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 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

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Premier Hotel OR Tambo
The Houghton Hotel, Spa, Wellness & Golf
Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank

Popular places to visit


Top Nelson Mandela Square Hotel & Accommodation Deals

@Sandton Hotel

@Sandton Hotel

3 out of 5
5 Benmore Rd, Sandton, Gauteng
@Sandton Hotel
ONOMO Hotel Johannesburg Sandton

ONOMO Hotel Johannesburg Sandton

3.5 out of 5
135 West Street, Sandton, Gauteng
ONOMO Hotel Johannesburg Sandton
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
Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton

Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton

4 out of 5
20 Maude Street, Sandton, Gauteng
Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton
Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel

Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel

4 out of 5
Corner Rivonia Rd. And West St., Benmore, Sandton, Gauteng
Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel
NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel

NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel

5 out of 5
138 Rivonia Road, Johannesburg, Gauteng
NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel
Hotel Sky Sandton

Hotel Sky Sandton

3.5 out of 5
150 West St, Sandton, Gauteng
Hotel Sky Sandton
BlackBrick Sandton Two

BlackBrick Sandton Two

3.5 out of 5
22 Fredman Dr, Sandton, Gauteng
BlackBrick Sandton Two
Raphael Penthouse Suites

Raphael Penthouse Suites

5 out of 5
South Wing Nelson Mandela Squ Fifth St, Sandton, Gauteng
Raphael Penthouse Suites
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

Nestled in the heart of Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela Square offers a vibrant shopping experience, featuring an array of boutiques and international brands. While exploring the square, visitors can also enjoy local eateries and lively entertainment options. Don’t miss the chance to catch a football match nearby, adding to the excitement of your visit. It’s a perfect spot for both shopping enthusiasts and sports fans alike!

Shopping

Nestled close by, Sandton City Mall offers a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of business and entertainment vibes, just 322m away. Melrose Arch Shopping Centre, 3.2km away, boasts family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, check out Neighbourgoods Market, located 9.7km from the square, for local delights.

Recreation

Explore Wanderers Stadium for an energetic atmosphere and enjoy live sports events. The Wanderers Golf Club offers a serene outdoor experience, perfect for a relaxing round of golf amidst beautiful landscaping. Ellis Park Stadium also provides a vibrant sports vibe for those seeking excitement and local culture.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Kyalami Racetrack, located 12.9km from Nelson Mandela Square. For a fun adventure, head to Lazer Quest, only 4.8km away, for an exciting laser tag experience. If you're feeling brave, try bungee jumping at Orlando Towers, situated 17.7km away.

Nightlife

Nights at Nelson Mandela Square come alive with entertainment. Catch a flick at Ster-Kinekor Sandton City, only 161m away, or experience culture at the Victory Theater, 6.4km from the square. For a romantic film night, Ster-Kinekor Rosebank is a charming option, located 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

If you're visiting Nelson Mandela Square in Johannesburg, you'll find plenty to explore, from event venues to history museums and galleries. This vibrant area caters to culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike, offering a rich blend of local experiences. Don't miss the iconic Nelson Mandela Square, located in Sandton, which promises a memorable taste of South African heritage and city life.

  • Sandton Convention Centre: Situated a mere 161m from Nelson Mandela Square, this venue is a hub for conferences and events. Its modern design and business atmosphere make it perfect for professionals, while also offering opportunities for casual visitors to enjoy exhibitions and local events.
  • Rivonia Village: Located 4.8km away, this charming neighbourhood is a blend of city vibes and relaxed community spirit. Explore unique boutiques, delightful eateries, and vibrant nightlife, all while soaking in the local culture.
  • 4th Avenue Parkhurst: Also 4.8km from Nelson Mandela Square, this lively street is famed for its trendy cafes, shops, and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls and people-watching.

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

When planning your visit to Nelson Mandela Square, consider travelling in April or during the December to January period for lower accommodation prices. Saturdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to compare hotel rates, and don’t forget to explore package deals that bundle flights and activities for additional savings. For affordable transport, consider using public transport options, which can help keep your costs down while you explore the area’s free attractions and vibrant atmosphere.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To discover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You have the opportunity to save some cash by bundling your hotel stay at Nelson Mandela Square with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.