Cape Town sits on the shore of Table Bay, wrapped around a mountain and strung along a long Atlantic coastline. The City Bowl holds the historic centre and the central business district, while the metropolitan area stretches north along the West Beach region and south to the False Bay coast. Table Mountain National Park lies within the city boundaries, and the Cape Floristic Region surrounds it.
For a visitor, the practical question is which part of this spread to base yourself in. The City Bowl and its neighbouring neighbourhoods put the main sights within reach; the southern suburbs and the western seaboard trade convenience for quiet or sea views. This guide covers the areas the sources name, what each is like, and who each suits.
Best areas to stay in Cape Town
1. City Centre and the City Bowl
This is the oldest urban area in the Western Cape and the location of the central business district, with a significant cultural heritage. Staying here often works out cheaper because the attractions are nearby, though the sources suggest sticking to one of the neighbourhoods next to the central area for better prices and a quieter night's sleep.
It suits first-time visitors who want to walk or travel short distances to the main sights. You find a wide range of accommodation here, from hostels to hotels and guest houses. Long Street, in the heart of the city centre, is the party street and has hostels with bars.
2. Gardens and Tamboerskloof
The area around Kloof Street in Gardens and Tamboerskloof has a young cafe culture and hip shopping, and the sources call it a good choice. It sits next to the central area, so you get somewhat better prices and a quieter night than in the centre itself.
It suits travellers who want a lively but not exhausting base, and those who value cafes and shopping within walking distance. Guest houses and hostels are found here, including places on Hof Street and Breda Street in Gardens. The Gardens Shopping Centre is a practical landmark in the area.
3. Green Point
Green Point sits between the city centre and the coast, within walking distance of the Waterfront, the beach and the city centre according to the sources. It is a central, convenient base rather than a quiet retreat.
It suits visitors who want to be close to the V&A Waterfront without staying in the centre itself. Hostels and guest houses are common here, on Main Road and nearby streets. Buses and ride-hailing services connect it to the rest of the city.
4. De Waterkant
De Waterkant is described as arty, charismatic and quaint, with tree-lined streets, restored cottages, al fresco restaurants, sidewalk cafes, boutiques and bars. The sources compare its village atmosphere to Greenwich Village in New York and Soho in London.
It suits travellers who want a fashionable, walkable neighbourhood with dining and nightlife on the doorstep. Guest houses and village-style accommodation are the norm. It is close to the city centre and the Waterfront.
5. Observatory
Observatory, on Lower Main Road, is a student-friendly neighbourhood with a cluster of backpacker hostels. The sources list several hostels here, including boutique-style and small, decorated ones.
It suits budget travellers and those looking for hostel-style accommodation with a sociable feel. It is not the most central option, so expect to travel to reach the main sights.
6. Camps Bay and the western seaboard
Areas along the western seaboard of the peninsula, such as Camps Bay, are more expensive according to the sources. Camps Bay has a beach and views towards Lion's Head, and is about ten minutes from the V&A Waterfront.
It suits visitors who prioritise sea views and are willing to pay more for them. Guest houses and self-catering accommodation are found here. It is less convenient for walking to the city centre.
7. The southern suburbs: Muizenberg, Fish Hoek and Simon's Town
The suburbs in the south, including Muizenberg, Fish Hoek and Simon's Town, are quieter and have less traffic than central Cape Town. They sit on the False Bay side of the peninsula.
They suit travellers who want a calm base, have time to travel into the city, or plan to explore the peninsula and the Cape Point area. The trade-off is distance from the City Bowl and its attractions.
8. Township bed and breakfasts: Khayelitsha, Gugulethu and Langa
Several township bed and breakfasts have started to appear in places such as Khayelitsha, offering tourists the chance to experience this side of South Africa. The sources describe them as mostly redecorated shacks fitted to basic tourist norms, and list examples in Gugulethu and Langa.
They suit travellers who specifically want to stay in a township and experience that side of the country. This is a different kind of stay from a conventional hotel or guest house, and you should plan transport to and from the city accordingly.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Hostels with dorm beds and some private or twin rooms, including boutique-style and small decorated hostels, plus camping at some properties. Many are in Observatory, Green Point, Gardens and along Long Street.
- Mid-range: Guest houses, B&Bs and lodges, often with breakfast included and sometimes with views of Table Mountain or the sea. Found in Gardens, Oranjezicht, Higgovale, Green Point, De Waterkant and Camps Bay.
- Splurge: Luxury guest houses and boutique hotels, including self-catering apartments and larger properties with extensive facilities. Concentrated in the City Bowl, De Waterkant, Camps Bay and along the western seaboard.
Best area for a first visit
The City Centre and the City Bowl is the best base for a first visit, because the sources note that staying in the city centre often works out cheaper as all the attractions are nearby. If you want better prices and a quieter night while staying close to the centre, the neighbouring area around Kloof Street in Gardens and Tamboerskloof is the sources' suggested alternative. Either way, you are within easy reach of the main sights rather than dependent on a long commute.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to stay in the city centre or outside it?
The sources say staying in the city centre often works out cheaper because all the attractions are nearby, but that the neighbourhoods next to the central area offer better prices and a quieter night's sleep.
Which areas are best for nightlife?
Long Street in the city centre is described as the party street and has hostels with bars. De Waterkant also has bars and restaurants, and the Kloof Street area in Gardens and Tamboerskloof has a young cafe culture.
Where should I stay if I want a quiet base?
The suburbs are normally quieter with less traffic than central Cape Town. The southern suburbs such as Muizenberg, Fish Hoek and Simon's Town are named as options, as are areas near the Cape Winelands.
Are there budget options outside the city centre?
Yes. Observatory has a cluster of backpacker hostels, and Green Point and Gardens also have hostels. Township bed and breakfasts in places such as Khayelitsha, Gugulethu and Langa are another budget option.
Compare live prices for the area you choose with the booking tools on this page.