Newtown Street Art Johannesburg
Explore Johannesburg's vibrant street art, a dynamic urban canvas in Newtown, Braamfontein, and Maboneng, reflecting the city's culture and spirit.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos.
Newtown Street Art Johannesburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Johannesburg's vibrant street art, a dynamic urban canvas in Newtown, Braamfontein, and Maboneng, reflecting the city's culture and spirit.
"Johannesburg is a canvas of culture, history, and creativity, with breathtaking murals telling powerful stories."
🎯 Jozi Triangle Exploration
Explore Braamfontein, Newtown, and Maboneng for a vibrant urban trail of street art.
🚌 Safe Sightseeing
Consider the Joburg Red Bus Tour for a safe and easy way to see inner-city sights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Newtown's Mural Masterpieces
Newtown
Vibrant murals and bold designs telling stories of culture, history, and spirit. A true open-air gallery.

Braamfontein's Creative Canvas
Braamfontein
Discover thought-provoking graffiti and dynamic street art that reflects the city's diverse and creative soul.

Maboneng's Artistic Heartbeat
Maboneng
This neighborhood is a hub of creativity, showcasing breathtaking murals and hidden artistic gems.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Johannesburg's Street Art Scene
Best Ways to Experience Jozi's Art
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Jozi Triangle Exploration
Explore Braamfontein, Newtown, and Maboneng for a vibrant urban trail of street art.
🚌 Safe Sightseeing
Consider the Joburg Red Bus Tour for a safe and easy way to see inner-city sights.
🚶♀️ Guided Art Walks
Book a guided tour for deeper insights and a safer exploration of the art scene.
📸 Capture the Colors
Newtown's street art is a photographer's dream, especially near the Africa Museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Jozi Triangle Exploration
Explore Braamfontein, Newtown, and Maboneng for a vibrant urban trail of street art.
🚌 Safe Sightseeing
Consider the Joburg Red Bus Tour for a safe and easy way to see inner-city sights.
🚶♀️ Guided Art Walks
Book a guided tour for deeper insights and a safer exploration of the art scene.
📸 Capture the Colors
Newtown's street art is a photographer's dream, especially near the Africa Museum.
💰 Budget-Friendly Fun
Roller skating at Westgate offers unlimited time for just R100 entry and skate hire.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Johannesburg's vibrant street art scene, particularly in Newtown, Braamfontein, and Maboneng, calling it a 'graffiti lover's dream.' The art is praised for its cultural significance and visual appeal. However, some express concerns about safety when exploring independently, often recommending guided tours or the Red Bus for a more secure experience.
"Good place to visit"
Prosper John Mazviyo (Hungwe777)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newtown is accessible via the Joburg Red Bus Tour, offering a safe way to see the CBD.
You can also explore it on foot, but guided tours are recommended for safety and context.While Johannesburg has a reputation, many visitors find exploring with guided tours or on the Red Bus to be safe and rewarding.
Exercise caution and stay aware of your surroundings.The 'Jozi Triangle' connecting Braamfontein, Newtown, and Maboneng is a must-see for street art enthusiasts.
The Joburg Red Bus is a popular option for tourists to navigate the city and its art hotspots.
While street art can be found throughout the city, it's always wise to stick to well-trafficked areas and consider guided tours for less familiar neighborhoods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most street art is publicly accessible and free to view.
However, guided tours or specific attractions like the Red Bus Tour will require tickets.Street art can be viewed at any time, but daytime offers better visibility and safety.
Some markets or specific art events might have set hours.The street art itself is free to admire.
However, activities like the Joburg Red Bus Tour or visiting specific markets will have associated costs.Yes, booking street art tours in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular guided experiences.
Honest Travel Experience ZA offered local discounts on experiences during specific periods.
Keep an eye out for such promotions.📸 📸 Photography
Newtown, especially near the double-decker motorway and the Africa Museum, is a prime spot.
Braamfontein and Maboneng also offer incredible photographic opportunities.Morning light often provides softer, more even illumination for capturing the details of murals without harsh shadows.
While not explicitly mentioned for street art, general city tours often cater to photography enthusiasts.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful. Many capture great shots with their smartphones, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3.
Look for interesting angles, incorporate local elements, and try to capture the art in its urban context.
🎫 🎨 Art & Culture
Street art in Johannesburg reflects the city's diverse spirit, rich history, and ongoing cultural narratives, often telling stories of protest and pride.
While specific artists aren't always named, tags like 'TAPZ' are frequently seen, indicating active local artists.
The art features both international and local talent.Information about specific artists can be scarce, but guided tours often provide context.
Sometimes local art blogs or community discussions might offer insights.There's a debate, but many see it as a form of expression and love for the city, rather than just vandalism.
The Africa Museum is located near the street art in Newtown.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Rosebank Mall Street Feast Market is a popular spot for food lovers.
You can find a variety of street food options, reflecting Johannesburg's diverse culinary scene.
Markets like the Rosebank Street Feast offer diverse options.
Also, consider local eateries in the CBD.Exploring local markets and eateries can lead to discovering unique flavors and dishes.
Market hours vary, but they are often open during weekends and evenings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
An alternative for active families is the roller skating arena at Westgate, which offers unlimited skating time for a budget-friendly entry fee. While not street art, it's a fun, active outing that kids will enjoy. Always prioritize safety and stay aware of your surroundings when exploring urban areas with children.
💰 Budget Travelers
For an inexpensive and fun activity, check out the roller skating arena at Westgate, where you can skate for hours for a small fee. Markets like the Rosebank Street Feast also offer a range of affordable food options, allowing you to experience local flavors without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for morning light to get the best photographic conditions, avoiding harsh shadows. While professional gear is great, many capture stunning images with smartphones, showcasing the accessibility of urban photography. Consider joining a photography-focused tour if available, or simply wander and let the city's art inspire your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Jozi Triangle: A Street Art Hotspot
Newtown, in particular, boasts impressive murals, often found under the double-decker motorway, creating a striking visual contrast with the urban infrastructure. Braamfontein is known for its thought-provoking graffiti and art that reflects contemporary urban life. Maboneng, a revitalized urban precinct, is dotted with hidden artistic gems and breathtaking designs, showcasing both local and international talent.
Many visitors recommend exploring these areas on foot, but for those concerned about safety or seeking deeper insights, guided tours are available and highly recommended. These tours not only ensure a safer experience but also provide valuable context about the art, its creators, and its significance within Johannesburg's social fabric.
Navigating Johannesburg Safely and Effectively
For those who prefer a more immersive experience, guided walking tours are available and strongly advised. These tours are led by knowledgeable locals who can navigate the urban environment safely, point out significant artworks, and share the stories behind them. Redditors often discuss the art in areas like Newtown and Braamfontein, with some noting that while the city has its challenges, the art itself is a testament to the city's love and expression.
When exploring independently, it's crucial to stay aware of your surroundings, stick to well-populated areas, and avoid displaying valuables. While the street art is a major draw, prioritizing safety ensures a more enjoyable and memorable visit to Johannesburg's artistic hubs.
The Role of Street Art in Johannesburg's Identity
Many locals and visitors view this urban art as a positive expression of creativity and a sign of love for the city, rather than mere vandalism. The sheer ubiquity of tags like 'TAPZ' across the city speaks to a vibrant underground art scene that contributes to Johannesburg's unique character. This art transforms public spaces into open-air galleries, inviting dialogue and fostering a sense of place.
Experiencing this art firsthand, whether through a guided tour or independent exploration, provides a deeper understanding of Johannesburg's dynamic cultural landscape. It's a testament to the city's resilience and its ability to find beauty and expression even in its most urban settings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit