Cape Town is a port city in South Africa, located on the country’s southwest coast. With beautiful beaches on one side and towering mountains on the other, there’s natural beauty everywhere!
It’s an exceptional destination for outdoor enthusiasts, but city lovers will find it just as appealing. Cape Town contains a spectacular selection of eclectic restaurants, buzzing cafes, insightful museums, and local markets. It’s the full package.
If you’re planning a trip to this incredible South African city, guesthouses in Cape Town are the perfect accommodation to stay in. Unlike hotels, guesthouses create a more intimate travel experience – you’ll feel right at home.
I’ve carefully selected the top 15 guesthouses in Cape Town, and the great news is this list has plenty of variety and caters to all budgets.
If you’ve stayed in a guesthouse before, you’ll be pleased to know that Cape Town does not disappoint in that department – there are some world-class options here! If this is your first time, you’re in for a real treat, too.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Cape Town for One Night
Amazing Views Cape Town
You’ll definitely spend some time here sipping Castle Lager or Sauv Blanc – and what do you know, you even have a fridge to keep them cool!
- V&A Waterfront
- Table Mountain
- Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum
Is this amazing Cape Town Guesthouses booked for your dates? I’ve got your back with my other favorite properties below!
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
Staying in a Guesthouse in Cape Town
Booking your stay in a Cape Town guesthouse means a homey environment with a vacation feel. Unlike hotels, which are often large and impersonal, guesthouses are built into actual houses, so you’ll see the personality and local expertise of your hosts shine through.
Guesthouses are similar to a homestay, except you have less interaction with the owners. While there’ll constantly be someone on the property, they won’t be in your space – you’ll have plenty of privacy.
You can expect a large house, with between 4 and 25 private rooms. These rooms are rented out individually and made specifically for vacationers.
This type of accommodation is popular with visitors to Cape Town because it provides a fun local experience. The whole point of traveling is to immerse yourself in a new culture, and guesthouses make this easy to do.
It’s also a perfect opportunity to discover some of the best spots to include in your Cape Town itinerary since hosts and guesthouse owner can give the best advice and recommendations.
What to look for in a guesthouse
Because of Cape Town’s Mediterranean-style climate, guesthouses here usually have pools. Also, considering Capetonians love hosting social braais, BBQ facilities are common.
Average guesthouse amenities vary slightly. Usually, you’ll have access to certain communal spaces in the house – these are the social areas that all of the guests can use.
Some guesthouses have shared kitchens where you can prepare meals, or in-room kitchenettes. If neither option is included, sometimes breakfast is offered. Lounges are another popular feature. This can be a great place to mingle with the other occupants of the house, and maybe even make a few new friends.
This may sound similar to a hostel. However, hostels mainly have shared dorm rooms, whereas guesthouses only offer private rooms. Usually, private bathrooms are standard too – unless you’ve opted for a real budget option.
Guesthouses are locally owned and advertised on platforms like booking.com and Airbnb. I’ve scoured the options and found you the best picks from both sites – so even if you’re backpacking Cape Town, you’ll find a spot that fits your budget! Let’s jump in.
Amazing Views Cape Town
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Pool access
- > Pavilion with incredible views
Happy Home, Woodstock
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Fully equipped kitchen
- > In a hipster area of Cape Town
Constantia Garden Lodge
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Pool access
- > Private bathroom
Pinelands Guest House
- > $$$
- > 6 Guests
- > Champagne Area of Cape Town
- > Private pool and hot tub
Houghton View Guest House
- > $$$$
- > 2 Guests
- > Pool access
- > Beachfront property
Central & Sunny 3 Bed House
- > $$
- > 5 Guests
- > Enclosed yard space
- > Safe and quiet neighborhood
A Sunflower Stop
- > $
- > 1 Guest
- > Pool access
- > Free filter coffee all-day
The 15 Top Guesthouses in Cape Town
Alright, it’s time to get into my list of the best Cape Town guesthouses. To make things a little easier, I’ve categorized your options. I’ve also made sure to include the amazing perks you’ll have on offer for each place.
Overall Best Value Guesthouse in Cape Town – Amazing Views Cape Town
The best value guesthouse in Cape Town is this homey Airbnb right by Signal Hill with a killer view! You’re just a short drive from Table Mountain and a hop away from the City Center.
Relax on the outside pavilion with a drink while admiring the incredible views of the city and the iconic mountain. Or, head down the steps and enjoy a dip in the refreshing shared pool.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
Best Budget Guesthouse in Cape Town – Happy Home, Woodstock
Looking for cheap guesthouses in Cape Town? If so, this accommodation has everything you need for an affordable city stay.
Cook up local dishes in the shared kitchen, or use the BBQ facilities to have a South African braai – similar to a BBQ. There is also a shared lounge on the property where you can meet your fellow travelers.
This guesthouse is in Cape Town’s trendy Woodstock neighborhood. The Old Biscuit Mill, which features local boutiques, food markets, and casual eateries, is less than a mile away.
Budget Tip: Dorms in Cape Town start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Best Guesthouse for Couples in Cape Town – Constantia Garden Lodge
This charming guest suite is in the leafy wine region of Cape Town in a quiet neighborhood. Due to its scenic appeal, this suburb in Cape Town is especially popular with couples.
After a busy day out exploring, grab a bottle of South African pinotage from the supermarket and head back to your room for a romantic evening. You can pair the wine with a meal prepared in your own fully-equipped kitchen. Enjoy your dinner in the dining room before snuggling up on the queen-size bed!
Best Guesthouse for a Group of Friends – Pinelands Guest House
Planning a vacation for a lot of friends or family? This is one of the best Cape Town guesthouses for groups!
Located in the champagne region of Cape Town, you’ll be in a prime area for wine tours and sightseeing. With free parking, you’ll be able to drive into the city center and to all the attractions without any problems.
Hang out with your group in the courtyard with a couple of cold ones, share stories in the hot tub, or cool off in the private pool. With a private living space, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy your vacation together.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIOver-the-Top Luxury Guesthouse in Cape Town – Houghton View Guest House
This is one of the most luxurious guesthouses Cape Town has to offer. If you’re a foreigner, the currency rate might be in your favor, so why not splurge a little and live large while you can?
Situated in the upmarket Camps Bay neighborhood, you’ll be just a stone’s throw from the famous Camps Bay Beach. When you’re ready to trade in salty water for freshwater, the guesthouse pool has wonderful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
If you’re feeling extra spendy, order the in-house kitchen’s popular three-course dinner – accompanied by a bottle of South African wine, of course.
Best Guesthouse for Families in Cape Town – Central & Sunny 3 Bed House
Planning a family trip? If so, this three-bedroom guesthouse has everything you need for a memorable family getaway – and you’ll have the whole place to yourself.
The house includes a kitchen, a family room with TV, and a tranquil garden with outside seating. It’s completely kid-friendly, with books and toys provided. You’ll find real home comforts available for the little ones, including a crib and baby bath.
The guesthouse is in the quiet neighborhood of Vredehoek, just outside of the city center. For families trying to save a little where they can, this is one of the best guesthouses in Cape Town on a budget.
Best Guesthouse for Backpackers in Cape Town – A Sunflower Stop
A Sunflower Stop is technically a hostel, but it’s very similar to a guesthouse. It has a more laid-back vibe, and isn’t like the Cape Town party hostels you’ll find in the city center.
If you’re a backpacker trying to save money, there’s a fully-equipped kitchen where you can cook your own meals. Since this is a smaller hostel, you won’t have to fight for counter space, and the odds of a drunk backpacker stealing your food in the middle of the night are low.
Although it’s on the smaller side, it still has a great social atmosphere, so you can make new travel buddies at the on-site bar and outdoor swimming pool.
Best Guesthouse for Honeymooners in Cape Town – Bakoven Bay Luxury Suites
If you’re on a honeymoon in Cape Town, this guesthouse near Beta Beach is the ideal setting for a romantic vacation. Every little detail is accounted for, from plunge pools to beach views.
This property boasts views almost as beautiful as your newly-wed. All of the rooms feature large windows and private balconies with your choice of mountain or ocean views. The outdoor swimming pool and sun loungers also provide sweeping views of the Atlantic.
Set in the scenic suburb of Bakoven, you’ll be within walking distance of the beach. You’ll also be close to the Camps Bay Strip, which is lined with oceanfront eateries. Swing by Chinchilla Rooftop Cafe & Bar for a cocktail (or a coffee!) with incredible views.
Best Guesthouse with an Epic Location in Cape Town – Dolphin Inn Guest House
This guesthouse in Cape Town is a total gem. It’s in beachside home with views overlooking the ocean. Guests can enjoy a spacious room with a seating area, private bathroom and queen sized bed.
You’ll be living it up in the lively Greenpoint neighborhood. This walkable area of the city is teeming with eclectic eateries, so if cooking on vacation isn’t your thing, grab a burger at Hudsons Burger Joint, pasta at Mario’s Italian Restaurant, or a noodle dish at Sawaddee Thai Cuisine instead.
Best Guesthouse for Solo Travelers in Cape Town – Altona Lodge
If you’re looking for guesthouses in Cape Town that cater more towards solo travelers, Altona Lodge will make you feel safe and secure. The accommodation has features independent travelers will appreciate, like an in-room safe and close links to public transport.
The kitchen is open during designated hours, but complimentary tea/coffee facilities are always available for that late-night caffeine boost.
This Greenpoint guesthouse is an equal distance from the Atlantic, Signal Hill, and the lively V&A Waterfront shopping mall, so seeing it all will be a breeze. It’s also a perfect place for exploring Cape Town for a weekend trip.
Most Beautiful Guesthouse in Cape Town – Private Room in Llandudno
This charming guesthouse is a beachside paradise. It’s in the quiet, beachy neighborhood of Llandudno (one of the safest places in Cape Town), so you’ll be a 10-minute walk from the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.
Your private room includes an ensuite bathroom and a TV, but once you see how beautiful the rest of the property is, you probably won’t be spending too much time there.
The main house has an enclosed terrace that offers captivating ocean views from floor-to-ceiling windows. The tranquil garden features a swimming pool and sun loungers – a perfect place to catch a stunning Cape Town sunset.
Another Guesthouse with an Epic Location – Rouge on Rose Guest House
Situated in the city center of Cape Town is this epic guest house for two people. It’s between the hustle and bustle of the city center, and the foothills of Scenic Hill.
After an eventful day of sightseeing in Cape Town, you can unwind in the comfy lounge. If you feel like cooking, there’s a kitchen for guests to use. You’ll enjoy complete privacy thanks to your ensuite bathroom and private living space.
Guesthouse in Cape Town near Table Mountain – Pool View Room in Guest House
If you want to be situated near to Table Mountain, then this gorgeous guest house in Camps Bay is the ideal place to stay. It has spacious pool view rooms that overlook a stunning sea view.
Your room has everything you need for a comfy night in – cable TV, high-speed internet, a coffee maker and a mini-fridge.
Breakfast is served in the modern dining room. The guesthouse is close to some of Cape Town’s best areas for outdoor activities, such as hiking up Lion’s Head, catch a sunset on Signal Hill, or go for a jog around the Seapoint Promenade.
Best Guesthouse for a Weekend in Cape Town – The Greenhouse Guesthouse
The Greenhouse Guest house is a great, cheap guesthouse in Cape Town to use as a base for your weekend. The rooms are spacious and modern and each includes a TV and a tea/coffee maker.
After you start your day with a breakfast in the shared lounge, you’ll be ready to head out. You’ll be within walking distance to some of the city’s key points of interest, including Lion’s Head, Camp Bay Beach, Table Mountain and the legendary Long Street.
Amazing Luxury Guesthouse in Cape Town – Antrim Villa
Set in a beautifully renovated 17th-century farmhouse, this Cape Town guesthouse will allow you to experience a complete state of comfort.
Decorated in soft earth tones, it’s an inviting atmosphere you’ll love returning to after an eventful day out. Unwind at the tropical garden, the outdoor saltwater pool, and the sun-lounger terrace.
After you return to your room, you can make a cup of tea and turn on Netflix. Or, get social with a board game and bottle of bubbly from your mini-fridge. This guesthouse is in Cape Town’s Three Anchor Bay neighborhood. The stunning Clifton Beach, Camps Bay Beach, and V&A Waterfront are just a short drive from the property.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!FAQ about Guesthouses in Cape Town
Here’s what people usually ask me when they look for vacation homes in Cape Town.
Don’t Forget Your Cape Town Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Cape Town Guesthouses
As I hope you’ve seen from my list of the best guesthouses in Capetown, staying in a guesthouse will add a lot to your vacation – you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience and lots of perks you won’t get by staying in a hotel.
Even if you’re on a budget, you have tons of great options for cheap guesthouses in Cape Town. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family or friends, you’ll easily find an option that suits you.
Before you start your travels, make sure you know where to stay in cape town, whether it’s in a quiet and safe area or in the middle of the city center.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
