Leave the car behind and wander Cape Town’s walkable heart. Explore museums, colourful neighbourhoods, and lively markets — all framed by Table Mountain’s ever-changing silhouette. At night, sample the full gamut of Cape Town’s thriving restaurant and café scene.
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This is where the city’s character shines through: charming throwbacks to the 18th century can be found at Heritage Square, in the pretty De Waterkant and adjacent to the historic Company Gardens. Elegant 18th-century buildings are tucked in between sleek modern facades, street musicians playing under ancient oaks, and the scent of roasting coffee in its many coffee shops mingling with sea air.
From your city-based hotel, you can walk (or hop in a quick Uber or taxi ride) to all of Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks.
Start your morning in the Company’s Garden, laid out in the 1650s as the vegetable patch for the Dutch East India Company and now one of Cape Town’s most beloved public spaces. From here, it’s a short stroll to the Iziko South African Museum, National Gallery, and Parliament Buildings — all shaded by centuries-old trees.
A few blocks away, Greenmarket Square hums with life. You can bargain it with the local artisans and curio sellers. (Though to be honest – now too touristy for me!)
Close by lies the Bo-Kaap, a kaleidoscope of brightly painted houses and cobbled streets. This historic Malay quarter offers not just striking photographs but fascinating cultural encounters — try a guided walking tour, visit one of their spice shops or join a Cape Malay cooking workshop for an aromatic taste of history.
Meanwhile, the De Waterkant district blends Cape Dutch charm with cosmopolitan flair, home to designer apartments, stylish bars, and contemporary dining spots. This area is also walking distance from the V&A Waterfront (15 mins walk.)
Did You Know?
The Company’s Garden is the oldest in South Africa, planted in 1652 to supply passing ships with fresh produce.
The city centre offers a wide range of hotels to suit every travel rhythm. The Taj Cape Town pairs heritage architecture with polished luxury, perfectly placed opposite the Company Gardens. Close by are more boutique options like Labotessa Hotel and Gorgeous George.
The 15 on Orange offers sleek urban chic and a decadent spa, while Cape Town Hollow offers modern comfort with mountain views, adjacent to the Gardens and Museums.
And on the city’s edge, the Mount Nelson remains Cape Town’s timeless grande dame, an oasis of pink tranquillity just minutes from the bustle. Whilst the Dorp Hotel lies above the city on the slopes of Signal Hill. Nearby, for families or longer stays, the De Waterkant area is ideal — its colourful streets hide a collection of chic two- and three-bedroom apartments where you can spread out.
Yes — during the day, the city centre is lively and safe for walking. As in any urban area, stay aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables. We recommend using taxis or Uber at night.
What’s the best time to stay in the city centre?
Year-round — the city centre enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cooler, clear winters. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for exploring on foot.
How far is the city centre from other Cape Town attractions?
As you can imagine, it is centrally places for everything. Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront are both just 10–15 minutes away by car, making it a convenient base
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Experience Cape Town’s cultural heartbeat — let us help you find the perfect city hotel, from historic icons to urban hideaways.
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