The 21 best hotels in Cape Town

This ultra-exclusive boutique hotel perched on the mountain slopes above Bantry Bay offers the last word in bespoke service and discreet luxury. Little wonder Ellerman House was voted Best City Hotel in Africa by Travel+Leisure in 2024. Ellerman House certainly isn't the cheapest address in town, but it's worth every penny. Start with the accommodation: contemporary elegance without trying too hard across the 13 delightful rooms and suites scattered throughout the main house. The two exclusive villas next door are ideal if privacy is important. If you love art you'll love the extensive art collection displayed through the house and in the dedicated art gallery.  Prefer wine? Look no further than the Wine Gallery for bespoke guided tastings. Hungry? The intimate restaurant dishes up globally inspired cuisine with African influences. Ellerman House is a boutique charmer with stunning sea views and faultless service. What's not to love? 

180 Kloof Road, Bantry Bay

A dramatic coastal setting pitched mere metres above the high-tide mark (and within the Table Mountain National Park) and a healthy dollop of luxury have combined to make Tintswalo Atlantic one of the best five-star hotels in Cape Town. Each suite is individually decorated in a colourful island theme, with winding decks beneath milkwood forests leading to the private pool deck and an Insta-worthy shoreline swing. The on-site restaurant by Chefs Warehouse is also superb, with a small-plate menu focused on sustainable seafood.

Chapmans Peak Drive, Hout Bay

Opened in 1899 and rocking its signature pink colour scheme since 1918, Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is the grande dame of Cape Town and arguably the city’s most famous hotel. With 198 classically styled rooms and suites, in a quiet location just steps away from the hubbub of the city centre, its classic look and feel are balanced by upscale amenities, from a serene spa and heated outdoor pools to beautifully landscaped gardens. If you can’t afford a room, make a booking for the iconic afternoon tea or treat yourself to a drink at the swanky and brooding Planet Bar.

76 Orange St, Gardens

The Silo is, quite simply, the most talked-about boutique hotel in the city, with glorious suites and an enviable location in the V&A Waterfront precinct. Set atop Zeitz MOCAA – an art museum built in a historic grain silo reimagined by ‘starchitect’ Thomas Heatherwick – The Silo Hotel is as famous for its geometric  windows as the striking artsy interiors by founder and owner Liz Biden. Rates are high, but breakfast and parking are free, so there’s that – not to mention the fact it sets a new standard for luxury hotels in Cape Town. The hotel also features a signature glass-walled pool on the roof, on-site spa, restaurant and suitably classy bar.

Silo District, V&A Waterfront

Hidden away in the leafy suburb of Newlands, but within walking distance of the Claremont business district and the iconic Newlands Cricket Ground, The Vineyard Hotel & Spa is a class act in the southern suburbs of the city. Despite its large size – 211 rooms, suites and apartments – it has the charm and character of a much smaller hotel. That’s down to both its rich history – some buildings are 200 years old! – and the lush gardens along the banks of the Liesbeek River which offer plenty of quiet spaces to soak up the glorious mountain views. And thanks to its size there are impressive facilities on offer at The Vineyard Hotel: the Angsana Spa is one of the best in the city, guests can enjoy two large swimming pools (one indoors) and a fitness centre , while a selection of restaurant and café spaces offer plenty of dining options. No surprise the hotel has a loyal following and is often booked out in summer. Get your reservation in early.

Colinton Road, Newlands

If you’re heading to The Capital 15 on Orange for the weekend, you’ll find indulgent suites boasting superb mountain views. Planning a longer stay? The serviced apartments are spacious and extremely well-equipped. Those travelling for business will appreciate the short walk to key legal and corporate districts in the city, as well as the popular bars and restaurants of Long and Kloof streets. On top of all that, you’ll find an elegant ground-floor bar, modern in-house restaurant and a pool deck with stellar city views.

15 Orange St, Gardens

Although it’s just a few steps from the bustle of Kloof Street, the Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel offers an urban oasis known for its inspired décor, warm service and one of the best eateries in the city. Let’s start there: you won’t go hungry at Cape Cadogan thanks to the superb small plates menu at Upper Union, where chef Amori Burger taps into hyper-local produce and South African flavours. Indoors, the hotel was revamped in 2022 by interior designer Caline Williams-Wynn, who channels the property’s rich history (it’s a National Monument dating back to the 1800s) with a thoroughly contemporary aesthetic filled with colour, charm and whimsy. With 19 rooms and suites – and the recent addition of 10 'Stable Suites' in an adjoining property –  it’s large enough to bring a buzz at the bar, but sufficiently boutique for you to be more than a room number to the ever-friendly staff. If budget’s not an issue, opt for the Superior Luxury suites with a private lounge and outdoor terrace. If not, you’ll be happy enough on a sun lounger in the small courtyard alongside the swimming pool.

5 Upper Union Street, Gardens

Billed as Cape Town’s first luxury urban resort, One&Only Cape Town offers the seaside chic and laid-back feel of an island break, yet is set just a few steps from the bustling V&A Waterfront precinct. This five-star spot has long defined luxury in the Mother City. Stylish rooms with Table Mountain views, high-end coffee machines and private balconies are just the start. Suites add fireplaces, living rooms, kitchens and even butler service, while the hotel touts the only Nobu in Southern Africa, alongside an indulgent spa and infinity pool.

Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town

Perched above the city in the leafy (and exclusive) suburb of Higgovale, Kensington Place offers the best of both worlds: a quiet escape after a day of exploring (or office-work), but easy access to all that the buzzy centre of Cape Town has to offer. It’s quiet, yet connected, packed full of amenities, but also deeply personal. That’s thanks to the fact there are just eight rooms here, ensuring first-name service from the unfailingly on-point staff. Rooms are split across Standard and Superior: Superior offer a little more space, with a lounge area, but even Standard rooms dish up private balconies with glorious mountain and city views. There’s a small pool in the courtyard garden, with plenty of loungers and café-style tables for whiling away the hours. But cast your eye indoors too: there’s a strong design game at play here, from the curated artworks to the contemporary aesthetic throughout. Indulgent breakfasts are best enjoyed on the terrace (but they’ll do room service too) and a compact menu of global plates takes care of lunch and dinner if you don’t feel like dining out. It’s a city-centre stunner that’s perfect for adult travellers with an eye for luxury and design. Note, no children under-12 allowed.

38 Kensington Crescent, Gardens

This 32-room boutique hotel in the heart of Cape Town is the first accredited Design Hotel in the city, making it the perfect place to soak up and celebrate local design. As you roam through the super-stylish interiors of Gorgeous George, look out for furniture by the likes of David Krynauw and Gregor Jenkin, or admire artwork from David Brits and Porky Hefer, adding a contemporary African aesthetic to the space. The cosy studio rooms are beautiful, but the spacious two-bedroom suite – complete with vinyl player and records – is the best in the house. Gigi Rooftop, the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, dishes up inspired local cuisine and fine cocktails.

St. George's Mall, Cape Town

The first hotel to open in the V&A Waterfront remains one of the finest. That’s partly thanks to its enviable location right on the quayside – and next door to the Time Out Market Cape Town – that allows guests to step from the lobby and have all the attractions of the V&A Waterfront precinct right on the doorstep. But the enduring popularity of the Victoria and Alfred Hotel is thanks to constant evolution too, with a 2023 refurbishment by Francois du Plessis Interiors infusing the property with a more modern look and feel. The hotel offers 94 rooms, facing the mountain – the best choice for impressive harbour and city views – or the Waterfront’s main piazza. Downstairs, GINJA serves up an all-day dining experience, with the best tables at the water’s edge, and a menu of global plates. Hot tip? Guests at the V&A Hotel also enjoy the facilities of other Newmark hotels in the Waterfront. That includes the pool at Dock House, the Sanctuary Spa, and the excellent Terrarium restaurant at the Queen Victoria Hotel.

Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

With a spectacular location – perched at the end of a private quay in the heart of the V&A Waterfront – the Cape Grace Hotel is one of the finest five-star hotels in Cape Town. Location aside, that’s also thanks to a thorough refurbishment that saw the hotel reopen in early-2024 under the luxury Fairmont banner. The reimagining comes courtesy of award-winning interior design house 1508, who have infused the hotel with a bright contemporary aesthetic and a focus on African art that runs from the lobby to the rooms, blending the Cape Grace’s sense of classical elegance with a dose of Afro-centric flair. That’s especially evident in the much-loved Bascule Bar, where the extensive whisky and cocktail offering is brightened by a colourful Afro-chic feel. While you can dine here – or in the refreshed Library Bar – gourmands should rather head upstairs to Heirloom where the focus is firmly on fine-dining. Well-fed, you’ll be glad to have a room upstairs, where the hotel’s 112 rooms and suites (across 12 categories) offer something for every type of traveller.

W Quay Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Prefer a little peace and quiet to the bustle of the city? Palm House Boutique Hotel, in the leafy suburb of Wynberg, is a great hotel option for both business and leisure travellers to Cape Town. While it may be in the ‘burbs, it’s also wonderfully central, with easy access to the Constantia winelands, southern peninsula tourist routes and two freeways that’ll whisk you into the city in no time. After a day of adventure Palm House is a little oasis of its own too, with large gardens and swimming pool for a little R&R, and an elegant century-old main house – a proclaimed National Monument – home to a pair of restaurants and a cosy bar. A major renovation in 2023, thanks to a change of ownership, has infused the property with new energy that has revamped the rooms and public spaces. A choice of rooms and suites are scattered in the main house (best for couples) and around the gardens and pool (ideal for families). There’s a new energy in the kitchens too, with executive chef Gregory Henderson at the helm of two excellent in-house eateries: Palm Terrace for small-plates and all-day dining, and e Tafel for a multi-course gastronomic journey. There’s also an on-site Açaí Spa featuring an extensive treatment menu, and the unique Banya Sauna.

10 Oxford Street, Wynberg

Hidden gem. It’s such a cliché, right? But there are few better words to describe this charming owner-run property set slap-bang in the heart of the city. And while many hotels flee for the seaside or scamper up the mountain slopes, Labotessa is happily, proudly and intricately woven into Cape Town’s urban fabric. Hosted in a grand Dutch-style townhouse dating back to 1677, Labotessa is a thoroughly contemporary rejuvenation of an historic gem. Labotessa is an all-suite hotel, with just six individually designed Signature Suites and an expansive top-floor Presidential Suite with a private plunge pool and terrace. All suites boast direct elevator access.

As one would in Europe, you’ll start your day with a coffee in the leafy square, before ambling off (no car or taxi required) to discover all that cosmopolitan Cape Town has to offer. Come evening, a clutch of the city’s restaurants are within walking distance, with the ever-helpful staff on hand to recommend, make reservations and even walk you to the door if needed. Also don't miss a browse through the on-site Diptyque boutique, or a lunch from the Dutch-inspired cafe menu. Personal service, understated luxury and an enviable location make this one of the city’s finest urban boltholes.

Church Square, 37 Parliament St, Cape Town

Set right across from the historic Company’s Garden, in the heart of the central business district, many of the city’s key attractions are within walking distance of what is the only outpost of the India-based Taj Hotels group in South Africa. The array of rooms and suites on offer at Taj Cape Town – 176 in total – provide all the mod-cons you’d expect, while the ground-floor restaurants and bars will tempt you to stay in rather than venturing out. The Jiva Spa is a highlight, with hydrotherapy facilities alongside a menu of Ayurveda-inspired treatments.

1 Wale Street, Cape Town

Set in the heart of the V&A Waterfront’s busy Silo District, the Radisson Red Hotel V&A Waterfront is designed with the millennial traveller in mind. Rooms have TVs with mirror casting, multiple USB ports and picnic table workspaces. The bright café space slings coffees and sustainable street snacks. A rooftop area is decked out with killer views of Table Mountain, a lap-pool and food truck. There’s also meeting room space with a barista menu and games at the ready.

Silo District, V&A Waterfront

This stylish five-star hotel is set on one of the city’s oldest wine estates, with manicured gardens and a range of upscale facilities making it the perfect destination to enjoy a winelands escape without leaving the city. Surrounded by vineyards, Steenberg Hotel & Spa features a wide range of accommodation options, from bright, modern rooms to opulent suites if you’re feeling flush, with most looking out across the estate’s 18-hole championship golf course. Two on-site restaurants and a wine tasting centre add to the appeal, meaning you really won’t want to leave when it’s time to check out.

Steenberg Road, Constantia 

The creation of late designer Gail Behr, this characterful urban escape is perched at the very top of the Bo-Kaap district and offers memorable décor, warm hospitality and some of the best views in Cape Town. It is also the perfect antithesis of an anonymous, anodyne hotel. Each room at Dorp Hotel is decorated in its own riotous colour and style, the lounge is filled with objets d’art and oddities, and staff favour character and charm over obsequious service. Rooms are scattered in freestanding buildings around lush gardens, with quiet corners and cosy nooks aplenty. If you need another reason to go, the restaurant’s rotisserie chicken is legendary in these parts. The new wing – Onder Dorp – offers larger rooms and self-catering options ideal for longer stays.

273 Longmarket St, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town

Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront is the only true seafront hotel close to the city, with a plunge pool that looks straight out over Table Bay. The breezy blue colour scheme brings a laid-back beach vibe to a city hotel, and most of the 177 contemporary rooms and suites offer superb sea views. The restaurant and bar terrace next door are equally impressive, especially come sunset, and the location between the popular V&A Waterfront and Sea Point Promenade is unmatched.

Granger Bay Boulevard, Mouille Point

The 76 rooms and suites of The Winchester Hotel neatly balance the history of the property (built in 1922) with contemporary charm. Front-facing suites offer wonderful views from the Sea Point Promenade, but you’ll probably spend more time in the buzzy ground-floor restaurant and bar – both hugely popular with locals – or in the charming courtyard, happily sheltered from the Cape Town’s summer winds.

221 Beach Rd, Sea Point

This 13-suite boutique hotel is looking to change the narrative of tourism in Khayelitsha, the Cape Town's largest township. But this is not your typical township stay. At The Spade Boutique Hotel & Spa, owner Annette Skaap brings a dash of international glamour to the township in which she grew up. Expect rooms and suites decorated in a contemporary global aesthetic, balanced by a touch of African charm. A choice of room categories will suit both price-conscious weekenders and flashier travellers, while a larger two-bedroom suite is ideal for families. There’s a spacious pool terrace and an in-house gym and spa, while the on-site restaurant dishes up local flavours. The Spade also partners with local businesses for tours of the area.

8 Alfred Nzo St, Mandela Park, Cape Town