Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg’s coolest neighbourhoods (and most happening streets)

Southern Africa • See & do • Johannesburg’s coolest neighbourhoods (and most happening streets)

Explore these hip and happening neighbourhoods and streets in Johannesburg

Johannesburg is a city of contrasts, where history, creativity and everyday life come together in unexpected ways. To understand the city, you need to walk its streets, sit in its cafés, browse its markets and talk to the people who call these neighbourhoods home. Each of these neighbourhoods tells a story, shaped by its history, its businesses and the people who give it energy. We’ve hand-picked these neighbourhoods and streets because they show Johannesburg’s true personality – dynamic, welcoming and endlessly fascinating. We’ve walked these streets, lingered on their corners, chatted with their people and fell in love with the vibe – and we’re sure you’ll find your own favourite spots along the way.

4th Avenue, Parkhurst

Parkhurst’s charm lies in its balance – it’s lively but never rushed, stylish but not intimidating. Parkhurst’s 4th Avenue is lined with independent restaurants and shops, creating a walkable stretch that’s ideal for exploring. For breakfast or brunch, you have to stop by Nice on 4th and try their signature egg baskets. Our favourite spots for lunch or dinner are Kolonaki, which serves fantastic Greek dishes and Modena, our go-to spot for Italian cuisine. If you’re in the mood for shopping, one shop worth mentioning is The Fat Olive – here you’ll find the most unique gifts and homeware. Just down the road, you’ll find The Art Room, a gallery and shop featuring works by South African artists.

4th Avenue
Parkhurst
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of The Art Room & The Blockman

Fox Street, Maboneng

Fox Street in Maboneng reminds us of how cities can reinvent themselves. This once-industrial stretch now bursts with energy and creativity. Maboneng is a neighbourhood with so much to see and Fox Street is the centrepiece, flanked by converted warehouses that now house galleries, design studios and quirky shops. Start your exploration at Market on Main, a weekend market where you’ll find artisanal food vendors, local crafts and a relaxed, social atmosphere. Nearby, Arts on Main offers studio spaces for local artists and often hosts exhibitions and pop-ups. Grab a coffee at Home of the Bean and go explore the best street art in Johannesburg, with murals and graffiti adorning building walls and even sidewalk corners. Then end off the day with a wood-fired pizza at Pata Pata, a spot named after a famous Miriam Makeba song.

Fox Street
Maboneng
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Dave Southwood

7th Street, Melville

Quirky, eclectic and unapologetically bohemian, 7th Street in Melville has long been a magnet for students, artists and anyone looking for a good time. This neighbourhood feels lived-in and authentic, with vintage bookstores and thrift shops mingling alongside cosy cafés and funky bars. Café de la Crème is your go-to spot for the best freshly baked pastries and excellent coffee in town. Another restaurant that we love is The Plug, they serve casual classics like burgers and pizza but their pork belly is our favourite. We like the little courtyard setting and laid-back atmosphere – it’s easy to see why this is a local favourite! If you love books, stop by Melville Books, a secondhand bookstore where you will lose yourself among the collection of fascinating books.

7th Street
Melville
Johannesburg
South Africa

Juta Street, Braamfontein

If you are looking to explore a neighbourhood with an edge, look no further than Braamfontein. Juta Street in particular is a playground for the city’s young and creative crowd. This street offers urban grit and modern design, with indie clothing stores, art galleries and experimental cafes defining its edge. When visiting Braamfontein, don’t miss the Neighbourgoods Market, held every Saturday in a multi-story parking garage. Here, you can sample delicious gourmet street food and craft cocktails while browsing stalls featuring local designers. Braamfontein’s focus on art is evident, too, with venues like Wits Art Museum just around the corner. There’s always something new – a gallery opening, a pop-up event or a piece of street art that wasn’t there last week. Braamfontein is a place that never stands still and that’s what keeps it exciting.

Juta Street
Braamfontein
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Play Braamfontein

4th Avenue, Linden

4th Avenue in Linden is a quieter, more community-focused counterpart to Johannesburg’s trendier neighbourhoods. This street is packed with hidden gems, here you’ll find quaint coffee shops and one-of-a-kind vintage boutiques. This is the type of neighbourhood where you should take your time strolling through the street and enjoy the slower pace that sets Linden apart from Johannesburg’s busier districts. Some must-visit retail spots in Linden include Handmade by Me, which showcases South African-designed homeware and Linden Art Studios, where you can pick up a beautiful artwork from one of the local artists. The food options in Linden are amazing! Our favourite spots include The Whippet – this neighbourhood’s breakfast hotspot, Brian Lara Rum Eatery – serving up dishes with a Caribbean twist and finally Paul’s Homemade Ice Cream – for the best artisanal ice cream of course!