Is Melville safe for a walking route?

Yes, Melville is generally safe for walking during the day, especially along the main commercial strips like 7th Street. Like any urban area in Johannesburg, it is recommended to keep valuables out of sight and stick to populated areas.

What is the best time to visit Melville?

Late morning is ideal. You can start with coffee at the Bamboo Centre around 10:00 AM and finish with lunch on 7th Street when the neighborhood is most lively.

Can I use public transport to get to Melville?

While the Rea Vaya bus system has stops nearby, most visitors find that ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt are the most convenient and direct way to reach the start of the route.

Are the Melville Koppies free to enter?

Melville Koppies East (the section on this route) is generally open and free. However, the central and west sections are often fenced for conservation and may require a small fee for scheduled hikes.

Is this walking route suitable for children?

Yes, families often enjoy the open-air layout of 27 Boxes and the natural space of the Koppies, though the hills require some supervised walking.

Where is the best place to find books in Johannesburg?

Love Books in Melville is widely considered one of the city's best independent bookstores, known for its curated atmosphere and local titles.

Is there a lot of uphill walking on this route?

The urban portion of the walk is relatively flat. Only the final stop at Melville Koppies East involves a moderate incline on natural terrain.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 50 min

Duration

6

Stops

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step into the bohemian heart of Johannesburg with a self-guided walk through Melville. Known as the city's intellectual and creative hub, Melville is a neighborhood where the aroma of freshly roasted coffee mingles with the scent of old books and indigenous flora. This walking route invites you to explore a side of Jozi that is both nostalgic and cutting-edge, moving from trendy industrial conversion spaces to the ancient ridges that define the city's skyline. Unlike a standard walking tour Johannesburg might offer in more commercial districts, this stroll focuses on the unique independent spirit that has made Melville a favorite for decades. Your journey begins at the Bamboo Centre, a pioneer in urban renewal, before leading you to one of the city's most beloved independent bookstores. You will then transition to the legendary 7th Street, the neighborhood's main artery, where cafes and bars have hosted generations of writers, journalists, and students from the nearby University of Johannesburg. Here, you can soak in the village-like atmosphere that feels worlds away from the high-rises of Sandton. The route also highlights Melville's architectural innovation at 27 Boxes, a shopping center built entirely from shipping containers, reflecting the city's constant evolution. To conclude your experience, the path takes an adventurous turn toward the Melville Koppies. This nature reserve and heritage site offers a stark, beautiful contrast to the urban bustle, providing a glimpse into the Iron Age history of the region. Whether you are a literature lover, a foodie searching for the perfect pastry, or a history buff interested in urban development, this neighborhood stroll provides the flexibility to linger where you choose. Discover why this area remains the soul of Johannesburg's creative community at your own pace. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Independent literary treasures at Love Books
The historic and vibrant atmosphere of 7th Street
Freshly baked treats at the iconic De La Creme Bakery
Innovative container architecture at 27 Boxes
Panoramic city views and Iron Age history at Melville Koppies East
Industrial-chic vibes at the Bamboo Centre

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Service Station

Welcome to the start of your Melville exploration at the Service Station, located within the Bamboo Centre. This space is a landmark of Johannesburg's urban regeneration. Originally a functional garage, it was transformed into a light-filled, industrial-chic destination for food and design. As you stand here, notice the blend of steel and glass that sets the tone for Melville’s aesthetic: a mix of the old industrial bones of the city with a modern, creative spirit. It is a popular spot for locals to gather over seasonal harvests and gourmet coffee before heading out into the neighborhood.

2

Love Books

Just a few steps away, you will find Love Books, an independent sanctuary for bibliophiles. In an era of digital reading, this shop remains a testament to Melville’s literary roots. The curated selection often features South African authors and niche titles you won't find in larger chains. The quiet, sophisticated atmosphere reflects the neighborhood's history as a home for academics and thinkers. Take a moment to browse the shelves; the collection here is carefully chosen to inspire curiosity and celebrate the written word in all its forms.

3

7th Street

Now, make your way to 7th Street, the vibrant spine of Melville. This street has long been the center of Johannesburg’s bohemian life. As you walk, you'll pass an eclectic mix of second-hand shops, art galleries, and long-standing bars. This area gained fame in the 1990s and early 2000s as the ultimate hangout for the city's creative class. While the businesses change, the 'village' feel remains. Look up at the Victorian-style architecture and the wide verandas, which give the street a timeless character that distinguishes it from the modern malls of the northern suburbs.

4

De La Creme Bakery

At the corner of 7th Street and 4th Avenue sits De La Creme, a Melville institution. This bakery and cafe has been a neighborhood staple for decades, known for its sprawling terrace and some of the best pastries in the city. It’s a perfect spot to observe the local rhythm—students studying, writers typing away, and friends catching up. The menu is a nod to classic European patisserie but with a distinctly South African warmth. The smell of baking bread and the sight of their famous cake displays are an essential part of the Melville sensory experience.

5

27 Boxes

Transitioning from the traditional to the avant-garde, you arrive at 27 Boxes. This retail center is constructed entirely from decommissioned shipping containers, creating a modular and eco-friendly shopping environment. It represents a new chapter in Melville’s history, focusing on local entrepreneurs, artisans, and small-scale designers. The layout encourages exploration through different levels and courtyards. Please note that the mix of shops and pop-up galleries here evolves frequently, reflecting the current trends in Johannesburg's fast-paced creative scene.

6

Melville Koppies EAST

Your walk concludes at Melville Koppies East, a wilder side of Johannesburg. These ridges are more than just a park; they are a National Heritage Site. Here, the urban landscape gives way to indigenous highveld flora and ancient geology. Archaeologists have found evidence of Iron Age furnaces and Stone Age tools on these hills, proving that people have lived and worked on this land for millennia. As you climb the gentle paths, look back for a stunning panoramic view of the city. It is a place of peace and historical depth, offering a final, quiet reflection on the many layers of Johannesburg.