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Shopping in Durban

Shopping in Durban is a delight, with everything from African crafts to glossy malls sure to entice avid souvenir hunters and shopaholics.

Key areas

Set on the trendy harbour, Wilson's Wharf is another great shopping spot in Durban for quality crafts and speciality products.

Markets

The Indian Quarter, on the western side of the city centre, with its Victoria Street market, selling a heady mixture of bric-a-brac and home-produced spices as well as food, is an absolute must on the list of things to see when in Durban. Nearby, the Oriental Bazaar nowadays sells trendy surfing-related items.

The Heritage Market in the Hillcrest area is another winner, with 160 Victorian-style shops offering everything from jewellery and health to clothing. Elsewhere, check out the Essenwood Market for local curious, hand-made jewellery and clothing and the weekend market at North Beach.

Shopping centres

Major modern shopping malls, offering international brands as well as African goods, include the Musgrave Centre in the Berea district, which has around 100 shops, as well as restaurants and bars.

Field's, a mall in the wealthy suburb of Kloof, is a good stop for those eager to stretch their credit cards, while the Pavilion, one of South Africa's biggest and most varied shopping centres, is another option, close to the N3 freeway in Westville. One of the biggest malls in Africa can be found in Duban at the Gateway Shopping Mall, in Umhlanga Ridge New Town Centre, offering more than 280 stores. Other shopping malls include: the Musgrave Centre, for independent boutiques and Galleria.

Opening hours

Shopping hours are normally 0900-1800, but malls have longer hours, some staying open as late as 2200.

Souvenirs

From local crafts, jewellery and clothes to spices, leatherware, arts and homeware, there is plenty to choose from in Durban.

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Featured Hotels

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The Concierge

The Concierge is a boutique hotel built on the site of eight heritage-listed buildings. Retaining its 1920's façade, the interiors however are modern, luxurious and distinctive. There are 12 guest rooms colour themed with design variations, stunning custom finished furniture and shower areas that are described as "being soaked in warm jungle rain".

eMakhosini on East

The newly refurbished eMakhosini on East offers 45 en-suite guest rooms, including air-conditioning, hair dryer, tea/coffee making facilities and Wi-Fi facilities. The hotel's staff are warm and friendly, while the on-site Gibela Restaurant offers buffet and a la carte options.

Hilton Durban

This city landmark offers rooms with gorgeous views of the coastline, easy access to Durban's beaches, a buffet themed restaurant called Rainbow Terrace and an outdoor swimming pool and fitness centre.

Riverside Hotel & Spa

Located in an excellent position high up on the bank of the Umgweni River a short distance from the city centre the Riverside Hotel & Spa offers stunning views of the green belt and nearby coast. All 169 rooms have microwaves and bar fridges while there is a swimming pool and baby sitting facilities available too. Board games can also be hired if the weather turns inclement.

Royal Hotel

With a history almost as long as that of the city itself, this iconic Durban hotel is a luxurious option. It offers four restaurants, a gym, health centre, swimming pool and even offers a dedicated floor for women travelling alone. There are 113 rooms in total, with great views of the city and the harbour.

Suncoast Towers

Located on the legendary Golden Mile, this popular hotel in Durban, with 37 tastefully furnished rooms and suites, plus a classy penthouse suite, attracts those who want to chance their arm at a roulette table. In the casino and an arm's length from golden sands, it has stunning views from its huge, chic spa. It is also conveniently close to the airport.