This November, Johannesburg takes the global stage as the G20 Summit arrives in town. For many delegates, Sandton Central will be the place to stay, meet, and unwind. The city’s financial hub will buzz with motorcades, media crews, and high-level conversations spilling out from conference halls to cafés and hotel lounges. And while the spotlight will shine on world affairs, Sandton offers the perfect mix of business and lifestyle for those visiting during this pivotal week.
Whether you’re in Johannesburg for the summit or simply soaking up the atmosphere in Africa’s most connected district, here’s your guide to making the most of it.
Where to Stay
If you’re attending the G20 Summit or simply want to be near the buzz, Sandton Central puts you right in the heart of the action. From here, it’s an easy trip to official venues across Johannesburg and an even easier one back to comfort and luxury when the day is done.
Sandton Sun and Towers offers seamless sophistication with direct access to Sandton City and the Convention Centre, making it a favourite for visiting delegations. Over at The Michelangelo Towers, classic glamour meets the bustle of Nelson Mandela Square, while DaVinci Hotel and Suites brings sleek, contemporary comfort and direct access to Sandton City. If you are looking to stay somewhere that truly makes a statement, The Leonardo is hard to beat. As Africa’s tallest building, it offers luxury apartments, a rooftop pool deck, and spectacular views of the skyline.
Coffee, Quick Bites and Power Meetings
Between sessions, caffeine is non-negotiable. The Grind Coffee Company across the road from 24 Central serves excellent espresso and is a favourite among locals. Seattle Coffee Company outlets in Sandton City and The Marc are reliable refuelling stops, while Walnut Grove in Sandton City offers a comfortable nook to catch your breath or check your emails over a cortado.
If you need a casual lunch spot that does not require a taxi, Tashas Nelson Mandela Square and Now Now by Woolworths are perfect for a midday bite. Both are polished yet relaxed, ideal for business catch-ups that feel more like a breather than a meeting.
Dining After Dark
When the day’s work wraps up, Sandton’s restaurants come alive. For something elegant and consistently excellent, The Grillhouse Sandton remains a go-to for steak, seafood and fine wine. A few steps away, Saint Restaurant brings Italian inspiration and high-energy glamour to the square.
If you are in the mood for sushi or Asian fusion, The Big Mouth on Nelson Mandela Square balances laid-back cool with a top-tier menu. For modern South African cuisine and a beautiful setting, Truffles on the Park is a must-visit. It is one of the few spots where you can watch the sunset while the city glows around you.
And if you are after the ultimate nightcap, head to Alto234 at The Leonardo. With sweeping 360-degree views, it is the highest bar in Africa and an unforgettable place to toast a successful summit.
Green Space and Recharge Spots
Sandton may be all glass and glamour, but there is still room to breathe. Mushroom Farm Park offers open green space, perfect for a morning jog, a yoga session, or a quiet stroll. Grab a smoothie from Truffles on the Park, take a seat under the trees, and you will forget you are in the middle of Joburg’s financial hub.
If you prefer to unwind indoors, book a treatment at Sandton Sun Spa, where the rooftop views come with a side of calm. For those keeping fitness routines intact during the summit, Virgin Active Sandton CBD is fully equipped and within walking distance of most major hotels.
Getting Around
Sandton’s layout makes life easy during busy weeks. The Sandton Convention Centre, Sandton City, and Nelson Mandela Square are all interconnected, with the Gautrain Station just a few minutes’ walk away. It is the fastest link to OR Tambo International Airport, taking under 20 minutes door to door. E-hailing pick-up points are well managed, and pedestrian routes are clearly marked and secure, even during peak hours.
If you are staying nearby, walking is often the quickest and most scenic way to get from your hotel to your next engagement. If you’re unsure, please have a look at this guide here.
Sandton at Its Best
With the G20 rolling into town, Sandton Central is looking forward to welcoming delegates from around the world to experience Johannesburg at its best. Between the meetings and motorcades, we hope you’ll take a little time to explore the city. Grab a coffee at one of our local favourites, catch your breath in a green pocket like Mushroom Farm Park, or end the day with a view from one of our rooftop bars.
Sandton has a rhythm all its own. Busy, bold, and always evolving. We’re proud to share a bit of that energy with you while you’re here, and we hope your time in the district leaves you with more than just a few business cards. Welcome to Sandton Central; enjoy your stay!
