Getting There

By air: The closest international airport to Pretoria is Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport. Depending on the traffic, it's about a 25 minute drive from the airport to Pretoria. Airport shuttles can be pre-booked with lots of hostels; alternatively some are available from the airport. Taxis can also be picked up from the airport.

By train: The main train station is located on the corner of Railway and Andries Streets. As well as being visited by the country's famous Blue Train, Pretoria Train Station offers commuter services to Johannesburg.

By bus: Baz Bus, Intercape and Greyhound are just a few of the major bus companies offering services which connect Pretoria with other cities throughout South Africa. If travelling with Baz Bus, you'll have the added security of being dropped directly at your accommodation.

Getting Around

On foot: Walking around is quite safe in neighbourhoods like Hatfield, Brooklyn and Menlyn, as well as in and around Church Square and many other parts of the city. As with any major city, don't flash your cash and here it's also best not to walk around after dark.

By taxi: Private taxis are a cheap and efficient way of getting to the various parts of the city that can't be reached on foot.

By car: Renting a car if you can is a another good way of getting around Pretoria, especially to attractions such as Freedom Park and the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre, both of which are just outside the city itself.

Pretoria's climate can be described as humid subtropical. What this means is that the city sees long, hot and wet summers, while winters are cool and dry. Temperatures are highest from December to February reaching an average of around 22ºC. Thundery rainstorms can be frequent during these hot summer months so pack your umbrella if you're visiting at this time of year. June and July are Pretoria's coldest months with temperatures of around 11ºC. August and September see around 10 hours of daylight, with the rest of the months seeing a pretty constant 9 hours of daylight.

Embassies

USA: +27 (0)12 4314000
Canada: +27 (0)12 4223000*
Australia: +27 (0)12 4236000*
New Zealand: +27 (0)12 4607650
UK: +27 (0)12 4217500*
Germany: +27 (0)12 4278900
Spain: +27 (0)12 3443875
France: +27 (0)12 4251600
Italy: +27 (0)12 4230000
Ireland: +27 (0)12 3425062

*Number is for High Commission

Harrie's Pancakes, Eastwood Village, Cnr Eastwood & Pretorius, Arcadia For a tasty and reasonably priced lunch, check out Harrie's Pancakes. You'll be treated to a mind boggling array of savoury pancakes with fillings like mince, chicken livers, butternut squash and plenty more. Sweet varieties are also available. Open daily 8am-9pm.

News Café, Cnr Burnett & Hilda, Hatfield Along with their all-day breakfast, News Café offers up a mouth-watering selection of burgers, salads and sandwiches. Their milkshakes and smoothies are the perfect way to cool down on a hot afternoon in Pretoria. Open Mon-Thurs 7am-1.30am, Fri 7am-2.30am, Sat-Sun 8am-1.30am.

Finger-licking fusion food Baobab, Menlyn Park Mall, Menlyn African fusion food is what you'll find on the menu here at trendy eatery Baobab. Try the vetkoek (pictured), a traditional Afrikaner pastry, served up with a variety of fillings. For a cool view of Menlyn and the surrounding areas, try and nab one of the balcony tables. Open Sun-Thurs 9am-10pm, Fri-Sat 9am-11pm.

Trademarx, Cnr Kirkness & Lynwood, Arcadia Right on the doorstep of the Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Trademarx offers a very varied menu including ribs, salads, sandwiches, pizzas and burgers. Prices are affordable and portions are impressive. Open Mon & Wed 7am-10pm, Tues & Fri 7am-2am, Thurs 7am-11pm, Sat 8am-2am, Sun 8am-5pm.

Co.fi, 1066 Burnett Street, Hatfield Co.fi is a chic restaurant and bar, popular with a hip crowd who come here for the delicious food and funky music. Everything from steaks to gourmet sandwiches is available, plus finger foods and platters if you're in the mood to nibble. Open Sun-Wed 7am-12am, Thurs-Sat 7am-2am.

Hatfield Square, Hatfield Incredibly popular with Pretoria's numerous students and travellers, Hatfield Square boasts everything you'll need for a good night out. In and around the plaza you'll come across any number of bars and clubs including DropZone, Cheeky Monkey, Herr Gunters and Oppi Square. The only question you'll need to ask yourself is 'where should I go first?'

A trip to the theatre South African State Theatre, 320 Pretorius Street, Pretoria Central If you're looking for something a bit different from your evening's entertainment, check out the South African State Theatre. Here you'll be able to watch a play, enjoy a comedy show, listen to African music and plenty more. Opening times vary with performances, check website for details.

Zanzú, 1081 Burnett Street, Hatfield One of Pretoria's most happening clubs, Zanzú is packed with people partying to the sound of R&B, house and hip-hop music. With its three dance areas and regular specials like Ladies' Night and beer buckets, it's no wonder this spot is often swarming with revellers. Open Wed-Sat 8am-4am, closed Sun-Tues; admission R40, free before 10pm.

Eastwoods Tavern, 391 Eastwood Street, Arcadia A bar with a fondness for Marilyn Munroe and sports memorabilia, Eastwoods is a pretty big spot. Perfect for relaxing over a few drinks, this bar offers up plenty of drinks specials served to the sound of pop and rock tracks. Open daily 8am-2am.

Tings an' Times, 1065 Arcadia Street, Hatfield Energetic and full of eager drinkers and music fans, Tings an' Times is a great bar with a reggae vibe. Live music, not just of the reggae persuasion, can regularly be enjoyed here with lots of bands providing entertainment well into the night. Open Mon-Sat 12pm-1.30am/2am, closed Sun.

Transvaal Museum, Paul Kruger Street, Pretoria Central Across the road from Pretoria's imposing City Hall, this natural history museum was founded in 1892. It houses a huge collection of exhibits with an emphasis on African wildlife, plus a sparkling selection of gemstones, crystals and more. Open daily 8am-4pm, admission R20.

Freedom Park, Salvokop Hoping to educate visitors about South Africa's history and looking towards the country's united future, Freedom Park is one of Pretoria's most important attractions. Although not entirely finished yet, the park includes memorials like the Eternal Flame and the touching Wall of Names. Guided tours available daily at 9am, 12pm & 3pm, admission R20.

Voortrekker Monument, Eeufees Road, Groenkloof Chances are you'll have seen this giant monument on your drive into the city. Honouring the Voortrekker pioneers, it features lots of impressive friezes. Open daily May-Aug 8am-5pm, Sept-Apr 8am-6pm; admission R13 (entrance to site) R32 (entrance to monument & museum).

What's new pussycat? Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre, off Pretoria North Road, Hartbeespoort Since 1968 the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre has been involved in breeding the endangered cheetah. To see these cats and other animals for yourself, take a three hour tour of the centre. Guided tours available daily at 8.30am and 1.30pm; admission R165, booking required.

Pretoria National Botanical Garden, 2 Cussonia Avenue, Brummeria Covering an area of around 76 hectares, the Pretoria National Botanical Garden is a striking oasis outside the city centre. Divided into two main sections, these gardens feature South African plants and a variety of native trees. Open daily 8am-6pm (no entry after 5pm), admission R18.

January-February - Unisa International String Competition During this important music festival, string musicians from all over the world compete here for the grand prize. All rounds of the competition can be attended by members of the public.

February - Deloitte Pretoria Marathon Organised by the Phobians Running and Walking Club, this event includes both a marathon and half marathon. The route takes participants past some of the city's main landmarks including Union Buildings.

March - Human Rights Day Celebrated annually on March 21st, Human Rights Day is an important date on Pretoria's calendar. The day is marked with a number of different events throughout the city.

April-May - Jacaranda National Arts Festival This multi-cultural arts festival features in excess of 50 theatre productions. A braai (barbecue) area, dance floor and rugby tournament are other important elements of the event.

May - Antique and Crafts Fair Held at Melrose House near Burgers Park, this annual Antique and Crafts Fair sees lots of stalls selling a wide variety of antiques and collectables, plus handmade arts and crafts.

July-August - Tshwane Comedy Festival The South Africa State Theatre is the home of the annual Tshwane Comedy Festival. This event sees plenty of well-known South African comedians taking part.

August - Cars in the Park South Africa's top car show is held at the Zwartkops Race Track in Pretoria. Large numbers of classic cars, vintage motorbikes and more are displayed here.

August-September - Pretoria Show Held at the Tshwane Events Centre, this event is the biggest agricultural show in the region. It features horse, cattle and poultry shows, along with live music and plenty of performances.

October - Jacaranda Festival When spring arrives in the southern hemisphere, Pretoria's numerous Jacaranda trees sprout purple flowers. This is celebrated with markets, food stalls and more.

December - Singing Christmas Tree This popular event sees a number of performances including carol singing taking place beneath a large Christmas tree.

Menlyn One of the city's most popular suburbs and just a short drive from the city centre, Menlyn is a special favourite with shopaholics who flock here to visit the impressive Menlyn Park shopping centre. There are plenty of great bars and restaurants too so even if you're not in the mood to shop it's definitely worth the trip.

Hatfield Home to some of the city's most vibrant nightlife, Hatfield really comes alive in the evening. That's not to say that you shouldn't also check it out during the day when the numerous cafés and restaurants, along with the Hatfield Plaza shopping centre, attract large numbers of people.

Arcadia Here you'll find one of Pretoria's most recognisable landmarks, the Union Buildings. You can go for a walk through the expanse of parkland or check out the view from up on Government Avenue. Also in this area you'll come across Arcadia Park, home to the Pretoria Art Museum. A number of great restaurants and shops can be found at Arcadia's Eastwood Village complex.

Heart of the city Pretoria Central Pretoria's city centre boasts many of the city's top attractions including the Transvaal Museum (pictured) and beautiful Burger's Park. If you're looking for somewhere to go and sit amongst the locals, check out Church Square. Boasting some very impressive architecture, the square also has some lovely fountains and plenty of places to sit.

Brooklyn Yet another popular suburb of Pretoria, Brooklyn is home to the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary which boasts a large variety of bird life that can be observed by arranging a guided walk. If shopping is more your thing, make sure to check out the Brooklyn Mall and its many stores. After all those activities, you'll find plenty of bars and restaurants where you can relax with a drink or enjoy a meal.

Hatfield Flea Market, 1122 Burnett Street, Hatfield With in excess of 200 stalls operating at this weekly flea market, you'll find plenty of things to spend your Rand on. Sellers here offer everything from trendy clothes to handcrafted gift items plus jewellery, furniture and plenty more. Open Sundays 9am-4pm.

Brooklyn Mall, Cnr Fehrsen & Lange Streets, Brooklyn Brooklyn Mall is home to over 170 different stores including recognisable names like the Body Shop and Guess. Shoes, jewellery, kitchen accessories, and electronics are just some of the other products available here. The mall also has its own cinema. Open Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 9am-2pm.

Suburban shopping splurge Menlyn Park, Cnr Atterbury Rd & Lois Ave, Menlyn Three floors of stores await you at the hugely popular Menlyn Park shopping centre. Here you'll find everything from designer clothes to sunglasses plus shoes, books, music, home furnishings and lots more. Open Mon-Thurs 9am-7pm, Fri 9am-9pm, Sat 9am-7pm, Sun 9am-5pm.

Church Street, between Church Square and Prinsloo, Pretoria Central You might not recognise the store names along this busy stretch of Church Street but you'll definitely be familiar with many of the brands on offer including great value Converse footwear. Clothing and shoe stores are accompanied by a number of stalls selling everything from sunglasses to handcrafts.

Hatfield Plaza, 1122 Burnett Street, Hatfield Wonderfully air-conditioned inside, Hatfield Plaza is a great spot for a wander. Spread out over a couple of floors, the Plaza is home to numerous stores. Whether you're looking for a funky boutique or more affordable clothing, it's all here. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-3pm, Sun 9am-1am.

Visit the historically important Union Buildings Though you can't actually go on a tour of Union Buildings yet, they should still feature on your must do list while in Pretoria. Head on up to Government Avenue to check out the stunning exterior of this important site, the place where Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as the South African President in 1994. As the Buildings are up on a hill, you'll also be afforded some stunning views of the surrounding area from here.

City centre oasis Take a break in Burgers Park Pretoria's oldest park covers around 4 hectares and was built in the Victorian style. It's the perfect place to escape to if you're looking for a change of scenery. Check out the fountains and flowers or just sit under one of the tall trees and enjoy the shade. Open daily 8am-6pm.

Mingle with the locals in Church Square The focal point of Pretoria Central, Church Square is surrounded by a number of beautiful buildings including the Palace of Justice and the Ou Raadsaal. Once you're done admiring the architecture, walk through the park to see the stature of former South African President Paul Kruger.

Check out Pretorius Square Smack bang in front of Pretoria's impressive City Hall is yet another pretty park area found in Pretoria Central. As you wander around, you'll see a number of beautiful fountains plus colourful flowerbeds and three statues of important figures in the city's history including Chief Tshwane.

Stroll through Arcadia Park Home to the Pretoria Art Museum, Arcadia Park is a large space popular with locals who come here throughout the day. Here you'll find plenty of benches to sit on but people also happily sprawl across the grass. There's a playground area for kids too.

Start the day in Hatfield and have an early breakfast in the popular News Café restaurant.

From here, head off to join the 9am tour at one of the city's most poignant attractions, Freedom Park.

After your visit to Freedom Park, go to the imposing Voortrekker Monument, with its museum and collection of impressive friezes.

Check out Eastwood Village, home to a number of shops and restaurants, including Harrie's Pancakes which is a great choice for lunch.

Go to Pretoria Central and have a wander around Church Square (above) where you'll find plenty of locals hanging out.

Some of Pretoria's top spots are within walking distance of Church Square including the Transvaal Museum, Pretorius Square and Burgers Park.

Hop in a taxi for the short trip out to Menlyn where you can wander around the Menlyn Park shopping centre and part ways with some of your Rand.

Travel back to Arcadia and have some food in Trademarx, right on the doorstep of the impressive Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

Head around to Eastwoods Tavern for some after dinner drinks in a comfortable yet lively atmosphere.

Complete the circle and end up back in Hatfield where you'll have your pick of bars and clubs to party the night away.