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Cape Town, South Africa is a dazzlying city filled with diversity—from its natural beauty, to its rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cosmopolitan lifestyle. The hotels in Cape Town are just as varied, with options for every budget and preference that range from chic farm stays to coastal oases.
Here are 8 of the best hotels in Cape Town to consider for your next visit:
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel
Price: Nightly rates start around $930
Location: Gardens
The vibe: Elegant, historic, and sophisticated
The rundown: The Belmond name is synonymous with luxury, and its Cape Town outpost upholds the status with its well-appointed rooms, plush furnishings, floral wallpaper, and ornate chandeliers. Dating back to 1899, the historic property has played host to many famous guests, including Winston Churchill, John Lennon, and Nelson Mandela. The building’s signature pink color—chosen by the founder, Lady Sarah Spencer-Churchill, who believed it would help distinguish the hotel from others in the area—adds a touch of quirky charm to the otherwise refined property.
The Cape Milner Hotel
Price: Nightly rates start around $90
Location: Tamboerskloof
The vibe: Modern, sleek, and urban
The rundown: Situated in the hip Tamboerskloof area, The Cape Milner Hotel is a charming boutique accommodation that affords easy access to both the city center and Table Mountain. The hotel’s 2 on Milner restaurant is renowned for its imaginative culinary creations that fuse local and international flavors. Housed within a historic structure that once functioned as a private residence, the hotel offers stunning views of Table Mountain. The decor of the hotel epitomizes modern minimalism, featuring sleek lines, vivid hues, and contemporary artwork. The accommodations are capacious and cozy, equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and offer captivating vistas of the city or mountain.
The Silo Hotel
Price: Nightly rates start around $1,700
Location: V&A Waterfront
The vibe: Contemporary, stylish, and trendy
The rundown: Located at the V&A Waterfront, the hotel occupies the upper floors of a converted grain silo, once the tallest building in Sub-Saharan Africa. The industrial heritage of the building is reflected in the decor, with exposed concrete walls and steel beams complemented by plush furnishings and colorful contemporary art. The rooms are luxuriously spacious and boast floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the city and harbor. Additionally, the hotel features a rooftop bar, which is a popular destination in Cape Town for sunset cocktails and taking in panoramic views of the harbor and Table Mountain.
Cape Grace Hotel
Price: Nightly rates start around $700
Location: V&A Waterfront
The vibe: Elegant, classic, and refined
The rundown: Located on a private quay at the V&A Waterfront, the Cape Grace Hotel is a luxurious five-star hotel. Its name pays homage to the famous clipper ship, Cape Grace, which made history by being the first to sail directly from Europe to Cape Town in 1870. The hotel’s decor reflects the city’s rich maritime heritage, featuring nautical motifs, warm colors, and opulent fabrics. The rooms exude elegance and sophistication, with luxurious bedding, marble bathrooms, and breathtaking views of either the harbor or Table Mountain. The Signal Restaurant is renowned for its creative cuisine that celebrates the diverse flavors of South Africa.
Taj Cape Town
Price: Nightly rates start around $160
Location: City Bowl
The vibe: Opulent, grand, and historic
The rundown: The Taj Cape Town is a luxury hotel housed in two historic buildings: the former headquarters of the South African Reserve Bank and the Temple Chambers. The decor of the hotel is a mix of traditional Indian and contemporary styles, with colorful textiles, ornate woodwork, and modern art. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, with marble bathrooms, high ceilings, and views of the city or Table Mountain. The hotel’s Bombay Brasserie is one of the best Indian restaurants in Cape Town, and is a must-visit on your trip even if you don’t stay here.
The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
Price: Nightly rates start around $320
Location: Camps Bay
The vibe: Secluded, peaceful, and luxurious
The rundown: Situated on the outskirts of Cape Town, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is an opulent lodging that offers spectacular vistas of the ocean and provides access to hiking trails in the Table Mountain National Park. Expect a blend of contemporary and African styles throughout the property that feature vivid hues, striking patterns, and locally crafted artwork. The accommodations are spacious and lavish, complete with balconies or terraces that offer scenic views of the ocean or mountains. For added relaxation, book a treatment at the hotel’s spa—renowned for its holistic treatments that integrate indigenous ingredients like rooibos and marula oil.
The Bay Hotel
Price: Nightly rates start around $160
Location: Camps Bay
The vibe: Chic, trendy, and lively
The rundown: The Bay Hotel is situated in the fashionable Camps Bay district, renowned for its lively beachfront promenade and pulsating nightlife. The accommodations are chic and cozy, boasting balconies or terraces that provide scenic views of the ocean or mountains. The hotel’s beach club is a sought-after destination for soaking up the sun and sipping refreshing cocktails.
Steenberg Farm Hotel & Spa
Price: Nightly rates start around $180
Location: Constantia Valley
The vibe: Romantic, historic, tranquil
The rundown: Located on a historic, 17th-century wine farm in the Constantia Valley, the hotel has been lovingly restored and renovated to offer guests the ultimate in luxury and relaxation. Its world-class spa, gourmet restaurants, and onsite winery make it a destination in and of itself. The hotel is situated on a 168-acre estate, which includes a championship golf course, hiking trails, and stables.