Cape Town City Bowl

The City Bowl basks in the dramatic shadow of Table Mountain, where mist drapes the summit like a white tablecloth. Below, leafy streets, 19th-century villas, and boutique hotels form the creative, cosmopolitan heart of Cape Town.

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Cape Town’s Chic, Central Neighbourhoods

Cape Town City bowl with Lions HeadThe Cape Town City Bowl sits in a natural amphitheatre carved between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, its streets rising gently up lower slopes of Table Mountain towards the cable car above. This is Cape Town’s prosperous, residential heart — a cluster of leafy, historic suburbs including Gardens, Tamboerskloof, and Oranjezicht.

Here, 19th-century villas shaded by jacarandas line increasingly steep streets, while hip cafés and rooftop bars spill onto pavements. Mornings bring joggers and dog-walkers; evenings fill with the low hum of conversation and the clink of wine glasses.

Bo-kaap, the original Cape Malay quarter, is also in the Cape Town City Bowl. This picturesque area of brightly coloured houses nestles just below Signal Hill.

The City Bowl captures Cape Town’s essence: stylish, historic, and always surprising.

 

Leafy Luxury & Local Living

The City Bowl is ideal for travellers who love both city life and easy access. You’re just 10 minutes from the V&A Waterfront and 15 minutes over Kloof Nek to Camps Bay’s beaches. You’re surrounded by greenery but still with some local buzz.

It’s also one of Cape Town’s most characterful areas, where heritage and design blend easily. It’s appeal lies in small-scale elegance.

 

Did You Know?
The City Bowl’s shape isn’t just poetic — it’s literal. The natural amphitheatre formed by Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Signal Hill, and Devil’s Peak creates a bowl-like basin that cradles the city.

 

Where to Stay in Cape Town City Bowl

Some of Cape Town’s most acclaimed boutique hotels are tucked into these slopes: Cape Cadogan, Kensington Place, Four Rosmead and Welgelegen.

They have been joined by some stylish contemporary four star hotels, just off the buzzy Kloof Street with its restaurants, cafes, local galleries and boutique shops.

And of course, the iconic Mount Nelson Hotel — Cape Town’s “Grand Dame” — anchors the district with timeless grace and pink-painted charm. Close enough to walk to the Company Gardens with its museums, but set in its own gardens.

Note: Some of our City Bowl boutique hotels lie close to Kloof Street, Others are more secluded, further up the mountain foothills and so often with spectacular views. But perhaps a taxi or Uber ride to restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cape Town City Bowl

Cape Town city bowl - View of historical neighbourhood in city with street cafes.

What makes the City Bowl different from staying in the city centre?
The City Bowl offers a quieter, more residential feel — with leafy streets, characterful guesthouses, and easy access to both the city and beaches. It’s ideal if you enjoy charm and convenience without being right in the business district.

How far is the City Bowl from Cape Town’s major attractions?
It’s about 10 minutes to the V&A Waterfront, 15 minutes over Kloof Nek to the Camps Bay beaches, and within a short taxi or Uber ride from the Table Mountain cable car.

Are there good restaurants nearby?
Yes,  Bree Street and Kloof Street are two of Cape Town’s most dynamic dining areas, filled with trendy bars, coffee shops, and local eateries ranging from fine dining to creative fusion dishes.

Stay where Cape Town’s beauty surrounds you — we’ll help you find the perfect boutique hotel beneath Table Mountain.

Why We Love It

  • Well situated to get to everywhere quickly. It’s only a 10 minutes drive to the V&A Waterfront and a quick 10-15 minutes to the beaches of Camps Bay
  • Take the cable car up Table Mountain
  • Signal Hill, Lions Head, Devils Peak and Table Mountain all contain hiking trails of varying difficulty, each offers a different yet exceptional view of the city below
  • Plenty of top restaurants, rooftop bars and local hangouts with some of the best in Bree and Kloof Street

Check out the top Restaurants in Cape Town

Savour the joy of eating at some of Cape Town's finest Get our Free Restaurant Guide here
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Dijanke Jung

AFRICAN TRAVEL SPECIALIST

Hi I'm Dijanke, I'm here to help you plan your ideal holiday experience GET IN TOUCH