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FNB Stadium
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Landmark
The FNB Stadium, famously known as Soccer City, is the largest stadium in Africa, located in the Nasrec area of Johannesburg near Soweto. Originally built in 1989, the stadium underwent a massive reconstruction for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Its iconic design is modeled after a traditional African pot, or calabash, giving it a unique cultural aesthetic. With a seating capacity of approximately 94,700, it serves as the home ground for the South African national team and the Kaizer Chiefs. The stadium holds immense historical weight as it was the site of Nelson Mandela's first speech after his release from prison in 1990. Additionally, it hosted the 2010 World Cup final between Spain and the Netherlands. The exterior is clad in earthy-toned fiber-cement panels that are beautifully illuminated at night. Beyond football, the venue is a premier location for international music concerts and major national gatherings.
- Location: South Africa
- Top sights: Nasrec · Soweto Signboard · Painted Cooling Tower
- Nearby: Johannesburg (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 21 | 20 | 17 | 13 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 20 | 21 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 123 | 82 | 73 | 43 | 16 | 7 | 3 | 7 | 16 | 57 | 89 | 127 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The FNB Stadium can be visited through guided tours, which usually take place on specific days. The exterior grounds are accessible anytime, but the interior is open only during events or scheduled tours.
Typical hours
Guided tours are usually offered on non-match days, often late in the morning. Exact hours vary; it is advisable to check the official website in advance.
Photography
Photography is allowed on the stadium grounds, but inside only with permission. The best exterior view is from the front, featuring the iconic bowl shape.
Time needed
A guided tour of the stadium typically lasts about one hour. If you only explore the exterior and surroundings, allow 30 to 45 minutes.
Combine with
The stadium is in Soweto; combine the visit with a tour to the nearby Apartheid Museum or Walter Sisulu Square. The Hector Pieterson Museum is also close by.
Getting there
The FNB Stadium is reachable by taxi or the Rea Vaya bus system. The nearest train station is Nasrec; from there it is about a 15-minute walk.
Insider tip
Check the website in advance for tour dates as they are not held daily. Arrive early to avoid queues at security checks.
Geography
Facts
- The stadium has a seating capacity of 94,736, making it the largest in Africa.
- The architectural design is inspired by an African calabash, or traditional pot.
- It was the host venue for the final match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
- Nelson Mandela delivered his first public speech here in 1990 after his release.
- The exterior cladding consists of more than 33,000 individual fiber-cement panels.
- The stadium is built on a site that was historically used for gold mining in Nasrec.
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Sights in the town FNB Stadium (3)
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Frequently asked questions
How to reach the FNB Stadium?
Best by taxi or shuttle; during major events, special buses are available.
Are stadium tours available?
Yes, tours can be requested through the stadium administration.
Is the area safe?
Presence is high during events; otherwise, exercise caution.
Is there parking for fans?
Yes, large parking areas are available during major events.
When is the best time to visit?
On match days for the atmosphere, or on quiet days for photos.
FNB Stadium: where is it located?
FNB Stadium is located in South Africa.
FNB Stadium: what is there to see?
Highlights include Nasrec, Soweto Signboard, Painted Cooling Tower.
FNB Stadium: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Sep, Oct.
FNB Stadium: why is it worth visiting?
The FNB Stadium, famously known as Soccer City, is the largest stadium in Africa, located in the Nasrec area of Johannesburg near Soweto.
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