Alto 234 The Leonardo Rooftop
Africa's highest urban bar offering breathtaking 360° views of Johannesburg from The Leonardo's rooftop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light and city views
Alto 234 The Leonardo Rooftop
Best Time
Magical light and city views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Africa's highest urban bar offering breathtaking 360° views of Johannesburg from The Leonardo's rooftop.
"The atmosphere was absolutely breathtaking, and to top it off, we even witnessed someone propose right there!"
🎯 Book for Sunset
Secure your spot for sunset, as it's the most popular time. Arrive early to get the best seats!
💰 Entrance Fee Applies
Entry fee usually includes a glass of Moët. Food is separate, so budget accordingly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Africa's Highest Urban Bar
Rooftop of The Leonardo, Sandton
Experience unparalleled 360-degree views of Johannesburg from 234 meters up.
Golden Hour Sunset Views
Viewing Deck
Witness a magical sunset painting the sky over the City of Gold. Perfect for romantic moments.
Premium Cocktails & Tapas
Bar Area
Savor expertly crafted cocktails and delicious bar tapas with a view that can't be beaten.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sunset Spectacle & Entry Fee
Midday Heat & Evening Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book for Sunset
Secure your spot for sunset, as it's the most popular time. Arrive early to get the best seats!
💰 Entrance Fee Applies
Entry fee usually includes a glass of Moët. Food is separate, so budget accordingly.
☀️ Avoid Midday Heat
It gets very hot midday with little shade. Opt for sunset or evening for comfort.
🥂 Special Occasions
Perfect for proposals and romantic dates. The staff can help create a memorable experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book for Sunset
Secure your spot for sunset, as it's the most popular time. Arrive early to get the best seats!
💰 Entrance Fee Applies
Entry fee usually includes a glass of Moët. Food is separate, so budget accordingly.
☀️ Avoid Midday Heat
It gets very hot midday with little shade. Opt for sunset or evening for comfort.
🥂 Special Occasions
Perfect for proposals and romantic dates. The staff can help create a memorable experience.
🧥 Winter Sunsets
Even in winter, enjoy sundowners with integrated fireplaces for warmth.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Alto 234 is celebrated for its absolutely breathtaking 360-degree views of Johannesburg, making it a top choice for sunsets and romantic evenings. The service is frequently praised as excellent, and the ambiance is sophisticated. However, some guests have found the food to be disappointing, and midday can be uncomfortably hot due to a lack of shade.
"We visited Alto234 just for the views and a drink—and it completely exceeded our expectations. The atmosphere was absolutely breathtaking, and to top it off, we even witnessed someone propose right there! It was such a romantic and memorable moment that made our trip feel even more special. We didn’t order any food, but the service was warm and the experience alone was well worth it. A perfect sunset spot to mark a special day."
Ronald Tan
"The highest roof top in South Africa perhaps in africa , at 234 meter and 57th floor with the Lenoardo hotel, magnificent, super view on Joburg, and very well structured setup using different levels where you enjoy your privacy. The 360 round view is just fantastic. The drinks and tapas are very delicious. I will highly recommend having here appetizer then going down to aurum restaurant at 7 th level to enjoy your dinner.
Update 12 July 2025
For the second time we still think this place is very special, even in the winter we enjoyed the sun downer. The bug table was outstanding with the fireplace integrated so that after the sunset you can still enjoy your setting there, tapas and drinks. Highly recommended"
Hachim
"Beautiful views, delicious canapés and great service. Only issue is that there is no shade midday! Way too hot to sit at any of the lovely loungers. Sure a tented canopy of some sort can be installed without obstructing the view."
Lucinda Waller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Alto 234 is located on the rooftop of The Leonardo hotel in Sandton, Johannesburg. You can reach Sandton via taxi, ride-sharing services like Uber, or by car. Parking is available at The Leonardo.
While there isn't direct public transport to the rooftop, you can take Gautrain to Sandton Station and then use a taxi or ride-sharing service for the final leg to The Leonardo hotel.
Many visitors opt for ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt for convenience and safety when traveling to Sandton.
Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at the entrance of The Leonardo hotel, from where you can access the rooftop bar.
Consider pre-booking your ride-share if visiting during peak sunset hours to avoid waiting times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee, which typically includes a glass of Moët & Chandon champagne. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official channels for the most current rates.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for sunset slots, to guarantee your entry and preferred seating.
Opening and closing times can vary, but it's generally open from late afternoon into the evening, perfect for sunset drinks and beyond. Check their social media for the latest hours.
Yes, the entrance fee is typically per person and covers access to the rooftop and a complimentary drink.
Generally, an entrance fee is required to access the rooftop bar and its amenities, especially during popular hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The dress code is smart casual. While it's a rooftop bar, it's a premium experience, so dressing smartly is recommended to match the ambiance.
Alto 234 offers spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of Johannesburg, including the cityscape and surrounding areas. It's often described as breathtaking.
Absolutely! It's a very popular spot for proposals and romantic dates, with staff often assisting in creating a special atmosphere.
Yes, the venue is well-structured with different levels, offering various seating options and a sense of privacy.
The atmosphere is generally sophisticated and vibrant, especially during sunset and evenings, with a focus on premium drinks and stunning views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Alto 234 serves a selection of delicious bar tapas and canapés. While some reviews praise the food, others have found it to be bland or disappointing.
Drinks are on the premium side, reflecting the upscale nature of the venue and the spectacular views. Expect to pay more than a standard bar.
Alto 234 primarily offers tapas and bar snacks. For a full dinner, it's recommended to dine at Aurum restaurant on the 7th floor of The Leonardo.
Reviews on food quality are mixed. Some guests find the tapas delicious, while others have expressed disappointment with the taste and ingredients.
While not explicitly detailed, premium bars like Alto 234 usually offer a selection of mocktails or non-alcoholic beverages. It's best to inquire upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire rooftop offers incredible photo opportunities. The edges of the viewing deck provide unobstructed cityscapes, and the bar area itself is very photogenic.
Yes, sunset is the prime time for photography, offering dramatic lighting and vibrant colors over Johannesburg.
For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to contact Alto 234 management in advance to discuss arrangements and potential fees.
Expect stunning panoramic cityscapes, golden hour portraits, and atmospheric shots of the bar and its patrons.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional shoots or commercial use might require prior permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Alto 234 Experience: Views and Vibes
The ambiance at Alto 234 shifts throughout the day. While midday can be intensely hot with limited shade, the evenings transform into a sophisticated and romantic setting, illuminated by the glittering city lights. Many recommend visiting for a sundowner or later in the evening to fully appreciate the atmosphere and comfortable temperatures. The bar is a popular spot for special occasions, including proposals, with staff noted for their excellent service in creating memorable moments.
Beyond the views, Alto 234 serves premium cocktails and bar tapas. While the drinks are generally well-received, reviews on the food are mixed, with some guests finding it delicious and others less impressed. For a full dining experience, it's suggested to head to Aurum restaurant on a lower floor of The Leonardo. Despite varied food reviews, the overall experience of enjoying a drink with such an extraordinary view is consistently highlighted as a must-do.
Planning Your Visit: Timing, Tickets, and Tips
Consider the weather when choosing your visit time. Midday can be extremely hot with minimal shade, making it less comfortable for extended stays. Many visitors find the evenings to be more pleasant, offering a cooler atmosphere and the mesmerizing sight of Johannesburg illuminated at night. Even during winter, the venue can be enjoyed, with some areas featuring integrated fireplaces for warmth after sunset.
Practical tips include dressing in smart casual attire to match the venue's sophisticated vibe. While casual photography is encouraged, professional shoots may require prior arrangement. For those looking for a complete dining experience, Alto 234 is best for tapas, with full meals recommended at other establishments within The Leonardo.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit