For long-haul travellers flying from London, Paris, or Frankfurt to Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth, layovers are inevitable. But instead of enduring a tiresome wait in an airport lounge, why not make the most of your journey by stopping over in Johannesburg?
As South Africa’s largest city and main international gateway, Johannesburg (or Joburg, as the locals call it) is not only a key transit hub but also a destination packed with history, culture, and world-class hospitality. With direct flights from London Heathrow and major European cities, and onward connections to Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, Johannesburg is the ideal place to refresh, recharge, and explore before continuing your journey to Australia.
Whether you have 24, 48, or even 72 hours, Johannesburg offers a seamless mix of business, leisure, and relaxation—all within easy reach of the airport.
Seamless Arrivals and Easy Connections
Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) is the largest and busiest in Africa, offering world-class facilities for international travellers. It serves as a key transit hub, with direct flights to Sydney and Perth operated by major airlines, including Qantas and South African Airways.
For those flying from London or Europe, direct flights to Johannesburg are available from:
- London Heathrow (British Airways, Virgin Atlantic,)
- Paris Charles de Gaulle (Air France)
- Frankfurt (Lufthansa)
From Johannesburg, you can easily connect to Australia with direct or one-stop flights to:
- Sydney (Qantas)
- Melbourne (Qantas)
- Perth (South African Airways or Qantas)
The airport is just 25-30 minutes from central Johannesburg, making it easy to turn your stopover into an enjoyable mini break.
Getting into the City
- Gautrain Express – The most efficient way to reach the city centre. This high-speed train connects the airport to Sandton (Johannesburg’s business and luxury district) in just 15 minutes.
- Taxi and Ride-Hailing Apps – Uber and Bolt are widely available, offering safe and affordable transfers to business districts, hotels, and major attractions.
- Hotel Transfers – Most major hotels provide private airport transfers for added convenience.
Where to Stay: Business Meets Luxury
Johannesburg boasts world-class hotels and luxury accommodations, many of which cater specifically to business and transit travellers.
Top Hotels for Business and Comfort
- The Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa – A luxurious boutique hotel in Sandhurst, known for hosting world leaders, including Nelson Mandela. Ideal for business travellers seeking privacy and exclusivity.
- Sandton Sun Hotel – Located in Sandton City, this hotel offers modern business facilities, rooftop dining, and direct access to shopping and entertainment.
- InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport – The ultimate convenience for short layovers, located just a few steps from the airport terminal.
For a more boutique experience, consider The Peech Hotel, a stylish and eco-friendly option in Melrose, offering quiet surroundings and easy access to the city’s attractions.
Where Business Meets Leisure
Johannesburg is a thriving economic hub, home to financial institutions, corporate headquarters, and tech start ups. For those needing meeting spaces or co-working hubs, there are several excellent options.
Co-Working and Meeting Spaces
- Workshop17 Sandton – A high-end co-working space in the heart of Johannesburg’s financial district, ideal for business meetings and remote work.
- The Business Exchange – A stylish business centre offering office space and conference facilities with panoramic city views.
- Mesh Club – A trendy, members-only workspace in Rosebank, catering to entrepreneurs, executives, and digital nomads.
For business lunches, Johannesburg’s café culture and fine dining scene provide plenty of excellent meeting spots.
- Marble – A high-end restaurant specialising in open-fire cooking, perfect for entertaining clients.
- Saint – A stylish Italian-inspired eatery in Sandton, ideal for casual meetings in a vibrant atmosphere.
- Tashas Nelson Mandela Square – A relaxed yet elegant café offering great coffee and healthy dishes.
With a few hours between meetings, Johannesburg’s mix of art, history, and nature offers plenty of ways to take a break from work and explore.
Cultural and Historical Highlights
Johannesburg is rich in history, and a layover here provides an excellent opportunity to experience some of its most important landmarks.
Apartheid Museum & Constitution Hill
For those with just a few hours to spare, the Apartheid Museum is an essential visit. It offers a powerful insight into South Africa’s past, providing context for the city’s transformation. Nearby, Constitution Hill is another must-see—this former prison-turned-human-rights-museum tells the story of South Africa’s journey to democracy.
Maboneng Precinct
If you prefer a more modern and creative atmosphere, Maboneng is a trendy district filled with art galleries, street art, boutique stores, and rooftop bars. It’s a great place to unwind, enjoy a coffee, or explore Johannesburg’s urban renewal.
Soweto and Vilakazi Street
For a deeper cultural experience, Soweto—home to Nelson Mandela’s former residence—is worth a visit. The famous Vilakazi Street is the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Prize winners (Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu).
For a quick visit, a guided tuk-tuk tour of Soweto is a fantastic way to experience the area’s energy and heritage in a short time.
Outdoor Breaks and Wildlife Experiences
If you need to recharge in nature before a long flight, Johannesburg has fantastic options close to the city.
The Cradle of Humankind
Just an hour from the airport, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the world’s oldest human fossils. It’s a fascinating, peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle.
Lion & Safari Park
For those pressed for time but keen to experience South African wildlife, this wildlife sanctuary is less than an hour from Johannesburg and offers the chance to see lions, cheetahs, and giraffes up close.
For a more relaxed urban retreat, Johannesburg Botanical Gardens offers a green escape where you can take a quiet walk before heading back to the airport.
Dining and Nightlife: Unwinding Before the Next Flight
Johannesburg has an impressive dining scene, blending African, European, and Asian influences. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, the city delivers.
Best Restaurants for Business or Leisure
- DW Eleven-13 – One of Joburg’s best fine dining restaurants, offering a sophisticated menu perfect for special occasions.
- Proud Mary – A modern bistro with stylish decor, great for business dinners or social networking.
- The Living Room – A rooftop venue in Maboneng, offering panoramic views and a relaxed atmosphere.
If you have a late-night layover, Sin + Tax is a hidden cocktail bar, ideal for a quiet drink before heading back to the airport.
Final Thoughts: Why Choose Johannesburg for a Stopover?
With direct flights from London and Europe, as well as seamless onward connections to Australia, Johannesburg is more than just a transit point—it’s an exciting city to explore, even in a short time.
From world-class business facilities to cultural landmarks, wildlife encounters, and top-tier dining, Johannesburg offers a rich, rewarding stopover experience.
Rather than enduring a long-haul flight in one go, why not break up the journey and turn your layover into an unforgettable experience?