Planning a trip to the fascinating destination of Cape Town, at the very southern tip of the African continent, can sometimes be tricky—especially when you start sorting through hundreds of accommodation options. But I have some wonderful news to share right away: regular power cuts, known as load shedding, have been suspended since 26 March 2024. Just two years ago, having a generator was essential and one of the main criteria when choosing a place to stay. Today, however, South Africa has enjoyed its most stable electricity supply in more than five years, and a generator is now more of a welcome bonus.
You also no longer need to worry about the dreaded water shortage. No blanket restrictions are currently in place, and the city even lifted its precautionary drought warning at the beginning of 2026. When choosing the right area, completely different factors now matter—most importantly, the prevailing wind and how safe you feel after dark. You can explore the sights comfortably during the day, but in the evening you will appreciate staying somewhere that means you do not have to make complicated journeys for dinner.
If you are considering renting a private apartment, bear in mind that Cape Town is planning a significant increase in short-term rental rates to bring them more in line with commercial hotel tariffs. Some properties booked through platforms such as Airbnb or Booking already charge a nightly city fee of around $2–4 per person. Factor this into your budget, and for longer stays compare prices carefully with traditional guesthouses.
TL;DR
- Best overall: Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront offers a perfect location in the safest area, a fantastic rooftop pool and excellent reviews.
- Best for luxury lovers: Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel is a historic pink legend with beautiful gardens and impeccable service.
- Best for couples: Ocean View House in the quieter Bakoven area offers breathtaking ocean views and complete privacy.
- Best value: Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel & Spa sits directly below Table Mountain and impresses with a beautiful rooftop terrace and reasonable rates.
- Best for families: Victoria & Alfred Hotel has spacious rooms right in the harbour, close to ferries and restaurants.
- Best for a limited budget: 91 Loop Boutique Hostel is one of the best-rated hostels in the city centre, with modern facilities at very reasonable prices.
💡 Use this map to compare what is currently available—you can also see how much cheaper accommodation a few stops from the centre can be.
Which Area Should You Choose?
Choosing the right location is crucial in this metropolis, because every part of the city has a different atmosphere and requires a different approach to getting around. V&A Waterfront is the safest and most convenient choice for a first visit, with countless restaurants, shops and the huge aquarium. Ferries to famous Robben Island also leave from here, and most importantly, you can walk around after dark without worrying. It is, however, the most expensive area and feels the least authentically African.
If you want a compromise between great atmosphere and a convenient location, City Bowl, the basin directly beneath Table Mountain, is sure to impress. Areas such as Gardens, Tamboerskloof and Oranjezicht hide beautiful boutique hotels in old Victorian villas. You will be a short walk from the historic Company’s Garden, the colourful houses of Bo-Kaap and lively Kloof Street, packed with excellent restaurants and bars. Remember that you are on a slope, though, and after dark it is always better to use a reliable Uber than walk at night.
A popular alternative is the small, colourful neighbourhood of De Waterkant, located exactly between the city centre and the Waterfront and home to some of the best cafés in town. Next door are Sea Point and Green Point, with a long oceanfront promenade where the whole city comes to run. You get excellent value, the chance to enjoy completely safe evening walks and a drive to the city centre in just ten minutes.
Beach lovers should choose Camps Bay and Clifton, directly below the majestic Twelve Apostles. The most expensive hotels with fantastic views are here, but in summer this side of the city is battered by strong south-easterly winds, and without a car you will feel cut off from the rest of the city. Quieter Bakoven and Bantry Bay continue along the coast, with small guesthouses and more privacy. A completely different experience awaits in Constantia’s wine region, hidden among green hills. It offers perfect peace, but you will really need your own car.
If you prefer warmer water and a more relaxed atmosphere, head to the other side of the peninsula, towards False Bay. Muizenberg and Simon’s Town attract visitors with colourful beach huts, excellent surfing conditions and the famous penguin colony at Boulders Beach. The wind is far less intense here and accommodation is considerably cheaper, although getting to the centre takes at least 45 minutes. Looking for a hotel near the airport makes little sense for most travellers—it is mainly useful for early-morning departures.
When to Go and When to Book
When planning your trip, remember that the seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are the opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere, which has a major effect on prices and your overall experience. The main summer season runs from December to March, bringing the highest temperatures but also the highest prices of the year. These summer months are also when the famous south-easterly wind known as the Cape Doctor blows strongest, particularly on the beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton. A day by the ocean can therefore be rather uncomfortable and full of blowing sand.
Winter, from June to August, brings noticeably cooler weather and occasional persistent rain, naturally bringing accommodation prices down to their lowest. But this season has one huge and unique attraction: during winter, you can watch migrating whales from the coast, which is an extraordinary experience. Nature is beautifully green at this time of year, and you will avoid the biggest crowds that fill the city during the Christmas holidays and New Year period.
The best compromise is spring, from September to November, and autumn in April and May. The weather is usually ideal for hiking and sightseeing, the wind is much less intense and hotel prices remain reasonable. Cape Town is becoming increasingly popular, so I recommend booking accommodation at least three to five months ahead, especially if you have your eye on a small boutique hotel.
18 Best Hotels in Cape Town
I chose these hotels based on my own judgement, so everyone can find something that suits them—from large luxury towers to more modest guesthouses with character. Every hotel meets strict quality criteria and offers something special.
1. Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront
Right in the heart of the popular Silo District, you will find Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront, which immediately stands out with its bold, modern design. It is one of the best-rated large hotels on the Waterfront and has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. Guests love the rooftop pool with its spectacular view of Table Mountain, a great place to unwind after a day exploring the city. The famous Zeitz MOCAA museum of contemporary African art is just around the corner, and excellent food is only a few steps away. A major advantage is that you can safely walk around even after dark.
The hotel concept is strongly focused on modern technology, but the staff are incredibly warm and happy to help with anything. The restaurant serves excellent food, including great vegetarian options. From the nearby harbour, you can easily walk to the ferry for Robben Island, while a reliable Uber will take you to Table Mountain in no time. In this area, you will also particularly appreciate the stable electricity supply, currently South Africa’s best in five years.
💡 Tip: If you are looking for a lively place where you will feel completely at ease, this is a great choice. The rooftop terrace and surrounding streets attract plenty of young travellers in the evening, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
2. Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel
The pink colonial legend dating from 1899, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, is one of the city’s best-rated hotels and will enchant you as soon as you arrive. It sits on quiet Orange Street in City Bowl, hidden in nine acres of gardens filled with mature trees. Guests love the extraordinary peace, which makes you feel as though you have stepped into a fairy tale despite being close to the historic Company’s Garden. Rooms are classically styled, while outside you will find several heated pools and a superb spa. Most of all, people praise the attentive staff and legendary afternoon tea with luxurious desserts, which attracts visitors from outside the hotel too.
Sweet treats and food are a major draw, and vegetarians will have plenty to choose from. This is the most expensive accommodation category, though, so expect to pay a significant premium. During the day, you can easily walk to Bo-Kaap’s colourful houses or explore the leafy surrounding streets. After dark, I recommend using Uber to reach restaurants in other areas, partly because the hotel is on a gentle slope.
💡 Tip: This historic gem is perfect if you demand the best possible service, love timeless elegance and do not mind paying extra for genuine luxury.
3. Ocean View House
Ocean View House sits in the quiet Bakoven area just beyond popular Camps Bay beach and rightly ranks among the city’s best-rated hotels. Guests most appreciate the complete peace, large garden with koi ponds and views of the blue ocean. Rooms are spacious and modern, with a pool and sunny terrace just outside. Breakfast is served there and, judging by the reviews, is fantastic, with fresh fruit and excellent bread. It is a wonderful escape from the bustle of the city and a great base for trips to the Cape of Good Hope or along scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive.
Although the summer wind is slightly weaker here than on the main beaches, the famous Cape Doctor occasionally reaches this bay too. One minor complaint is the drinking water allocation: you receive only 300 ml per person free of charge and pay extra for additional bottles. Otherwise, everything runs smoothly, and Camps Bay restaurants or the V&A Waterfront are easy to reach. Secure parking is available, which you will really appreciate if you hire a car.
💡 Tip: If you plan to explore the peninsula by car, this accommodation rewards you with some of the most beautiful sunsets around. There is also a pleasant pool bar where you can simply watch the water with a drink in hand.
4. Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel & Spa
Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel & Spa is located on busy Kloof Nek Road beneath Table Mountain and offers an excellent balance of price and overall experience. It was created by combining five renovated historic houses, and guests especially love the spectacular rooftop terrace and bar. It offers unobstructed mountain views and a small pool. There is also an excellent spa, a cosy inner courtyard and very comfortable beds. With water restrictions no longer in place, you can enjoy a proper shower after a day out.
The area can be a little noisier at weekends, while on weekdays you may hear children shouting on the nearby school playground in the morning. Ask for a room on the opposite side of the building. Otherwise, the location is perfect, with the best cafés and restaurants within walking distance. For plant-based food, try the entirely vegan Romeo&vero or Ground Zero Cafe.
💡 Tip: Choose this hotel if you want to be in the middle of the action, close to restaurants, and enjoy an evening drink with a view over the city.
5. Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town
The luxurious Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town sits above the ocean on Beach Road in Granger Bay. This elegant design hotel is the more luxurious sibling of the first hotel on our list, and guests rave about its huge windows and spectacular views. Alongside comfortable beds, the breakfasts receive the most praise, offering an enormous selection of cheese, fresh fruit and excellent vegetarian dishes. Add the warm, relaxed staff at Tobago restaurant and private access to the water.
The biggest advantage is that although you sleep in complete peace, you can walk to the centre of the action in just a few minutes. Safe evening walks are a rarity in Cape Town, and this can save you a considerable amount on taxis. If you do not feel like walking, the hotel shuttle takes you to the Waterfront. Although widespread power cuts have been a thing of the past since spring 2024, the entire property still has a fully backed-up power system as a precaution.
💡 Tip: Come here if you want a quiet corner near the lively Waterfront, expect a high standard and look forward to waking to the sound of waves with an ocean view from your bed.
6. Victoria & Alfred Hotel
Victoria & Alfred Hotel occupies the beautifully restored former 1904 warehouse on Pierhead in the middle of the historic harbour. The interiors feel warm and inviting, while the large rooms overlook either the lively harbour or majestic Table Mountain. Guests rave about the extremely helpful staff and generous breakfast in the beautiful restaurant, although hot dishes can sometimes take a little while. The beds have wonderful large pillows, but the mattresses are reportedly a little bouncy.
The greatest advantage is that everything is right on your doorstep. The entire Waterfront is continuously monitored, so you can walk around safely late at night and choose from dozens of excellent restaurants and shops without having to call a taxi. Staying here is particularly useful if you have an early excursion to Robben Island—the ferry is probably closer here than anywhere else in the city. Tickets for international visitors cost around 825 ZAR, and I recommend booking online well in advance.
💡 Tip: If you are travelling with family or simply do not want to deal with hiring and driving a car, this hotel will make life much easier. Everything important is close by and completely safe.
7. Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel occupies a Victorian house rightly declared a national monument. This small, cosy property is tucked away on quiet Upper Union Street in Gardens. Its intimate atmosphere immediately transports you to the colonial era. Guests especially praise the incredibly friendly staff and beds so comfortable that you might return just for them. Breakfast is excellent, homemade cake is served in the afternoon, and in the evening you can enjoy canapés and a complimentary drink by the fireplace—a lovely chance to meet other travellers.
This gem is ideal for anyone looking for a distinctive house with character rather than a large chain hotel. Rooms combine historic details with modern comfort, and the courtyard hides a small pool surrounded by lush greenery. You can also work out in the gym. Kloof Street’s restaurants are an easy walk away, but use a reliable Uber for the journey home after dinner, as walking at night is not recommended.
💡 Tip: If you are travelling with extended family or a group of friends, ask about the separate residence. You get a private heated pool, a breakfast chef and plenty of space to yourselves.
8. InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town
The classic large hotel InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town stands at the end of Quay 6, projecting into the sea and offering one of the city’s most iconic views of Table Mountain. You can enjoy the postcard-perfect panorama over your morning coffee. Interiors have a traditional, slightly opulent luxury feel, and the building was recently renovated, giving the rooms a fresh look. The highlight is a fantastic breakfast buffet, while the concierge can arrange anything from a yacht charter to a private wine tasting in Constantia.
Following its recent reopening, the hotel is still dealing with a few teething problems. Some guests mention occasional organisational issues and staff who are still learning the ropes, so not everything may run perfectly. A huge advantage is the direct connection to the Victoria Wharf shopping centre. You can head out for souvenir shopping in your slippers, which is wonderfully convenient after a full day in the city.
💡 Tip: If you want traditional five-star luxury, you will enjoy it here—especially if you like watching the fascinating activity of a large harbour from your window and want an excellent view.
9. Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town
Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town sits on Lower Buitengracht, exactly between the city centre and the Waterfront. It is a reliable choice for travellers who want a high standard but would rather save on an expensive hotel in the heart of the harbour. You could put the money towards a ticket up Table Mountain, which costs 450 ZAR for an adult. The smiling staff excel at thoughtful touches such as fresh flowers and cold water in the lobby. Guests also love the generous breakfast, where several coffee machines mean you avoid queues and can enjoy fresh pastries and plenty of vegetarian dishes.
Rooms are spacious, modern and spotlessly clean, although you may want to open a window after housekeeping. The main attraction is the transport: every hour, the hotel runs a free shuttle directly to the Waterfront, helping you avoid busy multi-lane roads and taxi fares. After a day of walking, the large outdoor pool or well-equipped fitness centre comes in handy. If you do not feel like going out in the evening, the on-site restaurant and bar serve excellent food.
💡 Tip: You will love this hotel if you enjoy the comfort of a large international property and want everything nearby. There are also enough lifts that even during the morning rush you will not be waiting around.
10. Pepperclub Hotel
The high-rise Pepperclub Hotel on famous Loop Street has a distinctly Hollywood feel. Guests praise the warm staff, who deal with every request quickly, and excellent food, including generous breakfasts with à la carte options. The biggest draw is the rooftop pool with an impressive view across City Bowl. After sightseeing, you can relax in the spa or even watch a film in the private cinema with comfortable seats.
During the day, the address is excellent for exploring the historic centre on foot, but I strongly recommend avoiding darker streets in the evening and using Uber after dinner. The accommodation itself is very good, with spacious rooms and soft beds, although housekeeping occasionally misses a shampoo refill or bin collection. Request a room on a higher floor, or street noise may disturb you at night.
💡 Tip: This is a good choice for a more luxurious city atmosphere with sights close at hand. Because of the street noise, do not forget to request the highest room possible.
11. The Cape Milner
The Cape Milner is tucked away in the quiet residential area of Tamboerskloof beneath Table Mountain. It is a good compromise for anyone seeking peace at a reasonable price without being cut off from the centre. During the day, you can safely walk to Kloof Street, packed with excellent cafés and bistros. Rooms have elegant minimalist design with subtle African details, but the real highlight is the glass lounge bar with superb views of the cliffs and the outdoor pool with loungers, cleverly hidden in the courtyard from the wind.
Breakfast uses local ingredients with a strong focus on freshness and includes good plant-based options. To be completely honest, there are a few drawbacks: guests have recently complained occasionally about unhelpful staff, especially when arranging dinner reservations, and unexpected noise from renovations. Check with the hotel in advance to see whether construction work is taking place.
💡 Tip: This accommodation makes most sense for mid-range travellers who prefer quieter neighbourhoods and plan to explore the surrounding nature.
12. Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Cape Town
The fun and unusual Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Cape Town on New Church Street is ideal if you want a playful place with youthful energy. Part of the Marriott network, it is known for provocative design and amusing details. Its famous milkshakes attract locals from across the city at weekends, while the ground-floor bar is always lively. Rooms on one side also have lovely views of Table Mountain. It is quality mid-range accommodation for a slightly smaller budget, with exceptionally friendly and informal staff.
Rooms are on the smaller side, but cleverly designed, clean and fitted with comfortable beds. On hot days, cool off in the outdoor pool, and there is a small gym with new equipment. Secure covered parking is a major advantage in central Cape Town if you plan to hire a car. Security is taken seriously too, with a guard constantly stationed at the entrance, so you will feel comfortable returning from the nearby Mount Nelson complex in the evening.
💡 Tip: Younger couples and solo travellers will probably enjoy this place most, especially if they do not mind some activity and want to be close to the popular bars on Kloof Street.
13. Atzaró Cape Town
The brand-new super-luxury boutique hotel Atzaró Cape Town in Oranjezicht feels more like a beautifully renovated villa belonging to wealthy friends than conventional accommodation. Directly beneath Table Mountain, it offers an intimate atmosphere and peace that completely insulates you from the city. The tiered garden, pool and rooms with huge bathrooms all offer wonderful views of the city and Lion’s Head. The attentive staff are exceptional, and the kitchen happily prepares meals to suit your dietary needs, including fantastic vegetarian dishes.
Breakfast is excellent and homemade cakes await in the afternoon. It is a newcomer, so do not expect a long history, but the flawless interior design and complete privacy are worth it. For sightseeing, call an Uber and reach the centre, livelier districts or the coast within minutes. Security staff monitor the area, so you will feel protected throughout your stay.
💡 Tip: If your budget is practically unlimited and you demand complete peace, this is an exceptionally exclusive choice for a honeymoon or a generous family suite with two bathrooms.
14. South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel
South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel is a modern glass building a short walk from Camps Bay’s sandy beach. It combines the privacy of your own apartment with five-star service. Guests love opening a fully stocked fridge in the morning while staff bring fresh bread. Enjoy breakfast and coffee on your private balcony, with every room offering fantastic views of the turquoise Atlantic and Lion’s Head. Heated bathroom floors and a spacious bathtub are welcome after a day outdoors.
With new taxes on traditional Airbnb rentals being prepared, this beautifully designed property with a fully equipped kitchenette makes great sense for anyone seeking independence. The roof has two lovely heated pools and seating, and many good restaurants are within walking distance. In summer, strong afternoon winds can be an issue, so you may occasionally retreat to the large, comfortable bed and listen to the ocean.
💡 Tip: This is a fantastic base if you want to stay by the beach and prepare your own meals without giving up proper hotel service.
15. The Bay Hotel
The resort’s bright white façade on Victoria Road makes The Bay Hotel a classic choice for a summer holiday in Cape Town. It stands directly opposite famous Camps Bay beach, so you will be in your element if you want to be at the heart of the beach scene and enjoy long evenings in waterfront bars. Guests highlight the wonderful breakfast and helpful staff, who can even arrange a private tour to the Cape of Good Hope. Rooms are spacious, and the front-facing ones offer unforgettable sunsets in every shade of orange and purple.
The property has four large pools with comfortable loungers, a spa and several restaurants. It can be quite busy in high season, however, and some guests occasionally mention a cool reception. Strong south-easterly winds can also frequently limit swimming in the already chilly ocean.
💡 Tip: Choose this hotel if you want the beach just across the road and lively evening entertainment by the water. When the wind picks up, one of the pools will save the day.
16. Sea Mount
The small and exceptionally cosy guesthouse Sea Mount is hidden high on the steep slopes above Camps Bay. It offers some of the most dramatic views of the coast and the Twelve Apostles. Guests love the homely atmosphere and peace, as the noisy beach bars are further away. The owners are wonderfully kind, contacting you before arrival and offering advice over breakfast on the best day trips. Rooms are modern and spotless, with large windows allowing you to watch the sunset from bed.
The route back from the water is seriously steep, so a rental car is a major advantage. Street parking is easy in this safe neighbourhood. There is also a terrace with a small pool and a compact fitness centre. The owners value quiet, so this is not a place for loud parties. For romantics and ocean lovers, though, it is hard to beat.
💡 Tip: With just two modern suites, the guesthouse has a very intimate atmosphere. It may not suit anyone seeking anonymity, but it is perfect for those who love a warm setting and spectacular views.
17. 91 Loop Boutique Hostel
Looking desperately for accommodation in Cape Town that will not ruin your budget, while still refusing to compromise on cleanliness? Modern 91 Loop Boutique Hostel on Loop Street gives you an impressive amount for your money. Guests praise the clean, airy design and excellent social atmosphere, helped by the on-site café and bar and well-equipped shared kitchen. Solo travellers of almost every age meet here, from their twenties to their sixties. Choose a comfortable double room or a cheaper bed in a shared dorm with a private bathroom and special sleeping pods.
There is one practical drawback: the bunks in the pods have rather low ceilings, so you cannot sit completely upright in bed. Security and quiet nights, on the other hand, are excellent, which is not always a given in this part of town. During the day, explore the centre and restaurant-lined streets on foot, but avoid walking after dark. Use Uber or local taxis for a safe return.
💡 Tip: This is made for backpackers who would rather spend their savings on sights, but still want attractive surroundings and an easy way to meet people from around the world.
18. never@home Green Point
never@home Green Point on Main Road is a great hostel that lets you escape the chaos of the city centre. It sits halfway between the Waterfront and Sea Point promenade, so the ocean and shops are both within easy walking distance. Safety is a major bonus in Cape Town, and guests say you can walk around here comfortably in the evening. The highlights are spotless rooms, a practical shared kitchen and a huge outdoor area with a pool that really comes alive in the late afternoon.
The bar gets lively in the evening, so this may not suit dedicated introverts. Staff will happily arrange good-value local excursions. For food, try excellent hummus at Nish Nush SA or quality ingredients at Wild Eatery. The Sunshine Food Sprouting Co and Ground Zero Cafe are good for coffee and a snack, while vegans should not miss Romeo&vero and its pleasant atmosphere.
💡 Tip: Social travellers will enjoy having a drink by the pool in the evening with new friends from around the world.
How to Choose the Right Hotel and What to Avoid
Making an honest decision about how you plan to get around the city and surrounding area will make your choice much easier. If you want carefree evenings walking to dinner, choose the Waterfront or safe Sea Point without hesitation. If you have a rental car for your entire stay and do not mind driving to the sights, consider quieter Bakoven, Bantry Bay or romantic Constantia. Make sure your hotel has secure parking, as leaving a car on a dark city-centre street at night is more of a burden than a benefit. At attraction car parks, you will commonly see car guards in reflective vests; it is customary to give them a small tip for watching your vehicle.
If you are looking for budget accommodation, I need to add an important warning about popular Long Street and the surrounding cheap hostels. ⚠️ Avoid M&B Backpackers (rating 3.2), Big Blue Backpackers (4.0), Sea Castle Hotel in Camps Bay (4.2) and Green Elephant Backpackers (4.2). Their low ratings are not accidental and reflect longstanding problems with cleanliness, safety or unbearable noise. Long Street itself is also known at night for very noisy bars, so cheap rooms without proper windows rarely offer a good night’s sleep.
If you are still deciding between a private apartment and a traditional hotel, the planned new regulation and existing nightly fees of around $2–4 per person are making the price difference between Airbnb and a decent hotel increasingly small. For two- or three-night stays, a traditional guesthouse often works out better. You also get a generous breakfast, daily housekeeping and, importantly, a reception desk available for advice about safety and excursions. There is no longer any need to worry about widespread power cuts: nationwide outages have been suspended in South Africa since spring 2024, and a hotel generator is now a useful backup rather than a necessity.
Where to Go Next
Once you have chosen the right place for a good night’s sleep, it is time to plan your days. To save you hours of searching, I have put together a detailed guide to the essential places you should not miss. Read our article Cape Town, South Africa: 22 Things to See and Do for inspiration for the best trips around the city. You may also find our guide South Africa: Travel Tips useful, as well as our article about the best beaches in Cape Town to plan your stay in detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cape Town safe for tourists?
Absolutely yes, as long as you follow basic rules and don’t let yourself get unnecessarily scared. During the day you can walk around the center without worry, but after dark move on foot only in the V&A Waterfront area and along the Sea Point promenade. From anywhere else, always order a reliable Uber or Bolt for evening transfers, even if you’re only going a few blocks. In parking lots you’ll commonly encounter car guards in reflective vests, whom you tip a small coin for watching your vehicle.
Do I need a rental car to get around?
For exploring the city center and Waterfront itself you don’t need a car at all and it would actually be a hindrance with the lengthy search for parking. However, if you’re planning to head out to the famous Cape of Good Hope, to see the penguins at Boulders Beach, or for the breathtaking drive along the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive, a car for two to three days is essential, because public transport works poorly there. Just don’t forget that they drive on the left throughout the country!
What’s the current situation with electricity and water outages?
Reports of major problems are fortunately no longer current at all. Rolling blackouts have been completely suspended since spring 2024 and the city lifted all water consumption restrictions in early 2026. At the cheapest guesthouses it’s still worth asking to be safe whether they have any backup power source or battery, but at regular hotels you don’t need to worry about this topic at all anymore.
Which part of the coast has warmer ocean for swimming?
While the famous beaches at Camps Bay and Clifton on the Atlantic side are washed by an icy current and the water there is refreshing even in the hot summer, the False Bay side (Muizenberg, Simon’s Town) tends to be noticeably warmer. Plus during the summer months the unpleasant wind doesn’t blow nearly as much there, so time at the beach is much more pleasant and safer for families with children.
How much do main tourist attractions cost to enter?
Prices can of course change throughout the year, but for a basic budget idea expect that a return cable car ticket up Table Mountain will run you 450 ZAR for an adult and 230 ZAR for children. A ticket for the ferry and tour of the historic prison on Robben Island then costs from 400 ZAR for local citizens and around 825 ZAR for international tourists.
Where can I eat well in the city if I don’t eat meat?
Even though the local specialty is traditional meat grilling called braai and dried meat biltong, Cape Town offers a fantastic culinary scene for vegetarians and vegans. Excellent reviews go to the restaurant Wild Eatery (4.9), they make great hummus at Nish Nush SA (4.8), and definitely worth trying are popular spots like The Sunshine Food Sprouting Co or the fully vegan restaurant Romeo&vero. A great meat-free experience is also the white wine tasting itself in the Constantia area.
Is it better to book a hotel or an apartment through Airbnb?
Due to a planned new city ordinance, rates for short-term rentals are set to rise to the level of commercial hotels. Some accommodations already today charge an additional nightly city tax of around 2 to 4 dollars per person. Especially with shorter stays, you may very easily find that a decent hotel with a hearty breakfast works out cheaper in the end than renting an empty apartment with a cleaning fee.
When is the best time for whale watching?
If your main goal is to see these majestic giant mammals with your own eyes, you’ll have to sacrifice summer temperatures and come here in the winter months from June to August. Whales during this period swim from the cold Antarctic waters right to the South African coast to mate and raise their young in peace. A nice bonus will be the absolute lowest accommodation prices of the entire year.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
