Cape Town is known as the “Mother City” and is a popular tourist destination thanks to its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and tasty cuisine. Deciding where to stay in Cape Town can be overwhelming with so many neighborhoods and options to choose from.
I’ve lived in Cape Town for 10 years and want to help you plan where to stay for the perfect trip! Let’s explore some of the best areas and accommodations in Cape Town.
Best Places to Stay in Cape Town
In a rush and just looking for a quick answer on the best places to stay in Cape Town? Here are my top picks:
🏆 Best Overall – The Glen Boutique Hotel & Spa. This is a 5-star hotel that offers luxurious rooms, suites, and apartments with stunning views of the sea or the mountains. It also has a spa, a pool, a restaurant, and a bar. It has a rating of 9.4 out of 10 from Booking.com.
✨ Best Luxury – Taj Cape Town. This is a 5-star hotel that is located in the heart of the city, close to many attractions and landmarks. It features elegant rooms and suites, a fitness center, a spa, an indoor pool, and several dining options. It has a rating of 8.9 out of 10 from Booking.com.
👪 Best for Families – The Table Bay Hotel. This is a 5-star hotel that is situated at the V&A Waterfront, overlooking the harbor and Table Mountain. It offers spacious rooms and suites, a kids’ club, a pool, a gym, a spa, and a restaurant. It has a rating of 8.8 out of 10 from Booking.com.
👔 Best for Business – Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront. This is a 4-star hotel that is located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, near the CBD and the convention center. It offers modern rooms and suites, a business center, a pool, a fitness center, a spa, and a restaurant. It has a rating of 8.6 out of 10 from Booking.com.
🛎️ Best Boutique – The Silo Hotel. This is a 5-star hotel that is housed in a former grain silo, offering unique and stylish rooms and suites with panoramic views of the city and the harbor. It also has a rooftop pool, a gym, a spa, and a restaurant. It has a rating of 9.6 out of 10 from Booking.com.
🏖️ Best Beachfront Resort – The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa. This is a 5-star hotel that is nestled between the mountains and the ocean, offering spectacular views and access to secluded beaches. It features elegant rooms and suites, two pools, a cinema, a gym, a spa, and several dining options. It has a rating of 9.3 out of 10 from Booking.com.
💵 Best Budget – Once in Cape Town. This is a hostel that offers private rooms and dorms with free Wi-Fi and breakfast. It also has a communal kitchen, a lounge, a bar, and a garden. It is located in the vibrant Kloof Street, close to many restaurants, bars, and shops. It has a rating of 8.4 out of 10 from Booking.com.
You can’t go wrong with any of the above accommodation options. But, for more info, let’s do a deep dive into the best areas and neighbourhoods in Cape Town.
15 Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Stay in Cape Town
Cape Town is made up of many distinct neighbourhoods and suburbs, each with its own personality and charm. Here are 15 of the best areas to consider when deciding where to stay in Cape Town.
City Bowl & Surrounds
Best Area for First Time Visitors
The City Bowl is the central business district and includes neighborhoods like Gardens, Tamboerskloof, Oranjezicht, and Vredehoek. This area puts you close to top attractions like Table Mountain, Company’s Gardens, Greenmarket Square, and the V&A Waterfront. It’s busy and lively with lots of hotels, shops, restaurants, and nightlife options.
The City Bowl is the best place to stay in Cape Town for first-time visitors who want convenience and walkability. You’ll be able to easily access top sights like the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, District Six Museum, and bustling Long Street.
Pros:
- Convenient central location
- Walkable to major attractions
- Plentiful dining and nightlife options
- Close to public transportation
Cons:
- Can be noisy at night
- Not as scenic as other areas
- Crowded during peak tourist seasons
Top Hotels: Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Grace, Radisson Red Hotel V&A Waterfront
Top Things To Do: Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront, Company’s Gardens
Sea Point & Green Point
Best Area for Beach Access
Adjacent to the City Bowl, Sea Point and Green Point offer quick access to beaches, promenades, and oceanfront parks. Stay here for sunrise walks along the Sea Point promenade and proximity to trendy shops and restaurants on Main Road.
Green Point is close to the Cape Town Stadium and V&A Waterfront. These areas are more residential and relaxed than the city center. Stay in Sea Point or Green Point for an oceanside atmosphere still convenient to the city.
Pros:
- Close to beaches and oceanfront parks
- More relaxed vibe than the city center
- Trendy shops and restaurants
- Walking/biking promenades
Cons:
- Farther from top attractions like Table Mountain
- Accommodations can be expensive
- Limited budget dining options
Top Hotels: The Peninsula All-Suite Hotel, The Glen Boutique Hotel, Protea Hotel Sea Point
Top Things To Do: Sea Point Promenade, Green Point Park, Cape Town Stadium
Camps Bay & Clifton
Best Area for Scenic Ocean Views
Camps Bay and Clifton boast spectacular ocean views and some of the most exclusive real estate in Cape Town. Nestled against the Twelve Apostles Mountains, these areas are ideal for sipping cocktails overlooking the ocean.
Prepare to pay more for accommodations, but you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views that are tough to beat. Go to enjoy the upscale bar scene or relax on sandy white beaches like Clifton 4th.
Pros:
- Incredible Indian Ocean views
- Luxurious hotels and restaurants
- Close to Table Mountain
- Beautiful beaches
Cons:
- Very expensive accommodations
- Far from the city center
- Crowded beaches in peak season
- Limited budget options
Top Hotels: Atlantic View Boutique Hotel, Camps Bay Retreat, The Marly Boutique Hotel
Top Things To Do: Camps Bay Beach, Clifton Beaches, Lion’s Head Hike
Woodstock & Observatory
Best Area for Trendy Restaurants & Nightlife
Woodstock and Observatory (also called Obz) are hip, up-and-coming areas located east of the city center. Here you’ll find street art, quirky shops, lively bars, microbreweries, and some of the best restaurants in Cape Town.
Stay in these vibrant neighborhoods for easy access to attractions like the Old Biscuit Mill and East City nightlife. Experience Cape Town’s creative energy by exploring galleries and street art in Woodstock.
Pros:
- Trendy, artsy atmosphere
- Great restaurants and nightlife
- Close to attractions like Robben Island
- More affordable hotel options
Cons:
- Farther from city center attractions
- Can be noisy at night
- More industrial than other neighborhoods
- Limited parking
Top Hotels: The Woodstock Lodge, 91 Loop Hostel, Village Lodge
Top Things To Do: Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock Exchange, Observatory restaurants
Kirstenbosch & Southern Suburbs
Best Area for Nature & Gardens
The Southern Suburbs offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere away from the city and tourists. Base yourself near the famous Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens to enjoy walking trails, conservatories, and outdoor concerts against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain.
The area also provides easy access to acclaimed wine regions like Constantia and Stellenbosch. Go for a scenic drive through Tokai Forest or sample wines at Groot Constantia.
Pros:
- Lush natural beauty
- Close to Kirstenbosch Gardens
- Nearby wine regions
- Quieter neighborhood
Cons:
- Farther from main city attractions
- Need a car for wine tastings
- Limited dining and nightlife options
Top Hotels: Cellars-Hohenort Hotel, Steenberg Hotel & Spa, Evergreen Manor
Top Things To Do: Kirstenbosch Gardens, Constantia Winelands
Hout Bay
Best Area for Scenic Drives & Markets
About a 30-minute drive from the city center, Hout Bay is a quaint fishing village flanked by mountains and ocean. Go for scenic drives to Cape Point along Chapman’s Peak Drive and stroll the lively Bay Harbour Market on weekends.
Hout Bay offers a laid-back atmosphere away from the city buzz but is close enough for easy access. It’s also a great base for exploring the Cape Peninsula.
Pros:
- Charming fishing village vibe
- Nearby beaches and mountains
- Weekend craft market
- Quieter atmosphere
Cons:
- Far from the city center
- Need a car to get around
- Can be windy near the harbor
- Limited nightlife
Top Hotels: Tintswalo Atlantic, Hout Bay Manor, The Blueminster Guest House
Top Things To Do: Chapman’s Peak Drive, Bay Harbour Market, World of Birds
Bloubergstrand
Best Area for Kitesurfing & Views of Table Mountain
Across Table Bay lies Bloubergstrand, known for water sports and epic views of Table Mountain. Adrenaline junkies can try kitesurfing or windsurfing on the bay. Blouberg is also close to attractions like Robben Island, Seal Island, and Milnerton Lighthouse.
Those on a budget will find Bloubergstrand accommodations very affordable compared to the city center. It’s a great base for outdoor adventurers who want dramatic views of Table Mountain.
Pros:
- Breathtaking views of Table Mountain
- Water sports like kitesurfing
- Budget-friendly accommodations
- Nearby shopping malls
Cons:
- Far from Cape Town city center
- Limited dining and nightlife options
- Very windy at times
- Few attractions besides beaches
Top Hotels: Sandcastle Guesthouse, A1 Guest Lodge, The Beach House Guesthouse
Top Things To Do: Blouberg Beach, Kite Beach, Robben Island Museum
Simon’s Town & Cape Point
Best Area for Penguins & Nature
Simon’s Town and Cape Point offer incredible nature and adventures like shark cage diving, whale watching, and penguin encounters. Spot whales from June to November or see African penguins year-round at Boulders Beach.
Though over an hour drive from Cape Town, the peace and beauty of this area make it perfect for a relaxing nature retreat. The coastal views and charming historical buildings of Simon’s Town are also worth exploring.
Pros:
- Top spot for whale watching
- Boulders Beach penguin colony
- Charming harbor town of Simon’s Town
- Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve
Cons:
- Very far from Cape Town
- Need a rental car
- Limited dining options
- Can be windy and chilly
Top Hotels: Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel, The Boat House Guesthouse, Auberge Burgundy Guest House
Top Things To Do: Boulders Beach, Cape Point, Shark cage diving
Langa
Best Area for Cultural Immersion
For an authentic cultural experience, stay in the neighborhood of Langa, the oldest Black township in Cape Town. This is not recommended without an experienced local tour guide. Take a walking tour for an eye-opening look at life here. Visit the Langa Quarter creative hub to shop for local art and dine at restaurants like Mzansi and All Africa Cafe.
Staying in Langa provides perspective on Black history and culture. Experience a side of Cape Town many tourists miss out on.
Pros:
- Immersive cultural experience
- Support local businesses
- Walking tours available
- Local markets
Cons:
- Far from main attractions
- Need a tour guide or Uber
- Less tourist infrastructure
- Poverty still an issue
Top Hotels: One Love Guest House, Greenfields Guest House, The High and Over
Top Things To Do: Walking tour, Langa Quarter, Guga S’Thebe Arts & Cultural Centre
De Waterkant
Best Area for Shopping & Dining
Trendy De Waterkant boasts quaint alleyways lined with cafes, boutiques, galleries, and Cape Town’s best restaurants. The area comes alive at night with bars and clubs. Stay in De Waterkant for its walking accessibility, excellent dining, and indulgent day spas.
Don’t miss the vibrant Neighbourgoods Market on Saturdays. Experience Cape Town’s style in this fashionable neighborhood.
Pros:
- Trendy shops, restaurants and cafes
- Vibrant nightlife and lounges
- Walkable neighborhood
- Nearby V&A Waterfront
Cons:
- Accommodations book up quickly
- Noisy at night, especially on weekends
- More touristy than other areas
- Crowded Neighbourgoods Market
Top Hotels: Cape Heritage Hotel, 2Inn1 Kensington, The Grey Hotel
Top Things To Do: Neighbourgoods Market, day spas, boutique shopping
Muizenberg & Kalk Bay
Best Area for Surfing & Fishing Villages
For a beach vacation away from the city, stay in Muizenberg or Kalk Bay, neighboring coastal villages under an hour from Cape Town. Muizenberg offers beginner-friendly surfing waves and funky vintage shops.
Historic Kalk Bay delivers harbor views and fresh seafood. Relax by the ocean or explore Kirstenbosch Gardens nearby. Get away from it all in these laid-back seaside towns.
Pros:
- Relaxed, quaint beach towns
- Great surfing for beginners
- Fresh seafood restaurants
- Fewer tourists
Cons:
- Far from Cape Town attractions
- Need a rental car
- Limited nightlife
- Cold ocean water
Top Hotels: Casa Mia Guest House & Restaurant, Chartfield Guesthouse, Muizenberg Manor
Top Things To Do: Surfing, Kalk Bay Harbour, Kirstenbosch Gardens
Cape Town Travel Tips
- Avoid the crowds by visiting during the shoulder season between April-May and September-October.
- Rent a car to reach attractions like Cape Point, Winelands, and Hermanus easily. Navigating by public transportation takes much longer.
- Make restaurant reservations, buy tickets for attractions like Robben Island, and book activities like tours in advance.
- Pack for unpredictable weather – be prepared for anything from hot summer sun to winter rains. Layers are key!
- Consider staying in city suburbs to save money on accommodations – you can take Uber or the train into the city center.
Best Time to Visit Cape Town
The best time to visit Cape Town is during the shoulder seasons of autumn (April-May) and spring (September-October) when the weather is ideal and crowds are smaller. Summers can be hot and packed with tourists. Winters bring heavy rains, especially from June-August.
FAQs About Where to Stay in Cape Town
What area is best to stay in Cape Town?
The City Bowl is the best area for first-time visitors to Cape Town due to its central location and proximity to top attractions.
Where should you not stay in Cape Town?
Avoid staying in dangerous areas like Nyanga or Gugulethu. Also skip the Cape Flats which are far from attractions.
Is it better to stay near Table Mountain or V&A Waterfront?
For convenience, stay near the V&A Waterfront. For views, stay near Table Mountain in City Bowl areas like Oranjezicht.
How do I visit Cape Town for the first time?
Book accommodations in the City Bowl or near the V&A Waterfront. Plan your top activities in advance and get a City Sightseeing bus pass.
Hope this expanded Cape Town travel guide helps you plan an amazing trip! Let me know if you have any other questions.
