Things To Do
in Pretoria
Pretoria, South Africa sits high on the Highveld just north of Johannesburg, famous for jacaranda-lined streets when the trees bloom in spring. As the administrative capital, it hosts government buildings, embassies and a blend of modern urban life with rich historic heritage. The city showcases a mix of Afrikaans and English influences, complemented by diverse cuisine, architecture and culture.
With a mild climate and easy access to Gauteng’s attractions, Pretoria is a comfortable base for exploring both city highlights and nearby nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Union Buildings, where you can stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and capture stunning views of the city. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, sampling traditional South African dishes like boerewors or a bunny chow. After breakfast, take a short walk to the nearby Voortrekker Monument, immersing yourself in the rich history of the Afrikaner people.
In the afternoon, head to the Pretoria Art Museum, where you can admire an impressive collection of South African art from the 20th century. Enjoy a light lunch at the museum café, featuring local ingredients and flavors, before exploring the nearby Freedom Park, a national heritage site dedicated to South Africa's struggle for freedom. Stroll through the park’s gardens and reflect on the history showcased in its various monuments and exhibits.
As the sun sets, make your way to the vibrant Hatfield area, known for its nightlife and diverse dining options. Choose a local restaurant for dinner, savoring dishes like bobotie or peri-peri chicken, then explore the lively atmosphere at nearby bars or live music venues. End your evening with a leisurely walk, soaking in the vibrant energy of Pretoria by night.
Start your adventure at the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, where you can witness a diverse range of animals in their natural habitats. Enjoy a guided tour that will provide insights about conservation efforts and the unique species housed within the zoo. Afterward, relax with a picnic breakfast in the scenic gardens surrounding the zoo, surrounded by lush greenery.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the nearby Pretoria Botanical Gardens, where you can walk among a vast array of indigenous plants and flowers. Take a leisurely hike along the garden trails, enjoying the serene atmosphere and spotting local bird species. As you wander, stop for a light lunch at the garden’s café, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
In the evening, return to the city and visit a local craft beer brewery for a tasting experience. Sample a variety of unique South African brews while enjoying a casual dinner featuring local snacks and dishes. After dinner, take a stroll through the nearby streets, experiencing the local nightlife and mingling with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $2-4 |
| 🧺Grocery basket (basic groceries) | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong infrastructure and accessibility from Johannesburg
- Rich cultural scene and diverse culinary options
- Beautiful jacaranda season and pleasant year-round climate
- Wide range of nature reserves and outdoor activities nearby
- Traffic congestion during peak hours can be heavy
- Some areas require caution after dark in unfamiliar neighborhoods
- Prices can be higher in central districts and popular markets
- Weather can be hot in summer and cool in winter; plan accordingly
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dankie" - Thank you
- "Hoeveel kos dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Waar is die naaste toilet?" - Where is the nearest toilet?
- "Ek praat nie Afrikaans baie nie" - I don't speak Afrikaans very well
- "Kan jy dit asseblief herhaal?" - Could you please repeat that?
- "Kan jy Engels praat?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hoe gaan dit vandag?" - How's it going today?
Places to Visit in Pretoria
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic government complex with expansive lawns and sweeping city views, especially beautiful for jacaranda season.
A monumental structure with grand architecture and surrounding avenues ideal for wide-shot portraits.
Historic city center featuring statues, colonial buildings and the Palace of Justice.
A peaceful landscape with ponds, diverse flora and seasonal color changes.
Jacaranda-lined streets in Groenkloof and surrounding neighborhoods create dramatic spring photography.
Food in Pretoria
Pretoria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spiced minced meat bake with an egg custard topping, widely enjoyed in Pretoria’s family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
Traditional grilled sausage served with mielie pap (maize porridge) and chakalaka.
A spicy vegetable relish that accompanies braai, pap and stews.
A slow-cooked, multi-layered stew prepared in a small-pot over an open fire.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A popular weekend market in the Irene area with fresh produce, artisanal goods and street food.
Casual weekend market offering biltong, boerewors rolls, baked goods and crafts.
Casual vendors around the historic core offering quick bites, boerie rolls and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with eye contact is common; use titles (Mr/Ms) where appropriate and English or Afrikaans are widely understood.
Dress modestly in religious or formal settings; keep noise considerate in residential areas, especially at night.
Small talk about SA, sports and food is common; avoid sensitive political topics in casual interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Pretoria
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip around 10-15% if service is not included; small tips for taxis and guides are appreciated.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with afternoon thunderstorms are common; carry water, sunscreen and a light rain jacket.
Milder days with cooler evenings; great for walking tours and enjoying autumn colors.
Cool, dry days with occasional frosts; layer clothing and plan outdoor activities for the daytime.
Pleasant weather and jacaranda blooms; ideal for outdoor markets, gardens and photography.
Pretoria at Night
Hiking in Pretoria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hiking, rock formations and panoramic views within a short drive from Pretoria.
Accessible, city-adjacent trails suitable for beginners and families.
Forest trails near the northern outskirts of the city offering easy to moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Pretoria by plane.
Small regional airport serving general aviation and charter flights near the northern edge of Pretoria.
Johannesburg's international hub about 45–60 minutes southeast by car, with many international and domestic flight options.
Alternative international airport serving northern Johannesburg and the Pretoria area, closer than JNB for some trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong historical presence and cultural influence in many neighborhoods and culinary scenes.
Major demographic group contributing to the city’s diversity in language, culture and cuisine.
Diverse neighborhoods and commercial areas with varied histories and traditions.
Active cultural and culinary contributions across several precincts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular spectator sports and club-level play across Pretoria and Gauteng.
Strong local leagues and match days; near-daily activity in parks and schools.
Common recreation in schools, clubs and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pretoria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include veggie curries, salads, pap and grilled vegetables; many restaurants can adapt sauces and dishes.
Most venues offer plant-based burgers, salads or curries; ask for plant-based proteins and dairy-free options.
Most eateries can accommodate with grilled meats, salads and rice; mention gluten-free requirements when ordering.