Categories > Guides and Tips
How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Pretoria
- What is there to do on Valentine’s day in Pretoria?
- Tour Horseback Africa.
- Ride the Blue Train and appreciate the South African landscape.
- Have a chill picnic at Jan Cilliers Park.
- Watch a show at Atterbury Theatre.
- Take a photo at Intiem Love Bridge.
- Enjoy massages together at Lanna Healing Thai Spa.
- Try couple’s yoga at Yoga Connection.
- BONUS: The Best Restaurants to Visit in Pretoria for Valentine’s Day
- The Blue Diamond Boutique Hotel & Spa
- La Fiamma Ristorante Pizzeria
- Pachas Restaurant
- Fermier
- Kream
- Blu Saffron
- Stef’s Table
- Toula’s
- What are great spots in Pretoria to celebrate Valentine’s for LGBTQ+ couples?
- Mustang Sally’s
- Beefcakes
- Rasputin Bar
- FAQs on Valentine’s Day in South Africa
It’s that time of the year again when romance is in the air – Valentine’s Day! With the plethora of options available in Pretoria, it can get challenging to pick the best date spot for you and your significant other.
But fret not, because we’ve lined up the best places to visit and things to do while you are in Pretoria, South Africa during Love Month. Enjoy!
What is there to do on Valentine’s day in Pretoria?
You can try out some fun and unique activities on Valentine’s Day in Pretoria. Some of these include touring Horseback Africa, riding the Blue Train, watching a show, and checking out Intiem Love Bridge.
You can even go as simple and as intimate as getting a massage together or doing couple’s yoga. In Pretoria, the sky’s the limit!
Read on as we dive into each of these ideas below. Watch out for our bonus section of the best restaurants for Valentine’s Day in Pretoria!
1. Tour Horseback Africa.
| Address | Tourist Route 4, Sand Road, Pretoria, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily |
| Website | http://www.horseridinginafrica.com/ |
| Contact | +27 082 789 9002 |
| Rates | Starts at R998 per person for horseback riding |
| Best For | Couples with kidsCouples who love adventures |
If there’s anything that’ll get your hearts racing on V-Day, it’s touring Horseback Africa!
From riding horses around the safari to testing your archery skills on 3D objects, there are a lot of activities to be enjoyed here.
If you’re extra-passionate about animals and want to make that date extra-meaningful, you can participate in a Wildlife Conservation volunteer programme to witness the release of endangered species to their natural habitat.
2. Ride the Blue Train and appreciate the South African landscape.
| Address | Bossman Street, Paul Kruger Street, Salvokop, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa |
| Operating hours | Varies on the itinerary chosen |
| Website | http://www.bluetrain.co.za/ |
| Contact | +27 12 334-8459;[email protected] |
| Best For | Couples travelling together for the first timePhotography enthusiastsElderly couples |
Set off on a one-of-a-kind adventure through the different cities of South Africa by riding the Blue Train, which features state-of-the-art steam technology created in the 19th century.
Throughout the ride, you can get a glimpse of the picturesque landscapes of the country, with its vast savannah plains and majestic mountain ranges.
You can opt to either book a quick day trip or an overnight stay, whichever you prefer.
The Blue Train offers to major routes:
| Route | Best For | Rates |
| Pretoria to Cape Town | Checking out the bustling city centre | Starts at R36,945 per person for a luxury double suite in the train (during low season) |
| Pretoria to Kruger National Park | Enjoying a quiet safari expedition | Starts at R66,080 per person for a luxury double suite in the train (during low season) |
Aside from their amazing itineraries, you’ll also feel comfortable with the help of their accommodating staff who are ready to address all your concerns.
3. Have a chill picnic at Jan Cilliers Park.
| Address | Corner and Wenning Street & Broderick Street, Groenkloof, Pretoria, 0027, South Africa |
| Operating hours | Always open |
| Rates | Free |
| Best For | Couples with kidsNature-loving couplesCouples on a budget |
For a relaxing Valentine’s day, go to Jan Cilliers Park in Pretoria. Covering 4.5 hectares, it’s the perfect space to roam around leisurely and cap off the stroll with a delicious picnic.
The park is known for its beautiful trees, dazzling ponds, and breathtaking gardens.
You can even bring along your fur babies and enjoy the view with them while on your date.
If you want to continue strolling around the area, there are nearby attractions to check out like the Longstreet Art Lovers 1932 and Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary.
4. Watch a show at Atterbury Theatre.
| Address | 4 Daventry Street, Lynnwood Manor, Pretoria, 0081, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily |
| Website | https://atterburytheatre.co.za/ |
| Contact | +27 12 942 5951;[email protected] |
| Rates | Varies on the event’s ticket prices |
| Best For | Couples who love watching performances liveElderly couples |
The Atterbury Theatre is the perfect place to unleash your love for your favourite artists! This performance art arena has hosted major names in the industry, such as Demi Lee Moore and Mel Botes.
Before heading in, you can even walk around the area and have a Pretoria City and Diamond Mine Tour to make the most of your day.
5. Take a photo at Intiem Love Bridge.
| Address | Walkerspruit, Pretoria, 0181, South Africa |
| Operating hours | Always open |
| Rates | Free |
| Best For | Couples spending anniversariesEngaged couples |
The Intiem Love Bridge is a must-visit in Pretoria for all couples, especially on Valentine’s Day. It’s the ideal spot to profess your love for each other while sealing your commitment through love locks.
Bring your own padlock with your names written on it and hook them on one side of the bridge as a way to set your love in stone. Fun fact: it’s a practice often done by locals!
Aside from being budget-friendly, the bridge is a great option for an engagement proposal.
6. Enjoy massages together at Lanna Healing Thai Spa.
| Address | 63 Dely Road, Alphen Park Waterkloof, East, Pretoria, 0010, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily |
| Website | https://llts.co.za/ |
| Contact | +27 84 983 8096 |
| Rates | Starts R250 per person |
| Best For | Elderly couplesCouples who enjoy massages |
Book a massage at Lanna Healing Thai Spa for a calming session with your date. It’s a great way to get some peace and quiet while getting rid of any strain or stress in your body.
The spa has a wide selection of healing massages, relaxation treatments and healing treatments that you can choose from their website.
They also have a couple anniversary package that includes a steam herbal, aromatherapy massage, refreshments and foot scrub for R1,800 per couple – perfect for 2.5 hours of bliss.
7. Try couple’s yoga at Yoga Connection.
| Address | 243 Brooks Street, Brooklyn, Pretoria, 0181, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, 5:40 PM to 7:30 PM on Mondays; 8:45 AM to 11:00 AM, 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM on Tuesdays; 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM, 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM on Wednesdays; 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 4:15 PM to 5:00 PM, 5:40 PM to 7:30 PM on Thursdays; 8:30 AM to 10:15 AM on Fridays; 8:15 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturdays; Closed on Sundays |
| Website | https://yogaconnection.co.za/ |
| Contact | +27 72 512 7466 |
| Rates | R400 per couple |
| Best For | Couples who enjoy working out togetherEngaged couples |
Practising yoga together is a great way to deepen the connection between you and your partner. It’s a rejuvenating session where you can relax your bodies and calm your minds.
Yoga Connection teaches different styles of yoga including beginner classes, advanced iyengar yoga classes and prenatal yoga.
They also have special offers for couples on important events, particularly Valentine’s day, so it’s a chance that you won’t want to miss.
BONUS: The Best Restaurants to Visit in Pretoria for Valentine’s Day
For foodies who just want to enjoy a romantic meal together, here is a list of the best restaurants to visit in Pretoria for Valentine’s Day:
1. The Blue Diamond Boutique Hotel & Spa
| Address | 761 Rubenstein Road, Moreleta Park, 0044, Pretoria, South Africa |
| Operating hours | Always open |
| Website | https://bluediamond.co.za/ |
| Contact | +27 12 940 5222;[email protected] |
The Blue Diamond Boutique Hotel & Spa is known for its high-class facilities, delicious menu items and well-trained staff.
On Valentine’s Day, this exclusive boutique hotel offers a special dinner booking for couples. It only costs R800 per couple, which you can book through their provided contact details or website.
Whether you plan to stay for the night or have a fancy dinner, this is a good choice if you want to be close to Moreleta Park.
Their accommodation options include the classic double room and deluxe double room. It’s an ideal choice for couples who want to enjoy their retreat a little longer.
2. La Fiamma Ristorante Pizzeria
| Address | Faerie Glen, Pretoria, 0081, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Mondays to Saturdays; 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sundays |
| Website | http://www.greedypiglet.co.za/ |
| Contact | +27 72 041 0830 |
For a romantic Italian dinner, head to La Fiamma Ristorante Pizzeria in Pretoria. It’s a family-owned restaurant that was founded in 2004.
There, you’ll enjoy classic Italian pizzas and top-tier wines while listening to live music by Ghapi, a singing drummer and songwriter famous among locals.
On Valentine’s Day, they create a special 4-course meal for couples along with a special performance by invited artists. Each meal costs R390 per person.
3. Pachas Restaurant
| Address | The Club Centre, 22 Dely Road, corner Elandslaagte Street & Dely Road, Hazelwood, Pretoria, 0081, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 12:00 NN to 8:30 PM on Mondays; 12:00 NN to 9:00 PM on Tuesdays to Sundays |
| Website | http://www.pachas.co.za/ |
| Contact | +27 12 460 5063 |
Located in the Club Centre, the Pachas Restaurant is a steakhouse that offers international and European cuisine. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner with your partner.
Not only does it have good food but it has a calming atmosphere with dim lights that you two would love. Additionally, they are popular for their good service so you’ll feel comfortable all throughout your date.
They have a vast collection of menu items from salads to special grills. Among most reviews, the previous customers enjoyed their steaks, potatoes and even desserts.
4. Fermier
| Address | 141 Lynnwood Road, The Willows 340-Jr, Pretoria, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Tuesdays to Saturdays; Closed on Sundays and Mondays |
| Website | https://www.fermierrestaurant.com/ |
| Contact | +27 76 072 5261 |
With several awards under their belt, the Fermier Restaurant is a popular date spot in Pretoria.
Their rates start at R850 per person for an eight-course menu and R400 for a wine pairing. Take note that they are on a strict reservation-only basis, so book a slot ahead of time to secure a table for your date.
They are mostly known for their European-style dishes. Their most raved-about dishes are the duck liver pate, fish and mushrooms.
Moreover, they cater to people with special diets, whether you’re a vegetarian or vegan.
Apart from that, they are a disability-friendly restaurant with wheelchairs available upon request.
5. Kream
| Address | 283 Dey Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, Pretoria, 0181, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Mondays to Saturdays; 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays |
| Website | https://kreamrestaurant.co.za/ |
| Contact | +27 12 346 4642 |
For delicious European food, try Kream.
They don’t only have impeccable service but also delectable main dishes consisting of classic grills from Chalmar Beef with unique sauces like blue cheese and mushroom truffle.
Their must-try menu items include the Crocodile Rainbow Roll and Fillet bone marrow.
They also have vegetarian-friendly options which are suitable for anyone’s taste such as the classic Greek salad and Biltong & Fried Feta salad.
Also, it’s suggested to book a table in advance to ensure a slot once you get to the restaurant, especially if you’re celebrating during a busy Valentine’s season.
6. Blu Saffron
| Address | Pretoria Country Club, Pretoria, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 12:00 PM to 12:05 AM daily |
| Facebook Page | https://www.facebook.com/blusaffron1/ |
| Contact | +27 12 346 0223 |
Blu Saffron is a continental restaurant that’s great for both families and couples. Get a taste of their famous Seared Norwegian Salmon which can be enjoyed as either a starter or the main dish.
You can also take a bite of their Cape Malay Lamb Curry to warm up your body and feel your tongue sizzle with its flavourful taste.
Also, they offer vegan and gluten-free options for customers with special diets like the Pineapple salad and Caprese salad.
Apart from that, the restaurant’s terrace offers a beautiful view of bushy trees and grassy fields. It’s a perfect opportunity to have some alone time with your Valentine’s date.
7. Stef’s Table
| Address | 73 Scott Street, Northwest, Pretoria, 0216, South Africa |
| Facebook Page | https://www.facebook.com/stefstable |
| Contact | +27 12 253 2384 |
Enjoy a quiet and exclusive dinner at Stef’s Table with your significant other on Valentine’s Day. It’s a restaurant offering both French and South African cuisine in an intimate setting.
They have been offering Valentine’s Day dinners for over 20 years, so they really know their stuff when it comes to romantic experiences.
An interesting thing about them is that their menu often changes since they base it on the availability of the freshest and finest ingredients.
They feature different food and wine pairings on their Facebook page for the customer’s reference.
What’s more, couples with an early reservation can request a personalised menu. It’s the best thing about Stef’s Table that is wholly appreciated by all previous customers.
8. Toula’s
| Address | 3 In Shere, Silverlakes Road, |
| Operating hours | 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Mondays to Tuesdays; 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM on Wednesdays to Thursdays; 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Fridays; 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM on Saturdays; 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM on Sundays |
| Website | https://www.toulas.co.za/ |
| Contact | +27 12 809 1805 |
If you’re craving for Greek food, Toula’s Family Restaurant Silver Lakes is a great choice. Dine al fresco for some fresh air and good food!
Chef-recommended items include prawns, Greek burgers and grilled fish. They also have vegetable and meat tapas, whichever you prefer between the two.
They also have amazing wine options for you to choose from.
If you have kids in tow, the restaurant offers a separate kids’ menu where there are delicious picks like fish bites and calamari for them to enjoy. They also have fun drinks for them such as milkshakes and slushies.
What are great spots in Pretoria to celebrate Valentine’s for LGBTQ+ couples?
There are many spots in Pretoria that are perfect for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer plus (LGBTQ+) couples to have a date. Here are our suggestions!
1. Mustang Sally’s
| Address | 1319 Pretorius Street, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Tuesdays to Saturdays; 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Sundays; Closed on Mondays |
| Website | https://restaurantwebx.com/MustangSally/ |
| Contact | +27 83 535 4797 |
If you’re into a retro vibe, go to Mustang Sally’s Pub and Diner in Pretoria, South Africa. It’s a new American restaurant with a bright interior and tantalizing menu items.
Both you and your partner will have a great time eating delicious food and taking a sip of quirky beverages during your visit. The most popular menu items include large burgers and meaty tacos.
They also offer different variations of milkshakes, inspired by various themes like Toy Story and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
2. Beefcakes
| Address | Corner 18th Street and Dely Road, Hazelwood, Pretoria, 0081, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM on Wednesdays to Fridays; 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM on Saturdays; Closed on Sundays to Tuesdays |
| Website | https://www.beefcakes.co.za/ |
| Contact | +27 12 941 9966 |
| Rates | Starts at R350 |
You’ll have the ultimate drag dining experience at Beefcakes Pretoria with their 50s-inspired theme! It’s inspired by various American styles like Key West and Palm Springs.
Apart from their great performances, they also offer good food that you can munch on while watching their stars take the stage.
Beefcakes can also be found in different parts of South Africa namely Johannesburg and Cape Town.
3. Rasputin Bar
| Address | 642 Meyer Street, Wonderboom South, Pretoria, 0084, South Africa |
| Operating hours | 10:00 PM to 12:00 MN on Mondays; 10:00 PM to 2:00 AM on Tuesdays to Sundays |
| Contact | +27 82 452 3014 |
Rasputin is a famous gay bar in Pretoria where LGBTQ+ couples can feel cosy on their date (fun first date ideas in Johannesburg). It’s even called a gay haven because members of the community are comfortable partying and drinking in this place.
They have an exciting lineup of DJs and delicious drinks for you to enjoy. There are also events often done in this place that celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride.
FAQs on Valentine’s Day in South Africa
Got any V-Day date ideas to add to the list for those celebrating it in Pretoria? Let us know in the comments below!
