Nelson Mandela Square Tours and Activities

Photo by Darryn Letley
Photo by Rich  Rose


Indulge in some retail therapy, dine in an open-air piazza and browse the stalls of an antique fair at this commercial and entertainment centre.

Shop, dine and relax at Nelson Mandela Square, a large public square and commercial hub. Find cafés, restaurants, exclusive retailers and a theater, all set around an attractive European-styled piazza.

Take a look at the imposing bronze statue of anti-apartheid activist and former South African president Nelson Mandela. Standing 20-feet (6-meters) tall, it is the focal point of the square and commemorates the first decade of South African democracy. 

Step inside the square’s mall and browse more than 80 stores and boutiques for exclusive jewelry pieces, artworks, leather goods and tailored clothing. Keep your eye open for a bargain and collectors’ items at the square’s Antique Fair, which attracts up to 70 dealers. Find costume jewelry, ceramic figurines, glassware and embroidered items, among other items. The fair runs on the first Sunday of every month.

Enjoy alfresco dining in the cafés and restaurants that line the square. Choose from a variety of cuisines including traditional African dishes and European fare.Nelson Mandela Square is also a good place to come for some culture. Watch musicals, concerts, plays and stand-up comedy at the Old Mutual Theatre, known locally as the Theatre on the Square. The schedule includes matinees and evening performances as well as special events for kids. Details are available on the theater’s official website.

Nelson Mandela Square sits in the heart of the commercial suburb of Sandton. It is about a 20-minute drive north from downtown Johannesburg. For those arriving by car, there is a large metered car park. If you are coming by public transport, the metro bus and trains stop a short walk from the square. 

Nelson Mandela Square’s shops and restaurants are open daily, including public holidays. Hours vary for each business and attraction, so check the square’s official website for details. For even more shopping experiences, visit the nearby Sandton City, a shopping mall that is home to around 300 retailers, restaurants and an 11-screen cinema.

Plan a trip to see Nelson Mandela Square

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Best Lodging Options Near Nelson Mandela Square

Davinci Hotel And Suites On Nelson Mandela Square

Davinci Hotel And Suites On Nelson Mandela Square

5 out of 5
2 Maude Street, Corner of 5th Street, Sandton, Gauteng
Davinci Hotel And Suites On Nelson Mandela Square
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3 out of 5
5 Benmore Rd, Sandton, Gauteng
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Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel

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4 out of 5
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Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton

Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton

4 out of 5
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Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton
ONOMO Hotel Johannesburg Sandton

ONOMO Hotel Johannesburg Sandton

3.5 out of 5
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ONOMO Hotel Johannesburg Sandton
The Michelangelo Towers

The Michelangelo Towers

5 out of 5
8 Maud Street Sandown, Sandton, Gauteng
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Raphael Penthouse Suites

Raphael Penthouse Suites

5 out of 5
South Wing Nelson Mandela Squ Fifth St, Sandton, Gauteng
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NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel

NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel

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Hotel Sky Sandton

Hotel Sky Sandton

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Nelson Mandela Square

Nelson Mandela Square offers a vibrant mix of activities, perfect for tourists. You can enjoy shopping at the nearby mall, relax on the sun terrace, or participate in yoga classes. Additionally, the square is a hub for soccer and football enthusiasts, making it a lively spot for sports fans. With its blend of leisure and entertainment options, it's an ideal destination for a memorable visit in Johannesburg.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, head to Sandton City Mall, located 322m from Nelson Mandela Square, offering vibrant entertainment and family-friendly vibes. Rosebank Mall is 4.8km away, featuring similar attractions. If you're up for a drive, visit Fourways Farmers Market, 9.7km away, for a unique public market experience.

Recreation

Experience the excitement at Ellis Park Stadium, where you can catch a thrilling sports event. For a more leisurely day, head to The Wanderers Golf Club for a round of golf surrounded by nature. Adventure Golf offers a fun mini-golf experience perfect for families and friends.

Adventure

At Kyalami Racetrack, located 12.9km from Nelson Mandela Square, experience the thrill of motor racing amidst a vibrant sports atmosphere. For family fun, Lazer Quest, 4.8km away, offers exhilarating laser tag adventures. Wild Waters - Boksburg, a waterpark 14.8km distant, features exciting rides for all ages.

Nightlife

In Nelson Mandela Square, the nightlife buzzes with energy. Catch a film at Ster-Kinekor Sandton City, only 161m away, or enjoy a cultural experience at Victory Theater, a short 6.4km from the square. For more cinematic thrills, visit Ster-Kinekor Rosebank, just 4.8km away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Nelson Mandela Square

Nelson Mandela Square in Johannesburg is a vibrant hub offering a blend of cultural, historical, and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore local attractions such as the history museum, enjoy the urban park, or attend events at the conference venue. Don't miss the iconic Mandela statue and nearby points of interest that celebrate the legacy of this great leader. Whether you're seeking culture or relaxation, there's something for everyone around Mandela Square.

  • University of Witwatersrand: A historic institution, the University of Witwatersrand, located 9.7km from Nelson Mandela Square, offers a rich cultural vibe. Explore its beautiful architecture and diverse academic environment, which reflects the complexity of South African history.
  • 4th Avenue Parkhurst: This vibrant street, situated 4.8km away, is a hub of local life. With trendy cafes, unique shops, and a lively atmosphere, 4th Avenue Parkhurst embodies the dynamic city vibes of Johannesburg, perfect for leisurely strolls and casual dining.
  • Nelson Mandela Bridge: Spanning 9.7km from the square, this modern bridge connects the city with elegance. Its striking architecture and impressive views make it a perfect spot for photography and experiencing urban Johannesburg's bustling energy.

Best time to go to Nelson Mandela Square

The best time to visit Nelson Mandela Square is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February69.8°F (21.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
May59.0°F (15.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
June53.2°F (11.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
July53.1°F (11.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High
August58.8°F (14.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
September66.4°F (19.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
November69.8°F (21.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
December70.3°F (21.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Nelson Mandela Square

To save money on your trip to Nelson Mandela Square, consider visiting during the off-peak months of April or December to January for lower accommodation rates. Booking your stay on a Saturday can also help you save, while Mondays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options, and consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Don't forget to explore free activities in the area and utilize public transport, which is a cost-effective way to get around Johannesburg.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Nelson Mandela Square are April and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, May and July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Nelson Mandela Square is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Nelson Mandela Square is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel reservation at Nelson Mandela Square with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.

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