It's finally time to start planning your holiday and you're looking for the best hotels in Cape Town to stay at. Whether it's for your honeymoon, a romantic getaway, or a family holiday, Cape Town is perfect for everyone and every occasion! But how do you find the perfect hotel in Cape Town for your stay? It can be a daunting task with so many options to filter through, from boutique hotels to luxury resorts. But that's why we're here. As the World's Best Safari Company, we've been to each of these Cape Town hotels and can recommend the best. We must just give you fair warning: you'll never want to leave our beautiful Mother City!
The perfect sundowner spot on the Camissa House rooftop bar
Simply the Best
Cape Town is one of the most beautiful places you'll ever visit. Are we biased because it's our home? Maybe! However, that doesn't change the fact that it's a wonderfully unique destination with many luxurious experiences to look forward to. Cape Town and its surroundings are home to some of the most exclusive boutique hotels, luxurious all-inclusive hotels and guesthouses.
Lucky for you, we have stayed at all the best hotels in Cape Town! Therefore, we know exactly what we're recommending to you. And it's this first-hand experience that keeps our guests coming back for second, third, fourth (and more) times!
Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic getaway, a family wanting to discover one of Africa's most beautiful cities, or just someone curious about South Africa, we've got the perfect fit for you!
The best hotels in Cape Town also have the best locations, Image Credit: Tintswalo Atlantic
The Best Hotels in Cape Town
Here's our selection of the best luxury hotels in Cape Town you should consider for your next stay in South Africa's Mother City.
1. Camissa House
Camissa House offers more than you might expect from a luxury boutique hotel. Located on the slopes of Table Mountain, it treats you to unbelievable views. And as one of the more intimate accommodation options in the Mother City, Camissa House has only eight luxury rooms, with a maximum capacity of 16 guests. This ensures that the atmosphere remains intimate and the service highly personalised.
You'll find your personal butler ready to mix your cocktail just like you like it, around the clock. Another highlight is the delectable daily high tea spread! The deck overlooking the glittering city lights and the Atlantic Ocean is the perfect spot for sundowners. You'll feel torn between spending the day at the hotel or venturing out. But, luckily, you can do both as you're in the city's hub, close to all the main attractions.
Camissa House offers a mountainside escape with views of the ocean and city
What Makes Camissa House Special?
- Located on the slopes of Table Mountain, with direct access to the mountain and its various walking trails
- Some of the best views of the city, Lion's Head and Signal Hill
- An intimate accommodation experience with only eight rooms
- Exclusivity and exceptional butler service
- Close to everything Cape Town has to offer
Perfect for:
A romantic getaway.
The incredible views from the Camissa House rooftop bar and deck
2. Ellerman House
Located in one of South Africa's high-end suburbs of Bantry Bay, Ellerman House offers luxury, art, nature and classic elegance. Proud members of the esteemed Relais & Châteaux portfolio, Ellerman House has a private onsite wine cellar (with over 7,500 wines) and an impressive art collection. Here, they really go the extra mile, from collecting you from the airport in a custom-made BMW 7 series to other little treats like the 24-hour "naughty corner" pantry for your sugar fix.
Each of the 13 rooms is uniquely styled, bringing its own personality. Ellerman House also has two luxury private villas for the more discerning guests who want the utmost privacy, with your own team at your beck and call. The hotel is only minutes away from Clifton's beaches, continually voted among the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The luxurious Ellerman House
What Makes Ellerman House Special?
- Unbelievable views of the Atlantic ocean
- The largest private collection of South African art
- Unique wine cellar with over 7,500 bottles on display
- World-class spa facilities offering a wide variety of services
- Delectable fine dining with the addition of Bar Roc on site serving delicious cocktails and other drinks
Perfect for:
A romantic getaway or guests who are more concerned about their privacy.
3. One&Only Cape Town
Located in the famous Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, One&Only Cape Town has entertainment galore at its doorstep. The hotel has reaped many awards over the years, and you'll quickly see why!
Indulge in fine dining at the Michelin chef-run Nobu restaurant, admire the beautiful views over the whole city from the Vista Bar, or sip wines from their extensive wine selection at their Wine Loft. The cherry on top is the award-winning Spa Island, with an excellent wellness menu. It's the perfect paradise to unwind and get pampered!
A spectacular setting in the city, Image Credit: One&Only Cape Town
What Makes the One&Only Cape Town Special?
- Prime location at the V&A Waterfront
- A wide range of experiences at your fingertips
- An exceptional Wine Studio offering experiences such as the Sip&Savour and South African Wine Blending
- Great selection of award-winning restaurants on site
- The most extensive spa service in Cape Town
Perfect for:
Families and groups.
4. Cape Grace
Situated on a private quay across from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Grace has an established reputation in Cape Town. Since 2014, this red-brick building has become a beacon for travellers looking for a luxury hotel in the heart of South Africa's oldest city.
You'll be able to enjoy award-winning dining at Signal Restaurant and the Bascule Whiskey and Wine Bar, boasting over 400 whiskies, the most extensive collection in the Southern Hemisphere. Cape Grace hotel also has many wellness facilities with a wide range of treatments at their onsite Cape Grace Spa. Another personal favourite of ours is that they serve port and sherry in the library every night, where you can mingle with other guests.
The hotel overlooks the Waterfront marina, Signal Hill and Table Mountain. It's one of the best views to wake up to! You're also just a stroll away from everything Cape Town offers, from restaurants and shops to the helipad for a bird's-eye view of the peninsula.
Marina views from your room, Image Credit: Cape Grace
What Makes Cape Grace Special?
- Ideally located on a private quay at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
- Award-winning Signal Restaurant on site
- Most extensive whiskey collection in the Southern Hemisphere
- A distinct mix of modern and Cape Colonial décor
- Cape Grace Spa offers world-class spa treatments
Perfect for:
Families.
Bubbles and views for days
5. Belmond Mount Nelson
Mount Nelson is Cape Town's most iconic luxury hotel, if not the most famous. The hotel is rich in history and was fondly nicknamed "The Pink Lady" after it was painted pink to commemorate peace and the end of World War I in 1918.
It's located on a lush estate in the city centre with manicured gardens and Table Mountain as its backdrop. As the regulars love to call this award-winning hotel, the "Nellie" offers a unique experience in Cape Town. You can enjoy the best high tea in Cape Town, dine at Planet Restaurant and relax with wellness treatments at Librisa Spa. You also have an outdoor playground of tennis courts, two heated swimming pools, and vast manicured gardens to explore.
But what we appreciate most about Mount Nelson is the tradition of old-world elegance merged with modern convenience. The building first catches your eye, as it's very distinctive with a prime position in Cape Town. However, the impeccable service will win you over and keep you coming back for more. And it's because of this sterling reputation that Mount Nelson continues to attract the rich and famous from across the globe.
The famous Mount Nelson Hotel, Image Credit: Belmond Mount Nelson
What Makes the Belmond Mount Nelson Special?
- Since opening in 1899, Winston Churchill, John Lennon, Nelson Mandela and the Prince of Wales have stayed here
- World-renowned for its flourishing gardens and pink exterior
- Luxury experiences like classic car excursions and historical and wine tours
- Take a "walking safari" with the hotel’s expert mountain and fynbos guide
- An exquisite high tea experience with a Tea Sommelier
Perfect for:
Families and groups.
Table Mountain is Mount Nelson's backdrop, Image Credit: Mount Nelson
6. Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
The Twelve Apostles Hotels and Spa holds a special place in our hearts. Unlike most hotels, it's not in the busy city centre. This hotel rests in an exceptional natural environment, a short drive from Camps Bay. Wedged between the Table Mountain National Park mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers some of the most spectacular sunset views in Cape Town.
But the view at Twelve Apostle Hotel and Spa is not the only attraction. Best known for going the extra mile for their guests, the hotel's long list of experiences and services include a 16-seater private cinema, fine dining at Azure Restaurant, excellent wines from the special "Vinoteque", hiking trails and picnic spots around the resort, a heated infinity pool and rock pool, hammocks in the fynbos garden, a helipad and pet-friendly garden suites.
If that isn't enough, the 5-star hotel also offers unique services. Guests have access to the best wellness facilities, from the Rasul Chamber and hydrotherapy pools to a floatation tank. The spa is listed as one of the "Leading Spas in South Africa", and you can enjoy your wellness treatments in the fynbos garden, a type of vegetation unique to Cape Town.
Presidential Suite, Image Credit: Twelve Apostles
What Makes the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa Special?
- Unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean
- Experiences such as helicopter trips, kayaking with penguins or foraging for botanicals to craft bespoke G&Ts
- Award-winning spa built into the mountainside with views of the ocean
- Gourmet restaurant, a trendy bar and even a small cinema
- Direct access to Table Mountain National Park
Perfect for:
Families, romantic getaways and pet owners – this is one of the few pet-friendly hotels in Cape Town.
Views for days, Image Credit: Twelve Apostles
7. The Silo Hotel
The Silo Hotel is like a gem, and each facet is perfect, dazzling guests visiting Cape Town from across the globe. This hotel is a former grain silo complex, making it truly unique. And its prime location in the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront makes it as convenient as it's luxurious.
The Silo Hotel is a bit of an artwork in itself, with steel and glass panels and multi-faceted structures reflecting the sun. It's also located on top of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), home to the world's largest collection of modern African art.
The Silo Hotel offers 28 unique rooms, ranging from Standard to Royal Suites. In addition to spectacular views over Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel welcomes you with a rooftop swimming pool, fine dining and an exquisite penthouse. Their Silo Rooftop is also one of the best places for sundowners!
The unique exterior of the Silo Hotel, Image Credit: The Silo
What Makes the The Silo Hotel Special?
- Built in a historic grain silo above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in V&A Waterfront
- Panoramic views of Lion's Head, Table Mountain, the ocean, city and harbour
- Exceptionally architectural design by the London-based architect Thomas Heatherwick
- Private collection of over 250 pieces of contemporary African art
- Close proximity to many amazing experiences in the city
Perfect for:
Lovebirds and families.
The Silo’s Penthouse Study, Image Credit: Silo Hotel
8. Tintswalo Atlantic
Tintswalo Atlantic is tucked away in a unique location. Built right on the seashore, on the foot of Chapman's Peak, this elegant boutique hotel is one of a kind. Perfect for a romantic getaway, Tintswalo Atlantic is not only renowned for its exceptional setting in the Cape Peninsula. It's also widely appreciated for the quality of its personalised service and attention to detail. Whatever you desire, the staff will make it happen. They also have one of the best restaurants in town, Chef's Warehouse, where you can feast on contemporary tapas.
With a tranquil pebble beach on your doorstep, a long wooden deck for dining and sunset drinks, yoga and crossfit classes on the beach and a curated wine selection, Tintswalo Atlantic has everything you need and more. If you're looking for a day out in Cape Town, it's a short 25-minute drive away from Cape Town city centre along one of the peninsula's most scenic routes, winding between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
Unforgettable sunsets, Image Credit: Tintswalo Atlantic
What Makes Tintswalo Atlantic Special?
- Unique location on the foothills of Chapman's Peak Drive
- Built right on the shore, with the waves lapping right in front of your room
- Hout Bay, Table Mountain Nature Reserve and Constantia wineries are nearby
- Close to the city and all of Cape Town's best activities
- Exceptional dining at Liam Tomlin’s Chefs Warehouse
Perfect for:
This hotel is ideal for couples (or anyone really) looking for privacy in a truly spectacular setting.
Luxurious layers, Image Credit: Tintswalo Atlantic
Book One of The Best Hotels in Cape Town with Rhino Africa
Cape Town is continually voted as the best city in the world. We could write pages and pages about what our city has to offer. But we'll keep some of its secrets for you to discover for yourself!
We understand that having too many choices to make when planning your holiday can be overwhelming. How do you find the best Cape Town hotel for your trip when they all look spectacular? Picking a lodge becomes as hard as picking a movie on Netflix on a Saturday night. And, oh boy, we know how hard it can be!
But don't worry. Unlike Netflix, we've got experts available to help you. So, let's start planning your dream holiday to South Africa's most beloved city! Contact our Travel Experts today, and they'll tailor-make your dream African holiday.
