How to find the best hotel deal in Durban
That same magic that powers our flight search can also help you find the best-value stays around. Use these handy tips to search smarter and save big on your Durban hotel.
Save on your Durban hotel and be first in line for the best rooms when you book early. You'll also have extra time to compare and choose the perfect place.
However, you could still come across last-minute deals. Although prices generally rise closer to your stay, some places cut rates a day or two before to avoid having empty rooms, especially during low season.
Stay flexible with your dates, snag better rates. Search for hotels in different seasons or months. Even going midweek (instead of weekends) can lead to big savings.
Avoid the risk of extra fees by searching for stays that have free cancellation. If your schedule changes or a better offer shows up, you can easily cancel your booking.
Where to stay in Durban
Central Durban
Central Durban is where the city comes alive. If sightseeing is a big part of your plans, stay at any of these hotels and be moments from some familiar attractions.
Garden Court Marine Parade sets you up in a prime spot. Around 3 kilometres away, this 3-star stay is one of the most sought-after hotels near Durban Beach. It gets a lot of bookings from families in particular.
When it comes to hotels near Moses Mabhida Stadium, Luxe Avondale Boutique Hotel wins points for comfort and convenience. Make yourself at home at this 4-star hotel in Durban and you'll be roughly 2 kilometres away. While it works well for all kinds of guests, it especially appeals to couples.
Or discover the city from one of the hotels near Suncoast Beach. Suncoast Hotel & Towers is 0.16 kilometres or so from this popular sight. It's a preferred option for families and has a 5-star rating.
When to go to Durban
If your perfect holiday involves a full schedule of activities, book your hotel in Durban in April. It's peak travel season, so expect the city to be in full swing.
March is the quietest month to go. Lock in a Durban hotel then to explore without the crowds.
Don't overlook the weather when planning your trip. February brings the warmest conditions, with maximum temperatures of 27ºC (81ºF).
Expect lows of 11ºC (52ºF) during July, the coolest time of year.
For the best chance of sunshine, search for Durban hotels in June. With an average of two days of rain, this is the driest month.
Rain is more common in December, which gets around eight days of wet weather.
Best hotels in Durban
Best budget hotels
A great trip doesn't have to include a hefty hotel bill. With at least 20 budget Durban hotels to choose from, you can spend more on enjoying the city and less on where you rest your head. Expect basic comforts like simple breakfasts, Wi-Fi, and cosy beds at these affordable stays.
Bayside Hotel Pine Street is a 3-star option that delivers comfort without the fuss or frills. A 24-hour front desk and Wi-Fi are among its amenities.
Mesami Hotel delivers 3-star value. Practical perks including hair dryers and room desks are there to make your Durban hotel stay more enjoyable.
Another smart choice for your bank balance is Kzn Park View Guest House. This 3-star stay features air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
Best 4-star hotels in Durban
When you want a little more from your stay, the 4-star hotels in Durban deliver. With around 20 choices, they generally offer rooms with character, exceptional service, and extras such as spa treatments and on-site dining. These hotels bring the bling without the cha-ching.
Quarters Hotel lives up to its 4-star rating. A golf course and a restaurant help make this accommodation option a favourite.
Concierge assistance and room service are just some of the amenities offered at Concierge Hotel. This Durban hotel finds the perfect middle ground between price and quality.
Luxe Umhlanga is one more tempting addition to your list. It keeps guests satisfied with a pool, an outdoor swimming pool and more.
Best luxury 5-star hotels
When nothing but the best will do, you'll find around five 5-star hotels in Durban ready to welcome you like a VIP. These types of stays generally come with premium features like fine dining experiences, wellness treatments, and turndown service.
Escape the everyday at Hilton Durban. Room service and concierge assistance help elevate the guest experience here.
With a restaurant, a private beach and more, The Presidential Boutique Hotel is another Durban hotel that perfects the 5-star experience.
Best hotels in Durban for families
Heading away with the kids? You need a hotel that offers more where it matters. Childcare services, cribs, connecting rooms, and kids' menus make family escapes easier. You'll find roughly 20 family-friendly hotels in Durban ready for your crew.
Beside Still Waters Boutique Hotel takes the usual family trip to the next level. This 4-star stay features a laundry and a 24-hour front desk.
One more for your list is Gooderson Tropicana Hotel. Offering parking and accessible parking, this stay is popular for a reason.
Best hotels with a spa
Swap your walking shoes for a pair of fluffy slippers at a Durban hotel with a spa. With roughly 20 to choose from, they're designed to help you relax. Many offer features like hot tubs, massages, beauty treatments, and plunge pools.
Ready to hit pause for a while? Make it happen at The Cato Suites Hotel. This 4-star option has a fitness centre and a spa.
Rated 4 stars, Luxe Musgrave Boutique Hotel is another go-to hotel in Durban where you can let your worries fade away. From a spa to room service and more, your every need will be taken care of here.
Coastlands Musgrave Hotel and Convention Centre lets you write your own version of a perfect wellness escape. You'll find a garden and room service at this stay.
Best hotels with a pool
Add a splash of fun to your trip with a pool. If you go for a city hotel, expect rooftop and indoor options. Resorts? They usually go big with sprawling outdoor layouts and maybe even a swim-up bar. There are at least 40 pool hotels in Durban made for your next adventure.
Relaxing moments by the water will define your stay at Beside Still Waters Boutique Hotel. With an indoor swimming pool, shuttle services and air conditioning, this Durban hotel invites you to slow down and enjoy your time away.
Old Mill Guest House gives you plenty of reasons to bring your swimsuit and goggles. Choose this popular option and make the most of an outdoor swimming pool, a golf course and a laundry.
Or add a little play to your getaway at ONOMO Hotel Durban. You'll have access to an outdoor swimming pool, shuttle services and a restaurant at this hotel.
Best pet-friendly hotels
With at least three pet-friendly Durban hotels, your best buddy can be part of the journey. Many have nearby parks or outdoor spaces to run around in, and some even offer things like grooming or pet-friendly menus. A few house rules may apply, but most places go out of their way to make your furry friend feel at home.
Check in with your loyal sidekick at Parade Hotel. Make the most of amenities here like a restaurant and parking.
Flying to Durban
Durban King Shaka International Airport (DUR)
Durban King Shaka International Airport (DUR) is this city's main airport. After your flight to Durban lands, it's about 29 kilometres to the centre.
Reaching the centre of Durban takes roughly 1 hour 15 minutes by public transport. When driving, it's about 35 minutes.
La Mercy Beach Hotel is a standout stay that's also near DUR. It comes with air conditioning and a 24-hour front desk.
Durban Virginia Airport (VIR)
Durban Virginia Airport (VIR) is another option for flying into Durban. It's about 10 kilometres from the centre.
Searching for a Durban hotel not far from VIR? Holiday Inn Express Durban - Umhlanga by IHG will set you up for a smooth takeoff or touchdown. Amenities like Wi-Fi and a bar only add to the convenience of this 3-star stay.
Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch is another place that's all about easy comfort. Business travellers particularly favor this 4-star option.
You can also take a well-earned pause at Beside Still Waters Boutique Hotel. This 4-star stay is close to VIR and boasts an overall guest rating above 4 out of 5.
