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Top reasons to visit Free State

• Scenic Landscapes: Explore breathtaking views at Golden Gate Highlands National Park, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Charming Towns: Visit delightful towns like Clarens and Bethlehem, known for their warm hospitality and artistic flair.
• Cultural Experiences: Discover historic churches and significant landmarks, enriching your understanding of local heritage.
• Vibrant Markets: Enjoy shopping at lively markets offering a taste of regional crafts and delicacies.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of charming guesthouses to modern hotels, catering to all travellers.

Find great hotels in Free State

Discover a diverse range of accommodation options in the Free State, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels, catering to every type of traveller. Whether you seek a pet-friendly retreat or a boutique hotel experience, you'll find suitable choices designed for both leisure and business visitors. Embrace the adventure that awaits in this stunning region, with hotels offering the perfect base for your exploration.

• Protea Hotel by Marriott Bloemfontein Willow Lake: This 4-star hotel offers a contemporary atmosphere ideal for business travellers and those seeking a city-themed vacation. Located in the heart of Bloemfontein, the hotel features spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities and elegant décor. Guests appreciate the on-site restaurant, which serves a variety of local and international dishes, as well as the tranquil gardens that provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to combine work with leisure in an urban setting.
• City Lodge Hotel Bloemfontein: A 3-star establishment that is particularly favoured by business travellers, City Lodge Hotel Bloemfontein boasts a sleek design and a welcoming atmosphere. Located conveniently within Free State, the hotel provides essential amenities such as a swimming pool and a fitness centre, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests have rated it 8.8 out of 10, highlighting the efficient service and the proximity to key business districts. This hotel is an excellent option for those looking for practicality without compromising comfort.
• Premier Splendid Inn Bloemfontein: This 3.5-star hotel is positioned in the city centre, making it a strategic choice for both business and leisure guests. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, the Premier Splendid Inn offers well-appointed rooms alongside convenient amenities such as meeting facilities and a restaurant. The hotel’s vibrant décor and attentive staff create a welcoming environment, perfect for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying modern comforts.

Where to stay in Free State

For a captivating escape, the Free State province offers a blend of romantic getaways and vibrant city experiences. Discover the charming towns of Clarens and Bethlehem, where scenic beauty meets friendly locals. Enjoy tranquil settings at the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure, Free State's welcoming atmosphere and stunning landscapes provide an unforgettable vacation experience.

• Bloemfontein: As the capital city of the Free State province, Bloemfontein is a hub of culture and history. Known as the City of Roses, it boasts a mix of educational institutions, parks, and historical sites. Visitors can explore the historic university and civic government buildings that tell the story of South Africa's past. The city offers a vibrant atmosphere for those seeking cultural, business, or city-themed experiences. With shopping centres and resorts nearby, Bloemfontein is a convenient base for various activities throughout the year.
• Bethlehem: Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Free State, Bethlehem is a charming city that caters to adventure seekers and sports enthusiasts alike. The area is renowned for its ski fields and golf courses, making it a popular destination during the winter months and spring. With a welcoming community and a thriving town hall, Bethlehem is perfect for those looking to indulge in outdoor activities amidst stunning scenery. The city’s accessibility to parks and modern civic buildings adds to its allure for visitors.
• Parys: A quaint village set along the banks of the Vaal River, Parys is a hidden gem for those who appreciate scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. Known for its recreational areas and hiking trails, this charming destination offers a chance to immerse oneself in nature. Visitors can admire local monuments and enjoy events at various conference venues. Parys is ideal for those seeking a cultural and leisurely retreat, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that invite exploration.

Things to do in Free State

Shopping

In Free State, visit the Bloemfontein Mall, a bustling hub featuring popular retail stores and dining options. For a more local experience, explore the Nala Shopping Centre in Botshabelo, offering a variety of shops and market stalls showcasing authentic crafts and souvenirs.

Recreation

The Golden Gate Highlands National Park offers breathtaking views and tranquil hiking trails, ideal for a peaceful retreat. Enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments at local wellness centres, where natural therapies and serene surroundings create a nurturing environment for relaxation and self-care.

Adventure

Explore the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, where you can hike through stunning landscapes and view unique rock formations. For thrill-seekers, the Drakensberg Mountains offer rock climbing and abseiling experiences amidst breathtaking scenery.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Free State offers a blend of vibrant bars and laid-back pubs. Enjoy live music at venues like the Bloemfontein Celtic or sip cocktails at the trendy Jolly Roger. For a more relaxed evening, the local taverns provide a welcoming atmosphere to unwind and mingle with locals.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Free State

To save money on your trip to Free State, consider visiting during the cheaper months of August to September and November, with Wednesday being the most affordable day for accommodation. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options, including Eco-certified hotels, and arrange results by price for the best deals. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also yield significant savings. Additionally, explore free local attractions and utilise public transport for inexpensive travel around the area.

• 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, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodation in the Free State with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Free State

Free State offers a delightful mix of romantic and city-themed experiences, making it ideal for various travellers. Popular attractions include picturesque dams, historic churches, and significant landmarks, catering to those seeking cultural, outdoor, and family-oriented activities. Whether exploring top Free State attractions or immersing oneself in local heritage, visitors are sure to find something memorable in this charming region.

• Welkom Park: A serene green space in the heart of Free State, Welkom Park offers eco-friendly outdoor activities and a family-friendly atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying nature's beauty.
• Vaal Dam: Known for its stunning scenery, Vaal Dam is a picturesque location perfect for photography and relaxation. Here, you can engage in water sports or simply enjoy the tranquil views of the surrounding landscape.
• Supreme Court of Appeal: This historic civic building showcases the rich culture and heritage of South Africa. Visitors can appreciate its architectural beauty and learn about the country's legal history in a significant setting.

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