Centurion

Centurion is a city in central Gauteng, lying between Johannesburg and Pretoria along the N1 highway. Originally a farming area known as Lyttelton, it was renamed in 1995 and has since grown into a major residential and commercial node. Centurion forms part of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality and is effectively a southern suburb of Pretoria.

The city is notable for its large artificial Centurion Lake, shopping centres, and the SuperSport Park cricket stadium. The business district around the Gautrain station has attracted corporate headquarters and hotels. The climate is highveld temperate, with warm summers and dry, frosty winters.

By Plane

O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) is 40 km south, about a 35-minute drive via the N1 and R21. A ride-hailing fare is ZAR 400–600.

By Train

Centurion has a Gautrain station with frequent services to O. R. Tambo Airport (via Sandton), Johannesburg Park Station, and Pretoria. The Metrorail station is on the Pretoria–Johannesburg main line.

By Car / Road

Centurion is 15 km south of Pretoria (15 minutes via the N1) and 40 km north of Johannesburg (35 minutes via the N1). The N1 highway runs through the centre of the city.

Driving is the most convenient option. The Gautrain provides fast connections to Sandton and Pretoria. Metrorail commuter trains serve the broader Tshwane area. Minibus taxis operate on all main routes. Uber and Bolt are widely available.

• SuperSport Park — An international cricket stadium hosting Test matches, ODIs, and T20s. Tours available on non-match days.

• Centurion Lake — A large artificial lake with walking paths, a mall, restaurants, and a hotel. Free entry.

• Jan Smuts House — The former home of statesman Jan Smuts in nearby Irene, now a museum with gardens and a tea room. Entry ZAR 50.

• Irene Village — A historic farming village with an artisanal market, deli, and the Irene Dairy Farm.

• Voortrekker Monument (12 km north) — A monumental granite structure commemorating the Voortrekkers, with sweeping views over Pretoria.

• Watch cricket — Catch a domestic or international match at SuperSport Park.

• Shopping at Centurion Mall — One of the largest malls in Gauteng with over 200 stores.

• Walk or cycle around Centurion Lake — The 2 km lakeside promenade is popular for jogging and dog-walking.

• Visit the Irene Market — A weekend market at the Irene Dairy Farm with crafts, antiques, and farm produce.

• Trumps Grillhouse & Sports Bar — A popular restaurant at SuperSport Park, known for steaks and ribs. Mains ZAR 180–320.
• La Viola — A family-run Italian restaurant in Irene, known for authentic pastas and pizzas. Mains ZAR 120–200.
• Hennie's Bistro — A local favourite for breakfast and lunch on the lake. Mains ZAR 90–160.
• The Greek Spot — Traditional Greek souvlaki, moussaka, and grilled halloumi. Mains ZAR 110–180.

• Blue Room Centurion — A rooftop bar at SuperSport Park with views of the cricket field.
• Aroma Café — Coffee and light snacks in a garden setting in Irene.
• Water safety: Tap water is safe to drink.

• Budget: The Centurion Backpackers — Dorm beds from ZAR 250, private rooms from ZAR 500.
• Mid-range: Centurion Lake Hotel — A three-star hotel on the lakefront. Doubles from ZAR 900.
• Upscale: The Centurion — A four-star hotel with a pool, spa, and lake views. Doubles from ZAR 1,800.

• Centurion Mall — The primary shopping destination with major South African and international brands.
• Irene Farmers' Market — Every Saturday morning. Artisanal food, fresh produce, flowers, and crafts.

• Pretoria (15 km north) — The administrative capital, Union Buildings, and Freedom Park.
• Johannesburg (40 km south) — South Africa's largest city with world-class museums and nightlife.
• Cullinan (30 km east) — A historic diamond town with Premier Mine tours.
• Hartbeespoort Dam (50 km northwest) — A scenic resort area with cableway, water sports, and the Elephant Sanctuary.