South Africa City Breaks

A guide to South Africa

While South Africa is undeniably famous for its stunning natural terrain, with gorgeous beaches, sweeping savannah, soaring mountains and lush nature parks, it also boasts some of the most vibrant and exciting cities on the African continent. Short breaks here offer accommodation to suit all budgets, from backpacker hostels to 5-star hotels, and it’s possible to have an affordable few days here, despite the exotic location. The most famous destinations are Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban, and with South African cities ranging from the cosmopolitan to the tropical, you can be sure to find a city to suit.

Cosmopolitan and colourful Cape Town

Cape Town, located on the south-western tip of Africa, is widely recognised as being in one of the most beautiful places on earth. The city has a reputation of being free-spirited, colourful and liberal; a melting pot of cultures, a bastion of creative freedom and a place of breath-taking natural beauty, and it is also one of the most affordable exotic destinations. The weather here is sublime; golden sunshine and warm sea breezes, and traditional and contemporary South African cuisine, coupled with vintages from world-class wine regions, make dining here a unique experience. Thirteen nearby blue flag beaches mean you can combine a city trip with a beach holiday, in what is considered the safest city in Africa.

Choose Johannesburg or Durban

South Africa also boasts a number of other great destinations. Johannesburg is the largest city in the country, and is becoming more and more popular for short trips,with sights including several top quality art museums, such as the Johannesburg Art Gallery, upmarket shopping malls (including the Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square) and Johannesburg Zoo; the largest in the country. Durban is another popular South African city; a bustling port city with a warm subtropical climate, and long stretches of glorious coastline, dotted with golden beaches.