Find the best Free State Hotels

Top reasons to visit Free State

• Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy hiking in breathtaking areas such as the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, perfect for nature lovers.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Free State by visiting art galleries and historic landmarks.
• Charming Towns: Explore picturesque towns like Bloemfontein and Clarens, known for their unique charm and friendly locals.
• Vibrant Markets: Shop at lively markets offering local crafts and delicacies, providing a taste of regional culture.
• Diverse Accommodation: Discover a range of lodging options, from boutique hotels to cosy guesthouses, catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels in Free State

Explore the diverse accommodation options in Free State, South Africa, where you can find charming guesthouses and well-equipped hotels tailored for every traveller. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat, a business-friendly environment, or an adventure-filled getaway, Free State has something to offer. Discover boutique hotels that provide a unique experience, ensuring your stay is both comfortable and memorable in this beautiful region.

• Protea Hotel by Marriott Bloemfontein Willow Lake: This 4-star hotel offers a sophisticated and contemporary experience, ideal for business travellers and those seeking a city-themed holiday. Nestled in the heart of Bloemfontein, it boasts a tranquil lakeside setting that provides a peaceful retreat after a busy day. Guests appreciate the modern décor, well-appointed rooms, and a range of amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant serving delightful local and international cuisine. The hotel’s central location allows easy access to nearby attractions, making it a convenient choice for both leisure and business guests.
• City Lodge Hotel Bloemfontein: This charming 3-star hotel is tailored for business travellers, offering a comfortable and convenient stay in the vibrant city of Bloemfontein. Guests often commend the welcoming atmosphere and functional amenities, including a business centre, meeting rooms, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. The hotel features a refreshing outdoor pool and a restaurant that serves hearty breakfasts and light meals. Its strategic location ensures that guests are not far from key business districts and local attractions, making it a practical choice for both work and leisure.
• Premier Splendid Inn Bloemfontein: A 3.5-star property that merges comfort with a city-centre location, Premier Splendid Inn is designed for those on business trips or seeking a city-themed getaway. Guests enjoy spacious rooms and a friendly ambiance, supported by excellent facilities such as a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool. The hotel’s proximity to the city centre offers easy access to local shops and cultural sites, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the Bloemfontein experience while still enjoying a restful stay.

Where to stay in Free State

Discover the charm of Free State, where romantic getaways and vibrant city experiences await. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Bloemfontein, explore the tranquil beauty of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, or relax in the serene atmosphere of Clarens. With friendly locals and stunning scenery, this province offers a perfect blend of recreation and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers seeking memorable adventures.

• Bloemfontein: Known as the City of Roses, Bloemfontein is the capital of the Free State and boasts a rich cultural heritage. It serves as a key educational hub with its historic colleges and modern universities. Visitors can explore the charming city centre, featuring significant civic buildings that reflect its history. The city is not overly seasonal in terms of tourism, with peak visits occurring in January, April, and September. Bloemfontein is perfect for those interested in culture, business, and shopping, offering a variety of educational and recreational activities, including museums, shopping centres, and beautiful parks.
• Clarens: Nestled against the Maluti Mountains, Clarens is a picturesque village known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor adventures. It attracts visitors looking for sports and adventure experiences, particularly from April to July. The area is renowned for its stunning landscapes, making it ideal for hiking, golfing, and exploring nature reserves. The town itself is dotted with art galleries, quaint shops, and lovely cafes, giving it a charming atmosphere. Whether you are looking to unwind in nature or engage in thrilling outdoor activities, Clarens offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Maluti a Phofung: Located within the breathtaking Drakensberg region, Maluti a Phofung is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The city experiences peak tourist activity from July to September, drawing visitors who seek adventure and stunning scenery. With its proximity to mountains, nature reserves, and national parks, it offers a plethora of activities, including golfing and hiking. The region is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of South Africa’s landscapes while enjoying a range of outdoor pursuits in a serene environment.

Things to do in Free State

Shopping

In the heart of Bloemfontein, you can explore the Waterfront Mall for a variety of shops, while the Loch Logan Waterfront offers a scenic shopping experience alongside the water. For unique finds, visit the local markets where you can discover handcrafted souvenirs and traditional crafts.

Recreation

In the Free State, enjoy rejuvenating treatments at the Golden Gate Spa, set against breathtaking mountain views. Alternatively, visit the Clarens Spa for holistic therapies and tranquil surroundings, ideal for relaxation after exploring the nearby artistic village.

Adventure

In Clarens, explore the scenic hiking trails and enjoy exhilarating mountain biking experiences. At Golden Gate Highlands National Park, witness stunning landscapes while hiking or horseback riding. For a thrill, try white-water rafting on the Ash River, where you can navigate exciting rapids amidst breathtaking scenery.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Bloemfontein Casino and Entertainment World, offering gaming and live entertainment. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Old Grey Sports Club for socialising and music, or unwind at the trendy Bar Ba Pita, known for its cocktails and relaxed vibe.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Free State

To save money during your visit to Free State, plan your trip between August to September or November, when accommodation prices are lower. Opt for a Wednesday stay for the best rates, avoiding the more expensive Saturdays. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter hotels by budget and preferences, and consider booking a package that combines flights and activities for added savings. For transport, utilise public options where possible, and take advantage of free activities in the area to enhance your experience without straining your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Free State are August to September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Free State is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Free State is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, favoured location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in the Free State with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Free State

Free State offers a delightful blend of romantic, city, and business-themed vacations, with popular attractions such as dams, churches, and landmarks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the region's rich culture while enjoying outdoor activities and family experiences. Don't miss the chance to explore top Free State attractions for an enriching getaway.

• Vaal Dam: A stunning reservoir offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can engage in various water sports, fishing, and picnicking while enjoying the tranquil surroundings and diverse birdlife.
• Supreme Court of Appeal: This historic building boasts impressive architecture and serves as the highest court in South Africa. A visit here provides insight into the country's legal system and rich cultural heritage, making it a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts.
• Vredefort Dome: Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient meteorite impact site features dramatic landscapes and geological wonders. Exploring the area allows for hiking and appreciating the unique natural beauty that has evolved over millions of years.

Best time to go to Free State

The best time to visit Free State is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. November is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain. June is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	66.7°F (19.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	52.7°F (11.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	46.6°F (8.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	48.9°F (9.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	51.8°F (11.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	59.5°F (15.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
October	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	65.8°F (18.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High