"Pretoria - Capital of South Africa" Top 5 Page for this destination Pretoria by PierreZA

Pretoria Travel Guide: 394 reviews and 700 photos

Union Bildings - Pretoria
Union Bildings
Background

Pretoria, which might change to Tshwane, is the capital of South Africa (administrative).
The proposed name change is causing quite a stir in the city at this stage. It is a city where Afrikaans is spoken very widely, with a rich 'Afrikaner' history. The greater municipal area is called Tshwane, but we will have to wait and see what happens with the name.
It is a lovely city, with a much slower pace than Johannesburg, which is only 55km south of Pretoria.
A good time to visit is during spring, especially October, when thousands of Jacaranda trees are in full bloom. The city is also called 'Jakaranda Stad' (Jacaranda City).
It is home to the Union Buildings where the President resides.
The city was found in 1855, and named after the voortrekker (pioneer), Andries Pretorius.
Church Square could be the place where the city had its beginnings.
Pretoria has great weather, with very little wind and lots of sunshine.
I've been living in the city for about 15 years, and will try to build a comprehensive page on Pretoria, by updating regularly.

FIFA WORLD CUP 2010!
Pretoria City Hall - Pretoria

Pretoria City Hall

South Africa, including Pretoria, is preparing for one the biggest events to be held in this country.
Pretoria is one of the host cities. Other cities include Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg, Pietersburg, Durban and others.
This event is also a time for visitors to explore our beautiful country.
I have a tip on the 2010 soccer world cup (Pretoria) - listed under sports tips.

What's on offer?
Jacaranda trees during October - Pretoria

Jacaranda trees during October

Pretoria has quite a lot to offer. The sights are not concentrated in a small area, but spread over the city.
It is home to most embassies.
Sights and things to do:
Union buildings
Church Square
Voortrekker Monument
The National Zoo
Several museums/galleries
Restaurants
Shopping
Sports travel
(See tip under General tips for practical info on Pretoria)

  • Intro Updated Feb 4, 2009
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Reviews (50)

Namaskar - Pretoria Good Indian Food Restaurants (15)

This is a very big restaurant with a very extensive menu. The food we had was very good and authentic. Prices are not... more travel advice

Building the Gautrain - Pretoria The Gautrain Transportation (2)

Although not in use yet, this will make a huge difference to the transport system we have. The first part will be... more travel advice

Brasserie de Paris - Pretoria Fine food Restaurants (15)

This is my favourite restaurant in Pretoria. A very nice French restaurant. From the rooftop you do have some great... more travel advice

UNISA, close to Smoke - Pretoria Modern Restaurant with Classic... Restaurants (15)

Smoke has been a favourite restaurant of mine for quite a long while. The very interesting menu starts with the... more travel advice

Comments (20)

  • Reply
    mallyak's Profile Photo
    Dec 26, 2012 at 12:15 PM

    This city is high on my must see places in SA>
    This City is high on my must see list of SA.

  • Reply
    BruceDunning's Profile Photo
    Oct 10, 2010 at 2:43 PM

    If we can only get this far down one day. We are thinking of a trip, so thanks for the tour and well done comments and pictures.

  • Reply
    balhannah's Profile Photo
    May 2, 2010 at 4:01 PM

    Interesting reading about the "Voortrekker" monument. I think I would like the Irene market too!

  • Reply
    cachaseiro's Profile Photo
    Jan 2, 2010 at 1:35 AM

    really good info on pretoria. i´m pretty suere i will be heading there this summer as i think i will attend one of the games there.

  • Reply
    lynnehamman's Profile Photo
    Aug 15, 2009 at 4:47 PM

    Nice tips on Pretoria. Ek sal weer hier a draai maak. Loved the language tips! (gave me a great laugh) Groete

  • Reply
    junecorlett's Profile Photo
    Jun 2, 2009 at 8:04 AM

    How was THAT!!!! Bulls game?

  • Reply
    Jenniflower's Profile Photo
    Mar 24, 2009 at 2:28 AM

    Pretoria has such fascinating architecture and history! What are your thouights re 'Tswane'?

  • Reply
    joiwatani's Profile Photo
    Nov 19, 2008 at 7:04 PM

    Excellent tips on Pretoria. I gave you great ratings for your webpages!

  • Reply
    Jim_Eliason's Profile Photo
    Nov 9, 2008 at 6:48 AM

    Nice tips!

  • Reply
    morne's Profile Photo
    Oct 21, 2008 at 1:11 PM

    Baie interessante blad, kan nie glo ek was nog nooit in Pretoria gewees nie

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