It’s the decision that should be cause for celebration but somehow turns into a marathon of stress – that’s right, it’s time to plan the big family vacation. The kids are begging for wild safari adventures, your spouse has their heart set on sun, sand and spa days, and you? Well, right now you’re just hoping for a big glass of wine. Luckily, in South Africa you don’t have to choose – there’s something for everyone.
You can track the Big Five on safari, hike through breathtaking landscapes, lounge on world-class beaches, you can even find a ski resort if you’re feeling adventurous (and manage to sneak those skis through check-in). And no matter how wild the itinerary gets, Cape Town makes the perfect base camp for all your South African adventures. Just like South Africa’s diverse wildlife, the hospitality scene in Cape Town offers something for every traveler – and in the city’s best hotels, no one needs to compromise on comfort.
Whether you’re after luxury beachfront resorts, boutique hideaways or family-friendly accommodations with all the comforts of home, the best hotels in Cape Town ensure an unforgettable stay in this captivating city.
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Cape Grace
Positioned on a private quay in the V&A Waterfront, this hotel offers a quiet retreat while being close to Cape Town’s vibrant harbor district. The rooms feature classic furnishings with subtle African influences, and many provide views of Table Mountain or the marina. A well-regarded restaurant serves seasonal dishes, while the whisky and wine bar offers a refined space to unwind. The spa provides a range of treatments, making it a place for relaxation after a day of exploring. With easy access to boutique shopping, cultural attractions and waterfront dining in Cape Town, Cape Grace offers a balance of comfort and convenience in one of the most sought-after locations, making it one of the city’s best hotels.
Top Suite: Cape Grace Suite
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Set in the heart of Beaufort West, this suite offers spacious living, exquisite decor, and stunning views. Guests can enjoy a blend of modern luxury and comfort, providing an ideal environment for relaxation. The suite is meticulously designed to meet the highest standards, offering an immersive experience with access to exclusive services and exceptional hospitality that ensure a truly memorable stay in one of the best hotels in Cape Town.
Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel
Set within lush gardens at the foot of Table Mountain, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel offers a peaceful retreat in Cape Town. The pink facade and colonial-style architecture give the hotel a distinctive character, while the interiors feature elegant rooms with classic decor. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea on the terrace, relax at the spa, or take a dip in the outdoor pool. The location provides easy access to the city’s cultural attractions, beaches, and scenic trails. With a balance of history, comfort, and a serene setting, Mount Nelson is a well-established choice for those looking to experience Cape Town at a relaxed pace.
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Top Suite: Honeysuckle Cottage
You can’t go wrong with any accommodation at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, but for the very best, book the two-bedroom Honeysuckle Suite. Built in the late 1800s, it has undergone a meticulous restoration, emerging as a charming retreat with its own flower garden and access to a private pool, away from other hotel residents. Interiors are inspired by 18th-century opulence, yet the space is thoroughly modern, featuring a fully equipped kitchen, a working fireplace, and direct access to the hotel swimming pool.
One&Only Cape Town
Set against the backdrop of Table Mountain, the waterfront One&Only Cape Town combines modern design with resort-style amenities. Spacious rooms feature natural materials and large balconies, offering a comfortable space to take in the views. A selection of restaurants showcases international and South African flavors, while the spa and wellness facilities provide a tranquil retreat. The location in the V&A Waterfront makes it easy to access Cape Town’s beaches, galleries, and vibrant food scene. With a mix of relaxation and city exploration, One&Only Cape Town is designed for those looking for both comfort and accessibility.
Top Suite: Lion’s Head Penthouse
With 8,590 sq ft of space, The Lion’s Head Penthouse is one of Cape Town’s largest hotel suites. Designed for entertaining, it features a private pool, an in-suite bar, a kitchenette with a service entrance, and, of course, breathtaking views of Table Mountain. After hosting guests, retreat to the lower floor, where four en-suite bedrooms await. Three of these bedrooms have access to an outdoor patio, ensuring everyone enjoys those all-important mountain vistas.
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The Silo Hotel
A former grain silo transformed into a striking urban retreat, The Silo stands out with its unique glass facade and contemporary decor. Spacious rooms showcase colorful furnishings and expansive windows, offering sweeping views of the city, Table Mountain, or the Atlantic Ocean. The rooftop bar and pool provide a relaxed setting with a backdrop of Cape Town’s skyline, while the fine-dining restaurant emphasizes fresh, local ingredients. Positioned in the vibrant V&A Waterfront, The Silo Hotel is within walking distance of world-class shopping, dining, and cultural institutions. A combination of bold design and personalized service makes it a distinctive choice for design-conscious travelers.
Top Suite: The Penthouse
The Penthouse offers guests the very best of The Silo, with panoramic views of the ocean, Table Mountain and V&A Harbour from its two balconies and striking floor-to-ceiling windows. When you’ve had enough of the glorious views, head to the suite’s dedicated cinema room for a movie, or indulge in an in-suite spa treatment in its dedicated wellness room. Need to take a work call? The suite’s antique desk is positioned right in front of those awe-inspiring views, so you’ll keep your sense of place no matter how long the meeting takes.
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The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
Nestled between Table Mountain National Park and the Atlantic Ocean, this coastal retreat offers a setting that feels removed from the city while remaining within easy reach of Cape Town’s attractions. The rooms are decorated in soft, neutral tones with ocean or mountain views, creating a sense of calm. Dining options include a restaurant with a focus on local ingredients and a bar that overlooks the water. The spa, outdoor pools, and scenic walking trails provide space for relaxation. Positioned along the coastal route to Cape Point, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is ideal for those looking to experience both the natural beauty and cultural offerings of the region, making it one of the best hotels in Cape Town.
Top Suite: The Presidential Suite
The Twelve Apostles saved its most impressive space for the Presidential Suite, where majestic views of Table Mountain National Park and the coastline await. The wraparound terrace ensures sunshine at any time of day and serves as an elegant setting for intimate events. The hotel can arrange a bespoke dinner around the suite’s refined eight-seater dining table. After guests depart, unwind in the spacious master bedroom or soak in the standalone marble bathtub.
Tintswalo Atlantic
While it may be tucked away on the shores of Hout Bay, we couldn’t resist including the secluded retreat of Tintswalo Atlantic, known for its uninterrupted ocean views and proximity to nature, on our list of the best hotels in Cape Town. Each suite is individually designed, drawing inspiration from iconic islands around the world, and features private decks overlooking the water. The restaurant, Tintswalo Atlantic Chefs Warehouse, creates a warm and welcoming space with a menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Nestled at the base of Chapman’s Peak, Tintswalo Atlantic offers direct access to scenic coastal trails and is a short drive from Cape Town’s city center. With an emphasis on privacy and natural beauty, it provides a peaceful escape along the Atlantic coastline.
Top Suite: Robben Island Suite
Overlooking the beauty of Hout Bay, Robben Island Suite offers a peaceful escape with its spacious design and luxurious amenities. Featuring contemporary decor and a private terrace with mesmerizing views, this suite provides a tranquil environment for relaxation. With exclusive services and attention to every detail, it ensures that every guest enjoys ultimate comfort and privacy during their stay.
Ellerman House
Perched on the slopes of Lion’s Head, the boutique Ellerman House offers expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean. The interiors showcase an extensive collection of South African art, creating a gallery-like atmosphere that blends seamlessly with its elegant design. Spacious rooms and suites open onto private terraces, while the gardens and infinity pool provide peaceful spaces to relax. A focus on local flavors is reflected in the dining experience, with a curated wine selection complementing the menu. Situated just a short drive from Clifton Beach and the city center, Ellerman House provides a secluded yet well-connected setting for travelers looking for privacy and refinement.
Top Suite: Villa One
Accommodating up to 10 guests in five en-suite bedrooms, Villa One is the ultimate choice for multi-generational trips. Ellerman House offers world-class service for guests of all ages, and this villa fosters family togetherness with spacious living quarters and an outdoor terrace with a private pool. Head to the third floor for spectacular views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range before indulging in a bespoke menu prepared in-suite by your dedicated private chef.
Taj Cape Town
Housed in a historic bank building in the heart of the city, Taj Cape Town combines classical architecture with modern amenities. The high ceilings, marble finishes, and grand columns reflect its past life as the South African Reserve Bank, while the rooms offer contemporary comforts and views of Table Mountain or the cityscape. A selection of restaurants showcases Indian and international flavors, and a spa provides a quiet retreat from the urban energy. Positioned near the Company’s Garden and key cultural landmarks, Taj Cape Town is well-placed for both business and leisure travelers. With a blend of heritage and convenience, it offers an inviting stay in the city center.
Top Suite: Presidential Suite
Taj Cape Town’s Presidential Suite spans the 16th and 17th floors, offering the best views in central Cape Town. The suite’s dedicated terrace is the perfect vantage point, complete with a central fire to keep gatherings going late into the night. Those working remotely will appreciate the office space with floor-to-ceiling windows. After a long day of meetings, unwind with an in-suite massage in the dedicated wellness room, where an extensive treatment menu draws inspiration from Cape Town’s eclectic influences.
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Steenberg Farm
Steenberg Farm, one of the best hotels in Cape Town, is located just outside the city and surrounded by vineyards in the Constantia Valley – one of the oldest (and best) wine regions in South Africa. The rooms and suites are spread across historic buildings and contemporary spaces, offering a mix of traditional charm and contemporary comfort. Wine tastings, fine dining, and a spa add to the experience, while the on-site golf course provides an additional leisure option. The estate is just a short drive from Cape Town’s city center, making it an ideal base for exploring both the urban and winelands landscapes. Steenberg Farm combines history, nature, and refined hospitality in one of the Cape’s oldest wine-growing regions.
Top Suite: Three Bedroom Villa
With generous interiors, a lush garden, and a private pool, Steenberg’s Three-Bedroom Villa is an idyllic retreat for families who value privacy as much as luxury. The villa’s outdoor space can be enjoyed from dawn until dusk for dining, swimming, and sunbathing—all against a backdrop of vineyards and mountain views. As night falls, cozy up by the fire in the living room. The spacious en-suite bedrooms provide a homely yet refined ambiance, ensuring everyone has a private sanctuary.
21 Nettleton
Set high above Clifton, 21 Nettleton is an exclusive residence that offers sweeping views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. The suites are individually designed, blending contemporary and antique furnishings, with private terraces that open onto lush gardens. A curated art collection and personalized service create an intimate atmosphere, while the outdoor pool and lounge provide space for relaxation. Located near Cape Town’s best beaches, 21 Nettleton is within easy reach of the city’s vibrant center and the scenic trails of Table Mountain. Designed for guests looking for privacy and elegance, it offers a quiet escape with breathtaking surroundings.
Top Suite: Presidential Penthouse Suite
Occupying the entire top floor of the hotel, the Presidential Penthouse Suite is a private sanctuary with breathtaking views of both the ocean and mountains. These vistas can be enjoyed from multiple outdoor spaces, including a sun terrace and private balconies. The interiors are inspired by 19th-century Europe—one of many cultural influences that shape modern Cape Town. The suite features various Biedermeier pieces and Renaissance artworks, alongside modern luxuries such as a steam room and a fully stocked complimentary minibar.
Delaire Graff Lodge
Nestled in the Stellenbosch wine region, Delaire Graff Lodge offers sweeping views of vineyards and mountain ranges. The interiors feature contemporary design and South African art, creating a refined but relaxed atmosphere. Each lodge includes a private terrace and heated plunge pool, allowing guests to take in the landscape in complete privacy. Wine tastings, fine dining, and spa treatments form part of the experience, making it a destination for both relaxation and exploration. With easy access to some of the region’s top wineries and hiking trails, Delaire Graff Lodge provides a well-rounded retreat in the Cape Winelands.
Top Suite: Owner’s Villa
The Owner’s Villa is among South Africa’s most extraordinary accommodations, making the most of the stunning Cape Winelands scenery. Its west-facing terrace overlooks Stellenbosch, False Bay, and the iconic Table Mountain. Guests can soak in these views from their private heated infinity pool. Inside, the villa showcases exceptional artwork and contemporary photography from Laurence Graff’s personal collection. Fully serviced throughout your stay, the villa includes all meals prepared by a private chef.
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