Gemma BLDWhether you have already decided to visit Cape Town, or you are just starting to think about it, where you stay will have a huge impact on your overall experience. Just like in any city, different neighbourhoods have different vibes and there is no correct answer for everyone. I’ve prepared a breakdown on what I think the best places to stay are, based on criteria like accessibility to popular places, safety and restaurants and shops.
The Best Places to Stay in Cape Town
As I said, there is no one-neighbourhood-fits-all in Cape Town. You should keep in mind what you plan to do, whether you are renting a car or Ubering, whether you want to be able to walk to places. That’s why each neighbourhood below will include the type of traveler it’s best for.
City Bowl (Gardens, Tamboerskloof, Oranjezicht)
Best for: First-time visitors, culture lovers, couples
Why stay here:
The City Bowl sits at the foot of Table Mountain and is one of the most scenic parts of Cape Town. It’s close to major attractions like the Company’s Garden, the Castle of Good Hope, and Long Street. It’s walkable, with great restaurants, boutique shops, and cozy cafés.
- Gardens is leafy and charming, with upscale guesthouses and apartment rentals.
- Tamboerskloof has a mix of locals and travelers, plus incredible views of the mountain.
- Oranjezicht is known for the weekend City Farm Market, ideal for foodies.
Good to know: Traffic can be busy during peak hours, and Long Street can be noisy at night.
V&A Waterfront
Best for: Luxury stays, convenience, families
Why stay here:
The V&A Waterfront is the most tourist-friendly area, with 24/7 security, shopping, restaurants, and access to boat tours and Robben Island ferries. Hotels here are typically high-end, like the One&Only Cape Town, The Table Bay Hotel, or Radisson Blu.
Pros: Very safe, clean, walkable, central.
Cons: More expensive, not a local vibe.
Camps Bay & Clifton
Best for: Beach lovers, honeymooners, high-end travelers
Why stay here:
If you’re after sunsets, sea views, and luxury, head to Camps Bay or Clifton. You’ll find beachfront villas, upscale apartments, and boutique hotels with panoramic views. Camps Bay has a lively promenade with restaurants and bars, while Clifton is more exclusive and residential.
Note: You’ll need transport to get to the city centre or sights like Bo-Kaap and Table Mountain.
Green Point & Sea Point
Best for: Active travelers, families, mid-range budgets
Why stay here:
These adjacent suburbs are excellent bases if you want ocean access without the Camps Bay price tag. Sea Point Promenade is great for walking or cycling, and there are lots of local eateries, bakeries, and even budget accommodation.
- Green Point is closer to the city and home to Cape Town Stadium.
- Sea Point is more residential and laid-back.
Pros: Safe, walkable, good access to public transport.
Cons: Not as central as the City Bowl for museums and cultural attractions.
Constantia
Best for: Wine lovers, peace and quiet, luxury escapes
Why stay here:
If your priority is wineries, nature, and a more rural feel, Constantia is ideal. It’s Cape Town’s oldest wine-producing region and still just 20 minutes from the city centre. You’ll find beautiful boutique hotels, vineyard stays, and tranquil estates.
- Great for couples looking to relax after sightseeing.
Hout Bay
Best for: Families, nature, longer stays
Why stay here:
Hout Bay has a small-town feel with its own beach, market, and harbor. It’s a good middle ground between the city and the Cape Peninsula. Accommodation ranges from guesthouses to larger villas.
Cons: Further from central attractions, but good if you’re driving.
Woodstock & Observatory
Best for: Creative travelers, young couples, digital nomads
Why stay here:
These are more bohemian areas with a strong arts and café scene. Woodstock is home to the Old Biscuit Mill and some edgy design hotels and Airbnbs. Observatory (or “Obs”) is popular with students and artists.
Note: These areas are trendy but can be mixed in terms of safety. Stay on well-lit streets and don’t walk around alone at night.
Areas to Avoid or Be Cautious In
Just like in any city, tourists should still be cautious and realistic about safety. There are a few areas you should avoid, and that goes for staying and visiting. If you’re here, that means you are researching, and that’s the best thing to do.
- Cape Flats (e.g., Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha): These are far from tourist centers and often face high crime rates. While some community-led tours are safe and insightful, these are not ideal places to stay.
- Delft, Nyanga, Gugulethu: Some of the highest crime rates in the city. Not recommended for tourists, especially not without a local guide.
- Downtown Cape Town at Night: Some parts, especially near the train station and CBD, can feel sketchy after dark. Stick to well-lit streets and use Uber after dark.
Tips for Booking Accommodation in Cape Town
There are many different accommodation options in Cape Town such as hotels, holiday homes and Airbnbs. Personally, we chose to stay in an Airbnb and it was perfect. Before booking, here are a few things to look at:
- Check Security Features: Look for listings that mention secure parking, alarm systems, and gated access.
- Read Recent Reviews: Make sure the neighborhood and property are well-reviewed within the last few months.
- Use Trusted Platforms: Airbnb, Booking.com, and local hotel websites are generally reliable.
- Ask Locals or Hosts: Don’t hesitate to message the host about safety and location before you book.
Final Thoughts
Cape Town has something for every kind of traveler, but choosing the right area to stay in can make a huge difference. If it’s your first visit, start with the City Bowl or V&A Waterfront for convenience and safety. If you’re coming for beach time and relaxation, Camps Bay is a dream. For wine country peace, head to Constantia. Just remember to always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
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