Bells HardingstoneEloff Street is one of Johannesburg’s most historic and iconic thoroughfares. For much of the 20th century, it was the city’s premier shopping destination, a bustling hub of commerce and activity. While its fortunes have fluctuated with the changing tides of the city centre, Eloff Street remains a fascinating place to explore, rich in history, architecture, and urban energy.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Eloff Street, including its history, the shops you can find there, safety tips for visitors, nearby attractions, and the postal code.
Eloff Street Johannesburg History, Shops And Safety Guide: Complete Guide
The History Of Eloff Street
Eloff Street has been at the heart of Johannesburg since the city’s earliest days. Named after one of the city’s founding families, it quickly became the main commercial artery of the burgeoning mining town.
The Golden Era (Early to Mid-20th Century):
During its heyday, Eloff Street was the place to shop. It was lined with grand department stores, fashionable boutiques, cinemas, and cafes. Names like OK Bazaars, Stuttafords, and Greatermans were household names, and Eloff Street was where they had their flagship stores. It was a vibrant, bustling street, filled with shoppers, trams, and the energy of a city on the rise.
Decline And Regeneration (Late 20th Century):
As the city centre began to decline in the 1980s and 1990s, with businesses and shoppers moving to suburban malls like Sandton City, Eloff Street lost much of its former glory. Many of the grand old stores closed, and the street became a shadow of its former self. However, it remained a vital transport hub and a centre for informal trade.
A New Chapter (21st Century):
In recent years, there have been concerted efforts to regenerate the Johannesburg CBD. Eloff Street has benefited from this, with new businesses opening and a renewed energy. It remains a bustling, vibrant area, but one that is very different from its past. Today, it is a hub for informal traders, small businesses, and commuters, reflecting the dynamic, complex reality of modern Johannesburg.
Eloff Street Today
Today, Eloff Street is a bustling, chaotic, and vibrant thoroughfare. It is a major transport hub, with taxis and buses constantly moving people. It is also a centre for retail, though the nature of that retail has changed.
You will find:
Informal Traders: Hundreds of vendors line the pavements, selling everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and food.
Small Shops: A mix of small, independent shops selling a wide variety of goods.
Major Retailers: Some larger retailers, including furniture and electronics stores, still have a presence.
Transport Hubs: The street is adjacent to major taxi ranks and the Park Station transport hub.
Shops On Eloff Street
The shopping experience on Eloff Street is very different from a suburban mall. It is a vibrant, bustling market-style environment.
What You Can Buy:
Clothing and Fashion: Both new and second-hand clothing are widely available from street vendors and small shops.
Electronics: Cellphones, accessories, and small electronics are popular items.
Furniture and Homeware: Several larger furniture stores have outlets on or near Eloff Street.
Food: Street food vendors offer a variety of quick, affordable meals. There are also small cafes and restaurants.
General Goods: From toiletries to household items, you can find almost anything from the informal traders.
A Note On Shopping:
Haggling is common with street vendors. Prices are often negotiable.
Be aware of counterfeit goods. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Keep your valuables secure while shopping in crowded areas.
Safety Guide For Eloff Street
The Johannesburg CBD, including Eloff Street, has a reputation for being unsafe. While it is a bustling area during the day, visitors need to be vigilant and take precautions.
Safety Tips:
Visit During Daylight Hours: Stick to visiting between 9am and 4pm. Avoid the area after dark.
Be Aware Of Your Surroundings: Keep your head up and pay attention to what is happening around you. Do not walk while looking at your phone.
Keep Valuables Secure: Keep your phone and wallet in a secure, front pocket or a bag that you can keep close to your body. Do not flash expensive items.
Travel In Groups: If possible, explore the area with others. There is safety in numbers.
Use Main Thoroughfares: Stick to Eloff Street and other main, well-lit roads. Avoid wandering into quieter side streets.
Know Where You Are Going: Have a plan. Know which streets you want to walk and where you are headed.
Use Reputable Transport: Use official taxi ranks or e-hailing services to get to and from the area. Avoid unmarked or unofficial vehicles.
Secure Your Belongings: Keep your bag zipped and close to you. Be especially careful in crowded areas where pickpockets may operate.
Trust Your Instincts: If a situation or area feels unsafe, leave immediately.
Security Presence: There is often a visible security presence on Eloff Street, but it is still essential to take personal responsibility for your safety.
Nearby Attractions
Eloff Street is centrally located and within walking distance of many of Johannesburg’s key attractions.
Gandhi Square:
Just a short walk from Eloff Street, Gandhi Square is a public plaza dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, who lived and worked in Johannesburg. It is a popular meeting point and transport hub.
Park Station:
Johannesburg’s main railway station is adjacent to Eloff Street. It is a major transport hub and a landmark in its own right.
Constitution Hill:
A short taxi ride away, Constitution Hill is a former prison complex that now houses the Constitutional Court of South Africa. It is a powerful and moving historical site.
Mary Fitzgerald Square (Newtown):
Located in the nearby Newtown cultural precinct, this square is surrounded by attractions like the Market Theatre, Museum Africa, and Sci-Bono Discovery Centre.
Johannesburg Art Gallery:
Located in Joubert Park, a short distance from Eloff Street, this gallery houses a significant collection of South African and international art.
Chinatown:
Johannesburg’s small but vibrant Chinatown is located in the nearby Commissioner Street area, offering a variety of shops and restaurants.
The Carlton Centre:
Once Africa’s tallest building, the Carlton Centre is within walking distance. You can take a lift to the Top of Africa for panoramic views of the city.
Eloff Street Johannesburg Postal Code
The postal code for Eloff Street and the surrounding Johannesburg CBD area is:
2001
This is the general postal code for the Johannesburg city centre.
Getting To Eloff Street
By Taxi:
Minibus taxis from Soweto, the East Rand, and other areas drop off at ranks near Eloff Street.
By Train:
Park Station is a short walk away.
By Gautrain:
Take the Gautrain to Park Station. From there, it is a 5-10 minute walk to Eloff Street.
By Car:
Driving into the CBD is possible, but parking is limited and expensive. It is generally not recommended due to traffic and security concerns. If you do drive, use a secure, pay-to-park facility.
By E-Hailing:
Uber and Bolt are convenient options for getting to and from Eloff Street.
Common Questions, FAQ Section
What is Eloff Street known for?
Eloff Street is known for being Johannesburg’s historic main shopping street. Today, it is a bustling hub of informal trade and commerce.
Is Eloff Street safe?
During the day, with normal city precautions, Eloff Street is busy and has a security presence. However, visitors should be vigilant, keep valuables secure, and avoid the area after dark.
What is the postal code for Eloff Street?
The postal code for Eloff Street and the Johannesburg city centre is 2001.
What shops are on Eloff Street?
You will find a mix of informal street vendors, small independent shops, and some larger retailers selling clothing, electronics, furniture, and general goods.
What are the nearby attractions?
Nearby attractions include Gandhi Square, Park Station, Constitution Hill, Mary Fitzgerald Square, the Johannesburg Art Gallery, and the Carlton Centre.
How do I get to Eloff Street?
You can get to Eloff Street by taxi, train (Park Station), Gautrain (to Park Station), or e-hailing service. Driving is possible but not recommended.
Can I walk from Eloff Street to Constitution Hill?
It is a walk of about 20-30 minutes. A taxi or e-hailing service is recommended for safety and convenience.
Is there parking near Eloff Street?
Limited pay-to-park facilities are available, but they can be expensive and fill up quickly. Public transport is a better option.
What is the history of Eloff Street?
Eloff Street was Johannesburg’s premier shopping destination in the early to mid-20th century, lined with grand department stores. It declined in the late 20th century but remains a bustling hub of informal trade.
Are there restaurants on Eloff Street?
There are small cafes and street food vendors, but it is not a major dining destination. For a wider range of restaurants, nearby Newtown or Braamfontein are better options.
Johannesburg CBD – Key Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Johannesburg CBD |
| Postal Code | 2001 |
| Best Time to Visit | Daytime (9am – 4pm) |
| Main Attractions | Shopping, informal trade, Gandhi Square, Park Station |
| Safety | Be vigilant, keep valuables secure, avoid after dark |
| Transport | Taxi, train, Gautrain, e‑hailing |
Notes:
- The CBD is vibrant during the day, with bustling trade and access to major transport hubs.
- Safety is a key consideration — daytime visits are recommended, while evenings should be avoided.
- Gandhi Square and Park Station are central landmarks, making the area a hub for commuters and visitors alike.
Final Warning: Stay Alert
Eloff Street is a fascinating place to experience the energy of Johannesburg’s city centre. However, like any major city area, it requires caution. By being aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables secure, and visiting during daylight hours, you can safely explore this historic street and its vibrant atmosphere.
Official City of Johannesburg Website: www.joburg.org.za
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This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. Information is subject to change without notice. Always verify current conditions and safety before visiting.