Durban, a vibrant coastal city in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and exciting attractions. When planning a trip to Durban, one of the most crucial decisions is choosing the right place to stay. With numerous options available, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, it can be overwhelming to decide where to lay your head.
Best Places To Stay In Durban
This guide aims to help you navigate the best places to stay in Durban, taking into account factors such as location, amenities, and reviews. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, we’ve got you covered. From the bustling city center to the scenic coastal areas, we’ll explore the top areas to stay in Durban and recommend some of the best accommodations in each.
Why Choose Durban?
Durban is a city that offers something for everyone. Its beautiful beaches, such as Golden Mile and North Beach, are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The city is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of African, Indian, and European influences. Visit the vibrant Victoria Street Market, explore the historic uShaka Marine World, or take a stroll along the scenic Promenade – there’s no shortage of things to do in Durban.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the best areas to stay in Durban, highlighting the pros and cons of each. We’ll also provide recommendations for top-rated hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering apartments, ensuring that you find the perfect place to stay for your Durban adventure.
Best Places To Stay In Durban
Durban, the vibrant and sun-kissed city of South Africa, offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. From luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, and from apartments to guesthouses, Durban has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the best places to stay in Durban, taking into account factors such as location, amenities, and reviews from travelers.
Central Durban
Central Durban is a popular area to stay, with many hotels and guesthouses located within walking distance of the beach and the city center. Some of the best places to stay in Central Durban include:
* The Oyster Box Hotel: This luxurious hotel is located on the beachfront and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. It has a range of rooms and suites, as well as a spa, fitness center, and several restaurants.
* The Durban Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It has a restaurant and bar on site, as well as a fitness center and outdoor pool.
* The Beach Hotel: This hotel is located on the beachfront and offers stunning views of the ocean. It has a range of rooms and suites, as well as a spa, fitness center, and several restaurants.
Guesthouses and Bed and Breakfasts
Guesthouses and bed and breakfasts are a great option for those looking for a more personalized and intimate experience. Some of the best guesthouses and bed and breakfasts in Durban include: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In London First Time)
* The Guest House: This guesthouse is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It has a restaurant and bar on site, as well as a fitness center and outdoor pool.
* The Bed and Breakfast: This bed and breakfast is located in a quiet neighborhood and offers cozy rooms with en-suite bathrooms. It has a garden and patio area where guests can relax.
* The Guest House: This guesthouse is located in a quiet neighborhood and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It has a garden and patio area where guests can relax.
Apartment Rentals
Apartment rentals are a great option for those looking for a more self-catering experience. Some of the best apartment rentals in Durban include:
* The Apartment: This apartment is located in the heart of the city and offers a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living area. It has a balcony with views of the city.
* The Apartment: This apartment is located in a quiet neighborhood and offers a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living area. It has a garden and patio area where guests can relax.
* The Apartment: This apartment is located in the heart of the city and offers a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living area. It has a balcony with views of the city.
Neighborhoods to Avoid
While Durban is generally a safe city, there are some neighborhoods that are best avoided. These include:
* Umlazi: This area is known for being a bit rough around the edges and is best avoided.
* Phoenix: This area is known for being a bit seedy and is best avoided.
* Isipingo: This area is known for being a bit rough around the edges and is best avoided.
Getting Around
Durban has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and taxis. There are also several car rental companies available in the city. Some of the best ways to get around Durban include: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Tahoe In The Summer)
* Bus: The city has a comprehensive bus network that covers most areas of the city.
* Taxi: Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
* Car Rental: There are several car rental companies available in the city, including Avis, Hertz, and Europcar.
* Bicycle: Durban has a bike-share system and several bike rental companies, making it easy to get around the city on two wheels.
Things to Do
Durban is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are plenty of things to do and see. Some of the top attractions include:
* Golden Mile: This stretch of beachfront is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.
* Victoria Embankment: This historic promenade is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the views of the harbor.
* Ushaka Marine World: This theme park is home to several aquariums, a dolphin show, and a shark tank.
* Kings Park Stadium: This stadium is home to the Sharks rugby team and hosts several concerts and events throughout the year.
Recap
In conclusion, Durban is a city with a wide range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. From luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, and from apartments to guesthouses, there is something for everyone. When choosing where to stay, consider factors such as location, amenities, and reviews from travelers. Additionally, be aware of the neighborhoods to avoid and plan your transportation accordingly. With so much to see and do, Durban is a city that has something for everyone.
Here are five FAQs related to ‘Best Places To Stay In Durban’:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best areas to stay in Durban for tourists?
Durban has a range of areas that cater to different preferences and budgets. For tourists, popular areas to stay include Umhlanga, which offers luxurious hotels and apartments with stunning ocean views, and the Golden Mile, which is close to the city’s main attractions and has a vibrant nightlife. Other popular areas include Glenwood, which is known for its historic charm and boutique hotels, and the beachfront area of North Beach, which offers a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.
What is the best way to get around Durban without a car?
Durban has a well-developed public transport system, including buses and taxis, which can be used to get around the city. There are also several ride-hailing apps available, such as Uber and Taxify. For shorter distances, walking or cycling are also good options, as Durban has a number of pedestrian and bike-friendly routes. Many hotels and guesthouses also offer shuttle services or can help arrange transportation for guests. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Cape Town For Families)
Are there any budget-friendly accommodation options in Durban?
Yes, Durban has a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, including guesthouses, hostels, and self-catering apartments. These options can be found in areas such as Glenwood, Morningside, and the beachfront, and often offer great value for money. It’s worth noting that prices can vary depending on the time of year and availability, so it’s a good idea to book in advance to secure the best rates.
What are some of the best family-friendly hotels in Durban?
Durban has a number of family-friendly hotels that offer a range of amenities and activities for kids. Some popular options include the Hilton Durban, which has a kids’ club and game room, and the Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani, which has a water park and kids’ entertainment program. Other hotels offer family rooms and suites, as well as babysitting services and kids’ menus in their restaurants.