2026 has been a busy year so far, and I haven’t had much time to travel far from home. So I’ve been playing tourist in my own city. Over the past few months, I've been seeking out experiences I had never tried before—or revisiting places I hadn't explored in years.
If you are as fascinated by the story of the Titanic as I am, then the “Tintanic” exhibition is a must-visit. The centrepiece is the largest Titanic model in Africa, made entirely of tin by artist Gino Hart, who personally guides visitors through the experience. But what really stood out for me were the human stories at the heart of it all. I had no idea South Africa had so many direct, personal connections to the Titanic. The exhibition is beautifully curated, featuring archive photographs, interactive exhibits, and actual relics that bring the story to life.
The travelling museum is currently at the Joburg Artists Market (previously known as 27 Boxes) in Melville for only a few more weeks. There are three ticket classes available on Quicket, and I would highly recommend the First Class ticket with the guided tour. Do yourself a favour and go while you still can.
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Candlelight concerts take place in 150 cities around the world, including Johannesburg. There’s something special about hearing live music surrounded by the warm glow of hundreds of candles in a beautiful venue. It makes for a memorable evening and a completely different concert experience. We attended The Best of Hans Zimmer at the beautiful Shepstone Gardens, many other Candlelight concerts are available – everything from classical favourites to movie soundtracks and tributes to famous artists – like ABBA, Coldplay, and Brenda Fassie. The concerts and venues change throughout the year too, so there’s always something new to discover.
See the concert schedule here link and use my discount code [INAFRICAANDBEYOND] for 10% off for a limited time.
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In the heart of Johannesburg stands a grand establishment that is almost as old as the city itself. The Rand Club was founded in 1887, just a year after the city was born on the goldfields of the Witwatersrand. Cecil John Rhodes is said to have personally chosen the site. Once you step inside, you are transported to another era by the grand sweeping staircase, dark wood-panelled walls, antique furnishings, and marble floors. The Buckland Library at the Rand Club dates back to 1890 and is home to over 10,000 volumes, from rare Africana and South African history to one of the world’s largest collections of Punch magazine cartoons. Read more about the Rand Club.
Rand Club staircase
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in Victorian times? You can get a glimpse of it at Lindfield House, one of the city’s most fascinating historical treasures. Built in 1910 in the Victorian style, the beautifully preserved home offers a glimpse into upper-class Victorian and Edwardian life. Stepping inside feels like entering a bygone era. The owner, Katharine Love, still lives there and personally leads guided tours. I first visited many years ago and recently returned. Read more about Lindfield House.
Lindfield House
The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, formerly the Johannesburg Planetarium, is a cutting-edge facility at Wits University offering a 360° immersive experience through high-resolution projectors and surround sound technology. Located at Wits University (my alma mater), this is the largest and most advanced planetarium in Africa. It recently underwent a massive upgrade and regularly hosts space-themed shows. It also serves as a multidisciplinary hub for education, research, and entertainment, showcasing astronomy, digital arts, and scientific innovations.
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Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world on her blog "In Africa and Beyond". Although she has been to 53 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
This is such a great list of unique things to do in Johannesburg. Lindfield House looks especially fascinating—I always enjoy places where history feels alive and personal. The Rand Club sounds like another hidden gem, with so much history and character. Thanks for sharing some ideas beyond the usual tourist attractions!