25 Best Hotels in Cape Town, South Africa

Built in 1906 for shipping magnate Sir John Ellerman, what may be Cape Town's finest hotel sits high on a hill up from Sea Point in Bantry Bay, graced with stupendous views of the sea and an art collection that puts the National Gallery to shame. Broad, terraced lawns fronted by elegant balustrades step down the beautifully landscaped hillside to a sparkling pool, and farther on, to a contemporary art gallery (which, as with every feature at Ellerman, is for guests only). Decorated in an updated Regency style, the drawing room, living room, and library are sumptuously elegant, yet not forbiddingly formal. Guest rooms flaunt enormous picture windows, high ceilings, and exquisite bathrooms. The hotel accommodates only a handful of guests, and a highly trained staff caters to every whim. In the kitchen chefs prepare whatever guests request, and all drinks except wines and champagne are included in the rates. If you're traveling with a group, or want absolute privacy, the adjacent (and even costlier) Ellerman Villas are the way to go.

Conveniently located on a quiet street in upper Sea Point, this small good-value hotel in a beautiful Victorian-era home boasts concierge-level owner-rendered service and gorgeous quirky style in spades. Most of the comfortable and beautifully decorated rooms in this lovingly restored house have their own balconies, and a few have mountain or partial sea views. Perks include extra-long beds, air-conditioning, beach bags and sunscreen, flat-screen TVs, and free DVDs to lend. Elegant yet funky African-chic decor adds to public spaces that are chockablock with goodies like candy and cookie jars, a bar, and plenty of worthwhile reading material. An amazing breakfast is served on the covered sundeck overlooking the lovely heated saltwater pool and compact garden. Dinners can be provided on request, and management is happy to arrange other goodies like off-site spa treatments, picnic baskets, and tailored day trips with the lodge's own tour guides.

An icon of Cape Town since it opened its doors in 1899, this superbly located landmark sits on 9 beautifully landscaped acres and retains a charm and gentility unusual even in the world of luxury hotels. Rooms decorated with a perfect mix of fine antiques, contemporary art, and fresh flowers feel aristocratic but never stuffy. Though very centrally located, the famous manicured gardens and spectacular views of Table Mountain lend a bucolic feel. The traditional high tea experience—which takes place in the elegant lounge, glassed-in conservatory, and extends to the gardens in good weather—is a must. Additionally, with an excellent spa, frequent events like wine or brandy tastings and art exhibits, and playfully glamorous Planet Bar, there is always a reason to visit. Fabulous and discreet service go without saying.

With an amazing location in the heart of historic Cape Town, the Taj sits in the grand former headquarters of the South African Reserve Bank and provides the professional and luxurious hospitality that one would expect from this brand. From the eighth floor and higher you'll enjoy fabulous views of Table Mountain and the city, but the lower floors also can provide a wonderful vantage on the hustle of people in Company's Garden and Church Square just across the street. The general style is a subtle and lovely mix of Indian accents and classic European aesthetics. Dining is superb at the flagship Bombay Brasserie restaurant, a whimsically gorgeous space for Indian fine dining. The 24-hour lobby bar, "executive club" for second-floor and suite guests, and a small gallery that hosts monthly events make this hotel extremely popular with business-traveler parliamentarians and international visitors alike.  Rooms are divided into colonial (heritage section) or modern ("the tower") decor, so be sure to state your preference if you have one.

Visitors attracted to the Cape Peninsula for its natural grandeur will think they've died and gone to heaven when arriving at this discreetly luxurious boutique hotel. On the edge of the sea directly off Chapman's Peak Drive (a contender for world's most scenic road) and built around a wonderland of native fynbos and the few milkwood trees that survived a big 2015 fire, Tintswalo Atlantic is the only beachfront development in Table Mountain National Park. Themed after different islands, 11 roomy suites all offer breathtaking sea views and mountain views, comfy verandahs, wood-burning stoves, and divine bedding—all against the sound of breaking waves. Only 25 minutes from Cape Town, guests can enjoy the city but may rather opt to watch the whales playing in the bay. Five-course meals, an impressive wine cellar, in-room spa treatments, a fabulous pool deck (with the same amazing view), and excellent service complete the pampering at this exclusive and unique hideaway.  Decor in rooms varies significantly, so express your aesthetics to the booking agent.

If you fancy taking a helicopter to the airport or lazing in a bubble bath while looking out floor-to-ceiling windows at breathtaking sea and mountain views, then this award-winning, luxurious hotel and spa that is the only such property within Table Mountain National Park may be for you. With enormous indigenous gardens that meld into the National Park in its backyard and the Atlantic Ocean a stone's throw from the bar, this hotel, which is the only man-made structure between Camps Bay and Llandudno, has got location in spades. Light and airy rooms are styled with a classic elegance, and most have either mountain or sea views (the "classic" rooms have unfortunately close views of the garden). Constantly changing events like "dinner and a movie" night in the 16-seat cinema or special-occasion high teas and wine tastings are the norm, and the spa is considered one of Cape Town's best. The well-regarded on-site restaurant Azure also has stunning sea views, a fantastic breakfast, and wonderful à la carte menu.

Situated on 11 acres of gardens in leafy Constantia, this glamorous and avant-garde boutique hotel was originally an 18th-century Cape Dutch manor house and working farm. Luxurious rooms are in two buildings, all decorated in a bold style that marries the voluptuous excess of velvet and gilt with elegant historical decorum to fantastic effect. Rooms are spacious and bright, and overlook the gardens and a pleasant walking trail. The hotel is conveniently located for those exploring Constantia's renowned wine estates. On-site dining options are very good between Blanko, the Italian restaurant in the old manor house, the casual La Belle Bistro & Bakery, which serves excellent lighter fare all day long, and the outdoor Rose Bar Lounge, which enjoys a fantastic garden location to enjoy cocktails and sushi.

The only large hotel in glitzy Camps Bay, this luxurious yet beachy property—vintage motorcycles and surfboards serve as decor—sits directly across the street from a famously beautiful stretch of white sand and is backed by the towering cliffs of the Twelve Apostles. The hotel's raised pool deck (aka the Sandy B Private Beach Club) enjoys an excellent vantage over the sea, sand, and Camps Bay's main drag, where the beautiful people and their followers congregate. Rooms are contemporary, clean, and bright, incorporating a sophisticated range of neutral shades. Several pleasant restaurants and lounge spots means you'll never lack for a place to see and be seen. Three night minimum for bookings. 

Up against the mountainside right in the middle of Camps Bay, this small, intimate guesthouse enjoys stunning views over the popular seaside neighborhood below and across the ocean beyond. The decor in public areas is homey yet stylish, a mix of varnished Oregon pine surfaces, cobalt-blue-and-crimson stained glass that lends a Turkish feel, Nguni cowhides on the floors, and a lush garden. A small but very pretty pool on the deck enjoys the same views. The four suites all have some kind of view, though the two upstairs are definitely the winners. The friendly owners are very involved in getting things right, and they serve up a delicious breakfast.

The lovely and well-located Georgian and Victorian Cape Cadogan boutique hotel dates back to the beginning of the 19th century, and boasts a style that successfully blends contemporary and antique furnishings. The charming public areas—a library, lounge with wood-burning fireplace, and patio with a pool—are great places to relax, and the staff are accommodating and able to arrange just about anything you need. Located in the trendy Kloof Street area, it is within walking distance of numerous cafés and restaurants. Those interested in self-catering will find the More Quarters, a series of well-appointed apartments in four historic homes just a few feet from the hotel, the ideal lodging option for a longer stay or for families wanting more space.

Enjoying a stellar location in the working harbor section of the Waterfront—and rightfully renowned for its excellent service—the discreetly refined Cape Grace is popular with American celebrities, including the likes of Bill and Hillary Clinton. Decor at this storied hotel reflects the mélange of indigenous and foreign influences that have come to epitomize the Cape: hand-painted fabrics embellished with proteas, antiques like old cane fishing rods and Dutch china, and nautical murals make up the eclectic theme. Fantastic understated service, a world-class restaurant, and a charming library where you can take afternoon tea, enjoy views of the ships, or cozy up by a fire. 

Just a stone's throw from the Green Point stadium and the V&A Waterfront—and surrounded by restaurants and public transportation—the Cape Royale offers spacious apartment-style accommodations that make a great base for longer-term travelers. One-, two-, or three-bedroom suites, all with fully equipped kitchens and many with some kind of view, are roomy and luxurious with a clean, contemporary aesthetic. The Casuarina Spa downstairs offers fantastic treatments at competitive prices, and the rooftop pool and Sky Bar are a beautiful though not child-friendly place to spend an afternoon soaking in stunning 360-degree views with a cocktail or three. A free shuttle departing every 10 minutes from 8 to 8 takes you to the V&A Waterfront. Great bargains can be found online.

With acres of gardens and spectacular views across the Constantia Valley, this idyllic old-school getaway in two historic buildings makes the world beyond disappear. Built within the former winery and manor house of an 18th-century wine estate, large and elegant rooms are furnished in either a grand English-country or more pared-down, contemporary look. Rooms on the Hohenort side are gorgeous, with four-poster beds, fine draperies, reproduction antiques, and (upstairs) amazing views across the valley from private decks. Numerous exquisitely outfitted public areas from a library to nooks and crannies across the stunning garden mean you're never short on private places to disappear. A fantastic on-site restaurant, The Conservatory, boasts excellent, gracious service.

Victorian splendor meets modern glam at this small and intimate boutique hotel perched over Cape Town's trendy and ever-popular V&A Waterfront. Six rooms decked out in antique silver artifacts, crystal chandeliers, and edgy artwork, and the competence of the understated service are sure to impress. The property's prime location allows easy (and safe) exploration of the Waterfront with its plethora of dining, shopping, and other attractions. But with 24-hour room-service, a pool and bar overlooking the V&A Ferris wheel and harbor attractions, and a full range of treatments and gym facilities at the Sanctuary Spa annex, it's entirely possible you'll never want to leave.

This midsize boutique hotel on a quiet street in Sea Point is one part playful, Ibiza-inspired style—think orchids and a bright Greek Isle palette of white and turquoise—and one part elegant African touches. Rooms in the main building are very masculine with lots of dark wood, silvered surfaces, and Oriental carpets, while those in the so-called East wing come in neutral tones of white, silver, or taupe, and are airy and bright. Almost all of the East rooms have some kind of private deck or patio area, and most enjoy at least a partial mountain or sea view. Staff are friendly and happy to organize day trips and tours. The fresh and bright public spaces, including two pools surrounded by chaises and nice if partially blocked views, encourage socializing and lend a resort ambience.

A beautiful garden entrance leads you into this stylish oasis of a guesthouse where you can expect an atmosphere of luxurious privacy and attentive concierge service from on-site management. Spacious and elegantly designed suites all come equipped with king-sized beds, a patio or terrace, and extras like a bluetooth speaker, yoga mat, and beach-ready bag. Local cell phones are also available for complimentary use by request. From the exclusive Higgovale area above the Gardens neighborhood, views of Table Mountain from the garden (and most room terraces) are lovely when the weather is clear. Aesop bath products add a luxe touch to sleek bathrooms.

A great base for exploring the Constantia winelands, this peaceful boutique hotel with a lovely garden and incredibly spacious rooms successfully combines elegance with homey intimacy. The decor is classical, and fine touches include fluffy robes, luxurious toiletries, and wonderful baths with gorgeous mosaic details. Groups can even rent the entire establishment. Breakfast is served in the lush garden or conservatory, while lunch and dinner are only available on request.

In the spirit of founding investor Sol Kerzner's "go big or go home" philosophy, the One&Only Cape Town is a splendid tribute to excess with its four-story glass window views onto Table Mountain from the aptly named Vista Bar and decadent island spa surrounded by a moat. All rooms are larger than you'd find in most other hotels and beautifully furnished in contemporary African design chic. The island lends a tropical resort feel, added to by a spectacular outdoor infinity pool, award-winning spa, and the presence of Cape Town's very own branch of the renowned Nobu restaurant. A fantastic kid's club, excellent personalized service, and an amazing breakfast make your stay complete.

This compact designer boutique hotel that blends modern sleekness with accents of stone, rough wood, and slate to create a sexy Zen ambience enjoys a great location on a quiet corner just a block from Camps Bay's main drag. Clever design makes use of every view available, as seen in unexpected windows placed to enjoy slivers of Lion's Head and Table Mountain, and a hallway atrium on the second floor. Deluxe suites have fantastic ocean views and are super luxe. For good value for the money, choose a luxury room with a view (rather than with a private pool), as the hotel's infinity pool on the deck with great ocean views is a preferable splash anyway. Enjoy attentive professional service, an enticing bar area, and perks like the complimentary minibar in your room, free DVDs and popcorn, and an iPad for public use throughout your stay.

When it comes to great locations, this hotel is one of Cape Town's front-runners, perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, at one end of the popular pedestrian seafront promenade, and less than 10 minutes' walk to the popular V&A Waterfront. Updated rooms are spacious and pleasantly decorated in stylish neutral tones, and those with a sea view indulge fantasies that you're on a yacht out at sea. Be sure to enjoy the infinity pool spilling into the ocean view, and the very good spa with its own indoor heated pool. A drink or meal at Tobago's Restaurant and Terrace, a popular after-work sundowner spot, is also a great way to enjoy this fabulous location. Ask the friendly staff for a sea-facing room: this is why you're here.

Brilliantly melding industrial grit and sumptuous glamour, Cape Town’s hottest luxury hotel rises out of the old grain silo in the working harbor section of the Waterfront. Known in particular for its “pillowed” windows—56 panels of tempered glass in geometric iron frames—the hotel's grand rooms pop with gorgeous jewel-toned fabrics, edgy artwork, and dazzling chandeliers, pleasingly offset by the industrial feel lent by elements like exposed steel beams. From floors 8 to 10, those extraordinary windows frame gorgeous views of Table Mountain and the harbor, and a super-hip rooftop bar and pool area offers a breathtaking 360-degree vantage on one of the world’s most beautiful cities. With style in spades, The Silo seems a fitting neighbor for the newly opened Zeitz Museum—the largest contemporary art museum on the continent.

Located on the Cape's oldest—and still working—wine estate, this intimate and beautiful luxury hotel built mostly within renovated heritage structures is surrounded by manicured gardens, vineyards, a modern tasting room, two great restaurants, and a championship 18-hole golf course. Renovated to a luxurious, contemporary standard, the original barn and manor house now are home to spacious, elegant guest rooms in tones of silver and aqua furnished with antiques that contrast perfectly with the gorgeous modern touches. Premier rooms built in 2006 are more modern in look and feel, but also have lovely private patios. Three Heritage Suites, each with its own design style and decor, offer exceptional accommodations in two stories, all with fully equipped kitchens and private pools and lovely views. The estate's Catharina's restaurant is famous for its Sunday brunches spilling out under the giant oak trees in good weather, and the more casual Bistro Sixteen82 is an ideal spot to while away an afternoon sampling the estate's fabulous vintages and feasting on an excellent array of tapas. Don't leave without trying the estate's famous Sauvignon Blanc.

Smack in the middle of the Waterfront and surrounded by shops, bars, and restaurants, 94 luxurious rooms occupy the three floors that once served as a warehouse for cargo from the ships visiting what was once a purely working harbor. Most rooms are huge and luxurious, with bold plush fabrics, crisp linens, and all the amenities. Views from the costlier mountain-facing rooms are spectacular, encompassing not only Table Mountain but the city and docks as well. The large terrace is a great place to relax and enjoy the harbor views. The small loft rooms on the third floor are a more economical way to enjoy this location.

Located on more than 7 acres of rolling gardens overlooking the Liesbeek River, Cape Town's oldest hotel—built in and around the 18th-century home of Lady Anne Barnard—boasts comfortable rooms and numerous excellent facilities. Rooms are clean, comfortable, and stylishly decorated in tones of fresh pale green or silver and gray, enjoying either the spectacular views of Table Mountain’s backside or the beautifully landscaped courtyard. With four dining options, friendly service, endless places to sit and enjoy the views, as well as plenty of comfy nooks to tap away on a laptop, this hotel succeeds in keeping both leisure and business travelers happy. Although 15 minutes by car from the city, the hotel is walking distance from plenty of shops and only a five-minute drive from Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden.

Built in the 1920s, this old-school hotel enjoys a wonderful position overlooking the beautiful Sea Point promenade, with an elegant sea-facing terrace that is deservedly popular for tea and afternoon drinks. Value-oriented travelers will appreciate the comfortable and unfussy rooms, all of which are decorated in light, neutral colors. Furnishings in the older rooms could use an upgrade, but the modern classic rooms are just that, with a somewhat anodyne but contemporary masculine feel. Sunday jazz brunches are legendary (and should be booked in advance). Meanwhile, the Mediterranean-style courtyard draped in ivy and bougainvillea makes for an elegant summer refuge, offering tea and meals around a beautiful wrought-iron fountain.