Gauteng is South Africa's smallest and most populous province, home to Johannesburg, Pretoria and Soweto.
Johannesburg nightlife runs from Sandton superclubs to Braamfontein jazz and Soweto shisa nyamas. Use Uber or Bolt for every trip after dark.
At a glance
- Peak hours
- Friday-Saturday 22:00-02:00
- Average drink
- Beer R35-R60 (~$2-$4); cocktail R90-R160 (~$6-$10)
- Dress code
- Smart casual
Nightlife districts
Where the action happens after dark.
Melville
Bars on 7th Street
Best for: Craft cocktails
Sandton
Clubs and hotel bars
Best for: Dressing up
Braamfontein
Jazz and rooftop venues
Best for: Live music
Bars & pubs
Where locals drink.
The Orbit Jazz Club
Braamfontein jazz venue with local musicians and craft spirits.
Known for: Live jazz six nights a week
81 De Korte St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg 2001
Six Cocktail Bar
Melville staple for cocktails on the 7th Street strip.
Known for: Craft cocktails
7th St, Melville, Johannesburg 2109
Arts on Main Rooftop Bars
Maboneng rooftops with city views; use Uber.
Known for: Weekend rooftop drinks
264 Fox St, Maboneng, Johannesburg 2094
Chaf Pozi Shisa Nyama
Soweto braai-and-music venue; go with a guide or in a group.
Known for: Braai meat and DJs
Orlando West, Soweto
Clubs
For dancing into the early hours.
Monarch Sandton
Sandton club with resident DJs; dress smart.
Cover: R150-R400 (~$9-$25)
Hours: Fri-Sat 22:00-04:00
Lolita's Bryanston
Bryanston nightclub with strong DJ line-ups.
Cover: R150-R400 (~$9-$25)
Hours: Fri-Sat 22:00-04:00
AND Club
Underground Maboneng dance venue.
Cover: R100-R250 (~$6-$15)
Hours: Fri-Sat 22:00-05:00
Nightlife tips
Stay safe and have fun.
Use Uber/Bolt door to door
Carry photo ID
Check venue hours on social media, as they change