The Leonardo
Johannesburg's tallest building, offering luxury suites, a spa, and Africa's highest rooftop bar with stunning city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunset views & vibrant atmosphere
The Leonardo
Best Time
Sunset views & vibrant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Johannesburg's tallest building, offering luxury suites, a spa, and Africa's highest rooftop bar with stunning city views.
"The staff went above and beyond with their friendliness and helpfulness, making the experience even more enjoyable."
🎯 Book Alto in Advance
Secure your spot at Africa's highest bar for stunning sunset views. Reservations are highly recommended.
✨ Spa Day Bliss
The spa staff are praised for their professionalism and attention to detail. A truly relaxing experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alto Rooftop Bar
Rooftop
Africa's highest bar offers unparalleled panoramic views of Johannesburg. Perfect for sunset cocktails.
Aurum Restaurant
Ground floor
Indulge in exquisite dining with a sophisticated ambiance. A culinary experience not to be missed.
Luxury Suites
Hotel floors
Experience opulent living in spacious, elegantly designed suites offering comfort and style.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Elevate Your Stay: Rooftop Views & Luxury
Sandton's Premier Address
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Alto in Advance
Secure your spot at Africa's highest bar for stunning sunset views. Reservations are highly recommended.
✨ Spa Day Bliss
The spa staff are praised for their professionalism and attention to detail. A truly relaxing experience.
🚗 Convenient Sandton Location
Steps away from Sandton City shopping and dining. Easy access to major attractions.
🥂 Fine Dining at Aurum
Enjoy a top-tier culinary journey at Aurum, known for its ambiance and delicious food.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Alto in Advance
Secure your spot at Africa's highest bar for stunning sunset views. Reservations are highly recommended.
✨ Spa Day Bliss
The spa staff are praised for their professionalism and attention to detail. A truly relaxing experience.
🚗 Convenient Sandton Location
Steps away from Sandton City shopping and dining. Easy access to major attractions.
🥂 Fine Dining at Aurum
Enjoy a top-tier culinary journey at Aurum, known for its ambiance and delicious food.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests often praise The Leonardo for its stunning architecture, luxurious suites, and exceptional service, particularly from staff like Dineo and the spa team. The Alto rooftop bar and Aurum restaurant are frequently highlighted for their ambiance and views. However, some visitors have noted inconsistencies in customer service at reception and management's handling of issues, leading to frustration for long-term residents.
"I had a wonderful stay at The Leonardo. The rooms were beautifully designed, comfortable, and spotless—truly a great place to relax. The staff went above and beyond with their friendliness and helpfulness, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The location is very convenient, close to key spots in the city, making it easy to get around. I would definitely recommend this hotel to anyon."
Ndanji Chanda
"I’m writing to express my deep frustration and disappointment with the level of customer service I experienced during my recent stay at the Leonardo. Unfortunately, the management’s handling of my reservation issue, room condition, staff attitude, delayed assistance, fell far below the standard I expected.
On the other hand, I would love to thank the ladies who work at the Spa, they were very professional & paid attention to all my requests. Their professionalism & amazing customer service was the only thing stopping me from checking out from the Leonardo & going to the Four Seasons at Westcliff, where I usually stay when I’m in Johannesburg."
Alvin Ndikefor
"For a 5 star hotel you would expect outstanding service . However , not with this hotel. Reception staff make your life a misery with ID copies and the process is rather time consuming in all honesty . We have been resident guests for years at the Leonardo but it seems like nothing seems to change. Officially done with this hotel ."
zaeem essack
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Leonardo is located in Sandton, a significant distance from O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB). Taxis or ride-sharing services are the most convenient options, typically taking 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.
While Sandton has public transport options, The Leonardo is best accessed via taxi or ride-sharing services for direct convenience. The Gautrain station in Sandton is a viable option if arriving from other parts of the city.
The Leonardo's prime location means many attractions, including Sandton City, are within walking distance. For further exploration, ride-sharing apps are widely used and recommended.
Yes, The Leonardo offers secure parking facilities for guests. Details on rates and availability can be obtained directly from the hotel.
Yes, The Leonardo can typically arrange airport transfers for guests. It's advisable to contact the hotel in advance to confirm services and pricing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Leonardo is a hotel, not an attraction requiring tickets for general entry. However, specific venues within the building, like Alto bar or Aurum restaurant, may have reservation policies.
As a hotel, The Leonardo operates 24/7 for guests. Restaurants and bars within the building will have their own specific operating hours, with Alto typically open in the evenings.
Alto bar is best visited in the late afternoon and evening to enjoy the sunset and city lights. Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.
It is strongly recommended to book a table at Aurum Restaurant, especially for dinner, to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.
There are no entry fees to access the public areas of The Leonardo hotel. Fees would only apply to services like accommodation, dining, or spa treatments.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The Leonardo boasts luxury suites, a spa, a rooftop bar (Alto), multiple dining options including Aurum, an outdoor pool, and a well-equipped gym.
Alto offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Johannesburg, making it a prime spot for sundowners and evening drinks. The ambiance is sophisticated and chic.
The spa at The Leonardo receives high praise for its professional staff and attentive service, making it a highlight for many guests.
The Leonardo is known for its upscale, luxurious, and modern atmosphere, offering a sophisticated urban retreat.
Absolutely. Its prime Sandton location, luxury amenities, and proximity to business districts make it ideal for business trips.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Leonardo features several dining venues, including the highly-rated Aurum Restaurant and the iconic Alto rooftop bar, offering diverse culinary experiences.
Aurum Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu that focuses on contemporary cuisine, often with international influences.
While not always strictly enforced, smart casual attire is generally recommended for both Alto bar and Aurum Restaurant to match the upscale environment.
Most upscale restaurants like Aurum are accustomed to catering to dietary needs. It's best to inform the restaurant staff of any specific requirements when booking or ordering.
Dining at The Leonardo, particularly at Aurum and Alto, is considered high-end. Expect prices commensurate with a luxury hotel experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The Alto rooftop bar offers stunning panoramic city views, especially at sunset. The hotel's modern architecture and luxurious interiors also provide excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is encouraged at Alto bar to capture the incredible views. Be mindful of other guests and any specific venue policies.
Generally, personal photography is allowed in public areas. However, professional shoots or photography in private suites may require prior permission from management.
Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) is ideal for capturing the city skyline from Alto. Daytime offers clear views, while evenings provide a vibrant, illuminated cityscape.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in urban areas and around tall buildings due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Dining at Aurum might be more suited for older children or special occasions, but the hotel may offer more casual dining options or room service that can cater to younger guests. It's worth inquiring about any specific family packages or child-friendly services the hotel might provide.
💰 Budget Travelers
For those looking to experience Sandton without the high cost of staying at The Leonardo, exploring the surrounding areas for more affordable dining and activities is recommended.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The hotel's spa also provides an opportunity for couples to indulge in relaxing treatments together. The overall ambiance of luxury and exclusivity makes The Leonardo a top choice for a romantic escape in Johannesburg.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Leonardo: Sandton's Architectural Icon
Beyond its residential and commercial functions, The Leonardo is home to an upscale all-suite hotel that offers a luxurious urban retreat. Guests can expect elegantly furnished rooms, exceptional service, and access to world-class amenities. The hotel's strategic location in Sandton places it within easy reach of major shopping centers like Sandton City, as well as numerous corporate headquarters and entertainment venues.
This iconic structure is a testament to South Africa's architectural ambition and a significant landmark for Johannesburg. Its presence signifies growth and sophistication, offering visitors a unique perspective on the city from its elevated vantage points.
Experiencing Alto: Africa's Highest Bar
To make the most of your visit, reservations are highly recommended, especially for evening slots, as Alto is a popular destination. The bar serves a range of premium beverages, from expertly crafted cocktails to fine wines and spirits, complementing the stunning visual feast. While the views are the main draw, the stylish decor and attentive service contribute to a memorable outing.
Whether you're a tourist seeking iconic views or a local looking for a sophisticated night out, Alto provides a unique perspective on Johannesburg. It's a place where you can truly feel on top of the world, soaking in the vibrant energy of the city below.
Dining Delights at The Leonardo
Beyond Aurum, the hotel's dining options extend to the rooftop bar, Alto, which also serves drinks and light fare, allowing guests to dine with a view. The overall dining experience at The Leonardo is characterized by luxury, quality, and impeccable service, reflecting the hotel's five-star status.
For those seeking a refined gastronomic journey, The Leonardo's restaurants are sure to impress. It's advisable to check their specific menus and make reservations in advance, particularly for Aurum, to secure a table.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit