As Fiji’s capital city since 1882, Suva has an interesting patchwork of old and new; buildings that date back to the colonial era sit among the features and comforts of a modern city. As such you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding accommodation, with options for every want and every pocket.
You're in Suva and you want to see Fiji's famous beaches? Of course you do. To get to those beaches though, you'll have to go out of the city and the best way to do that? You guessed it: by car. Book your rental and you're good to go.
If you're flying in to the Suva airport, you're probably arriving from another destination in Fiji. It might not have been a long journey, but it's still nice to have someone waiting to take you to your hotel. A pre-booked shuttle is the answer!
Nausori Airport is around 20km (30 minutes by car) from downtown Suva. You'll find plenty of domestic flights connecting it to the island's main airport, Nadi International.
Albert Park is the place to go for rugby league...and rugby union, cricket, community events and more. Located in the CBD, the park is where big celebrations - such as a New Year's Eve party - happen today, but it's also an important historical site. It was here that the Fijian government chose to unfurl the new national flag in 1970 and where Sir Charles Kingsford made a landing in 1928. Seeing a rugby league home game with the national team at Albert Park is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you won't want to pass up. Even if there are no games scheduled, it's likely you'll be able to swing by and see some big names training on the field. Overlooking the park is the Grand Pacific Hotel, the obvious accommodation choice for rugby fanatics.
Fijians are often referred to as the friendliest people on earth, and that's no exaggeration. However, there are some who try to take advantage of this reputation. Be wary of scammers trying to lead you into shops to buy overpriced souvenirs. Be careful with valuables; pickpockets are known to operate in the city.
From tribal weapons to contemporary art, the Fiji Museum in Suva showcases the country's culture in all its glory. Spend a day wandering through its archaeological exhibits, learning about the archipelago's early origins all the way up to British colonisation. The gift shop is packed with jewellery, pottery and books on Fiji's history. Be sure to pick up a couple of souvenirs on the way out, then have a stroll around the botanic gardens where the museum is located. Keep exploring the area and you'll find some interesting buildings as you stroll through the city streets. If you're interested in colonial architecture, Narrow Cumming Street and Government House should be at the top of your list. Don't forget your camera! Interested in colonial architecture? Don't forget your camera! You'll find some interesting buildings as you stroll through the city streets. Narrow Cumming Street and Government House should be at the top of your list.
Suva Municipal Market is situated right in the town centre. Here you'll find countless stalls laden with all sorts of mouthwatering tropical fruits. Ask for a "moli kana" (pomelo). This green, melon-sized citrus tastes a little like a grapefruit, only a bit milder. You might also like to crunch into a "kavika" (rose apple). This crispy fruit has a tart sweetness that's quite refreshing. About a 5-minute walk south along Stinson Parade Road is the Municipal Handicraft Centre. Come here for locally made items such as masks and jewellery.
