[category]
[title]
Johannesburg continues to attract travellers from across the globe, cementing its status as one of Africa’s leading tourism and business destinations. With its world-class infrastructure and endless entertainment offerings, the city remains a top choice for international airlines expanding their routes into Africa.
The latest airline to join Johannesburg’s busy skies is Air Europa. The Spanish carrier will commence flights between Madrid and Johannesburg on June 24, further enhancing connectivity between Europe and South Africa.
The announcement was confirmed by several publications, with flights scheduled to operate three times a week - Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Departures from Madrid will take off at 15:05, landing at OR Tambo International Airport at 01:10 the following day.
According to Travel News, “In October 2025, Air Europa was granted rights to operate three weekly flights between Spain and South Africa after Spain’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation initiated a process to allocate traffic rights between the two countries.”
Air Europa joins a growing list of airlines expanding their presence in Johannesburg. Last year, Qantas launched direct flights between Johannesburg and Perth, which commenced in December. In June, Airlink introduced a new route connecting Johannesburg and Zanzibar, while Cathay Pacific increased its flights between Hong Kong and OR Tambo International Airport from five to seven per week.
Why Johannesburg remains a global favourite
Often referred to as the City of Gold, Johannesburg offers a compelling mix of history, culture, opportunity and lifestyle. The city rose to prominence in the 1880s following the discovery of the world’s richest gold reef on the Witwatersrand, eventually becoming the financial hub of South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa.
Today, Johannesburg attracts tourists, business travellers, students and leisure visitors alike. Its rich and diverse culture is reflected in iconic areas such as Soweto, home to global leaders like former President Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, offering visitors a deep and meaningful connection to South Africa’s heritage.
Beyond its history, Johannesburg is known for the warmth and friendliness of its people, vibrant neighbourhoods, well-maintained suburbs and striking architecture. It also offers excellent accommodation and award-winning hotels such as Sandton Hotel and Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank.
The city is also home to respected institutions of higher learning that draw students from around the world with their world-class education.
Cultural landmarks such as Mandela House and Constitution Hill offer insight into the country’s journey. At the same time, the city’s thriving food scene provides a diverse range of options, from fine dining to authentic traditional cuisine.
With increasing global connectivity and an array of offerings, Johannesburg remains a destination that truly has something for everyone.
RECOMMENDED
🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg
🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg
🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg
🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg
Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!