small-batch coffee perfection at Foakes Coffee, where passion meets precision in every cup. A haven for true coffee connoisseurs, specialty brew seekers, and local explorers.
Foakes Coffee Roastery | Johannesburg

🍴 Where to Eat

From Afro-fusion to global bites, here’s where the food scene hits.

 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Indulge in South Africa’s most celebrated flame-cooked cuisine at Marble Restaurant, where gourmet dining meets dramatic open-fire theatre. Perfect for special occasions, meat lovers, and culinary adventurers. Pro Tip: Their "Flame-Grilled Bone Marro...
Marble Restaurant, Johannesburg -
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Discover honest, seasonal dining at Pantry, where fresh ingredients and warm hospitality create magic. Perfect for casual brunches, coffee dates, and food lovers. Local’s Tip: Don’t miss their famous "Pantry Breakfast" – a Johannesburg institution!
Pantry By Marble - We’ve Made It Easy To Be Fancy
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Dive into Rio’s carnival spirit at Mama Samba, where fiery Brazilian flavors meet Joburg energy. Perfect for party lovers, meat enthusiasts, and cultural explorers. Pro Tip: Go hungry for their "Rodizio" – unlimited premium meats delivered non-stop! ...
Mama Samba, Johannesburg -
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Step into Cape Town’s famed dining experience right in Joburg at The Shortmarket Club, where contemporary elegance meets bold flavors. Perfect for discerning foodies, romantic evenings, and luxury seekers. Connoisseur’s Tip: Try the "Chef’s Journey" ...
The Shortmarket Club Johannesburg -
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Ditch the ordinary at Saigon Suzy, where 1970s Saigon glam collides with Joburg energy in a vibrant, Insta-worthy dining experience. Perfect for cocktail lovers, adventurous foodies, and girls’ night out crews. Must-Try: Their "Suzy’s Secret" spring ...
Saigon Suzy Parkwood, Johannesburg

🛍️ Where to Shop

Designers, markets, and fashion with a side of Jozi flair.

 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Discover Joburg’s coolest creative hub at 44 Stanley, a revitalized industrial complex buzzing with indie boutiques, artisanal eats, and laid-back charm. Perfect for culture seekers, coffee lovers, and weekend explorers
44 STANLEY
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Dive into Joburg’s most vibrant market experience at the Neighbourgoods Market, where food, design, and community collide every weekend. A must-visit for food adventurers, craft lovers, and urban explorers.
NEIGHBOUR GOODS MARKET
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Joburg’s most iconic shopping destination at Sandton City, where high-end retail meets cosmopolitan glamour. Perfect for luxury shoppers, business travelers, and style seekers. Don’t Miss: The Diamond Walk featuring the world’s most exclusive jeweler...
SANDTON CITY SHOPPING CENTRE

🖼️ What to See & Do

Museums, neighborhoods, and the kind of cultural cool you’ll remember long after you leave.

 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Uncover Johannesburg’s powerful history and vibrant culture on this immersive full-day journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks. Perfect for history buffs, cultural explorers, and responsible travelers. More than a tour – it’s an education!
Johannesburg: Full-Day Tour with Soweto and Apartheid Museum
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Stand where South Africa’s democracy was born at Constitution Hill, a powerful heritage site that transformed from prison to protector of human rights. Essential for history lovers, social justice advocates, and conscious travelers. Don’t Miss: The “...
Constitution Hill, Johannesburg - Book Tours, Tickets, Unique Experiences & More
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Experience Soweto’s vibrant sports culture on this unique tour that scores big with soccer history and local passion. Perfect for sports fans, cultural explorers, and families.
Johannesburg: Maboneng Street Art & Culture Tour
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Why it’s fab: Hop on and hop off the iconic red double-decker bus for a laid-back, yet informative way to see the city's top attractions. Perfect for first-timers who want to get the lay of the land. Stops include the Apartheid Museum, Constitution H...
Johannesburg: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus with Optional Soweto Tour
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Why it’s fab: Dive deep into the heart of South Africa’s past with a guided walking tour through Soweto. Visit historic sites like Vilakazi Street, The Hector Pieterson Memorial, and Nelson Mandela’s former home. It’s an eye-opening experience into t...
Soweto: Walking Tour with a Local Guide and Lunch

💫 Just Outside Jozi: Day Trips & Chic Getaways

Step outside the city and discover some hidden gems — from safari escapes to mountain hideaways and foodie havens, these nearby spots offer the perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and local charm. Because the magic doesn’t stop in Johannesburg — it j...

 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Journey to the birthplace of humanity on this fascinating day trip from Pretoria/Johannesburg to UNESCO-listed archaeological wonders. Perfect for history lovers, science enthusiasts, and curious travelers.
Maropeng, Cradle of Humankind & Sterkfontein Caves trip from Johannesburg
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Escape to South Africa’s most accessible Big 5 safari destination, where volcanic landscapes meet incredible biodiversity. Perfect for first-time safari-goers, families, and nature lovers.
Pilanesberg National Park & Game Reserve
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Take to the skies on Gauteng’s longest cable car ride, offering breathtaking 360° views of the Magaliesberg mountains and Hartbeespoort Dam. Pro Tip: Time your visit for sunset when the dam turns golden!
Harties Aerial Cableway, Gauteng - Book Tours, Tickets, Unique Experiences & More
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Savor delicious coffee and unique brunch options at French Toast Koffie Kafee in Hartbeespoort. Nestled in the heart of Madibeng, this cozy café offers a charming atmosphere and an unforgettable menu, perfect for a relaxing outing with friends or a c...
FRENCH TOAST KOFFIE KAFEE, Hartbeespoort - Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Tripadvisor
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Escape to a Dutch-inspired farmstead where artisanal cheese meets country charm. Perfect for foodies, families, and weekend adventurers. Ready for a brie-lliant day out? The countryside awaits! 🐄🌿
Cheese Farm | Van Gaalen | North West
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Experience la dolce vita (the sweet life) at this elegant Tuscan-style retreat, where Mediterranean charm meets South African hospitality. Perfect for romantic getaways, business travelers, and discerning guests. Don’t Miss: Sunset aperitivo hour by ...
La Dolce Vita Guest House
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Escape to Budmarsh Private Lodge in Magaliesburg for a peaceful retreat in nature. With luxurious rooms, personalized service, and serene surroundings, it’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge.
Budmarsh Country Lodge
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Mount Grace Hotel & Spa in Magaliesburg offers a serene retreat with excellent service and a stunning environment. Guests rave about the welcoming staff, relaxing atmosphere, and exceptional breakfast. It’s the perfect destination for those looki...
Mount Grace Hotel & Spa
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Great dine out experience in Magaliesburg, offering gin tasting, craft beers and stunning gardens.
Black Horse, Magaliesburg
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Pretoria is only 45 minutes from Johannesburg.  Perfect for a Saturday outing.  Visit the stunning Hazel Food Market, a top choice for a Saturday day out.
HAZEL FOOD MARKET
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
In Pretoria, it is quirky, colourful, and always delicious.  A must visit if you decide to go to Pretoria.
Afro-Boer, Pretoria
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
Why it’s fab: A serene retreat blending rustic charm with modern luxury, Kleinkaap offers eco-conscious hospitality amidst lush gardens. Ideal for those seeking tranquility and elegance.​ Book a weekend away at Kleinkaap in Pretoria.
Kleinkaap Boutique Hotel, Centurion (updated prices 2025)
 
Cornelia Van Zyl profile picture
This unique South African attraction offers a surreal, Instagram-worthy experience with fully inverted rooms, ceiling-mounted furniture, and mind-bending photo ops. Perfect for families and thrill-seekers, explore its quirky design against stunning M...
UpSide Down House South Africa