10 Unusual and Fun Things to do in Pretoria for Couples

[Updated June 2019]

Are you on the hunt for cool, scenic and romantic adventures in the city of Tshwane? Bored with the usual dinner and a movie routine? Well, now you can explore Pretoria (Tshwane) and discover its majestic landscape and culture. This capital metropolis is known for much more than official buildings and pretty jacaranda trees, there are loads of fresh and fun things to do in Pretoria for couples. Take a look at the incredible markets, nature reserves and other vibrant activities that are abundant in Pretoria.

Markets

1. Go to the vibey Market@theSheds

This popular monthly inner-city market is a project created by the Capital Collective, an organisation devoted to supporting creative initiatives in Pretoria. Held at the 012central, a trendy, multi-space precinct in the CBD, Market@theSheds is ideal for couples looking for a laid-back day while enjoying some good live music, tucking into some great food and beer, and buying some locally-made goods.

Trading hours: 11:00 to 20:00

Entrance fee: R50 before 15:00, and R100 thereafter

Address: 381 Helen Joseph Street, Pretoria

2. Attend the Deep Roots Night Market

If you’re looking for a fun thing to do in Pretoria for couples at night, head to the monthly evening market held at the CBC Old Boy’s Club. There are tons of great vibes and a huge variety of gourmet food available. You can try dishes such as crispy calamari and Belgian waffles – all this impeccable comfort food will surely keep you and your loved one smiling from ear to ear! You’ll get to support local vendors while tasting delicious dishes, drinking craft beers and seeing incredible live music performances. Make sure to check out this fun market, which takes place on the first Friday of the month.

Trading hours: 15:30 until late

Address: CBC Old Boy’s Club, 78 George Storrar Drive, Brooklyn

3. Food and fun at the Hazel Food Market

A great, relaxed and fun thing to do in Pretoria for couples is a visit to the Hazel Food Market. This popular European-styled Saturday food market has a delicious assortment of treats served at over 70 stalls. Taste delicious flatbreads, vetkoek, and herb-laden pâtés along with a glass of wine.

Trading hours: 08:00 to 14:00

Contact: 078 593 0081

Address: Greenlyn Village Centre, Corner Thomas Edison and Mackenzie, Pretoria

Nature

4. Do the free park run in the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens

A run may not scream romance, but it is worth a mention on a list of fun things to do in Pretoria for couples on a Saturday morning. Get some fresh air with your better half, and take on the free, weekly five-kilometre run through the breathtaking Pretoria Botanical Gardens, starting at 08:00. Enjoy the endorphin boost and friendly atmosphere. You can order a coffee afterwards at the MilkPlum Café inside the Botanical Gardens.

Contact: botanicalgardenhelpers@parkrun.com

Address: Pretoria Botanical Garden, 2 Cussonia Avenue, Pretoria, 0186

5. Enjoy various outdoor activities at the Groenkloof Nature Reserve

Groenkloof is one of the oldest nature reserves in the country. It is a mere five kilometres south of the city. There are exciting activities, including mountain biking, horse rides, 4×4 and hiking trails. Couples who enjoy birdwatching will love the sight of the large variety of bird species. Groenkloof Nature Reserve is a must visit for an endless array of fun things to do in Pretoria for couples.

Visiting hours: summer (September to April) 05:30 to 19:00; winter (May to August) 07:00 to 18:00

Costs: day tariff (adults 18-59 years old) – R43. Take a look at the extensive price guide on the City of Tshwane website.

Contact: 012 440 8316

Address: Christina De Wit Avenue, Groenkloof, Pretoria

6. Take in the vast natural scenery at Wonderboom Nature Reserve

Located in the north of Pretoria, nestled in the Magaliesberg mountains, is the exquisite Wonderboom Nature Reserve. The most well-known attraction is the Wonderboom (Miracle Tree). This spectacular fig tree is estimated to be over 1,000 years old. You and your partner can enjoy scenic hikes with a spectacular mountain view as well as a man-made cave and waterfall to reward your efforts. A visit to this nature reserve is by far one of the most romantic and fun things to do in Pretoria for couples.

Cost: day tariff (adults 18-59 years) – R37. The City of Tshwane website has a thorough price breakdown for all activities at Wonderboom Nature Reserve.

Visiting hours: summer (September to April) 07:00-19:00; winter (May to August) 07:00-18:00

Contact: 012 543 0918 or phildetteh@tshwane.gov.za

Address: Wonderboom, Pretoria, 0182

More Vibrant Activities

7. Start the day with a coffee and a beautiful breakfast for two at Spout Coffee Co.

Spout Coffee Co. is perched in a modern container space with brightly-coloured Vespas parked out front. Expect fine food and aromatic coffee. Their baked goods and healthy breakfasts are highly recommended. This is a great way to start your day and a definite fun thing to do in Pretoria for couples.

Contact: 082 465 6148

Address: Corner of 16^th Street and Firwood Avenue, Hazelwood, Pretoria

8. Watch the sun set at Fort Klapperkop

Fort Klapperkop was the third fort erected to protect the city of Pretoria from foreign invaders just before the second Anglo-Boer War. Located on a hill, this fort was equipped with guns mounted on ramparts, trenches and barbed wire. It had additional unique features as it was built with a moat around it and a drawbridge, although the moat was never filled with water. Fort Klapperkop is now a Gauteng Provincial Heritage Site and a South African national monument. Head to this incredible site for breathtaking sunset views over Jacaranda City.

Address: Johann Rissij Dr, Rylaan, Pretoria, 0105

9. Go rose picking at Ludwig’s Rose Farm

For a therapeutic date, why not surround yourself with the most beautiful roses? This is a fun thing to do in Pretoria for couples if you prefer quiet times that will allow you to unwind. The rose-scented air is a treat for all who come and peruse the marvellous roses growing in abundance. This is a favourite amongst couples as the rose-picking can be followed by a cup of tea. Sounds like the perfect, relaxed afternoon with your partner.

Contact: 012 544 0144

Trading hours: Monday-Sunday – 08:00-17:00

Address: 61 Haakdoornlaagte, Pretoria, 0002

10. Enjoy the best of the country’s performing arts at the South African State Theatre

Nestled in the heart of Pretoria’s CBD, the South African State Theatre offers world-class music, drama and dance performances. Here, you’ll see incredible artists showcasing the extensive professional range South Africa is capable of producing. For a perfect evening of entertainment, get your tickets to an array of well-produced shows. Keep up to date with the programmes at the State Theatre.

Contact: 012 392 4000

Address: 320 Pretorius Street, Pretoria CBD

With all these fun things to do in Pretoria for couples, you are bound to have a fantastic time with your partner. Take advantage of this great list of things to do and explore this dynamic city.

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