A coastal cityscape at night with a beach, high-rise buildings, and a busy parking area.
Photo by South African Tourism
Open Photo by South African Tourism

Durban Holidays

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Where to stay in Durban

Find the best Durban areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Durban
Learn more about Durban

Morningside

Morningside offers a peaceful retreat from Durban's energy with its elegant colonial mansions and jacaranda-lined avenues. The upmarket residential area charms visitors with boutique galleries and artisan cafes tucked between heritage buildings. Florida Road buzzes with upscale dining spots while Mitchell Park Zoo provides a family-friendly escape. Just minutes from the renowned Durban Botanic Gardens, this leafy suburb combines luxury with authentic South African character. Wide pavements invite leisurely strolls past manicured gardens and historic architecture. The neighborhood's sophisticated atmosphere makes it perfect for travellers seeking comfort and tranquility.

North Beach

North Beach hugs Durban's shoreline with golden sands and the iconic Golden Mile promenade. This beachfront area offers perfect waves for surfers and calm swimming spots for families. The area buzzes with seaside energy while palm trees sway against the blue Indian Ocean backdrop. Visitors can enjoy water activities at Battery Beach or relax at oceanfront cafes serving fresh seafood. Nearby attractions include uShaka Marine World's impressive aquarium and the colourful Mini Town. Evening strolls along the illuminated promenade reveal a vibrant atmosphere where tourists and locals gather.

Glenwood

Glenwood blends cultural richness with academic energy in this diverse Durban area. The University of KwaZulu-Natal creates a vibrant student atmosphere among tree-lined colonial streets. Authentic Indian curry houses and traditional Zulu eateries offer flavourful local experiences. Visit the fascinating Phansi Museum to explore African art and cultural heritage. Stroll through the leafy campus grounds or discover charming colonial bungalows with their red-tiled roofs. This residential area provides a genuine glimpse into local life away from typical tourist spots.

Durban Beachfront

The Golden Mile stretches along Durban's pristine Indian Ocean beaches with world-class attractions. Stroll the palm-lined promenade past colourful rickshaw rides and surfers catching waves. The iconic uShaka Marine World aquarium complex and Moses Mabhida Stadium's dramatic arch define this vibrant coastline. This sun-drenched entertainment zone offers something for everyone. Sample local bunny chow at beachfront cafes or browse African crafts at bustling markets. High-rise hotels create a Miami-like skyline against golden beaches. Water sports rentals and tidal pools provide endless ocean fun throughout the year.

South Beach

South Beach in Durban captures the essence of coastal paradise with its stunning Golden Mile of pristine shoreline. The lively beachfront promenade invites you to stroll past luxury hotels while watching surfers tackle the waves. Colourful rickshaw pullers and vendors selling fresh coconuts add local charm to this sun-soaked playground. Beyond the sand, discover Durban Funworld's exciting rides or cool off in beachfront pools lined with swaying palms. The area buzzes with oceanfront restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to traditional bunny chow. With excellent walkability and warm waters year-round, South Beach offers the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.

Discover the most popular places to visit in Durban

What to do in Durban

Durban Hotel Deals

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I book my Durban holiday with Expedia?

Expedia has your back for all aspects of your Durban trip. You'll always get the best prices around, but when you bundle your airfares, accommodation and/or car hire into a holiday package, you'll save even more. Keen to truly make the most of your escape? Add some exciting tours and activities to your package. We offer flexible cancellation policies on most bookings, so you won't need to worry if your travel plans change. Visit our Customer Service Portal link to learn more.

When is the best time of year to holiday in Durban?

If you like the excitement that comes with peak season, travel to Durban in March, April and August. Travelling during the quieter months of January, July and December will help you skip the crowds. Organise your trip to Durban based on what type of holiday you're looking for. July is the coolest time of year, when daytime temperatures average 16ºC. In January, the warmest period, you'll experience temperatures of around 23ºC during the day.

What are the top hotels for my holiday in Durban?

Hilton Durban and Suncoast Hotel & Towers are some excellent picks in the Berea neighbourhood. If you prefer to spend time in the South Beach area, reserve a room at Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani or The Blue Waters Hotel.

How do I get a cheap holiday to Durban?

One of the easiest ways to save cash (and time) is to combine your bookings with Expedia. Flights, hire cars, hotels and activities — we've got them all. Pick and choose the combination that suits your style and see your savings grow. We know holidays are never one-size-fits-all. That's why Expedia offers over 400 airlines and 321,000 hotel options throughout the world, which lets you customise your Durban holiday your way. Learn more about how you can save money on your holiday when you bundle your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.

What should I do on my Durban holiday?

There are plenty of places to visit during your holiday in Durban. uShaka Marine World, Sahara Stadium Kingsmead, Durban Beach and Moses Mabhida Stadium are some of this city's major attractions.

What is the best neighbourhood to stay in when on holiday in Durban?

You'll find lots of terrific neighbourhoods to stay in Durban, but Durban Point is hard to top. UShaka Marine World is just one of the reasons it's such a hit.

Do I need a visa for my Durban holiday?

Look up the latest information on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're travelling for leisure, business or study will determine if you'll require a visa for Durban. Familiarise yourself with the application process, including the required documentation, fees and turnaround times. Finalise your application well in advance to allow sufficient processing time. Some visas can take weeks or even months to obtain, depending on the country and time of year.

What should I wear on my Durban holiday?

Although everyone's fashion style varies, it can be helpful to have a few guidelines for what type of clothes to wear on your holiday in Durban. Consider browsing social media before leaving to get inspiration for local fashion trends. Pack your luggage with confidence by checking the weather conditions in Durban. January brings the warmest temperatures, with daytime averages of 23ºC, while July days average 16ºC, making it the coolest time of year.

What does an Expedia Durban holiday include?

It's up to you! Simply choose from a range of Durban bundles, such as a hire car, hotel and flight. You can also book a flight and a hotel, or a flight with a car hire. Once you've made your booking, add on the fun stuff like experiences and tours. Whatever your dream Durban trip looks like, you're sure to save! Discover a wide range of property types and select one that fits the size of your group. The most sought-after rentals here are apartments and hotels. With Expedia, it's a breeze to tailor-make your Durban retreat the way you like.

Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Durban holidays?

We certainly do. Expedia has teamed up with online lender Klarna to help you conveniently pay for your trip in manageable instalments. Simply select the payment plan best suited to your needs during checkout and take away the stress of budgeting for your trip. Remember to bundle your accommodation, flights and car hire with Expedia to get the biggest bang for your buck. Take a look at our flexible payment options below:

  • Pay monthly holidays: If paying in multiple transactions is what works best for you, Klarna can help. Paying in easy monthly instalments will make that dream getaway possible.
  • No-deposit holidays: Clicking the "book now" button is much easier with this option. With no upfront fee for your getaway, you can Book Now, Pay Later and start packing your bags.

Can I choose my airline with a Durban Expedia holiday?

Yes — and it's simple too. Expedia has access to more than 400 partner airlines worldwide. Our packages give you the flexibility to pick from available flights, hotels and activities that suit you.

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Things to do in and around Durban

Durban offers a fantastic blend of family-friendly and entertainment-focused activities, making it an ideal holiday destination. Visitors can enjoy thrilling water parks, explore vibrant shopping malls, and embark on tours along the stunning Durban coast. Don't miss the popular Rainbow Tours, and indulge in local cuisine at nearby restaurants. For the adventurous, scuba diving presents an exciting opportunity to explore the underwater world.

Shopping

In Durban, you can enjoy shopping at the Workshop Mall, which offers a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment options. The Victoria Street Market is perfect for local goods, while the Musgrave Centre combines shopping with family-friendly activities. If you're up for a drive, explore additional malls beyond the city centre.

Recreation

Moses Mabhida Stadium offers invigorating sports activities and stunning panoramic views from its arch. Kings Park Stadium provides an energetic atmosphere for various sporting events, while West Ridge Park Tennis Stadium invites enthusiasts to enjoy tennis in a vibrant setting, perfect for fitness and recreation.

Adventure

At uShaka Marine World, dive into thrilling water rides and family-friendly entertainment right in Durban. Explore the scenic Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Trail, an 17.7km hiking adventure surrounded by stunning landscapes. For a rush of adrenaline, experience bungee jumping at Big Rush Urban Adrenaline, also in Durban.

Nightlife

In Durban, the nightlife is vibrant, particularly in areas like Umhlanga, where beachside bars and clubs come alive. Visit the Durban Waterfront for lively pubs and restaurants, or explore the cultural beats at venues like The Winston Pub, known for its local music scene and laid-back atmosphere.

Find the best attractions in Durban

Durban is perfect for family and city-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions including beautiful beaches, event venues, and modern universities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying a beach experience. Key highlights include Durban Beach, the vibrant Durban Point, and the stunning beachfront, all of which provide a memorable backdrop for your vacation.

  • Durban Beach: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Durban Beach, where golden sands meet the warm Indian Ocean. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or engaging in various water sports while soaking up the lively beach vibes that attract both locals and tourists alike.
  • Durban Botanical Gardens: Discover the serene beauty of the Durban Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis ideal for romantic strolls or family picnics. With a diverse collection of flora, it's a perfect spot to relax and connect with nature amidst stunning landscapes.
  • BAT Centre: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural scene at the BAT Centre, an arts hub showcasing local talent through art exhibitions, live performances, and workshops. It’s a vibrant place to engage with the artistic community and experience the creative spirit of Durban.

Best time to go to Durban

The best time to visit Durban is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

Tips to save on your trip to Durban

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Durban.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically February and October to November) for more affordable package holidays to Durban.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.