Durban is named one of the Top 19 best places to visit in 2026
Durban ranks 14th on the list of best places to visit in 2026.
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Durban is once again in the spotlight for good reason.
The city has been recognised as one of the best places to visit in 2026, ranking 14th in "Time Out" magazine's prestigious list of The Best Places to Travel in 2026.
This accolade cements Durban's status as South Africa’s coolest coastal city and a sought-after global destination.
According to the magazine, “Durban delivers that unbeatable mix of seaside chill, cultural richness, and nature-based adventure that global travellers crave. Warm ocean. Warm weather. Even warmer people.”
This statement highlights the unique appeal of Durban, making it a must-visit location for tourists.
Notably, Durban and Rabat, Morocco, are the only two African destinations featured on the list, with Rabat taking the second spot and Durban firmly securing its place in the top 15.
The mayor's response to recognition
eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, welcomed this announcement, describing it as a well-deserved recognition for the city.
He noted that the city has worked tirelessly to ensure a thriving tourism sector.
“As a city, we are pleased to receive this global recognition. This is a clear indication that Durban’s tourism sector is firmly on an upward trajectory as we work towards fully surpassing pre-Covid-19 growth levels,” he stated.
Xaba emphasised that the city’s commitment to accelerating service delivery through infrastructure upgrades is fundamental to creating a conducive environment for tourism growth and investment.
Impressive visitor statistics
In 2025, Durban recorded a significant increase in visitor numbers compared to the previous year.
During the festive season of last year, the city welcomed approximately 1.2 million visitors, up from 998 000 in 2024, marking an impressive 19% increase.
Accommodation occupancy rose to 77%, compared to 72% in 2024.
Direct tourism spending also saw a substantial increase, rising from R2.2 billion to R2.7 billion, reflecting a 24% growth.
Furthermore, the sector’s GDP contribution grew from R5.5 billion to R9.6 billion, creating over 14 000 job opportunities. These figures reaffirm tourism as a key driver of the local economy.
“This clearly demonstrates that eThekwini is rising, and we will spare no effort in ensuring that we live up to our slogan of being Africa’s playground and a premier destination for investment,” said Xaba.
Here is the complete list of the best places to visit in 2026:
- The Canadian Rockies
- Rabat, Morocco
- Algodões, Bahia, Brazil
- Hamburg, Germany
- Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand
- Mendoza, Argentina
- Cirencester, England
- Central Vietnam
- Nepal
- Favignana, Sicily
- Gothenburg, Sweden
- Oaxaca, Mexico
- Rottnest Island, Australia
- Durban, South Africa
- St Helena Island
- Barra dos Remédios, Ceará, Brazil
- Prince Edward County, Canada
- Norfolk Island, South Pacific
- Hong Kong