Cheap Hotels in Cape Town, South Africa
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Cheap Hotels in Cape Town, South Africa

A premium guide to cheap hotels in Cape Town, South Africa for Budget Travel readers.

Budget Travel Editorial

August 27, 2026 · 5 min read

Key takeaways

  • Public transport in Cape Town is efficient and affordable.
  • The best time to visit Cape Town is during the Southern Hemisphere's spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner.
  • Enjoy your stay in Cape Town, where the blend of history, culture, and natural beauty awaits.

Discovering Affordable Accommodation in Cape Town

Step into the vibrant heart of Cape Town, where the city's charm and affordability meet. This guide will help you find the perfect place to stay, whether you're looking for a cozy bed or a budget-friendly suite. Let's dive into the best options and explore what makes Cape Town a destination worth visiting.

Where to Stay

1. B&Bs and Hostels in the City Center?

Cape Town landmark
Cape Town landmark

For those seeking a more social and affordable stay, consider the city center, home to numerous bed and breakfasts and hostels. The Backpackers at the V&A Waterfront (R150 per night) offers a mix of dormitory and private rooms, perfect for solo travelers or groups. Nearby, the Castle of Good Hope Hostel (R100 per night) provides a historic backdrop with its 17th-century fort setting.

2. Guesthouses in District Six?

Cape Town street
Cape Town street

District Six, a bohemian neighborhood known for its vibrant street art and cultural diversity, offers unique guesthouses. The Little House on the Hill (R300 per night) is a cozy option with a garden view, while the House of the Wits (R250 per night) provides a more artistic atmosphere with its eclectic decor.

Attractions Near Your Stay

3. Table Mountain National Park?

Table Mountain, a for any traveler, offers views and a variety of activities. The cable car provides easy access to the summit, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city (R250 one-way). Alternatively, hike the Table Mountain Trail for a more adventurous experience (R150 for a permit).

4. Cape Town City Hall?

Step inside the impressive City Hall, a stunning example of Victorian architecture. The building hosts various events and exhibitions, and its grand interior is worth a visit (free admission).

Practical How-To

5. Public Transport and Taxis?

Public transport in Cape Town is efficient and affordable. The MyCiTi bus network (R3.50 per ride) connects the city center with surrounding areas, while the Cape Town Metro train (R3.50 per ride) offers a faster option. Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked through apps like Uber (R10-15 per km).

6. Dining and Nightlife?

Explore the local cuisine at places like The Good Food Company (R100 per meal) or the trendy Salt and Light (R150 per meal). For nightlife, check out the bars in Long Street or the V&A Waterfront area, where you can find a mix of live music venues and cocktail lounges.

Real Prices and Trade-Offs

7. Hotel Prices and Amenities?

While budget-friendly options are available, some may lack the amenities of more expensive hotels. For example, the Backpackers at the V&A Waterfront (R150 per night) offers shared facilities, while the Castle of Good Hope Hostel (R100 per night) provides a quieter environment with private rooms.

8. Local Tips and s?

Explore the lesser-known areas like the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, known for its colorful houses and rich history. Visit the nearby Green Market (R30 per person) for fresh produce and local crafts. The Bo-Kaap Museum (R50 per person) offers insights into the area's cultural heritage.

Planning Your Visit

9. When to Visit?

The best time to visit Cape Town is during the Southern Hemisphere's spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Avoid the peak season (December to February) for higher prices and larger crowds.

10. Tours and Activities?

Consider booking guided tours for a more comprehensive experience. The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway offers guided tours (R400 per person) and a chance to explore the mountain's flora and fauna. Alternatively, join a day trip to the Cape Peninsula, which includes visits to the Cape of Good Hope and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (R200 per person).

Sources

For more information on Cape Town, visit the official City of Cape Town website or the Visit Cape Town tourism site.

What flights LON to CPT actually cost

Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.

The cheapest return found right now is €618 with Z0, departing 10 Oct 2026 (11h 30m each way). See current fares.

Cheapest dates to fly

DeparturePriceAirlineStops
10 Oct 2026€618Z0DirectCheck
3 Nov 2026€637A1DirectCheck
3 Sept 2026€647Ryanair2 stopCheck
3 Oct 2026€657Z0DirectCheck
1 Oct 2026€661Z0DirectCheck

Live fares, checked 27 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.

Booking in Cape Town: where to look

We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.

  • Airalo — eSIM data the moment you land, no SIM swap
  • Saily — Travel eSIM with per-country plans
  • Yesim — eSIM covering multiple countries on one plan

A Signature Note

Enjoy your stay in Cape Town, where the blend of history, culture, and natural beauty awaits. Whether you're a solo traveler or part of a group, there's in this vibrant city. Happy travels!

Budget Travel Editorial

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