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Romance doesn't start and stop with Valentine's Day, and Joburg has no shortage of unique ways to celebrate your love all year long. Sure, we don't have the ocean views, the romantic, old cobbled streets, or even a river promenade to stroll along, but Joburg does have some fantastic restaurants and bars, beautiful parks, countryside getaways, and other fun places to go on a date.
Browsing a food market hand-in-hand or sipping sundowners with a spectacular view of the city, maybe even a thrill-seeking bungee jump in Soweto – here's our guide to some classic, and some less conventional, places to impress your date in Joburg.
DRINKS AND DINING
Pull up a seat with a view for sundowners in Joburg
Joburg is the perfect city for sundowners. Even in the middle of winter, the sun still sets relatively early. Order an ice-cold drink, find a table with a view, and enjoy one of Joburg's famously memorable sunsets at a local rooftop restaurant or terrace.
You can't beat the tree-lined view from Flames at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff. In Rosebank, David Higgs' renowned Marble restaurant on the top floor of Keyes Art Mile's Trumpet building offers views that stretch out to the Magaliesberg mountains.
Sitting at the top of Africa’s tallest building, The Leonardo, at a dizzying 234m-tall, you can’t get higher than Alto234 bar. It's an exclusive spot offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the entire city and, of course, Moët is the drink of choice.
For something different, check out the hip City Centre rooftop hangout the Living Room in Maboneng in the City Centre, and for the very best views of the Joburg urban skyline, rooftop bar and restaurant The Twenty Twenty Club at Hallmark House is a must.
As you can tell, this is a city with a wealth of tall buildings to enjoy a sky-high view, but Joburg is also surrounded by rocky ridges. Some of them are topped with mansions and others are declared as nature reserves, meaning you are spoilt for choice when it comes to interesting vantage points to enjoy a different perspective of the city. Read our guide to Joburg's best viewpoints and rooftop bars here.
Eating under the stars at The Northcliff Boutique Hotel
The Northcliff Boutique Hotel atop Northcliff Ridge is nestled inside a private housing estate. The distant Magaliesberg mountains form the backdrop, with a great spread of trees. Access the view by making a reservation at the restaurant. It is advisable to book well in advance, as this is a popular spot. The views are undeniably spectacular at any time of the day, so we suggest a lunch picnic for two or a dinner reservation with sunset drinks for that pop of romance.
Experience nature's majesty at Pablo House
Built clinging on to the ridge overlooking the rugged Melville Koppies Nature Reserve, Pablo House is the brainchild of bassist Louis Roux from the Shadow Club band. It’s a hideout with glam interiors and luxury touches. It also has a delicious restaurant, Pablo Dos Manos, renowned for great brunch, wood-fired pizza, and small-plate Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. Reservations are absolutely essential and subject to availability. In-house guests always come first.
See the setting sun at spectacular Cyra
Treat your date to a swoon-worthy dinner at Cyra, a fine dining spot from acclaimed Chef Candice Philip at The Houghton Hotel. Named after the Persian word for 'sun', every plate is wonderfully considered and presented here, and the views (especially as the sun is setting) never get old. Seven-course dinners are offered from Wed – Sun, and a four-course lunch is served every Sun.
Playful plates and serious style at The Pot Luck Club
Nestled in the leafy charm of Melrose, The Pot Luck Club's new home at The Peech Hotel is where bold flavours meet serious style. Surrounded by beautiful design and lush gardens, this is a fun spot for playful plates and a stellar wine and cocktail list. Whether you're in for a flavour-packed dinner (Tue – Sat) or a leisurely Saturday lunch, expect a sharing-style menu featuring favourites like Pork Belly Ssam with blood orange and fish sauce caramel. Why not turn date night into a full staycation in one of the hotel's luxurious rooms?
Up the love stakes at The Marabi Club
Effusive reviews for this place all generally remark on the atmosphere or (that South Africanism) 'vibe' of The Marabi Club, a combination of superb food, slick service from jauntily dressed wait staff, interiors that conjure Joburg in an earlier age, and a moodily lit stage on which a jazz band plays. Every Thursday is date night at Marabi Club with a special three-course meal, complimentary wine, and live jazz music. Reservations are a must.
Tea for two at Tea & Antique
Tea & Antique in Bedfordview blends charm and cosiness. This family-run haven serves up Chinese tea and mouthwatering dim sum in a beautiful, antique-filled setting. Whether you’re sharing dumplings or indulging in dainty Chinese cakes (the peach and oolong tea variety is a must-try!), it’s the kind of place where even the smallest details make your date feel special.
Wine tasting at Gerakaris Family Wines
Gerakaris Family Wines, Joburg's very first winery, is nestled in the lush surrounds of the REEA Foundation’s urban farm in Craighall Park. Sip on Syrah or Chenin Blanc while soaking in the serene vineyard. Whether you’re a wine expert or just looking to enjoy some chilled-out moments together, Gerakaris offers wine-tasting events that let you explore their signature wines straight from the Swartland.
A memorable night at Mix Cocktail Bar
Music and love go together like Joburg and expansive skylines, and mixologist-led Mix Cocktail Bar at Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank has an interesting line-up of music events Tue – Sat, from jazz and vinyl to DJ sets. Plus, you get to enjoy a memorable view with your swanky drink. Entrance is free, although booking is essential at concierge@meshclub.co.za or via the online link.
Dare to dine in the sky with Sky Events
Not for the faint of heart, the most extreme seat in Joburg hovers 50m off the ground at a 22-seater table suspended from a crane – full service and a fine-dining menu included with unbeatable, 360-degree panoramic views. Parked on the sprawling campus of St. Stithians College in Bryanston, the crane is the show-stopping feature of Sky Dining, where you are strapped in like you're on a roller coaster ride and, as the first course is being served, pulled up to a cruising altitude of 50m. Experiences range between 60 to 90 minutes for a multicourse lunch, dinner, or champagne breakfast, and the chef is even on board with you preparing select elements of your meal on site. Check out upcoming events here.
Go for a bite in Rosebank
Looking for a cute date spot in Rosebank? Look no further than The Zone @ Rosebank. For a taste of the Mediterranean with a side of glam, head to Akti, where you can tuck into moussaka, souvlaki, and octopus while soaking in the chic atmosphere. After your Greek feast, treat yourselves to a scoop (or two) of Paul's Homemade Ice Cream – a local favourite featuring cute booths for perfect selfie snaps with your love. If you're after something a little more sleek and stylish, swing by Proud Mary at Hyde Hotel for oysters, picanha steaks, and a killer coffee bar.
Take a drive for two at The Forum Kitchen at L'antico Giardino
L'antico Giardino is a classy, weekends-only breakfast and lunch venue created by top events organisers The Forum Company, located at their beautifully restored Lanseria farm White Light (about a 30-minute drive from Sandton). The ''ancient garden', or L'antico Giardino, spreads out under mature trees and into a lush garden with the majority of seating outdoors. The kitchen serves breakfasts and flavourful lunches. Note, this is a reservation-only venue.
FUN AND UNIQUE DATE IDEAS
Treat yourself to a movie date at The Bioscope
Joburg's only independent cinema, The Bioscope at 44 Stanley, a boutique shopping destination in Milpark that lived its previous life as a light industrial complex, is devoted to bringing the latest in arthouse, indie, documentary, and foreign films to the South African big screen. Especially recommended for African films and documentaries, other regular events include classic movie nights and even sing-along cinema events.
Starry-eyed at the planetarium (Wits Anglo American Digital Dome)
Having undergone major structural and technological upgrades, Joburg's beloved planetarium reopened to the public in February of 2025 with a new roster of screenings every Fri and Sat. Learn about the wonders of the night sky, planet Earth, and the universe at large at the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome. It's cosy, cute, and we're sure you'll be seeing stars for a long time afterwards. Find out what's showing here.
Crafty with clay at Create Lonehill
For a date that’s equal parts creative and relaxing, head to Create Lonehill at Prison Break Market, offers a wide range of crockery, paints, and tools, so you can design something truly unique while enjoying food, drinks, and baked treats. Whether you're painting side by side or playfully competing to create the best masterpiece, it’s a fun and hands-on way to spend quality time together.
Roller skating at RollEgoli
Let the good times roll with a roller skating date at RollEgoli in Bryanston. Whether you’re gliding hand-in-hand or showing off your best skating moves, this retro-inspired rink promises a playful and active date that’ll have you both laughing in no time. Open Thu – Sun.
Learn to cook at Vitality HealthyFood Studio
Whether you’re on a first date or your hundredth, a cooking class is always a fun activity. Doing it at the top of the shiny Discovery HQ on Sandton's most prominent corporate boulevard is a plus. One of the things we love about Vitality HealthyFood Studio's cooking classes is that they broaden your horizons on healthier meal options and make cooking delicious food accessible. They also have a great rooftop terrace. Rest assured, you’ll be guided by professional chefs while making use of their fully equipped kitchen. Plus, not having to wash the dishes is always a plus.
Entertain your inner child at Cracker Zac's
Bowling alley and retro arcade Cracker Zac's at The Zone@Rosebank is an exclusively 21+ arcade hidden within The Fun Company. Think '90s nostalgia meets modern tech with a neon Pac-Man ceiling and augmented reality dart booths. There’s a fully stocked bar with signature cocktails like the Smoked Cinnamon Old-Fashioned (which promises to taste like a Christmas Party in your mouth) and a small pizza menu. It's the perfect spot for an out-of-box date night, and daily walk-ins are usually fine unless there's a private event happening.
Learn to dance in Joburg
Put on your dancing shoes and take up some lessons with the guidance of South Africa's best dance teachers and choreographers. A great activity for couples, dancing is a universal language of joy, and there are plenty of 'happiness narrators' in this city to help you communicate. Check out our guide to dance lessons here.
OUTDOOR DATES
Unwind in one of Joburg's green spaces
While the gold rush defined the city’s early years, the dust kicked up by mining spurred the desire for greenery and today Joburg has the distinction of being one of the world’s largest human-made forests. According to Johannesburg City Parks, there are presently more than 2,000 parks and an estimated 10 million trees in the city. The result is a magnificent sea of green that spreads out from the city’s central ridges in all directions. Pack a picnic basket, lace up your walking shoes, and head to one of Joburg's most beautiful parks. Local favourites that are perfect for a picnic date include The Wilds, Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, and Emmarentia Dam. For more venues, check out our guide to Joburg's most beautiful parks.
Ride a cable car to the top of the Magaliesberg
Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway is one of the most popular activities in the Hartbeespoort Dam area, just over one hour's drive north of Sandton. If heights are your jam, you’ll love the cableway experience that takes you to the top of the Magaliesberg mountains for panoramic views over the dam and Gauteng. Get a two-seater ticket and take it all in.
Take to the skies in a hot air balloon with Bill Harrops
Whether you’ve got a proposal planned, celebrating an anniversary, or simply want to surprise your partner with something unique, gently floating across the countryside in a basket under a huge balloon with the legendary Bill Harrop's Original Balloon Safaris will do it. For maximum exclusivity, make sure to book one of the private, one-hour flight options for two passengers. Read our review here.
Get your thrills at Orlando Towers
The Orlando Towers, Soweto's most recognisable landmark, are two huge cooling towers covered in colourful murals. The area around the towers is now a magnet for thrill-seekers looking to go bungee jumping, paintballing, power swinging, and rock climbing. There's nothing quite like a terrifying jump from a great height to get your heart racing and if your date is the thrill-seeking type, you can't go wrong with that. One of the most popular attractions is the SCAD Fall, where 'divers' free fall (unattached to anything) for 70m through the centre of one of the towers, landing on a suspended catch air device (a kind of giant springy net). Our palms are sweaty just thinking about it.
Lunch and a hike in the Gauteng countryside
On a sunny day, there's nothing quite like hopping into the car to escape the city for a few hours and slow down with lunch and a good walk beyond the city limits. From the foothills of the Magaliesberg mountains to the rolling highveld of the Cradle of Humankind, there are dozens of lovely farmhouse restaurants scattered across Gauteng, ready and waiting to welcome harried Joburgers looking for a little slice of the country life, as well as hiking trails with plenty of fresh air and winding footpaths for those who prefer an earlier start to their day. For more ideas, check out our guide for hiking in and around Gauteng.
Among the most beautifully located venues for lunch are the Ground the Venue in Muldersdrift, which has an excellent café and a brilliant wine selection, and the gorgeous NIROX Sculpture Park, which opens on select weekends for events such as concerts and opera performances. Even without the stroll you take through NIROX on your way to the restaurant, And then there was Fire is worth every kilometre of the drive for a leisurely weekend lunch. To extend your stay in the area, why not book a night at Farmhouse58? A rustic retreat in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind with sprawling farmland, hiking trails, and a focus on slow living. Enjoy farm-to-table meals while surrounded by earthy, neutral décor that blends seamlessly with the tranquil landscape. Note that booking is essential.
Kleine Rijke on the shores of Hartbeespoort Dam, is a simply gorgeous venue built on an historic family farm. The space was created by award-winning designer David Krynauw and Khanye Architects, and mixes classic Cape Dutch style with whimsical wooden detailing. While it's a popular wedding venue, on free weekends Kleine Rijke began opening to the public for lunch (strictly bookings only), serving delicious homemade pizzas on Sundays and picnics (known as Feast Boxes) on Saturdays, which can be enjoyed on the lush lawns (bring your own blanket). There's also a gentle and scenic 5km walk from the property that loops down to the dam.
Let love bloom with flower picking
Head to Femme Pétale Flower Farm in Dinokeng (just an hour and a half from Joburg) for a floral-filled day. Wander through a mini Eden, picking fresh dahlias, hydrangeas, and carnations on Open Farm Days, or get hands-on with a bouquet-making workshop. Adene's Farm Flowers at The Red Barn in Irene also offers a lovely array of blooms like anemones and dahlias, perfect for picking and purchasing. It's a great way to spend a day surrounded by beauty, nature, and each other.
Food, shopping, and art at 44 Stanley
A former 1930s industrial complex transformed into a boutique shopping destination, 44 Stanley in Milpark offers an enticing selection of designer clothing and artisanal homeware stores, plus great coffee shops and cafés, spread across a series of pretty interlinked courtyards. It's the ideal place to take a stroll with someone special. See our full guide on how to best enjoy 44 Stanley at night.
Zip-lining adventures with Acrobranch
Head to Acrobranch at James & Ethel Gray Park in Melrose for an exhilarating zip-lining adventure through the trees. It’s the perfect mix of excitement and bonding as you soar through the treetops and enjoy the great outdoors together. Open daily from 09:00 – 17:00, it’s an action-packed way to make memories.
Enjoy the sunset at Northcliff Ridge
From Sandton Central, look out on the horizon and off towards the southwest and you'll notice a single water tower standing sentinel on a broad ridge. This is Northcliff Ridge, one of the most popular natural viewpoints in the city. The Northcliff Ridge Eco Park has wheelchair-accessible walking paths and a parking area (so you don't need to walk the entire way to the top), and boasts a panoramic view of Joburg that can't be beaten for a romantic sunset.
Row out in Zoo Lake
Hire one of the colourful wooden boats on the shore of Zoo Lake in Parkwood, and row out to the gushing fountain and protected bird island in its centre, a quaintly romantic pastime that has been practised here by courting young couples for decades. This charming body of water and the surrounding green space known as Zoo Lake Park is conveniently nestled among the central Parks suburbs and is popular with families, walkers, runners, and picnickers.
Browse a local food market
Any day of the week is market day in Joburg. In this city, you’ll find great food, the widest variety of crafted goods, antiques, vintage clothing, and must-have souvenirs. Joburg markets have it all – from food trucks to all-natural skincare and artisanal gin, and there's a dizzying array of hipster markets and their more traditional counterparts to choose from. If you feel a bit overwhelmed, here's our guide to Joburg's best markets and our guide to Joburg's best fresh produce markets.
SPA DATES AND GETAWAYS
Check in for a staycation at a luxury spa
Find serenity at one of Joburg's exclusive spas, where you can indulge in a romantic treatment for two, then lounge around the spacious outdoor gardens and pools pretending you're on a faraway holiday. From Four Seasons Spa Westcliff, with its luxurious wraparound outdoor lap pool that hugs the post-treatment relaxation room, to the exotic Balinese-themed garden oasis at the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa in Morningside, the selection of high-end spas in Joburg will leave you satisfied and blissed out without needing to pack a bag. For an extra dose of luxury, consider booking the Adrmore Satara Suite at Fairlawns, where you can enjoy unparalleled privacy and comfort in a beautifully designed space.
Houseboating on the Vaal with Old Willow No. 7
Gauteng's water playground is the section of the Vaal River that forms the border between the Gauteng and Free State provinces. About an hour's drive from the south of Joburg, you can book one of the Old Willow No. 7 Houseboat Charters, with its fleet of nine LeisureLiner houseboats available for full-day and overnight rentals on weekends. As your own captain out on the water, you get the pleasure of being able to simply sail away from the crowds for maximum peace and relaxation. Read our review on this unique experience for a different kind of romantic getaway.
Book a stay at a countryside getaway
Between the substantial Dinokeng Game Reserve (about 100km north-east of Joburg), the pristine highveld landscape of the Cradle and the rolling valleys of the foothills of the Magaliesberg mountains, Gauteng Province has plenty of quiet places to enjoy a relaxed and romantic escape from bustling Johannesburg.
In the Cradle of Humankind, turn up the romance with a stay at the Cradle Boutique Hotel or the Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa. For something on a budget, consider self-catering at venues such as Ibis River Retreat, where each cottage also comes with its own hot tub. Just outside Pretoria, Rosemary Hill Farm has super stylish self-catering units that are ideal for a special break. For a more active staycation, consider a stay in historic Cullinan or the Dinokeng Game Reserve, which features wonderful wildlife, including the Big 5.
For more ideas on romantic places to stay over just outside of Joburg, check out our round-up of countryside holidays in Gauteng or read more about where to go for a weekend getaway in Gauteng.
Treat yourself to a city staycation
Whether you crave a vibrant city atmosphere, a serene suburban retreat, or a dynamic business district, there are plenty of staycation spots in Joburg that cater to diverse preferences. Loved by those who live in Joburg and travelling visitors alike, 54 on Bath is an elegant retreat in the heart of busy Rosebank. Take advantage of what the city has to offer with AfricanPenthouses in the City Centre – the epitome of African luxury with mind-boggling panoramic views and rooftop jacuzzis.
Travel back to a bygone era at The Great Gatsby Houghton guesthouse, where Victorian elegance meets modern comfort. Perched on the scenic Munro Drive, this gem boasts charming rooms like Juliet’s Secret and The Library. Plus, owner and hostess Gina Gabriel is a triumph in the kitchen, and we highly recommend you arrange for breakfast and dinner to be included. Check out our guide to great staycation spots in Joburg for more ideas.
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