Cape Town is one of the world’s top cities with many great attractions and activities. Unfortunately, Cape Town also experiences a high rate of crime which may make tourists unsure about visiting this gem of a city.
Before we started our three-week visit to this magnificent city, we were uncertain about where the best areas to stay in Cape Town were. If you are feeling similar then you have come across the right page.
Cape Town, known as the “Mother City” of South Africa, is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Contrary to all the feared stories, the reality paints a very different picture, and in this article, we will advise you of all of the safe and popular areas in Cape Town.
Is Cape Town Safe To Visit?
Of course crime exists in Cape Town and reports of travelers being mugged are not uncommon. However, we have personally never encountered any issues and always felt safe during our visit.
By taking common-sense precautions and being aware of your surroundings, many travelers visit Cape Town without encountering any safety issues.
The city boasts a significant police presence and is also supported by private security firms.
There is a large homeless population, but often they won’t ask for anything. In fact, many try to earn a living by engaging in informal work on the streets.
We were asked for money now and again, but with a firm NO, we walked on without any problems. If approached by individuals looking for money, it’s best to stay calm and composed. If you choose not to contribute, and that is OK, then politely decline and continue on your way without engaging in conversation.
To learn more about dealing with scammers, hustlers, and aggressive hawkers read the following article – 8 Simple Ways to Prevent Tourist Trap Scams.
The Best Areas To Stay In Cape Town
Choosing the best area to stay in Cape Town largely depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your Cape Town holiday.
Here are some popular areas in Cape Town along with their highlights:
The Best Areas To Stay In Cape Town: The City Bowl
The City Bowl is the central area of Cape Town. It includes the “Gardens Area” and the city’s Downtown CBD, this is a very popular area in Cape Town among tourists and locals.
The term “City Bowl” refers to the natural amphitheater-shaped area bordered by Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Signal Hill, and Devil’s Peak. All together it forms a bowl!
We stayed in the Gardens Area for three weeks and had a great experience without any issues. Plus, you can easily walk to Lion’s Head for a hike from here.
We opted for an apartment-style accommodation to cook our meals and lessen spending costs. But remember we are traveling full time! A wide array of accommodation options are available to suit all budgets.
The City Bowl Things To See
Known for its lively and central location, the city bowl is one of the most popular areas in Cape Town and an ideal base for exploring the city’s attractions and natural wonders.
The iconic Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and Bo Kaap are within easy reach from here.
Other nearby and notable attractions are The Company’s Garden, a stunning public park located in the heart of Cape Town. Additionally, there’s Long Street, known for its lively atmosphere of bars and restaurants.
Furthermore, visitors can explore the District 6 Museum, which offers insight into the history of apartheid in Cape Town.
Lastly, you must include a visit to the Nelson Mandela Statue outside the Cape Town City Hall. This famous statue commemorates Nelson Mandela’s historic address from the balcony of City Hall following his release from prison in 1990.
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Our suggestions for accommodation in the City Bowl are based on factors such as value for money, guest reviews, good location, and amenities like swimming pools and city views.
- Budget – Long Street Backpackers | Zebra Crossin Backpackers |
- Mid Range – Amina Boutique Hotel | Casa Del Sonder |
- Luxury – Abbey Manor Luxury Guesthouse | One Kensington Boutique Hotel |
The Best Areas To Stay In Cape Town: The V&A Waterfront
The “V&A” in V&A Waterfront stands for “Victoria & Alfred.” It is named after Queen Victoria of England and her son Prince Alfred. The area was named in their honor during the 19th century when it served as a harbor and trading post.
Today the area is packed with shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions like the Two Oceans Aquarium. It is the launch point for a day trip to Robben Island and there are also many boat tours available here.
The V&A Waterfront area is huge, and you can explore for hours admiring the many artwork installations, historic storehouses, luxury yachts, and lots of playful seals in the harbor.
Among these attractions, there’s a fantastic Irish bar called the Ferryman that serves delicious and quality pints of Guinness. After a day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than to relax with a pint while taking in the breathtaking backdrop of Table Mountain.
Our suggestions for accommodation in the V&A Waterfront are based on factors such as value for money, guest reviews, good location, and amenities like swimming pools and city views.
- Budget – |Big Blue Backpackers |Cape Finest|
- Mid Range – |Harbour Bridge Suite 220 |Old Foundry Hotel |
- Luxury – |Radisson Hotel V&A Waterfront Cape Town |The Table Bay Hotel |
The Best Areas To Stay In Cape Town: Camps Bay + Clifton
Camps Bay and Clifton are some of the best areas to stay in Cape Town for both travelers and locals, who can afford it!
Located next to one another, both Camps Bay and Clifton are popular areas in Cape Town with arguably some of the best beaches in Cape Town.
There are plenty of upscale accommodations, restaurants, and bars available.
Both Camps Bay and Clifton are excellent choices for a more luxurious beachside experience during your Cape Town holiday.
Our suggestions for accommodation in the Camps Bay and Clifton area’s are based on factors such as value for money, guest reviews, good location, and amenities like swimming pools and city views.
Budget accommodation here will be more expensive when compared to accommodation in The City Bowl.
- Budget |Guest House Michelitsch| The Atlantic DonReal Guesthouse|
- Middle price |Camps Bay Guest Suite with private pool |Finchley Guesthouse|
- Luxury | Atlantic view Cape Town Boutique Hotel| Camps Bay Retreat Hotel|
The Best Areas To Stay In Cape Town: Sea Point + Green Point
Sea Point and Green Point are our last two popular areas in Cape Town. Both are situated north of Clifton, and within proximity to the V&A Waterfront, but a lot quieter!
These neighboring areas in Cape Town provide a range of luxurious accommodations, making them sought-after destinations for travelers.
With their upscale amenities and safety, Sea Point and Green Point are considered among the best areas to stay in Cape Town.
Our suggestions for accommodation in the Sea Point and Green Point area’s are based on factors such as value for money, guest reviews, good location, and amenities like swimming pools and city views.
- Budget – |Head South Lodge| 4 on Highworth Apartments |
- Mid Range – |Sundown Manor Guest House |Bayflowers Guest House |
- Luxury – |Home Suite Hotels Station House| Romney Park Luxury Apartments|
Is Cape Town a Walkable City?
Throughout our time in Cape Town, we explored the city on foot on many occasions.
Situated in the City Bowl, we often went on long walks through Cape Town, such as the 10-kilometer loop around Lion’s Head, we are Happy Irish WANDERERS after all!
These walks would take us through Camps Bay, Clifton, Sea Point, Green Point, and the V&A Waterfront), and again, not once did we feel unsafe or get hassled.
All areas have pedestrian-friendly streets, sidewalks, and promenades, making it easy to explore on foot. However, it does get quite hilly from Camps Bay to the City Bowl.
So is Cape Town a walkable city? As long as you exercise caution and use common sense, you will have no problems at all!
Enjoy Your Cape Town Holiday!
Visiting Cape Town promises an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking scenery, rich heritage, and lots of great activities. From Table Mountain to the waterfront, the city offers so many great attractions.
Despite the reputation it has, Cape Town is a great city to visit, with a welcoming atmosphere and lots of choice of accommodations for all budgets.
We are certain you will enjoy your Cape Town visit!
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