Where to Stay in Durban
South Africa
|Pop. 3.3M
|4 neighborhoods covered
Durban at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Durban
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Take advantage of the local 'minibus taxis' for cheap and efficient transport between neighborhoods, but understand their routes and be prepared for crowded conditions.
Getting Around
For Uber/Bolt, confirm the driver and vehicle details match the app before getting in, and share your trip status with a contact.
Watch Out For
Fake charity collectors
Solo Female Travel
Durban is generally safe for solo females in well-trafficked tourist areas during the day. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and do not walk alone in deserted areas or at night.
Hidden Gems in Durban
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Japanese Gardens
FREEA tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, these meticulously maintained gardens offer a peaceful escape with serene ponds, manicured shrubs, and charming bridges.
Umgeni River Bird Park
Home to a vibrant collection of indigenous and exotic birds, this park allows you to get up close with everything from colorful parrots to majestic eagles in lush, naturalistic enclosures.
The Station Urban Beer Garden
Housed in a beautifully restored old railway station, this spot boasts a fantastic atmosphere with craft beers, live music, and delicious pub fare, making it a local favorite for a relaxed evening.
Victoria Street Market
FREEDive into the bustling heart of Durban's Indian culture at this vibrant market, where you can find everything from aromatic spices and colorful textiles to unique souvenirs and tasty street food.
KwaMuhle Museum
This museum offers a poignant and insightful look into the history of Durban's black population, focusing on apartheid era struggles and triumphs.
Botanic Gardens
FREEWhile larger than the Japanese Gardens, Durban's Botanic Gardens are often overlooked by tourists. Explore diverse plant collections, including a magnificent collection of cycads and a stunning orchid house.
What It Costs in Durban
Daily budget per person in ZAR
๐ก76% cheaper than London
ZAR 800/day
ZAR 1800/day
ZAR 4000/day
Where to Stay in Durban
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Golden Mile5 min
- Durban Funworld10 min
- Marine Parade5 min
Pros
- +Direct beach access
- +Plenty of accommodation options
- +Good for families and beach activities
Cons
- -Can be very crowded, especially during peak season
- -Some areas can feel a bit touristy and commercialized
Top stays in North Beach
The Edward Hotel
$$A historic beachfront hotel offering classic charm and sea views.
Protea Hotel by Marriott Durban Beachfront
$$Modern hotel with direct beach access and great ocean vistas.
Garden Court Marine Parade
$$Reliable option with a pool and convenient location on the promenade.
Road Lodge Durban Central
$Budget-friendly option for travelers seeking basic, clean accommodation.
Best for
Walk to
- Florida Road15 min
- Mitchell Park Zoo20 min
- Durban Botanic Gardens25 min
Pros
- +Quieter and more local feel
- +Excellent dining and cafe scene
- +Access to green spaces
Cons
- -Further from the beach
- -Requires more reliance on transport for main attractions
Top stays in Berea
The Oyster Box Hotel
$$$Iconic luxury hotel in Umhlanga (nearby, but often considered for Berea visitors) known for its impeccable service and curry buffet.
9th Avenue Boutique Guesthouse
$$Charming guesthouse offering personalized service and a tranquil garden setting.
The Benjamin
$$Modern hotel with stylish rooms and a convenient location near Florida Road.
Best for
Walk to
- uShaka Marine World5 min
- Harbour entrance10 min
- Durban CBD25 min
Pros
- +Proximity to uShaka Marine World
- +Developing nightlife and restaurant scene
- +Waterfront views
Cons
- -Still undergoing significant development, can be noisy
- -Some areas feel unfinished
Top stays in Point Waterfront
Protea Hotel by Marriott Durban Point
$$Modern hotel with sea views and close proximity to uShaka Marine World.
The Edward Hotel
$$While technically North Beach, it's a short walk and offers a historic option.
The Edward Hotel
$$Historic beachfront hotel offering classic charm and sea views.
Best for
Walk to
- Victoria Street Market10 min
- Durban City Hall15 min
- War Museum20 min
Pros
- +Central location for sightseeing
- +Affordable accommodation and food options
- +Access to markets and cultural sites
Cons
- -Can be very crowded and chaotic
- -Safety concerns, especially after business hours and at night
Top stays in Durban Central Business District (CBD)
Garden Court South Beach
$$Offers good value and is located close to the beach and CBD attractions.
Coastlands on Ridge
$$Modern hotel with city and sea views, located on the edge of the CBD.
Road Lodge Durban Central
$A very basic, budget-friendly option in the heart of the CBD.
Areas to be cautious
- Certain parts of the CBD after dark: The CBD can become deserted and feel unsafe, with increased risk of petty crime and muggings. Stick to well-lit, populated areas or use transport.
- Isolated beaches away from main tourist areas: While beautiful, some less frequented beaches can be isolated, increasing the risk of being targeted for theft. It's safer to stick to patrolled beaches.
Insider tip: Take advantage of the local 'minibus taxis' for cheap and efficient transport between neighborhoods, but understand their routes and be prepared for crowded conditions.
Safety in Durban
Exercise cautionSolo Female Travel
Durban is generally safe for solo females in well-trafficked tourist areas during the day. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and do not walk alone in deserted areas or at night.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, busy areas like North Beach promenade or popular restaurants on Florida Road. Avoid walking in the CBD or quieter residential streets. Use reputable rideshares or taxis.
Emergency
10111
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Fake charity collectors
- 2Overpriced souvenir hawkers
- 3Distraction theft (someone bumps into you while another picks your pocket)
Getting Around Durban
Transport, connectivity, and costs
โ๏ธ
Airport to City
King Shaka International Airport (DNH) to Durban: Airport shuttle (e.g., Reddot) R200-R300 (approx. 1 hour); Metered Taxi/Rideshare R400-R600 (approx. 1 hour).
๐ซ
Day Pass
Not a standard concept for most systems; single rides on minibus taxis are very cheap (R10-R30).
Single: Minibus taxi: R10-R30 depending on distance. Metered taxi/Rideshare: R50-R150 within the city.
๐ถ
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Bolt
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WiFi
Good20-50 Mbps
Public Transport
Minibus taxis (ubiquitous but complex routes), Metered Taxis, and a developing Gautrain (not yet extensive in Durban). Buses are also available but less used by tourists.
Ride-share
Uber and Bolt are widely available and recommended over metered taxis for predictable pricing.
Transport Tip
For Uber/Bolt, confirm the driver and vehicle details match the app before getting in, and share your trip status with a contact.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Hotels, many cafes and restaurants, some public spaces (check for 'WIFI' signs).
Coworking
Several options in the CBD and Berea, e.g., The Innovation Hub, Worktopia. Daily cost: R150 - R300.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jun, Jul, Aug
Hotels & Accommodation in Durban
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Who Is Durban Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Offers easy access to the beach, popular attractions like uShaka Marine World, and a good range of accommodation and dining.
Families with Beach Lovers
Direct access to beaches, numerous family-friendly activities along the Golden Mile, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Foodies and Culture Seekers
Home to the popular Florida Road with its diverse restaurants and cafes, plus proximity to cultural sites and gardens.
Budget Backpackers
Offers the most affordable accommodation and food options, with easy access to markets and some historical sights.
Couples seeking a mix
Provides a blend of waterfront dining, entertainment at uShaka Marine World, and a developing nightlife scene.
Durban on TripAdvisor
Read traveller reviews, tips, and photos
About Durban
Durban ( DUR-bษn; Zulu: eThekwini, from itheku meaning 'bay, lagoon') is the third-most populous city in South Africa, after Johannesburg and Cape Town, and the largest city in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. Situated on the east coast of South Africa, on the Natal Bay of the Indian Ocean, Durban is the busiest port city in sub-Saharan Africa and was formerly named Port Natal. North of the harbour and city centre lies the mouth of the Umgeni River; the flat city centre rises to the hills of the Berea on the west; and to the south, running along the coast, is the Bluff.
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Durban Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel