14 Best Hotels in Cape Town

Written by Carri Wilbanks
Updated May 20, 2021
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Hotels in Cape Town, one of the world's most beautiful cities and a popular tourist destination, come in all shapes and styles and cater to a range of travelers: from budget to luxury and family vacations to romantic getaways. On a world scale, lodging here is quite affordable. Four- and even five-star hotels in Cape Town go for the same price as you'd pay for a three-star hotel in cities like Los Angeles or New York.

The hotels listed here are spread across the city, but Cape Town is relatively small and even getting to nearby beach areas like Bantry Bay, Camps Bay, and Clifton is no more than a 20-minute drive from the city center. Many of the properties listed here are in (or within walking distance from) the central Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront, which is filled with shops and restaurants and is a gateway to attractions like Robben Island.

The City Bowl neighborhood, where you'll find Greenmarket Square and its handicraft market and lively Long Street, is also nearby. Here, we give you the full scoop on the best hotels in Cape Town, from boutique resorts near the beach to self-catering backpackers' lodging.

Best Luxury Hotels in Cape Town

1. South Beach Camps Bay

Accommodation: South Beach Camps Bay

Within walking distance of one of Cape Town's top beaches, Camps Bay, South Beach is one of the best self-catering, luxury boutique hotels in the Mother City. The property offers apartment-style accommodation with full kitchens and fridges, perfect for cooking. The fridge even comes partially stocked with cheese, deli meat, fruit, and milk. In the morning, a fresh baguette is delivered to your door.

All the rooms also feature fabulous ocean views from private, furnished terraces and artsy, modern minimalist decor with original art and a white-on-white color scheme that doesn't detract from the natural views out front. South Beach also boasts a beautiful rooftop infinity swimming pool, as well as a gym downstairs.

Address: 6 Link Road, Camps Bay

2. One&Only Cape Town

Accommodation: One&Only Cape Town

In front of a marina and two man-made islands, next to the vibrant V&A Waterfront, the One&Only is a 5-star hotel in a fabulous location, with great Table Mountain views. The rooms and suites here are quite swanky, with plush furnishings and comfy beds.

Families are welcome, and parents will like the on-site kids' club. There is also an outdoor swimming pool, a few restaurants, and an award-winning spa. Breakfast is complimentary.

Address: Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

3. POD Camps Bay

Accommodation: POD Camps Bay

For a boutique hotel stay just a block from the beach in Camps Bay, try POD. The hotel has just 17 rooms featuring an ultra modern look, with glass walls, natural wood, and slate accents. The hotel isn't for everyone, as the design features an open floor plan, which lends little privacy-a glass box surrounds the toilet for instance. But for couples, it may be perfect. The king beds are very comfy, and we love the open rain shower.

There is no on-site restaurant, but breakfast is included and there are a number of restaurants within a five-minute walk from the hotel. Other amenities include a lap pool, with limited sea views, and a spa.

Address: 3 Argyle Street, Camps Bay

4. Taj Cape Town

Accommodation: Taj Cape Town

Located right in the heart of Cape Town's Central Business District by the St. Georges Mall, the Taj is a top pick for exploring the city center on foot. The luxury hotel has rooms and suites in two heritage buildings. These are colorful and comfy with Victorian-era style throughout. All feature large windows with views of the downtown and, in some cases, Table Mountain. If you're traveling with the kids, there are also family room options.

The Taj is home to multiple restaurants. They do a British-style afternoon tea service in their lobby lounge and also have a fine-dining Indian restaurant, Bombay Brasserie, on-site. If you need some pampering, check out Jiva Spa, which has a full range of treatments on offer. There is also a heated indoor swimming pool, hot tub and fitness center on the grounds.

Address: 1 Wale Street Corner, St .Georges Mall, Cape Town

5. Dock House Boutique Hotel

Accommodation: Dock House Boutique Hotel

Another boutique hotel option in the V&A Waterfront, the Dock House is inside a 19th-century Victorian building that used to house the harbor master. There are just five ultra-spacious rooms, with high ceilings and large bathrooms. There is also a ground floor suite that opens onto its own private garden.

Amenities include a beautiful lawn area for all guests, a swimming pool, 24/7 room service, and a spa. There is no sit down restaurant, but you can walk to dozens of dining establishments in the waterfront area.

Address: Portswood Close, Portswood Ridge, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

6. Cape Cadogan

Accommodation: Cape Cadogan

Cape Cadogan is a boutique hotel in a farmhouse dating back to the 19th century. Each room has a different look, but all are cheery, spacious, and comfortable. Some rooms have fireplaces, while others have private plunge pools.

Breakfast is free, and there are also evening snacks. There is an outdoor swimming pool and a shuttle around the area. The hotel is better suited for couples than families, as it does not allow children under age 10.

Address: 5 Upper Union Street, Gardens, Cape Town

7. The Westin Cape Town

Accommodation: The Westin Cape Town

Right at the edge of the V&A Waterfront, with easy access to Long Street and the rest of the CBD, The Westin Cape Town features sleek and modern rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and views of Table Mountain, the city, or the sea. The bathrooms are equally lovely with deep soaking tubs and heated floors. The penthouse suite is perfect for romantic getaways, as it comes with its own Jacuzzi and butler service.

Away from the rooms, amenities include the best located sauna in Cape Town. It is glassed in and set on the 19th-floor overlooking the city. The adjacent indoor swimming pool is also stellar, set along a glass wall facing the harbor. There are also a number of restaurants on-site and a spa.

Address: Convention Square, Lower Long Street, Cape Town

8. Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Photo Source: Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Accommodation: Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Dating back to 1899, the historic Belmont Mount Nelson Hotel is set in a rambling pink building right downtown. The decor is English colonial with lots of mirrors, wallpaper, upholstered furniture, and potted palms. When it comes to booking a room, there are a few design choices. The original buildings host period decor, while the extension building has a more modern design.

Amenities include a fine-dining restaurant and the best high tea in Cape Town-there is even a tea sommelier to assist in your selection from the huge collection. There is also a luxe spa, tennis courts, and a gym on-site. If you are traveling with the family, check out their kids' club.

Address: 76 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town

9. The Silo Hotel

Accommodation: The Silo Hotel

The five-star Silo Hotel is a super swanky property in the middle of the V&A Waterfront. The location is an actual old grain elevator, which has been turned into a modern design hotel. The Silo is a wonderful choice for couples, as it has some truly unique rooms and suites-all feature huge, pillowed glass windows facing the harbor, with deep soaking tubs strategically placed in front.

Head up to the rooftop for more awesome amenities. Beyond stellar views of Table Mountain and all of Cape Town, it has an outdoor swimming pool and restaurant with delicious food. There is also a spa and gym on-site.

Address: Silo Square, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

10. Cape Grace

Accommodation: Cape Grace

Done up in British colonial styling, the five-star Cape Grace is another luxury property in the V&A Waterfront vicinity. The vibe is historic elegance throughout, with rooms and suites bedecked with antiques, heavy drapes, and plush bedspreads.

Book one of the suites with a rooftop terrace and personal hot tub to truly stay in style. Away from the rooms, the hotel offers afternoon tea service, a luxe spa, fine-dining restaurant, and a gym. Breakfast is complimentary.

Address: West Quay Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

11. 52 De Wet

Accommodation: 52 De Wet

One of Cape Town's most popular hikes is up Lion's Head Mountain for sunrise or sunset. Staying at 52 De Wet puts you near the trail. The boutique hotel in Bantry Bay features modern rooms and suites with views of the Atlantic Ocean and upmarket amenities like Nespresso machines and beds draped in high-end linens. The most exclusive rooms even come with private pools.

On-site amenities include an infinity pool with sea views, a swanky restaurant, and spa treatments. A made-to-order breakfast is served for free in the mornings. There are also complimentary snacks available throughout the day.

Address: 52 De Wet Road, Bantry Bay

12. Ellerman House

Accommodation: Ellerman House

Close to Clifton Beach, Ellerman House is a wonderful luxury small hotel that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. The rooms and suites are elegant luxe, with heated floors and antique furnishings. Some also have balconies.

On-site amenities here include a delicious hot breakfast and a restaurant serving farm-to-table fare. You'll also find an art gallery, spa, and outdoor swimming pool. Despite its upmarket boutique vibe, Ellerman House is kid friendly.

Address: 180 Kloof Road, Bantry Bay

13. The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa

Photo Source: The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa

Accommodation: The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa

Located between the mountains and the sea near Camps Bay is The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa. At the edge of Table Mountain Park, it is a luxury hotel with rooms decorated in period colonial style. They feature reproduction antiques, original art, and upholstered furnishings.

Away from the rooms, you can take a dip in one of two swimming pools, relax in their award-winning spa, or work out in the gym. The on-site restaurant, Azure, serves three meals a day including a complimentary breakfast buffet that is possibly the best in Cape Town. A free shuttle also runs to the V&A Waterfront, which makes getting into the city quite easy.

Address: Victoria Road, Camps Bay

Best Hostel in Cape Town

While lodging is, overall, quite affordable in Cape Town, sometimes you just don't have the cash to spend on a luxury property. Cape Town has some excellent budget hotels and hostels.

And while you do have the option to sleep in ultra cheap dorm beds, hostels also offer private rooms, many with en suite baths for guests looking for more privacy. Staying in a backpackers (as hostels are known in South Africa) is also a great way to meet like-minded travelers.

If you want a cheap sleep, or you are looking for self-catering accommodation that will let you cook at least some meals, check out this budget choice.

1. The B.I.G Backpackers in Green Point

Photo Source: The B.I.G Backpackers in Green Point

Accommodation: The B.I.G Backpackers in Green Point

One of the best backpacker hostels in Cape Town, The B.I.G was recently renovated and offers a boutique hostel experience in the heart of Cape Town. The Green Point location is ideal, as it is within walking distance of the V&A Waterfront and just a short Uber ride to beaches like Camps Bay and Clifton. The Cape Town Stadium, which hosts major concerts and sporting events is also in the Green Point neighborhood.

This trendy backpackers offers clean and spacious dorm rooms with new wooden bunk beds, as well as private rooms with ensuite bathrooms that come in a few different sizes-if you have kids, there is a family room. The self-catering aspect is also a plus, as you can use the communal kitchen to cook meals.

Address: 18 Thornhill Road, Green Point, Cape Town