If you’re planning a trip to Cape Town and feeling overwhelmed figuring out where to stay, don’t worry; we’ve got you covered!
As a first-time visitor to South Africa’s stunning Mother City, finding accommodation that suits all your needs can be tricky. That’s why we’ve compiled an epic list of the best places to stay in Cape Town to help you make an informed decision. From cool neighborhoods packed with restaurants, shops, attractions, and museums to a wide range of accommodation options, including swanky hotels, stylish mid-range hotels, and budget-friendly hostels – we’ve got it all covered.
So, grab a cuppa, and get ready to find your ideal place to stay in Cape Town!
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Table of Contents
Before you Visit Cape Town
If this is your first visit to the Mother City, read my detailed 1 week Cape Town itinerary that maps out the top things to do in Cape Town.
These handy South Africa travel tips will also come in handy. Those traveling further afield might also enjoy my detailed guides on Paternoster and all the gems dotted along the Garden Route.
In addition to the tips above, here are a few more things to help you plan the perfect first visit to Cape Town.
- Book an airport transfer: If you’re not renting a car at Cape Town International Airport or using the MyCity Bus, book a private transfer to get to your accommodation hassle-free.
- Travel Insurance: Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. I use and recommend SafetyWing.
- Apply for your entry visa with iVisa in a few easy clicks.
- Grab a City Pass: Make the most of your time in Cape Town with a discounted Cape Town City Pass. By doing so, you’ll spend less time in long lines and more time exploring all of Cape Town’s best attractions. The pass covers more that 80 attractions and is available in 2, 3 or 5 day options.
- Stay connected during your Cape Town trip with this e-SIM for South Africa.
- Pack a Guide Book: Pack a copy of Lonely Planet South Africa or The Rough Guide to Cape Town. Both guides are jam-packed with useful tips and insights.
- Book activities and attractions on GetYourGuide well in advance. And if you’re into hiking, check out this must-do Table Mountain hike.
In a rush? Pin this Where to Stay in Cape Town guide to read later.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Cape Town
To make the most of your visit to the Mother City, deciding where to stay in Cape Town is an important part of planning the perfect trip to Africa’s most beautiful city. Cape Town packs the perfect mix of neighborhoods boasting mind-blowing scenery, rich history, eclectic culture, and beautiful landmarks.
While each area in Cape Town is unique in character and scenery, the first step to finding the perfect place to stay in Cape Town is deciding what kind of holiday you want. If you’re looking to be right in the middle of all the action, stay in the City Bowl. Those looking for epic views close to Cape Town’s beautiful beaches will find several neighborhoods along the Atlantic Seaboard more suited to your needs.
Before we dive into the best hotels in Cape Town covered in this guide, let’s have a look at the city’s top neighborhoods. Here’s a quick overview of the best areas to stay in Cape Town.
Quick Area Overview
- V&A Waterfront – The best place to stay in Cape Town for shoppers, foodies, and luxury travelers.
- Gardens – The best place to stay in Cape Town for first-timers who want to be close to the city’s top museums and iconic attractions like Table Mountain and Signal Hill.
- De Waterkant – The coolest place to stay in Cape Town for street art chasers, history buffs, and partygoers.
- Camps Bay – The best place to stay in Cape Town for sunset-chasers and beachgoers.
- Green Point – The best area to stay in Cape Town for laidback travelers who want to be near all the top attractions but in a quieter neighborhood.
- Sea Point – Where to stay in Cape Town for families, beachgoers, and those seeking laidback vibes.
- Hout Bay – The best area to stay in Cape Town for nature lovers and those looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
Where to Stay in Cape Town: 14 BEST Hotels & Hostels
Since each neighborhood in Cape Town is chock-full with plenty to do and see, another thing to keep in mind when choosing a place to stay in Cape is your budget.
To help you sort through the mammoth amount of options, we’ve broken up this guide into three categories: luxury, mid-range, and budget. Under each section, you’ll find our carefully curated suggestions across an array of neighborhoods. Besides highlighting each hotel’s strong points, we’ve also included heaps of tips to make choosing where to stay in Cape town a little bit easier.
Luxury Accommodation in Cape Town
The Silo Hotel
- Area: V&A Waterfront
- Closest landmark: Zeitz Mocaa Museum of Contemporary African Art
- Why you’ll love it: Amazing architecture, incredible views, impeccable service, and excellent location.
For the ultimate luxury accommodation in Cape Town, you don’t need to look much further than the uber posh Silo Hotel. Located within the V&A Waterfront, The Silo sits atop the prestigious Zeitz Mocaa Museum in one of the city’s old grain silos.
The hotel features elegant rooms that perfectly blend modern and antique touches coupled with massive glass windows offering exquisite views of Table Bay Harbor, Table Mountain, and the V&A Waterfront. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and free wifi.
Besides the plush interiors, this luxury Cape Town hotel also has a wide range of amazing amenities. From a stunning rooftop restaurant and a glass-sided pool to a spa and gym – all in all, The Silo is arguably the most luxurious hotel in Cape Town!
Since you’ll be right on the V&A Waterfront’s doorstep, there are lots to do nearby. Don’t miss browsing the shops, eating at Cape Town’s best restaurants and food markets, or taking a day trip to Robben Island.
One & Only Cape Town Hotel
- Area: V&A Waterfront
- Closest landmark: V&A Waterfront
- Why you’ll love it: Fabulous breakfast, gorgeous views, and an epic pool area.
One & Only is where to stay in Cape Town if you’re looking for all-out granduar. Located within the V&A Waterfront, it’s the perfect choice for travelers looking for a Cape Town luxury hotel. Besides its excellent location, the hotel also offers unbeatable views of Table Mountain.
The rooms at One & Only are simply exquisite, each fitted with all the creature comforts you would expect from a 5-star establishment – from a cozy fireplace to a 42-inch flat-screen TV to a Nespresso machine. But that’s not all! The breezy private balcony is just the spot to catch the famous Cape Town sunset and unwind after a day out exploring all of the city’s top attractions.
One & Only also houses several top-notch restaurants, including a Japanese restaurant, a modern bistro, and a swanky high-end bar. There’s even a gorgeous outdoor infinity pool with a sun terrace, a luxurious spa with a sauna, a fully-equipped fitness center, and a game room for the kids.
You’ll also find loads of shops and restaurants nearby. Don’t miss the V&A Food Market (a mecca for foodies), while those traveling with kids shouldn’t miss marveling at the diverse marine life at the Two Oceans Aquarium.
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel
Recommended by Cecily from Groovy Mashed Potatoes
- Area: Gardens
- Closest landmark: Signal Hill
- Why you’ll love it: Old-world charm that vibes perfectly with the ultimate luxury experience.
The Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is an iconic luxury hotel in Cape Town known for its beautiful pink exterior. The hotel opened in 1899 but wasn’t painted pink until after WWI in 1918 to promote peace and joy. The star-studded hotel also has a history of welcoming very significant guests, such as John Lennon, Nelson Mandela, and the Dalai Lama. Besides its deep-rooted history, you’re bound to be impressed by its glamorous decor and its pristine gardens that exude tranquility.
To complement the hotel’s pink exterior, you’ll also find pink treats, pink flowers, pink cocktails, and even pink-themed spa treatments. However, one of the best things to do at the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is to go for high tea. It’s known as the best in the city and is a firm favorite among locals. While the tea room is beautifully designed with a light and airy feel, the tea sandwiches and scones are simply delectable.
When you aren’t relaxing at the hotel, take a three-minute walk to Kloof Street, where you’ll find many boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. You don’t want to miss AKJP Studio, a concept store with contemporary South African designer clothes.
Tintswalo Atlantic
Recommended by Kathryn from Becoming You Lifestyle & Travel Blog.
- Area: Hout Bay
- Closest landmark: Bay House Market
- Why you’ll love it: Beautiful natural surroundings and epic views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Wedged between the mountains and the sea on Chapmans Peak, the Tintswalo Atlantic is surely the most romantic place to stay in Cape Town. Located on the very edge of the Atlantic Ocean, you couldn’t sleep closer to the ocean if you tried!
Every beautiful suite has a gorgeous private deck with outdoor seating offering views across Hout Bay to the working harbor and the majestic Sentinel peak. There’s also a roaring wood fireplace and a spacious en-suite bathroom with the most incredible bath views!
If you can manage to tear yourself away from your luxurious suite, spend your time walking through the fynbos, spending the day poolside, and sipping sundowners on the deck. The onsite restaurant also offers delicious fresh, seasonal cuisine.
Tintswalo Atlantic is the place to head if you’re looking to stay in the most beautiful hotel in the most beautiful city in the world!
Best Mid-Range Places to Stay in Cape Town
The Cape Heritage Hotel
Recommended by Stella Jane from Around the World in 24 Hours.
- Area in Cape Town: Cape Town CBD
- Closest landmark: Signal Hill Winery
- Why you’ll love it: Right in the heart of Cape Town’s historical hub. Within walking distance of the city’s top cultural sights.
The Cape Heritage Hotel is one of the most beautiful and historic hotels in Cape Town. It’s located right in the City Centre, making it convenient to visit just about any attraction. It is a short walking distance from the colorful houses of the Bo-Kaap, the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, and the cool shops and restaurants on Kloof and Bree Streets. Any driving tour of the areas around Cape Town will easily be able to pick you up here.
The hotel itself is lovely because it is located in the 18th century Heritage Square. Guests can also see the legendary grapevine growing in the courtyard, which is the oldest surviving grapevine in South Africa!
The amenities at the Cape Heritage Hotel are really something special. Guests are treated to a full breakfast in the courtyard every morning. You can enjoy something light and cold from the buffet or get a hot breakfast made to order. In the evenings, luxuriate with locally made bath products and a turndown service that includes a variety of delightful sweets left in your room.
AC Hotel by Marriot Cape Town Waterfront
Recommended by Nicole from Affordable Family Travel.
- Area in Cape Town: V&A Waterfront
- Closest landmark: Two Oceans Aquarium
- Why you’ll love it: Easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment of the V&A Waterfront.
AC Hotel Cape Town Waterfront is located a short walk from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and offers terrific views of the Table Mountain area. While you can walk a few minutes over to the Waterfront, the hotel also offers shuttles at schedule times. This makes it easy to enjoy a lovely meal and the lively entertainment the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront has to offer.
The rooms are clean, modern, and spacious, with various bed options from king or two double beds to a junior suite. Families visiting Cape Town will love the rooftop pool, which is great for relaxing on hot afternoons. The mini refrigerator in rooms is also perfect for storing snacks and drinks. There are two onsite restaurants and a complimentary breakfast is included in your stay if not using Marriott points.
The Greenhouse Guesthouse
- Area: Green Point
- Closest landmark: Cape Town Stadium
- Why you’ll love it: Excellent location with the MyCity bus stop on your doorstep. Within walking distance to many shops, restaurants, supermarkets, the Two Oceans Aquarium, and the V&A Waterfront.
The Greenhouse Boutique Hotel is a beautiful Victorian-style hotel with a deep-rooted history dating back more than 120 years.
Neatly nestled in the historic neighborhood of Green Point, the hotel is located mere steps from Cape Town Stadium and Green Point Park, while the hustle and bustle of the V&A Waterfront and the trendy bars and clubs of De Waterkant are only a few blocks away.
What really sets this hotel apart from other boutique hotels in Cape Town is its old-worldly charm. Each room features beautiful interiors, high ceilings, and wooden floors. On top of that, there’s also air-conditioning, a kettle, a mini-fridge, flat-screen TV, free wifi, and the comfiest beds imaginable.
If you can, try to book the family room on the 2nd floor. It has a lovely terrace where you can relax with a glass of wine and watch the day draw to a close.
Primi Seacastle
- Area: Camps Bay
- Closest landmark: Camps Bay Beach
- Why you’ll love it: Epic sunset views and easy access to Camps Bay’s trendy bars, hip restaurants, and white sandy beach.
With so many amazing hotels in Cape Town, it’s hard to find one that ticks all the boxes, but Primi Seacastle will do just that.
Overlooking dreamy Camps Bay, this 4-star hotel features beautifully decorated rooms that are modern and spacious. Most rooms also have a private balcony perfect for watching the sun melt away over the Atlantic Ocean. Besides the picture-perfect rooms with coffee making machines, mini-fridges, satellite TV, and free wifi, the breezy deck with a glimmering pool is a great place to enjoy a sundowner. Don’t miss the scrumptious complimentary full English breakfast!
Primi Seacastle is located within walking distance from Camps Bay’s lively bars and restaurants. It’s also easy to organize adventure activities like shark cage and kayaking at the front desk.
Pineapple House Boutique Hotel
Recommended by Carolin from Happy When Abroad.
- Area: Sea Point
- Closest landmark: Mojo Market
- Why you’ll love it: Gorgeous decor, friendly staff, and great coffee.
The Pineapple House Boutique Hotel is located in Sea Point – arguably one of the best neighborhoods in Cape Town.
From the hotel, the Broken Bath Beach can be reached within 4 minutes of walking. Moreover, Milton Beach, the Sea Point Promenade, and Sunset Beach are just around the corner. But the best thing about it is the hotel itself!
By entering the Pineapple House Boutique Hotel, you will be welcomed by super friendly staff and colorful interior design. The rooms are beautifully decorated, and some even offer a spectacular view of Lions Head. Besides a nice swimming pool and relaxing lounge area, the hotel also serves the most delicious breakfast! You can also make use of their free airport shuttle service.
With a cocktail in your hand, Signal Hill in the back, and the sea promenade in the front, could there be a better place to stay in Cape Town?
Protea Hotel by Marriot Cape Town Sea Point
Recommended by Disha from Disha Discovers.
- Area: Sea Point
- Closest landmark: Milton Beach
- Why you’ll love it: Steps from the beach, friendly staff, and delicious breakfast.
One of the best areas to stay in Cape Town is Sea Point and an incredible hotel in the area is Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Sea Point.
The hotel interior is warm and inviting and offers stunning views of the mountains and coastline. The staff is very friendly and attentive, while going above and beyond to help you craft the perfect Cape Town trip.
One of the best parts of the hotel is a delicious breakfast. For instance, you can get several items made to order, and the chefs will have your breakfast waiting for you the next morning as they see you approaching.
Moreover, the hotel is in a very central and safe location. It’s a two-minute walk to the Sea Point Promenade and only a few minutes’ drive to the V&A Waterfront. With the hop-on-hop-off bus stop just around the corner, it’s easy to explore all the city has to offer. You’ll also find lots of shops, grocery stores, and restaurants within walking distance of the hotel.
The Rockwell Luxury Suites
Recommended by Jacquie from Flashpacking Family.
- Area: De Waterkant
- Closest landmark: Two Oceans Aquarium
- Why you’ll love it: Perfect for families, excellent health club and close to the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap.
The Rockwell Luxury Suites hotel is located in De Waterkant. It’s a mid-ranged, modern, 4-star all-suite hotel, and a great option if you’re visiting South Africa with kids because of the choice of 1 to 4 bedroom apartments, each with a fully equipped kitchen.
In terms of facilities, there’s an indoor swimming pool as well as a health club. There’s also a really handy and secure underground car park.
Although there is no hotel restaurant, there are several great restaurants right next to the hotel, including three within the same building. The Asian fusion restaurant Beluga on Prestwich Street especially is worth checking out.
Moreover, each apartment has a balcony that offers incredible views of Table Mountain, particularly when the sun sets and the city’s lights come on.
The V&A Waterfront is a short walk from the hotel, but you can also ask reception to call a taxi for you.
Best Hostels & Backpackers in Cape Town
The Backpack
Recommended by Claudia from My Adventures Across The World.
- Area: Tamboerskloof
- Nearby landmark: Lion’s Head
- Why you’ll love it: Great outdoor swimming pool and amazing staff.
The Backpack is a lovely boutique hostel in Tamboerskloof, part of the City Bowl. With views over Table Mountain and easy access to places like Long Street (one of the city nightlife hubs), and connections to the V&A Waterfront, the location is pretty much perfect.
What’s great about this hostel is that it’s run in as much a responsible way as possible. Alternative energy sources are used to warm up water, which is recycled as it is a precious good in the Cape, which has been afflicted by a drought in the last few years. The hostel has a small shop that sells souvenirs, trinkets, and art pieces, and the profits go to disadvantaged communities.
At The Backpack, you have a choice of dorms, private rooms, and even large family rooms. So whatever your budget is, there will be something suitable for you.
It’s perfect for travelers on a budget, especially for solo travelers, since there are many common areas where it is easy to socialize. Indeed, the hostel comes with a couple of living rooms with comfortable couches – though one of them may be taken by the house cat, a large and fully equipped kitchen with a dining area; and even a bar with a massive screen to watch sports events. The bar is equipped with a stove (perfect on colder days) and is where the breakfast – which is way above hostel standards – is served.
Finally, the front desk is the perfect place to ask for information on activities and book your day trips from Cape Town. They also arrange laundry for guests.
Never at Home
Recommended by Rose from Where Goes Rose.
- Area: Green Point
- Closest landmark: Cape Town Stadium
- Why you’ll love it: Friendly staff, boozy cocktails, and steps from a MyCity bus stop.
Solo female travel in South Africa is much easier if you have a great place to stay.
Never at Home in Green Point is an ideal hostel in Cape Town for solo travelers to meet other people to do things with, whether that is climb Lion’s Head for sunrise or sunset or explore the lively nightlife on Kloof Street. With an inside and outside seating area, an onsite restaurant, and a shared kitchen, there’s plenty of space to relax and get chatting to new friends. There’s also free wifi for all guests.
Never at Home has 24-hour security, making it a safe and secure place to stay in Cape Town. There are private rooms and dorms with lockers for your personal belongings. What’s more, Green Point is a lovely area of Cape Town, away from the hustle and bustle of Kloof Street and the tourist prices of the V&A Waterfront. Green Point Park is a relaxed place for exercise and outdoor cafes. Plus you’re not far from Cape Town’s best beaches such as Camps Bay!
MOY Guesthouse & Backpackers
Recommended by Rai from A Rai of Light.
- Area: Green Point
- Nearby landmark: Cape Town Stadium
- Why you’ll love it: Beautiful modern decor and a lively atmosphere.
Found in the chic suburb of Green Point, MOY Guesthouse and Backpackers is a laidback place that offers value for money. Its location on Somerset Road is a major advantage, and as a result, allows easy access to discover the rest of the city.
Comprising clean, comfortable rooms that feature free wifi and luxury bunks, it is a great respite after a day of exploring. Each bunk has a dedicated locker, a power-point with a USB port, and a reading light. Although the bathrooms are small, the rooms are very quiet, having plenty of privacy, particularly for a hostel. Private rooms provide en suite facilities, and many have city views. A bonus is the daily breakfast served at a restaurant across the street, offering three different options. The space is beautifully decorated with facilities that include a contemporary lounge, a courtyard, and a garden to relax in.
One of the benefits of traveling is meeting other travelers and the communal space outside, with its tranquil and homely atmosphere, makes this easy. The staff are friendly and always eager to assist with any travel plans.
Where to Stay in Cape Town in Conclusion
As you can see, Cape Town has a whole host of amazing accommodation options to match any budget and travel style. While these hotels and hostels are just a handful of the best places to stay in Cape Town, they should provide a well-rounded glimpse into where to stay in Cape Town.
There you have it! My ultimate guide on where to stay in Cape Town. Did your favorite hotel or hostel make this list? Feel free to share your fave Cape Town accommodation in the comments below!
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