When many individuals think about Fiji, bright blue waters, palm-lined beaches, and fancy hotels come to mind. While this is certainly true, Fiji has also lively cities and towns that tell the bigger story of the islands, where tradition meets modernity, and travelers can experience culture outside the resort.
Whether you want nightlife, culture, shopping, or local food, the cities of Fiji have you covered.
Here is your ultimate guide to the top cities and towns in Fiji and why they are worth visiting.
Suva – Fiji’s Lively Capital
Suva is the capital city and center of Fiji, located on the southeast coast of the island of Viti Levu. Suva is more than just a capital city; it is a multicultural city of cultures, foods, and people.
What to Expect?
Bustling markets, colonial buildings, museums, and nightlife.
Highlights
The Fiji Museum, located in Thurston Gardens, highlights the history of the country. The Suva Municipal Market showcases tropical fruits and local arts and crafts. Suva is known for its food, especially the blending of Fijian, Indian, and other international cuisines.
Who is this for?
Adventurers searching for the liveliness of a city environment, along with culture and history.
Nadi – The Gateway to Adventure
Nadi is Fiji’s busiest town and the main point of entry for international travelers, due to Fiji’s international airport being located there. However, Nadi has its own appeal, not simply as a point of entry.
What to Expect?
A lively town with a mix of cultural attractions and easy access to resorts and islands nearby.
Highlight
You must visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, which is one of the largest Hindu temples in the Pacific, and Nadi is also the launch pad for day trips to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands.
Who is this for?
Anyone who wants a bit of culture, shopping, and a beach escape close to the airport.
Lautoka – The Sugar City
Lautoka, the second largest city in Fiji, is dubbed the “Sugar City” due to its historical roots in sugar cane production. Located on the western side of Viti Levu, Lautoka is a city you will find to be a bit more laid-back than Suva and Nadi.
What to Expect?
Coastal town featuring tree-lined streets, lovely shops, and proximity to natural wonders.
Highlights
Lautoka Botanical Gardens, Churchill Park, and Vuda Marina are crowd favorites. You’ll also find local markets stocked with fresh produce and Fijian artisan crafts.
Who is this for?
For those travelers looking for an authentic local experience that is less touristy than on Fiji’s smaller islands.
Labasa – A Cultural Gem on Vanua Levu
Labasa, located on Vanua Levu, Fiji’s lesser-known and second-largest island, is an authentic place to connect with culture. This off-the-grid destination is more low-key than others, with Indo-Fijian culture alive and thriving.
What to Expect?
Take in the friendly inhabitants, shop in the markets, and share in the cultural festivals.
Highlights
Enjoy the Labasa Market for Fijian-Indian food, or discover something nearby, like Wasali Nature Reserve, and many of the travelers who pass through will use Labasa as an off-ramp before exploring the rest of the island’s eco-parks and diving experiences.
Who’s It For?
Adventurous travelers who are willing to take the road less traveled.
Savusavu – The Hidden Paradise
Savusavu, which is also on Vanua Levu, is referred to as Fiji’s “hidden paradise.” This location offers sheltered bays and natural hot springs, creating a unique setting for an intimate experience of island life.
What to Expect?
A relaxed atmosphere, eco-tourism, and a small-town feel.
Highlights
Savusavu Hot Springs, pearl farms, and diving opportunities at Namena Marine Reserve. Many yachts call there as well, making it a common stop for sailors.
Who’s it for?
Couples, ecotravelers, and anyone looking to relax and unwind.
Sigatoka – The River Town
Sigatoka, situated at Fiji’s Coral Coast, is renowned for its lush valleys and river-based experiences.
What to Expect?
An energetic small town surrounded by nature.
Highlights
The Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site – and river safaris into the heart of authentic villages, as well as a fresh produce market.
Who’s it for?
Nature enthusiasts and cultural adventurers.
Plan Your Journey with Go Local Fiji
Visit Fiji and the capital Suva, as well as other nearby cities and villages, with Go Local Fiji, a 100% Fijian-owned company that focuses on showcasing the real Fiji. We offer custom tours, private transfers, and all of the local information you will need to make your experience unforgettable.
Whether you would like to spend an entire day in Suva and explore the local sites and markets, or go to the sugar city of Lautoka, or perhaps off the beaten path to Savusavu, our team will ensure that you travel comfortably and authentically.
Are you excited to discover the most popular cities in Fiji? Book your journey with Go Local Fiji today and get ready to see paradise from an entirely new perspective.