Where to Stay in Cape Town
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Gardens
Provides a good balance of affordability, social atmosphere, and access to vibrant nightlife and cafes.
See full Cape Town neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Cape Town
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Gardens
Trendy and bohemian area known for its eclectic mix of cafes, boutiques, and vibrant street art.
Our top picks in Gardens
Bo-Kaap
Historic and colorful neighborhood known for its distinct Cape Malay culture and brightly painted houses.
Our top picks in Bo-Kaap
V&A Waterfront
A bustling, upscale harbor district with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Our top picks in V&A Waterfront
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Gardens | Mid-range | Trendy and bohemian area known for its eclectic mix of cafes, boutiques, and vibrant street art. | solo travelersfoodies |
V&A Waterfront | Luxury | A bustling, upscale harbor district with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. | first-timersfamilies |
Camps Bay | Luxury | Chic beachfront suburb with a lively promenade, upscale restaurants, and stunning ocean views. | couplesluxury |
Bo-Kaap | Mid-range | Historic and colorful neighborhood known for its distinct Cape Malay culture and brightly painted houses. | culturefirst-timers |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Cape Town
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Tips for Backpackers in Cape Town
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Cape Town. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Cape Town
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Cape Town
Gardens
Mid-rangeTrendy and bohemian area known for its eclectic mix of cafes, boutiques, and vibrant street art.
- +Vibrant atmosphere with great nightlife and dining
- +Good value for money
- +Central location with easy access to attractions
- -Can be noisy at night, especially near Long Street
- -Requires more awareness regarding petty crime
V&A Waterfront
LuxuryA bustling, upscale harbor district with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
- +Very safe and well-maintained
- +Abundant dining and shopping options
- +Excellent tourist infrastructure
- -Can feel very touristy and less authentic
- -Higher prices than other areas
Camps Bay
LuxuryChic beachfront suburb with a lively promenade, upscale restaurants, and stunning ocean views.
- +Spectacular beach and mountain scenery
- +Vibrant restaurant and bar scene
- +Relaxed, upscale atmosphere
- -Can be expensive
- -Limited public transport within the neighborhood itself
- -Can be windy
Bo-Kaap
Mid-rangeHistoric and colorful neighborhood known for its distinct Cape Malay culture and brightly painted houses.
- +Unique cultural experience and photogenic streets
- +Authentic local feel
- +Central and accessible
- -Can be very touristy during the day
- -Limited accommodation options directly within the most picturesque parts
- -Steep streets can be challenging
Daily Budget (Budget)
ZAR 800/day
Hidden Gems in Cape Town
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Woodstock Exchange
This vibrant industrial hub is a creative playground featuring local designers, artisanal food stalls, and unique boutiques. It's a fantastic spot to discover local talent and grab a delicious, unpretentious bite to eat.
Truth Coffee Roasting
Hailed as one of the best coffee shops in the world, this steampunk-inspired cafe serves incredible coffee and hearty breakfasts. The unique industrial decor and passionate baristas make for a memorable experience.
Kloof Street
FREEThis lively street offers a fantastic array of independent boutiques, quirky cafes, and excellent restaurants frequented by locals. It's perfect for browsing, people-watching, and enjoying a meal away from the main tourist drag.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Cape Town
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Cape Town Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Cape Town on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Cape Town Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Cape Town with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Cape Town: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Cape Town's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Cape Town: Scenic Excursion
Escape Cape Town for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Cape Town Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Cape Town's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Cape Town
Backpackers in Cape Town: FAQ
What is the best area in Cape Town for backpackers?
Is Cape Town safe for backpackers?
How much does it cost per day in Cape Town for backpackers?
When is the best time for backpackers to visit Cape Town?
Where are the cheapest hostels in Cape Town?
Found your hotel in Cape Town?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Plan Your Perfect Cape Town Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.