Travelling across South Africa doesn’t need to drain your wallet. In fact, some of the country’s most charming cities are also the most affordable, offering travellers a taste of culture, cuisine, and adventure without breaking the bank. From laid-back coastal towns to cultural inland hubs, there are plenty of places where you can stretch your rand and still have a rich, memorable experience. Whether you’re a foodie seeking authentic eats, a nature lover craving quiet landscapes, or simply someone needing an affordable escape, South Africa has a few underrated cities worth adding to your itinerary.

One such city is Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), a friendly coastal destination in the Eastern Cape known for its sunshine, beautiful beaches and surprisingly low travel costs. Accommodation in and around the city ranges from backpacker lodges to budget guesthouses, often with sea views and within walking distance to the shore. Dining out is easy on the pocket too, especially at local favourites like Something Good Roadhouse on Marine Drive, where you can grab a gourmet burger while watching surfers carve through the waves. Entry to nearby attractions like Kragga Kamma Game Park and Cape Recife Nature Reserve is affordable, and public transport makes getting around a breeze. Gqeberha is perfect for those who love ocean views and wildlife on a modest budget.

Head inland to the Free State and you’ll find Bloemfontein, the judicial capital of South Africa and a hidden gem for budget-conscious travellers. Often overlooked, Bloem surprises visitors with its cultural richness, affordable dining, and relaxed vibe. Entry to galleries like Oliewenhuis Art Museum is free, and the city is dotted with public gardens and monuments that offer great value. Grab a hearty breakfast at Jack and Jill Food Co. or enjoy a braai platter at Braza at Mimosa Mall, all without stretching your budget. Accommodation is competitively priced, especially in the nearby suburb of Westdene, which is popular among students and creatives. The city is also centrally located, making it a great stopover for longer road trips through the heartland.

For a completely different pace, Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) in the Eastern Cape is a small university town bursting with history and charm. It’s most famous for hosting the annual National Arts Festival, which draws crowds each July, but it’s worth visiting all year round. Affordable guesthouses and self-catering cottages make it easy to stay for a few nights, and you’ll find plenty of low-cost cafés and pubs serving comforting meals with a local twist. Try The Rat & Parrot for a relaxed vibe and legendary pizzas, or sip artisan coffee at Homemade Café on New Street. Makhanda is ideal for travellers who want a quiet, cultured break with loads of character.

In KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg offers an unexpectedly budget-friendly base for exploring the Midlands and Drakensberg regions. The city itself has a strong colonial history, with museums and heritage buildings that don’t cost a cent to explore. Nearby, the Natal Museum and KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden are must-visits for anyone interested in nature and history. Dining in Pietermaritzburg is easy on the wallet, with favourites like Sagewood Café serving up generous plates at great prices. A short drive out of the city brings you to the Midlands Meander, where you can sample cheeses, browse craft stores, and enjoy scenic farm views—many stops free or very reasonably priced.

For those looking to enjoy the sea without the steep prices of Cape Town, East London is an ideal coastal city that offers the best of beach living on a budget. The Eastern Cape city has a laid-back energy, beautiful stretches of coastline, and an emerging foodie scene that doesn’t come with big-city prices. Stay close to the action in areas like Nahoon or Beacon Bay, where B&Bs offer great value. Dine at Grazia Fine Food & Wine for Italian-inspired fare overlooking the Indian Ocean, or opt for fish and chips from Friesland Milk Bar, a local institution. With scenic drives and family-friendly beaches like Bonza Bay and Orient Beach, it’s a city that gives you the sun-soaked holiday feel at a fraction of the cost.

Another surprising contender is Polokwane in Limpopo. Often seen as a business stopover, this city is increasingly attracting travellers who are looking for affordable bush experiences without the crowds. It’s located close to Makapan’s Valley, a World Heritage Site, and you’ll find game lodges and nature reserves within easy reach. Budget-friendly eateries like Ocean Basket and Café A La Cream offer comforting meals, while central accommodations are well-priced for both solo travellers and families. If you’re en route to Kruger National Park, Polokwane also makes for a sensible and economical overnight stay.

These cities prove that travelling South Africa doesn’t need to cost a fortune. By opting for less tourist-heavy destinations, you get to experience warm hospitality, local flavour, and regional culture in ways that are authentic and affordable. Plus, every rand saved on flights and accommodation is one you can spend on meaningful moments—whether it’s a meal shared with locals, a morning hike in the hills, or a stroll through a quiet gallery. With good planning and an open mind, your next budget-friendly escape may be closer than you think.