Nelson Mandela Square

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 theatre, 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-metres) 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 jewellery 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 jewellery, 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 theatre’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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Things to do near Nelson Mandela Square

Nelson Mandela Square offers an array of activities, perfect for any visitor. You can indulge in shopping at a variety of boutiques, catch a thrilling football match, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the square. With its lively eateries and entertainment options, it promises a delightful experience for tourists exploring Johannesburg.

Shopping

At Nelson Mandela Square, indulge in shopping at Sandton City Mall, a vibrant centre just 124m away, or Melrose Arch Shopping Centre, 1.2km away, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. For a unique experience, if you're up for a drive, visit Fourways Farmers Market, 3.7km away.

Recreation

At Wanderers Stadium, enjoy an energetic atmosphere with various sporting events, just a stone's throw from Nelson Mandela Square. Randpark Golf Club offers a serene outdoor golfing experience, while Ellis Park Stadium provides thrilling sports entertainment, perfect for sports enthusiasts seeking excitement and wellness through active recreation.

Adventure

At Kyalami Racetrack, located 5.0km from Nelson Mandela Square, experience heart-pounding motor racing amidst an adrenaline-fueled atmosphere. Lazer Quest, just 1.9km away, offers thrilling laser tag adventures for all ages. For the brave, Orlando Towers provides bungee jumping 6.8km away, delivering an unforgettable rush.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Nelson Mandela Square with a film at Ster-Kinekor Sandton City, just 62m away, or enjoy a cultural performance at the Victory Theater, 2.5km away. For more cinematic thrills, visit Ster-Kinekor Rosebank, located 1.9km from the square.

Find the best attractions near Nelson Mandela Square

Nelson Mandela Square in Johannesburg offers a vibrant blend of cultural experiences, with popular attractions including conference venues, history museums, and galleries. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the area while enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the city's dynamic atmosphere. A must-see is the iconic Nelson Mandela Square itself, which serves as a hub for both locals and tourists seeking to appreciate the spirit of South Africa.

  • Sandton Convention Centre: Located a mere 62m from Nelson Mandela Square, this state-of-the-art venue is ideal for business events and conferences. Its modern design and professional atmosphere make it a hub for local and international gatherings, offering an impressive backdrop for networking.
  • Rivonia Village: A charming neighbourhood 1.9km away, Rivonia Village boasts a vibrant mix of cafés, boutiques, and art galleries. This lively area encapsulates city vibes, allowing visitors to explore local culture and cuisine in a relaxed setting.
  • 4th Avenue Parkhurst: Also situated 1.9km from Nelson Mandela Square, this trendy street is lined with stylish eateries and shops. Its bustling atmosphere and urban appeal make it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and socialising.

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 (dry).

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 Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
June53.2°F (11.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
July53.1°F (11.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
August58.8°F (14.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
September66.4°F (19.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
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 visit to Nelson Mandela Square, consider travelling during the off-peak months of April and December to January for lower accommodation rates. Saturdays are the most economical days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Utilise Expedia's search tool to compare hotel prices and find budget-friendly options, including eco-certified hotels. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for greater savings. Exploring the square on foot is a great way to enjoy free activities and keep transport costs down.

  • 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 Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred destination, and additional criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel stay at Nelson Mandela Square with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.