Emperors Palace Johannesburg
Johannesburg's premier entertainment resort, offering luxury hotels, diverse dining, thrilling casino, and live shows.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Buzzing atmosphere, live shows
Emperors Palace Johannesburg
Best Time
Buzzing atmosphere, live shows

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Johannesburg's premier entertainment resort, offering luxury hotels, diverse dining, thrilling casino, and live shows.
"A one-stop destination for entertainment, dining, and relaxation in Johannesburg."
🚗 Airport Parking Alternative
Consider parking at Emperors Palace for cheaper airport parking on shorter trips, but confirm long-term policies.
🎟️ Book Entertainment Ahead
Secure tickets for shows and popular restaurants in advance, especially for weekend visits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Magic Company Arcade
Relive your childhood or challenge friends at this vibrant arcade with classic and modern games. Fun for all ages!

Live Entertainment & Shows
The Theatre of Marcellus
Experience world-class performances, from music concerts to comedy shows. Check schedules for upcoming events!

Diverse Dining Options
From fine dining to casual eateries, Emperors Palace boasts a culinary journey for every palate. Explore international flavors.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Emperors Palace: Your First Steps
Getting Around & Parking Smarts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Airport Parking Alternative
Consider parking at Emperors Palace for cheaper airport parking on shorter trips, but confirm long-term policies.
🎟️ Book Entertainment Ahead
Secure tickets for shows and popular restaurants in advance, especially for weekend visits.
🕹️ Arcade Fun for All
Don't miss The Magic Company for a dose of nostalgic and modern gaming fun.
✈️ Seamless Airport Transfers
Uber or Gautrain are recommended for airport transfers; be aware of potential driver cancellations for short trips.
Parking car at emperors palace instead of airport for 8 days??
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Airport Parking Alternative
Consider parking at Emperors Palace for cheaper airport parking on shorter trips, but confirm long-term policies.
🎟️ Book Entertainment Ahead
Secure tickets for shows and popular restaurants in advance, especially for weekend visits.
🕹️ Arcade Fun for All
Don't miss The Magic Company for a dose of nostalgic and modern gaming fun.
✈️ Seamless Airport Transfers
Uber or Gautrain are recommended for airport transfers; be aware of potential driver cancellations for short trips.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Emperors Palace is widely praised for its extensive entertainment options, diverse dining, and luxurious accommodation, making it a comprehensive destination. While many enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and variety, some visitors find it can feel overwhelming or overly commercialized, and parking arrangements for extended periods require careful planning.
"The establishment's design, inspired by a miniature Las Vegas, successfully incorporates a distinct South African aesthetic. The building's decor is exceptional, complemented by diverse culinary offerings within a retail area reminiscent of an Ancient Greek village. The accommodations at both Peermont and Montclair are exceptionally furnished, with outstanding service. Initially experienced for business purposes, subsequent visits have been undertaken for leisure, including the casino's amenities. This location is one of the Wonders of South Africa, and words can't describe how highly recommended this place is."
Tyler James
"Not friendly nor helpful staff at the front desk for check in or problems. They forgot to put in request for halaal breakfast. Thankfully the manager was very helpful and the cook was able to quickly make a nice halaal breakfast."
Dee Mia
"Went for a concert and it was beautiful. The seating is more church style at the same level and less auditorium style. Thats the only negative. It should maybe include screens for the shows"
Gugulethu Ndlela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Emperors Palace is conveniently located very close to O.R. Tambo International Airport. Many visitors opt for a short Uber ride, which is quick and efficient. Some hotels within the complex may also offer shuttle services.
Yes, the Gautrain is a viable option for reaching Emperors Palace. You can take the Gautrain to the nearest station and then a short taxi or Uber ride to the resort.
Emperors Palace offers parking facilities. For those flying out of O.R. Tambo, some travelers have explored parking their cars at Emperors Palace for extended periods as a potentially cheaper alternative to airport parking, though it's advisable to confirm their policies on long-term stays.
While Emperors Palace is a destination in itself, for exploring Johannesburg, Uber is a popular and convenient choice. The Gautrain also provides access to various parts of the city.
Yes, Uber is readily available at Emperors Palace, making it easy to get to and from the resort. However, for short trips, drivers might sometimes cancel or try to increase fares.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general areas of Emperors Palace, including dining and public spaces, is typically free. However, specific attractions like shows at The Theatre of Marcellus, certain restaurants, or the casino require tickets or have cover charges.
Emperors Palace is a resort complex with various venues, so operating hours vary. The casino, many restaurants, and bars are open late into the night, while specific shows or attractions will have their own scheduled times. It's best to check the official website for individual venue hours.
General access to the public areas of Emperors Palace is free. Costs will be incurred for dining, entertainment, accommodation, and gaming activities within the resort.
Yes, tickets for shows and events at The Theatre of Marcellus and other venues within Emperors Palace can usually be booked online through their official website or authorized ticketing partners.
The casino and certain bars/clubs within Emperors Palace have age restrictions, typically requiring visitors to be 18 years or older. Family-friendly areas like The Magic Company have no such restrictions.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Emperors Palace offers a wide range of attractions including a casino, multiple dining options, live entertainment at The Theatre of Marcellus, The Magic Company arcade, and various bars and lounges.
Yes, Emperors Palace has family-friendly attractions like The Magic Company arcade. There are also swimming pools and various dining options that cater to families.
You can expect a variety of live entertainment, including musical performances, comedy shows, and other theatrical productions at The Theatre of Marcellus. The casino also offers a lively atmosphere.
Yes, Emperors Palace features a selection of shops offering gifts, fashion, and other retail items, providing a convenient shopping experience within the resort.
Yes, Emperors Palace has swimming pools available for guests staying at the hotels within the resort, offering a place to relax and cool off.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Emperors Palace boasts a diverse culinary scene, from fine dining restaurants offering international cuisine to casual eateries and fast-food outlets. You can find everything from Italian and Asian to South African flavors.
For popular restaurants, especially during peak hours or weekends, making reservations is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. You can usually book directly with the restaurant or through the Emperors Palace website.
Most restaurants at Emperors Palace are accustomed to dietary requests and offer vegetarian and often vegan options. It's advisable to check the menu or inform your server about your dietary needs.
Dining prices vary significantly depending on the restaurant. You can find budget-friendly options at casual eateries and fast-food outlets, while fine dining establishments will be more expensive.
Yes, Emperors Palace has several bars and lounges where you can enjoy drinks, watch sports, or socialize. These range from sophisticated cocktail bars to more relaxed pub-style venues.
📸 📸 Photography
The architecture of the resort, particularly the Roman-inspired elements and the grand entrances, offers great photo opportunities. The gardens and water features also make for picturesque shots.
Photography is generally restricted within the main gaming floor of the casino for privacy and security reasons. However, you can usually take photos in public areas, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
While general photography is permitted in public areas, it's always wise to be mindful of others and avoid intrusive photography. Specific venues or events might have their own photography policies.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots. For interior shots, consider the ambient lighting of the venues, which can be quite dramatic in the evenings.
Drone usage is typically subject to strict regulations and may require special permits. It's highly unlikely that personal drone photography is allowed within the resort premises without explicit permission from management.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When it comes to dining, many of the restaurants are family-friendly and offer kids' menus. While the casino is off-limits to minors, the rest of the resort is accessible. Consider booking a stay at the Peermont Metcourt Suites for more space, which can be beneficial for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
Entry to the resort itself is free, so you can enjoy the atmosphere and explore the public areas without spending money. Consider visiting during weekday afternoons when crowds are lower and you might find better deals on certain activities or dining.
couples
For a more relaxed vibe, enjoy cocktails at one of the sophisticated bars or try your luck together at the casino. The resort's ambiance, especially in the evenings, can be quite enchanting, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Accommodation Options at Emperors Palace
For a more contemporary and slightly more budget-conscious option, the Peermont Metcourt Suites provides comfortable and modern accommodation. These suites are well-suited for families or longer stays, offering more space and convenience. The Peermont Mondior Hotel offers a blend of comfort and style, often appealing to business travelers or those looking for a solid mid-range option within the resort.
When choosing, consider your priorities: luxury, space, or value. All hotels are integrated into the resort, providing easy access to dining, entertainment, and the casino, making it convenient to enjoy everything Emperors Palace has to offer without needing to leave the complex.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Beyond the theatre, the resort features numerous bars and lounges, offering different atmospheres for a night out. Whether you're looking for a sophisticated cocktail bar, a sports bar to catch a game, or a lively pub, there's a venue to suit your mood. The casino itself is a significant entertainment venue, operating 24/7 with a vast array of slot machines and table games, creating a constant buzz of activity.
For a more casual and fun-filled experience, The Magic Company arcade provides a wide selection of video games, redemption games, and simulators, making it a hit with families and groups of friends looking for some lighthearted competition.
Dining Delights at Emperors Palace
If you're craving international flavors, options like Golden Palace serve authentic Chinese dishes, and San Marco offers Italian classics. For more casual dining, there are various bistros, cafes, and fast-food outlets scattered throughout the resort, ensuring that no matter your craving or budget, you'll find something satisfying.
Reservations are highly recommended for the more popular restaurants, particularly on weekends, to avoid disappointment. The variety ensures that you can enjoy a different dining experience on each night of your stay, from romantic dinners to family meals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit