Hotels, Motels and More
Accommodation Options in Cape Town: Where to Stay
Cape Town’s got a wild range of accommodation —something for every budget, every taste. Whether you want a luxury hotel with Table Mountain views or a snug little guesthouse in a cool neighborhood, you’ll find it here. The city offers over 6,000 accommodation choices, which is almost overwhelming.
Travelers can pick from five-star hotels, boutique gems, budget lodges, self-catering apartments, and some pretty quirky stays across Cape Town’s neighborhoods. Whether you’re vibing with the V&A Waterfront, the City Bowl, or the Atlantic Seaboard, each area brings its own flavor and style.
You’ll find everything from big-name hotel chains to tiny local guesthouses, wellness retreats, and places tucked right by the city’s top attractions. Picking the right spot can totally change your trip—beaches, wine country, culture, nature... Cape Town’s got it all, but where you stay shapes what you see.
Overview of Accommodation in Cape Town
Lodging runs the gamut here, especially along the coastline. Prices jump up and down depending on the season, and the options range from luxury boutiques to wallet-friendly guesthouses. There’s also a strong local vibe if you look for it.
Popular Neighborhoods for Visitors
The best neighborhoods to stay in Cape Town mostly hug the coast. Each has its own perks, depending on what you’re after.
Sea Point is a great pick for first-timers. It’s central, with more affordable places than some other beachy spots. The promenade’s always buzzing, and there’s a good mix of food and family-friendly beaches.
Camps Bay is for folks who want a bit of peace but still easy access to the city. The beaches are gorgeous, the views of the Twelve Apostles are unreal, and you’ll find fancy seafood restaurants and cocktail bars right on the promenade.
Clifton is Cape Town’s poshest address. Think luxury hotels at the foot of Lion’s Head and four separate beaches—plus hiking trails and a quick hop to downtown.
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is all about walkable convenience. It’s busy, commercial, and perfect if you want shops, restaurants, and attractions like the stadium or aquarium right outside your door.
Average Price Ranges and Seasonal Trends
Prices swing wildly with the seasons and your location. Here’s a rough guide:
Budget Options (R1,500-R2,500 per night)
- Guesthouses and budget hotels
- Private rooms with just the basics
- Usually in Sea Point or a bit inland
Mid-Range Properties (R3,000-R6,000 per night)
- Boutique hotels with pools or a spa
- Better amenities, often with a view
- Popular in Camps Bay and the Waterfront
Luxury Accommodations (R8,000+ per night)
- Exclusive boutiques
- Epic locations with killer views
- Mostly in Clifton and the best bits of Camps Bay
Peak Season (December-March)—expect prices to spike, since it’s summer in South Africa and international tourists flood in.
Low Season (May-September)—rates can drop by almost half, sometimes more. Winters are mild, so it’s not a bad time if you’re watching your wallet.
Unique Local Accommodation Experiences
Some Cape Town hotels really lean into design and local culture. There’s a lot of creativity, and you’ll see the city’s natural beauty and South African hospitality shining through.
Boutique hotels like POD Camps Bay do the eco-luxury thing right—solar-powered, modern design, and views that make you want to stay forever.
Lots of guesthouses are in old Victorian mansions, so you get that blend of history and modern comfort. It’s a more personal vibe, which I love.
Wine Estate Accommodations are a whole experience—think luxury rooms, vineyard tours, and tastings just outside the city.
Eco-Lodges go all-in on sustainability, sometimes offering guided nature walks and conservation programs. It’s a cool way to see local plants and animals.
Lots of hotels add local touches:
- Indigenous art in the rooms and lobbies
- Menus packed with South African flavors
- Partnerships for township tours
- Spa treatments rooted in African tradition
Top Hotels in Cape Town
The city’s got everything from ultra-luxury like Ellerman House to tiny boutiques with a personal touch. You’ll find waterfront spots, mountain hideaways, and places that double as art galleries.
Luxury Hotels and 5-Star Stays
Ellerman House is basically the gold standard for Cape Town luxury. This ultra-exclusive boutique hotel snagged Travel+Leisure’s Best City Hotel in Africa for 2024.
There are just 13 rooms and suites, plus two private villas. Guests get wowed by the art collection, the wine gallery, and food that mixes global flair with African roots.
Tintswalo Atlantic is perched right inside Table Mountain National Park, so the setting is wild. Each suite has its own island-inspired look and private deck paths.
You’re literally meters above the ocean. The Chefs Warehouse restaurant is all about sustainable seafood, served as small plates.
One&Only Cape Town is the definition of an urban resort, smack in the V&A Waterfront. Table Mountain views, private balconies, and the only Nobu restaurant in Southern Africa? Not bad.
Suites can have fireplaces, kitchens, and butler service. There’s an infinity pool and a spa that’s seriously indulgent.
Boutique Hotels for a Personalized Experience
Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel is tucked just off Kloof Street—a real urban oasis. Interior designer Caline Williams-Wynn gave it a fresh look in 2022.
There are 19 rooms and 10 Stable Suites next door. The Upper Union restaurant is all about local produce and South African flavors.
Kensington Place is a tiny eight-room spot in Higgovale, adults only (no kids under 12), so it’s peaceful. Staff know guests by name, and the rooms have lounge areas and balconies with mountain views.
Art and design are a big deal here, with contemporary touches everywhere.
Gorgeous George was Cape Town’s first official Design Hotel. The 32 rooms feature furniture by David Krynauw and Gregor Jenkin, plus art from David Brits and Porky Hefer.
The Gigi Rooftop is a favorite for local food and craft cocktails. The vibe is very contemporary African, in the best way.
Recommended Hotels Near Major Attractions
Victoria & Alfred Hotel is the OG hotel in the V&A Waterfront. Francois du Plessis Interiors revamped it in 2023, bringing the 94 rooms up to date.
You’re right next to Time Out Market Cape Town. GINJA restaurant dishes up global plates with killer harbor views.
The Silo Hotel sits atop the Zeitz MOCAA art museum. This famous boutique property has wild geometric windows designed by Thomas Heatherwick.
There’s a rooftop pool with glass walls and interiors by Liz Biden. Breakfast and parking are included, and you’re right in the heart of the Waterfront.
Cape Grace Hotel is on its own private quay in the Waterfront and just reopened in 2024 under the Fairmont brand. Interior design firm 1508 created bright, modern spaces with a focus on African art.
There are 112 rooms in 12 categories, and Bascule Bar has a whisky collection that’s almost intimidating.
Affordable and Budget Accommodation
Cheap Hotels in Cape Town
Cape Town’s packed with budget options, from cheap hotels starting at $26 a night to friendly guest houses and hostels where you can meet other travelers.
If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll find good value at city hotel chains. The City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront and City Lodge Hotel GrandWest are reliable picks with all the basics.
Cape Diamond Hotel and South Beach Camps Bay are also worth a look. Home Suite Hotels Station House and Home Suite Hotels Sea Point offer comfort in great locations.
Best Areas for Budget Hotels:
- Green Point – easy public transport
- Sea Point – lots of food and nightlife
- V&A Waterfront – super convenient, though a bit pricier
- Gardens/Oranjezicht – central and safe
Most budget hotels throw in free WiFi and a basic breakfast. Expect to pay $30–80 a night depending on where and when you go.
Guest Houses and B&Bs
Guest houses are a sweet spot between hotels and hostels—more personal, often run by families, and packed with local knowledge. Breakfast is usually included, and rates are reasonable.
LekkeSlaap lists over 6,000 Cape Town accommodations, with discounts up to 60%. They focus on self-catering spots, guesthouses, and B&Bs all over town.
Expect unique decor and a homey feel that you just don’t get in a chain. Many have kitchenettes for simple meals.
Typical B&B Features:
- Breakfast—continental or cooked
- Hosts who know the area inside out
- Usually in quiet, residential areas
- Rates from $40–100 a night
Hostels for Backpackers
Hostels are the cheapest way to stay and a solid choice if you want to meet people. Never at Home Green Point gets good reviews, with free WiFi, AC, and an on-site restaurant.
Most hostels have shared dorms (4–8 beds) and communal kitchens. If you want privacy, some offer private rooms too.
Hostel Amenities:
- Shared kitchens and dining spaces
- Common rooms for hanging out
- Luggage storage
- Help with booking tours
Dorm beds run about $15–25 a night, private rooms $35–60. Many hostels organize group outings—great if you’re solo or just want to explore with others.
Alternative Accommodation Choices
If you’re not into hotels, Cape Town’s still got you covered. Self-catering apartments mean you can cook for yourself and do your own thing, while vacation rentals put you in local neighborhoods with space to spread out.
Self-Catering Apartments
Self-catering apartments let travelers use their own kitchens and cooking spaces. It's a good pick for longer visits or families who'd rather whip up their own meals.
Cape Town Micro Apartments in Observatory run about $33 a night. These small but functional units have full kitchens, and the neighborhood's got a lively local feel—definitely not your usual tourist spot.
Affordable Self Catering Accommodation in Bellville comes in at around $45 per night. You get two bedrooms, Wi-Fi, and even access to a pool.
The spot's close to Tyger Valley Mall and has easy highway connections to the city center. Handy if you want to avoid the downtown hustle.
Gardens Centre Holiday Apartments are smack in the middle of things with 24-hour security. Rates stay under $88 per night for two people.
From here, you can walk to a bunch of the city's main sights. It’s central, but not overwhelming.
Want more options? You can find budget-friendly self-catering spots in places like Observatory, Bellville, and Blouberg. These neighborhoods usually cost less than staying right in the tourist-heavy areas.
Most kitchens come with fridges, stoves, and the basic pots and pans. Some places even have outdoor grills for a proper South African braai—always a win in my book.
Vacation Rentals and Airbnbs
Vacation rentals mean you get a whole house or apartment to yourself, at least for a little while. They're often cheaper than hotels if you're traveling with a group or family.
Aandvari Apartments in Bloubergstrand are right by the beach and show off Table Mountain views. Prices start at about $58 a night if you visit during the off-season.
The area’s all about the coast, with easy beach access and killer scenery. Not a bad way to wake up.
Most rentals come with several bedrooms, full kitchens, and a living area. Some even have private pools or outdoor spaces for hanging out.
Sea Point, Green Point, and Camps Bay have more upscale rentals. They offer ocean views and are close to restaurants and beaches—can’t really go wrong there.
Booking platforms usually show lots of photos, lists of what’s included, and guest reviews. Just a heads-up: many require you to stay at least 2-3 nights.
Eco-Friendly Stays
Eco-friendly places focus on sustainability and doing their part for the planet. They use things like renewable energy, save water, and try to cut down on waste.
Many eco-lodges run on solar power. Rainwater collection is common, and some grow their own food in organic gardens for the on-site restaurant.
You'll notice natural building materials—think stone, wood, thatch. Rooms are designed to catch breezes and natural light, so there’s less need for artificial heating or cooling.
Some eco-stays even offer activities like guided nature walks, birdwatching, or workshops about local conservation. It's a nice way to learn something new while you travel.
If you're after something a bit quirky, Unique accommodation options in Cape Town include things like shipping container homes, treehouses, or revamped historic buildings. These places blend eco-consciousness with some real architectural character.
You might end up staying on a mountain slope, by the coast, or out in the winelands. Just be aware—sometimes you'll need a rental car or have to arrange transfers since these spots can be a bit out of the way.
Accommodation Near Cape Town's Top Attractions
You can find good places to stay within walking distance or a short drive from Cape Town’s main sights. The City Bowl area offers easy access to Table Mountain, and waterfront hotels mean you’re close to the Robben Island ferries.
Stays Close to Table Mountain
The City Bowl is about as close as you’ll get to Table Mountain’s cable car and trails. Hotels here are right under the mountain—so yeah, the views are pretty epic.
Gardens District has boutique hotels like Four Rosmead, just a 10-minute drive from the cable car. The neighborhood’s got a cozy, residential vibe but you’re still near the action.
Upper City Bowl puts you just a short walk from the mountain trails. Some folks can hit the Platteklip Gorge trailhead in under 20 minutes on foot.
If you’re after something fancy, the Mount Nelson Hotel offers mountain views and quick access to hiking. Budget travelers will also find plenty of guesthouses and backpacker spots in the City Bowl.
Key Benefits:
- Walking distance to cable car station
- Direct access to hiking trails
- Mountain views from many properties
- Range of budget to luxury options
Lodging Near V&A Waterfront and Robben Island
The V&A Waterfront offers ideal access to ferries for Robben Island tours. It’s also where you’ll find the biggest cluster of hotels in the city.
Waterfront Hotels like Cape Grace and the Victoria & Alfred Hotel are right by the action. You can walk to the ferries and most major attractions from here.
The Two Oceans Aquarium and Cape Wheel are just minutes away. You could easily fill a day without even needing a car.
Green Point and Mouille Point are quieter waterfront neighborhoods but still close to the ferry. Sometimes it’s nice to be on the edge of things, you know?
The Victoria & Alfred Hotel is a favorite for folks who want that classic waterfront experience. Super convenient for catching the Robben Island boat.
Accommodation Types:
- Luxury waterfront hotels
- Self-catering apartments
- Boutique properties
- Business hotels
Hotels Near Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Constantia is your best bet for staying near Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. This wine-filled suburb is about 15 minutes from the city center.
Constantia Properties include boutique hotels set in gardens and historic wine estates. Some even have old manor houses with sprawling grounds—pretty idyllic if you ask me.
You’ll also find family-friendly activities like zip lining and bike parks around here. It’s easy to pair a garden stroll with a bit of wine tasting or some outdoor fun.
Southern Suburbs like Newlands and Claremont offer more choices, with city conveniences but still close to Kirstenbosch.
Most places here are luxury villas or boutique hotels. The quieter surroundings make it perfect for anyone wanting a break from city buzz.
Property Features:
- Garden settings and mountain views
- Wine estate locations
- Historic manor houses
- Family-oriented facilities
Spa and Wellness Retreats
Cape Town’s got some stellar spa hotels, mixing luxury stays with top-notch wellness facilities. There’s everything from five-star waterfront resorts to smaller boutique spots with unique treatments.
Top Hotels with Spa Facilities
One&Only Cape Town is a standout for spa lovers. The luxury spa resort sits on its own private island at the V&A Waterfront, offering 12 treatment rooms and a yoga pavilion.
Mount Nelson Hotel delivers that classic Cape Town spa vibe. This 5-star property features heated pools, steam rooms, and a full menu of massages—all set in lush gardens under Table Mountain.
The Westin Cape Town brings a modern touch. Guests get a heated indoor pool, sauna, and a 24-hour gym with sweeping city views from the 19th floor.
Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa is all about oceanfront luxury. The award-winning spa has natural rock pools and treatments using local plants and mountain spring water.
Boutique Spa Experiences
The Glen Boutique Hotel & Spa really nails that intimate, tucked-away vibe for wellness getaways. This Sea Point property offers mountain and ocean views—honestly, the scenery alone is worth it.
With just 24 rooms, you get an infinity pool, a Swedish sauna, and massage treatments that feel like they were designed just for you. It’s the kind of place where you might actually unplug for a while.
Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel & Spa leans into city style with a cool, urban edge. The stylish 4-star hotel features a unique rooftop pool—and the views up there are something else.
Three treatment rooms and sauna facilities are tucked among five heritage buildings, all linked by a central courtyard. It’s a neat blend of old and new, and you can feel the history without sacrificing comfort.
Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa is all about peace and wine country calm. Nestled in Paarl, this refined 18-room resort provides comprehensive wellness programs that go way beyond the basics.
Hydrotherapy rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, and signature treatments fill a Spanish Colonial setting that’s got its own charm. If you’re after a slower pace, this one’s tough to beat.