CAPE TOWN – BEST AIRBNBs
Are you planning a trip to Cape Town in South Africa and looking for the best Airbnbs out there? Let me help you!
I would go as far as to say that Cape Town has some of the best Airbnb’s in the world. So how do you go and choose one that is perfect for you?
I have preselected the best neighbourhoods for you, as well as the most amazing Airbnbs to make your stay unforgettable.
So let’s not waste any more time and get straight into planning your amazing trip to Cape Town!
These 15 Airbnbs cover different budgets, locations, and styles. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends you will definitely find something you will love!
HOW TO CHOOSE WHERE TO STAY
It is rather tricky deciding where to stay in Cape Town. Why? Because Cape Town could easily be divided into 10 small cities given how different its neighbourhoods and landscape are. It also has thousands of (incredible) places to stay.
So how do you choose? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1 – Start by visualising Cape Town divided into two parts by the famous Table Mountain
Step 2 – Decide whether you would rather be on the Atlantic Seaboard side (left of Table Mountain) next to the beach and more residential areas. Or would you rather be on the City Bowl side (right to the mountain) where all the museums and Cape Town’s best restaurants are?
Step 3 – Choose the specific neighbourhood within the side of the city which you chose
Step 4 – Once you have chosen the neighbourhood, deciding on the particular Airbnb will be easy!
You need to make up your mind regarding the first two steps. I will then help you with steps 3 and 4, so keep on reading to find out about Cape Town’s best neighbourhoods to find out which one is the right one for you!
CAPE TOWN NEIGHBOURHOODS
This is a very short introduction to the best neighbourhoods in Cape Town so that you can choose strategically where you want to stay. There are so many great but distinct areas that you should really think which place you want to choose as your base. Do you want to be right in the center of things or rather escape to the nature and just visit whenever you feel like it?
Let’s find your perfect neighbourghood!
VICTORIA & ALFRED WATERFRONT
You’ll be spoiled for choice at this waterfront destination. There are hundreds of shops and restaurants to choose from. Also, the activities on offer will please everyone – from water sports to modern art. Furthermore, the views of the ocean and Table Mountain are some of the best around.
BO-KAAP
Traditionally, this is the area where slaves and workers lived. Therefore, the houses are all historic and have been painted beautiful colours over the years. Visit Bo-Kaap for fascinating history and delicious Cape Malay food!
SEA POINT
Mainly, Sea Point is known for its beaches and long promenade. Visit during the day for ocean air and a swim. Later, enjoy delicious food and drink along Regent or Main Road at one of the many, superb restaurants or bars.
CAMPS BAY
Camps Bay is Cape Town’s party beach. Here, you’ll find mountain and ocean views and perfect, white sand. Otherwise, on the promenade, there are bars and restaurants to suit every taste.
CLIFTON
Clifton is the ideal spot for sunbathers. Choose from one of its four, famous beaches and tan until as late as 6.30 pm during the summer. However, don’t forget the sunscreen!
GARDENS
Gardens is the place to go for culture. It boasts museums and galleries, and a well-known independent cinema. Additionally, find some of the best restaurants and coffee shops in town here!
HOUT BAY
Hout Bay offers a seaside getaway from the bustle of the city. Visit for delicious seafront eateries. Furthermore, nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy, like the Bird Park.
WOODTOCK
Woodstock is one of the oldest, hippest areas in the city. Here, there are plenty of relaxed places to eat and drink. Otherwise, soak up local culture like live music or street art, or go vintage shopping!
KALK BAY
Get away from the crowds in Kalk Bay on False Bay. Here, you’ll find one-of-a-kind bars and eateries, as well as unique boutiques. Adventurers can take a tour through Boomslang Cave!
CAPE TOWN BEST AIRBNBs
For clarity, in terms of price indication, I have used ($) for properties that cost around 100 EUR per night, ($$) for properties that are at around 200 EUR per night, and ($$$) for those which cost above 300 EUR per night.
1. EZULWINI
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Clifton
BIGGEST PRO: There are breathtaking Ocean views from almost every room!
This beach house is ideal for lots of family and friends. It is huge and beautifully decorated throughout. Additionally, there is a private pool and sun terrace overlooking the Ocean. Furthermore, a study, patio, and rec room mean there’s something for everyone!
2. BO-KAAP APARTMENT ($)
LOCATION: Camps Bowl, Bo-Kaap
BIGGEST PRO: The balcony has sensational views of Table Mountain.
This apartment is located in the heart of the city. Above all, cosy and trendy, it is perfect for couples. It is a short walk from all the attractions of central Cape Town. However, it is also a comfortable place to relax. Finally, there is a shared pool that overlooks the skyline. Enjoy a sunrise or sunset swim!
3. THE SPA HOUSE ($$$)
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Hout Bay
BIGGEST PRO: A beautiful, marble underwater spa including a sauna
This hillside hideaway is a sleek, modern dream. One side is almost completely glass; this gives stunning views over the pool, terrace, and nearby mountains. The tasteful, minimalist design will comfortably house up to six guests. Sunbathe by the pool, then head down to relax more in the house’s exclusive underwater spa. Furthermore, you’re only 2km from the beach at Hout Bay – paradise.
4. FOUR UITSIG ($$$)
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Camps Bay
BIGGEST PRO: The terrace is enormous and sunny. Furthermore, it has stunning views!
This is a tranquil, luxurious suite close to Camps Bay. Inside, the property is big and bright. Furthermore, the design will make you feel like you’re in a palace. Additionally, there is a huge, private sundeck. This provides amazing views of the ocean and Cape Town’s mountains. Relax and tan or cool off in the pool!
5. UITKYK FAMILY COTTAGE ($)
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Kommetjie, near Hout Bay
BIGGEST PRO: The terrace overlooking the ocean is the perfect place to end your day with family or friends
This is a great choice for families seeking a relaxing retreat. The historic cottage has been beautifully decorated. Inside, it is light and airy. Outside, there are two private terraces giving breathtaking views of the Ocean and mountains. Also, there is a generous swimming pool. Additionally, it is close to the picturesque fishing village of Kommetjie. The centre of Cape Town is not far, either. Finish your day with a poolside BBQ on the property’s own grill.
6. NATURE LOVER’S NEST ($$)
LOCATION: Between Atlantic Seaboard and City Bowl, Between Camps Bay & Gardens
BIGGEST PRO: This property gives direct access to Table Mountain!
This property is at the foot of Table Mountain. However, Gardens and the city centre are not far either! Therefore, it is perfect for visitors who want both the city and nature. Otherwise, you can enjoy comfortable, modern interior design. Additionally, there is a spacious, sunny terrace. This is the ideal place to watch the sunrise over the ocean!
7. ECO BEACH BUNGALOW ($)
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Kommetjie, near Hout Bay
BIGGEST PRO: The outdoor tub lets you relax underneath granadilla vines
Located in the Table Mountain Reserve, this bungalow is perfect for nature lovers. It is solar-powered and uses fresh rainwater. The property opens into a tranquil garden. The estate gives direct access to Long Beach. Surf, stroll, or spot flamingos nearby! Overall, it is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature. Furthermore, it is ideal for couples or families.
8. LUXURY PENTHAUS ($$)
LOCATION: Camps Bowl, Gardens
BIGGEST PRO: The gold bathtub gives a spectacular view of the city and mountains!
This penthouse is in the centre of Cape Town. Therefore, it is brilliant for a city break. The design is modern, fashionable, and comfortable. Furthermore, there are breath-taking features like the sinks and gold bathtub! However, the real plus are the windows and terrace. These offer amazing views of Cape Town and the hills from dawn until dusk.
9. HONEYMOON LIGHTHOUSE COTTAGE ($)
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Kommetjie, near Hout Bay
BIGGEST PRO: The veranda is perfect for an intimate evening with stunning ocean views
This cosy, comfortable cottage is perfect for couples. Inside, it is bright and spacious. The loft boasts a king-size bed and large skylights. The private terrace is the ideal place to relax. Furthermore, it gives a stunning ocean view – you might spot some whales! Otherwise, enjoy all the delights of nearby Kommetjie and Hout Bay.
10. MODERN STUDIO WITH MOUNTAIN VIEWS ($)
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Sea Point
BIGGEST PRO: A balcony that gives a jaw-dropping view of Lion’s Head
Ideal for couples, this studio is near the beaches and bustle of Sea Point. It is comfortable and cosy. Furthermore, it is tastefully furnished. However, the biggest draw is its balcony. Amazingly, this offers an incredible view of Lion’s Head. Therefore, it is the perfect place to unwind after exploring the city centre.
11. CAMPS BAY APARTMENT ($)
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Camps Bay
BIGGEST PRO: The ‘secret garden’ allows you to relax in complete privacy.
This apartment is a short walk from the Camps Bay promenade and beach. It is bright and full of light all day long. Moreover, it is comfortable inside. Additionally, the sunny terrace provides stunning views of the ocean. Furthermore, there is a heated plunge pool you can use all year round. Finally, the mountain garden with its private sun deck lets you unwind in nature.
12. OCEAN VIEW VILLA ($)
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Sea Point
BIGGEST PRO: The sun terrace with a built-in grill. Additionally, this offers stunning views of the skyline and ocean!
This villa is ideal for families. It is spacious and tastefully decorated. Furthermore, it is full of natural light during the day. The garden with its sunny terrace offers a place to relax above a magnificent view of the ocean. Otherwise, it features thoughtful touches such as a fire basket and a warm, outdoor shower.
13. CLIFTON APARTMENT ($$)
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Clifton
BIGGEST PRO: This apartment is as close to the beach as you can get!
This apartment is elegant and modern. Moreover, it sits above a pristine white beach in Clifton. The apartment makes the most of this location with enormous windows and glass walls. Furthermore, the terrace is close enough for you to hear the waves. Overall, this promises a sophisticated stay a stone’s throw from the beach.
14. OCEANFRONT APARTMENT ($$$)
LOCATION: Atlantic Seaboard, Clifton
BIGGEST PRO: An ocean view that fills the windows!
This apartment is cosy and comfortable with an ocean view to die for. It has been thoughtfully furnished to feel homely. Moreover, the kitchen is sleek and modern – ideal for entertaining. However, the biggest plus is its jaw-dropping view of the Atlantic. Therefore, it offers a relaxing base near Clifton.
15. MOUNT PLEASANT ($)
LOCATION: Camps Bowl, Newlands, near Woodstock
BIGGEST PRO: The sunny, private pool has a view of Table Mountain!
This is a gorgeous Victorian house at the foot of Table Mountain. The inside is not only light but also spacious, and comfortable. The period details will make you feel like you’re traveling back in time! Outside, there is a private pool. Furthermore, the garden is a leafy, peaceful place to relax. Finally, it is only a short trip from the city center.
FINAL TIPS
If you have more than 3 nights in Cape Town then I would definitely divide up the time between Atlantic Seaboard and Camps Bowl. For example, spend some time in Clifton and some in Gardens and Victoria & Albert Waterfront. That way you will discover both sides of the city.
My favourites are Four Uitsing, Ezulwini & Nature Lover’s Nest!
Make sure to book those places early, to make sure that they are still available and if you stay for longer always try to negotiate the rate by speaking with the owner. It has worked for me many times. Usually, you can get 10-15% off for longer stays above 4 nights.
I hope you will enjoy Cape Town as much as I did!
Yours,
Marta // Voyage Provocateur
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