Choosing where to stay in Cape Town can be tricky – city buzz, coastal charm, or leafy suburbs? Our guide to the best areas and hotels will help you find the perfect base for your trip.
If you’re wondering which area suits your vibe, here are some of our recommendations:
City Bowl
V&A Waterfront
Just a stone’s throw from the city centre, V&A Waterfront boasts an exciting mix of activities for all ages, all within easy walking distance. Here, you’ll find must-see experiences like the Two Oceans Aquarium and the Robben Island Museum. It is also the main departure spot for the City Sightseeing hop-on-hop-off bus tours. The precinct is filled with luxe hotels, boasting breathtaking views of both Table Mountain and the harbour.
The City Bowl
If you love a bit of adventure and nightlife, the City Bowl is close to buzzing clubs and bars, with delicious restaurants on every corner. There are hotels, hostels, boutique backpackers, and just about every other kind of accommodation you can imagine. It’s a bustling, cosmopolitan mix, with something to suit everyone. There are plenty of transport options to get you around.
Woodstock
For those who love art and seek inspiration, Woodstock is the perfect area to fuel your creativity. It’s also one of the older parts of the city, rich in history and culture, with a diverse mix of people who call it home. Conveniently located close to the city centre, you’ll find a variety of accommodation here, including aparthotels, hotels, and hostels. There are also many restaurants and markets to explore, adding to the area’s energetic atmosphere.
De Waterkant
Another location close to some of the city’s attractions is De Waterkant. There are many boutique hotels and guesthouses, and it is a short walk from the shops, eateries, and bars.
Sea Point
The Sea Point promenade, which stretches for several kilometres along the Atlantic Ocean, is perhaps Sea Point’s most famous landmark. The Main Road is lined with restaurants, trendy bars, and shops. There are plenty of aparthotels, hostels, and hotels available, with many more developments already under construction.
Green Point
Green Point is Sea Point’s more upmarket neighbour, with the beachfront Main Road home to hotels and charming apartment rentals, many boasting stunning views of the city. You’ll find a hub of activity at DHL Stadium (also known as Cape Town Stadium), close to the beautiful beaches of the Atlantic Seaboard, along with some unique dining experiences.
Bo-Kaap
Bo-Kaap, often called the Malay Quarter, is known for its iconic rows of brightly coloured houses and cobbled streets. Many locals are descendants of the freed slaves who first made this area home, and their heritage is woven into every corner. From flavour-packed Cape Malay cuisine to authentic foodie experiences, Bo-Kaap offers a taste of Cape Town you won’t forget. You’ll find plenty of hotels nearby. If you do visit, remember to be respectful to the area and its locals.
Atlantic Seaboard
Clifton and Camps Bay
For the best views, and some truly stunning houses and mansions overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, head to Clifton and Camps Bay. You’ll find a range of accommodation options here, from budget-friendly to luxe. While the sea on this side of the mountain is chilly, the wide, sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing, volleyball, and people-watching. And if you don’t mind splashing out on a fancy meal, we highly recommend enjoying a sunset dinner and sundowners at one of the stylish restaurants or bars along the strip.
South Peninsula
Noordhoek and Kommetjie
You won’t find many public transport options to and from Noordhoek and Kommetjie, so we recommend hiring a car to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and scenic views along the way. These areas are perfect for those seeking a laid-back vibe, far from the hustle and bustle of Cape Town’s fast-paced city life. Accommodation ranges from rustic to luxurious, and the friendly locals are always happy to suggest must-visit spots in the area.
Hout Bay
Located just 20-30 minutes from the city, between the Atlantic Seaboard and Noordhoek, Hout Bay is a seaside village with serious local charm. It’s on the City Sightseeing Blue Route, so it’s possible to explore the city from here. The beach is lovely, and there are many restaurants, a lively weekend market, and a few bars that you can enjoy during your stay.
Muizenberg
Muizenberg is the old dame of the False Bay coastline. This local favourite is around 15-20 minutes from the city. This surfers’ paradise (we suggest taking a surf lesson or hitting the waves if you are an avid surfer) is known for its colourful huts. The long, sandy beach is lined with surf shops, laid-back bars, and restaurants, ideal if you want to soak up the seaside charm and its locals.
Kalk Bay
Another charming seaside gem is Kalk Bay, a fishing village boasting fun for the entire family. Spend your days wandering through its vintage boutiques, boho shops and seafront cafés. It’s the perfect base for exploring the South, including Cape Point, and ideal for travellers who embrace the art of slow living. Accommodation here ranges from budget-friendly and boho chic to boutique luxury.
Southern Suburbs
Observatory
If you are on a budget, Observatory or Obs, as it’s known locally, is a bohemian backpacking hub, with affordable accommodation.
Obs is a very chilled spot, featuring many hole-in-the-wall attractions,
arty shops, boutiques with vintage and unusual clothing, and health food stores. There are also dozens of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Observatory is on all the main public transport routes and is less than six kilometres from the City Bowl, so you are always in on the action.
Newlands
If you’re looking for a quiet guest house, B&B, or hotel, this is a good place to base yourself. Newlands is known for its charming little village-style shopping centres, steakhouses, bars, restaurants, and forests and streams. It’s relatively close to the city centre. Explore the Newlands Stadium during sporting events or visit the many eateries in the area.
Constantia
Located within the Constantia wine route, the suburbs of Constantia, Bergvliet, and Tokai offer an escape into Cape Town’s leafy, luxurious south. Think sprawling hotel estates, elegant homes, and tree-lined avenues that exude tranquility. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking upscale accommodation, where your days can be filled with wine tastings, gourmet dining, and serene surroundings.
Cape Flats
Khayelitsha and Gugulethu
If you’re looking for a more authentic Cape Town experience, Khayelitsha and Gugulethu tick all the right boxes. You’ll find a range of guesthouses to choose from. There’s loads to do, from enjoying traditional South African shisa nyama (braaied meat) to exploring art tours and cultural experiences. Be sure to use reliable, accredited transport providers and tour guides.
Helderberg
Somerset West
Somerset West might be a bit of a drive out of the city, but trust us, it’s worth the trip. Wine lovers and foodies will appreciate it here. There’s plenty of accommodation to suit all budgets, and it’s the perfect base for experiencing the Cape Winelands, filled with world-class wine, fine dining, and stunning scenery.
Gordon’s Bay and Strand
Gordon’s Bay and Strand are located just next to Somerset West and boast some truly spectacular beaches. The sunsets you’ll witness here are among the prettiest in the world. These seaside spots also offer easy access to the Winelands. There’s plenty of accommodation available, including some stunning sea-facing hotels. And for the adventure lovers, don’t miss Crystal Pools, a must-do scenic day hike.
Northern Suburbs
Durbanville
Durbanville is located about 30 minutes from the city, but it offers incredible mountain views and sweeping vineyards. The Durbanville Wine Route features some fantastic estates with excellent restaurants, and many of the wine farms also offer accommodation.
Bloubergstrand
Bloubergstrand is where you’ll find that iconic postcard view of Table Mountain. With a mix of beachfront hotels and resorts, it’s a favourite for sunseekers and holidaymakers alike. The beaches here are buzzing, and perfect for kitesurfing and surfing.
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