Cape Town, often referred to as the Mother City, is one of the world’s most captivating destinations, offering a diverse range of neighborhoods each with its own unique charm. From the historic streets of the Malay Quarter to the sun-kissed beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, there’s a perfect spot for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking to relax on sun loungers by the sea, explore vibrant local markets, or enjoy high tea at the iconic Mount Nelson, Cape Town has it all. This guide will help you navigate the best areas to stay, providing travel tips and picks for Cape Town’s best hotels.
Our pick of the best hotels in Cape Town 🔝
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: One&Only Cape Town
- ✨ 5-Star: Cape Grace Hotel & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront
- 🛏️ 3-Star: The New Tulbagh Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: 91 Loop Boutique Hostel
- 🏢 Apartment: Lawhill Luxury Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town
- 🏩 For Couples: The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
For those who love scenic views and outdoor activities, neighborhoods like Cape View Clifton and Hout Bay offer stunning landscapes and plenty of opportunities for adventure. If you prefer a more laid-back vibe, Muizenberg and Three Anchor Bay are nice to walk around and offer a more relaxed atmosphere. With a well-connected bus route and easy access to the rest of the city, you’ll find it convenient to explore all that Cape Town has to offer. Whether you’re a Capetonian or a first-time visitor, this guide will ensure you find the perfect place to stay in this beautiful city.
Quick Neighborhood Guide for Cape Town 📋
- 🏙️ For First-Time Visitors: V&A Waterfront
- 🌙 For Nightlife: Long Street
- 🌴 For Tranquil Stays: Constantia
- 🏖️ For Families: Sea Point.
- 🎣 For a Local Vibe: Bo-Kaap
- 🌿 For a Peaceful Stay: Bloubergstrand
- 🏞️ For Nature Lovers: Kirstenbosch
1. Camps Bay – Best Place to Stay in Cape Town for Stunning Beaches 🏖️
🏖️ Beach vibes: Camps Bay is, in my opinion, one of the best neighborhoods for those who love the beach and a lively atmosphere. Picture this: stunning white sandy beaches, the sound of waves crashing against the shore, and the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range as your backdrop. It’s no wonder Camps Bay is a favorite among both locals and tourists.
🍽️ Vibrant Promenade: The main road along the beachfront is lined with some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and cafes. You can enjoy a delicious meal with a view of the Atlantic Ocean or sip on a cocktail as the sun sets. Some of our favorite spots include:
- Café Caprice: Perfect for people-watching and enjoying a laid-back vibe.
- The Bungalow: Offers a more upscale dining experience with stunning views.
- Paranga: Known for its fresh seafood and chic atmosphere.
🚶♂️ Outdoor Activities: Camps Bay is not just about lounging on the beach. It’s also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike up Table Mountain or start of several hiking trails, including the popular Lion’s Head hike.
🚠 Table Mountain: Just a short drive away, you can take the cable car up to the top for panoramic views of Cape Town. It’s a must-visit for any trip to the city.
🌃 Nightlife: Camps Bay is known for its vibrant nightlife. After a day at the beach, head to one of the many bars and restaurants along the promenade. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual drink or a night of dancing, there’s something for everyone.
🍴 Best Places:
- Codfather: Famous for its fresh seafood and sushi.
- Mantra Café: Offers a relaxed atmosphere with great views and delicious food.
- Zenzero: An Italian restaurant with a fantastic menu and a cozy ambiance.
🍸 Bars and Clubs:
- Chinchilla Rooftop Bar: Perfect for sunset cocktails with a view.
- Theatre on the Bay: For a more cultural experience, catch a live performance at this local theater.
Where to stay in Camps Bay? 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in Camps Bay
- The Marly Boutique Hotel and Spa This hotel offers stunning views and luxurious amenities. The spa is a must-visit for relaxation.
- POD Camps Bay Located just steps from the beach, this hotel combines modern design with exceptional service.
- South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel This stylish hotel offers self-catering options and is perfect for those who want a bit more independence during their stay.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Royal Boutique Hotel A budget-friendly option with great amenities and a fantastic location near the beach.
- Camps Bay Retreat This hotel offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and a natural mountain pool.
- The Bay Hotel Located right on the beachfront, this hotel offers great value with its excellent facilities and prime location.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- 91 Loop Boutique Hostel A vibrant and social hostel with modern amenities and a great location in the heart of Cape Town.
- Never at Home Green Point This hostel offers a friendly atmosphere and is just a short distance from Camps Bay.
- The BIG Backpackers A cozy and welcoming hostel with great facilities, perfect for budget travelers looking to explore Cape Town.
2. Sea Point – Best Neighborhood for Cafes & Restaurants 🌊
🍽️ Foodie Heaven: The area is one of Cape Town’s best places for food lovers. This coastal suburb is packed with cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it a great place to stay if you enjoy dining out.
🍴 Best Restaurants:
- La Mouette: Known for its modern South African cuisine and beautiful courtyard setting.
- NV-80: A stylish steakhouse offering delicious cuts of meat and a great wine list.
- Jarryds: Perfect for breakfast or brunch, with a menu full of tastвy options.
🏞️ Outdoor Activities: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the area has plenty to offer. The area is within walking distance to Signal Hill, where you can hike up for panoramic views of the city. You can also rent a bike and explore the coastal road.
🏟️ Cape Town Stadium: Just a short walk from Sea Point, this iconic stadium hosts a variety of events, from sports matches to concerts. It’s a must-visit if you’re in the area.
🛍️ Cape Quarter: Located in nearby Green Point, this trendy shopping center is full of boutique stores, cafes, and art galleries. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon browsing and shopping.
🎭 Live Like a Local: Sea Point is a great place to experience local culture. Take a stroll through the neighborhood and you’ll find street performers, local markets, and plenty of opportunities to interact with friendly locals. It’s a vibrant and welcoming part of the city.
🖼️ Zeitz MOCAA: This museum of contemporary African art is housed in a converted grain silo. It’s a fascinating place to explore and learn about South African art and culture.
Best Bars:
- The Winchester Mansions: Offers a relaxed atmosphere with live jazz music on Sundays.
- The Mojo Market: A lively spot with a variety of food stalls, live music, and a great selection of drinks.
- The Duchess of Wisbeach: A quirky bar with a fun, eclectic vibe and delicious cocktails.
Where to stay in Sea Point? 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- Winchester Mansions This elegant hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and a beautiful courtyard. It’s perfect for enjoying the African sunshine and is within easy walking distance to the promenade.
- Premier Hotel Cape Town This hotel features stylish rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving international cuisine. It’s a great pick for those wanting to explore the city’s best attractions.
- President Hotel This hotel offers luxurious amenities, including a large outdoor pool, a spa, and breathtaking views of the ocean and Table Mountain. It’s a fantastic spot to spoil yourself while being close enough to the city to explore all it has to offer.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Sea Point A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a great location. It’s perfect for digital nomads and travelers looking for a budget-friendly option.
- New Kings Hotel This hotel offers stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace with amazing views, and easy access to local restaurants and shops. It’s a great choice for those wanting to experience the best of Cape Town hotels.
- Home Suite Hotels Station House A trendy hotel with modern amenities, including a fitness center and a rooftop pool, perfect for both business and leisure travelers. It’s located along the Atlantic Seaboard, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Atlantic Affair Boutique Lodge A cozy and stylish hotel offering comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- O on Kloof Boutique Hotel & Spa This hotel provide a luxurious yet affordable stay, with excellent facilities and a relaxing ambiance. It’s a great spot to unwind after exploring the rest of the city.
- Leeuwenzee Guesthouse A welcoming guesthouse with comfortable rooms, a lovely garden, and a convenient location. It’s perfect for travelers looking to experience the local culture and hospitality.
3. Clifton – Exclusive Beaches, Upscale Residential Area & Spectacular Views 🏝️
🌅 Scenic Beauty: Best area for those seeking a luxurious seaside experience. The views from here are simply breathtaking. Imagine waking up to the sight of the Atlantic Ocean stretching out before you, with the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range in the background. It’s no wonder Clifton is home to some of most luxurious properties and stylish hotels in town.
🍴 Dining and Leisure: While Clifton itself is primarily residential, it’s within walking distance to some of best dining and leisure spots. Here are a few nearby attractions and eateries:
- Camps Bay: Just a short stroll away, Camps Bay offers a vibrant promenade lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean.
- Sea Point: Another nearby area full of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments.
- De Waterkant: Known for its trendy vibe and excellent restaurants, it’s a great place to explore for a night out.
🏞️ Outdoor Activities: Clifton is not just about lounging on the beach. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities for those who love nature and adventure. You can hike up Lion’s Head for panoramic views of Cape Town, or take a drive along the coastal road.
🖼️ Robben Island: Accessible via ferry, Robben Island is a significant historical site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. It’s a fascinating place to visit and learn about South Africa’s history.
Best Bars:
- Chinchilla Rooftop Bar: Perfect for sunset cocktails with a view.
- Theatre on the Bay: For a more cultural experience, catch a live performance at this local theater.
4. City Bowl (CBD) – Vibrant Nightlife, Diverse Dining & Close to Major Attractions 🌃
🌃 Nightlife Central: This central business district is the heart of Cape Town, offering a mix of historic Cape Dutch architecture and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet dinner, the neighborhood has something for everyone.
🍽️ Diverse Dining: The area is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants offering everything from traditional South African dishes to international cuisine. Here are some of our top picks:
- Mama Africa: Known for its authentic Cape Malay cuisine and lively atmosphere.
- The Pot Luck Club: Offers a unique dining experience with small plates perfect for sharing.
- Kloof Street House: A charming restaurant set in a historic house, offering a mix of local and international dishes.
🎉 Best Nightlife: The City Bowl is also home to some of best nightlife spots. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink or a night of dancing, you’ll find plenty of options here. Some of our favorite spots include:
- Long Street: Famous for its bars and clubs, it’s the perfect place to experience nightlife.
- The Gin Bar: Tucked away behind Honest Chocolate Café, this hidden gem offers a fantastic selection of gin cocktails.
- Fiction: A popular club with a great mix of music and a lively crowd.
🏞️ Major Attractions: The City Bowl is not just about dining and nightlife. It’s also close to some of top attractions. Here are a few must-visit spots:
- Company’s Garden: A beautiful public park in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
- District Six Museum: Learn about the history of this vibrant community and its forced removals during apartheid.
- Castle of Good Hope: The oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa, offering a fascinating glimpse into local history.
Where to stay in CBD? 🏨
⭐ Best hotels in CBD
- Old Bank Hotel - Lion Roars Hotels & Lodges This 4-star hotel offers spacious, well-appointed rooms with huge windows and a central location in downtown Cape Town. Guests can enjoy a sun terrace, a shared lounge, and a variety of breakfast options including Full English/Irish, vegetarian, and vegan.
- Taj Cape Town Located at 1 Wale Street, this 5-star hotel provides world-class service and luxurious amenities. It features a wellness center, multiple dining options, and is particularly favored by couples for its excellent location.
- Pepperclub Hotel Situated at the corner of Loop and Pepper Streets, this hotel offers an outdoor pool, a wellness center with a gym, and a private cinema. The rooms are spacious with extra-length king-sized beds and modern amenities, making it a great choice for a luxurious stay.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre This hotel offers modern rooms with free WiFi and a complimentary breakfast. Located in the heart of the city, it provides easy access to major attractions and is ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
- Habitat Aparthotel by Totalstay Offering stylish and fully-equipped apartments, this aparthotel is perfect for longer stays. It is conveniently located near the city center and provides easy access to public transportation and local attractions.
- Protea Hotel Fire & Ice by Marriott Cape Town This trendy hotel features modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and a vibrant bar and lounge. It is located close to the city center and offers a unique and energetic atmosphere, perfect for young travelers and digital nomads.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Long Street Backpackers This hostel offers a lively atmosphere with clean dorms and private rooms. It is a great choice for budget travelers looking to experience the local culture and vibrant nightlife.
- BlackBrick Cape Town This modern hostel offers a variety of room options, from dorms to private suites, and features a rooftop terrace with stunning views. It is conveniently located near public transportation and major attractions.
- Fountains Hotel Offering both dormitory and private room options, this hostel provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities. It is located close to the central business district, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers.
5. Bantry Bay – Exclusive Wind-Protected Suburb with Stunning Ocean Views 🌅
🌅 Ocean Views Galore: Bantry Bay is the city’s best-kept secrets. This exclusive suburb is known for its stunning views and wind-protected location, making it a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds: tranquility and luxury. The views of the Atlantic Ocean are simply breathtaking, and the sunsets here are some of the best in the city.
🏞️ Scenic Beauty: Nestled between Sea Point and Clifton, the place offers easy access to some of best beaches. The area is also close to the Twelve Apostles mountain range, providing a stunning backdrop for your stay. Whether you’re taking a stroll along the coastline or enjoying a meal on a terrace, the scenery is always spectacular.
🍽️ Dining and Leisure: While the are itself is primarily residential, it’s very close to best dining and leisure spots. Here are a few nearby attractions and eateries:
- Sea Point Promenade: Perfect for a morning jog or a leisurely walk, this place offers stunning views of the ocean and Table Mountain.
- Camps Bay: Just a short drive away, Camps Bay offers a vibrant promenade lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean.
- Kloof Street: Known for its trendy vibe and excellent restaurants, it’s a great place to explore for a night out.
Insider Tip: Visit local beaches early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the area.
Where to stay in Bantry Bay? 🏨
- Casa on Bantry by Totalstay This luxurious villa offers stunning views, a private infinity pool, and modern amenities. Perfect for those seeking a tranquil and upscale stay.
- Luxury Villa with Infinity Pool This villa features an infinity pool with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, spacious living areas, and contemporary design. It is situated in a prime location, close to Clifton.
- The Clarendon - Bantry Bay This boutique hotel offers elegant rooms with sea views, a lush garden, and a refreshing pool. It provides easy access to the seafront and is known for its excellent service and hospitality.
FAQs about Visiting Cape Town ❔
What is the best part of Cape Town to stay?
Camps Bay is considered one of the best areas to stay in Cape Town for its beaches, restaurants, and proximity to attractions.
What are the safest parts of Cape Town to stay?
The V&A Waterfront, Sea Point, and the City Bowl are generally regarded as the safest areas for visitors to stay in Cape Town.
Where do people stay in Cape Town?
Popular areas for accommodation include the V&A Waterfront, City Bowl, Sea Point, Green Point, and the Southern Suburbs like Constantia.
Is Cape Town a walkable city?
While some neighborhoods like the City Bowl are walkable, Cape Town as a whole is not considered a very walkable city due to its sprawling layout.
How do you get around Cape Town without a car?
Options include the MyCiTi bus system, Uber/taxis, and walking in compact neighborhoods like the Waterfront or Sea Point.
Where to avoid in Cape Town?
Townships like Khayelitsha and Mitchell’s Plain have higher crime rates and are best avoided by visitors unless on an organized tour.
