Where to stay in Cape Town

Camps Bay is a trendy seaside suburb boasting a palm-fringed beach, fine dining, and a bustling promenade. It's the place to see and be seen, offering a vibrant nightlife and various accommodation options. While it's exceptionally beautiful, prices here can be high, and the area is known to get windy. Suitable for travelers seeking a luxurious beach holiday with social and culinary delights.

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a major tourist attraction featuring upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment set within a working harbor. While it offers an all-in-one experience with incredible mountain and sea views, it can be crowded and is often more expensive than other areas. This area caters to those who favor convenience and are willing to spend more for a luxury setting.

Clifton is famous for its beautiful beaches and is a prime spot for beachgoers and sunbathers. Its real estate is among the most sought-after, given its breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Clifton can be pretty crowded in the summer months and lacks significant nightlife or dining scenes due to its mainly residential nature. It's perfect for those whose main goal is to relax by the sea in a high-end locale.

Bantry Bay is a posh, wind-protected area with grand villas and deluxe apartments offering superb sea views. It's wonderfully private and exclusive, making it a top choice for luxury seekers. That said, the seclusion means fewer options for dining and shopping within walking distance, and this area has a premium price tag.

Green Point is lively and cosmopolitan, known for its proximity to the V&A Waterfront and the Cape Town Stadium. While the area boasts various restaurants and nightlife options, it can be busy and noisy, especially on match days or during events. It's a fantastic spot for those who want to be in the heart of the action, but it may not be the best choice for travelers looking for quiet.

Sea Point is a lively suburb with a diverse community and an array of dining and nightlife options along Main Road. It’s close to the central city, yet it offers a more relaxed coastal lifestyle with its famous promenade. Sometimes, the area can seem cramped, and it has a reputation for being somewhat noisy, especially on the Main Road. It’s a melting pot of cultures and suitable for those looking for variety and a local urban feel.

Mouille Point is a chic, upscale area beside the promenade, known for its modern apartments and stunning ocean views. It's quieter than the bustling Waterfront but offers easy access to it. The downside is the lack of a strong local culture or vibrant nightlife within the area itself. It’s mainly residential and suited for those searching for a peaceful retreat near seaside paths and golfing.

Nestled on the slopes of Lion's Head and Signal Hill, Tamboerskloof is a quiet residential neighborhood known for its Victorian architecture and stunning views. It's close to the city center yet offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle. While it provides easy access to Cape Town's attractions, dining options can be more limited compared to other areas. It's perfect for those seeking a charming and restful spot close to the action.

The City Centre of Cape Town is the beating heart of the city, where you’ll find a mix of historical sites, business hubs, and entertainment. The area pulses with a vibrant atmosphere day and night, ideal for travelers who want to be in the thick of things. However, it can be not quiet, and one should be aware of safety at night. The City Centre is also where you’ll experience the city’s creative spirit, with street art and markets.

Gardens is a leafy residential neighborhood nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, known for its easy access to the city's natural attractions. While it offers a quieter atmosphere, Gardens is close to trendy Kloof Street, packed with restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. However, because it is more residential, the nightlife is not as vibrant as in other areas, and you may need to travel to experience Cape Town's bustling city life fully.

De Waterkant is a stylish, vibrant neighborhood known for its colorful houses and cobbled streets. It's a popular spot for its trendy boutiques, cafes, and lively nightlife. Although it's close to the city center, some may find it a bit touristy, and parking can be challenging. It's a lovely choice for those who enjoy a blend of historical ambiance with modern living.

Bo-Kaap is an area rich in history and culture, renowned for its brightly colored houses and cobblestoned streets. It houses a predominantly Muslim community and offers a strong sense of heritage and enticing culinary experiences. While it's a fantastic spot for culture enthusiasts and those who enjoy picturesque streetscapes, it can be a bit noisy, and parking is notoriously difficult.

Situated near Sea Point, Three Anchor Bay is a coastal neighborhood offering fantastic sea views and a laid-back atmosphere. This area is trendy among locals for its proximity to the Sea Point Promenade, perfect for walks and outdoor activities. Accommodation here might be less abundant as it’s primarily a residential area, and it doesn’t offer much nightlife or shopping.

Fresnaye is an upscale suburb with spectacular ocean views and a serene environment. As one of Cape Town's most affluent areas, it boasts luxurious accommodations and is well sheltered from the infamous Cape wind. However, its exclusivity means it's not the most culturally diverse area and can feel disconnected from the vibrant city vibe. It is ideal for travelers who value tranquility and high-end comfort over cultural immersion.

The Foreshore is a commercial and urban area known for the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) and high-rise business buildings. While it offers modern accommodations and is conveniently located for business travelers, it may not provide the same charm or relaxed atmosphere as other neighborhoods in the evenings or weekends when the area quiets down significantly.

Once a gritty suburb, Woodstock has become a trendy art, design, and food market hub. While it maintains an edgy feel and is less polished than other areas, it offers a unique experience for travelers interested in creative communities. Safety can be a concern after dark or in less frequented streets, so visitors should stay vigilant. Great for those who appreciate hipster vibes and a touch of urban renewal.

Zonnebloem, historically known as District Six, is an area with a poignant history of forced removals during the apartheid era. It's a district undergoing redevelopment and gentrification, showing a mix of residential and student populations and a scattering of offbeat coffee shops and galleries. While its central location is a draw, the area still feels transitional, and visitors should be aware of their surroundings, especially at night.