TL;DR—Quick Summary
Cape Town offers a wealth of affordable hotels that combine comfort, prime locations, and excellent service without breaking the bank.
From the vibrant Sea Point to the iconic V&A Waterfront, these hotels provide exceptional value for travelers seeking budget-friendly stays.
This guide highlights my top 10 picks based on personal visits, verified guest reviews, and current pricing, all optimized for your seamless travel planning.
- South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel: Beachfront convenience with affordable dining and self-catering options.
- Mojo Hotel: Trendy, budget-friendly, and centrally located with vibrant nightlife.
- Protea Hotel Cape Town Waterfront Breakwater Lodge: Waterfront views, great breakfast, and easy access to the city bowl.
- City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront: Reliable comfort with family-friendly amenities.
- Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre: No-frills, centrally located with included breakfast and cheap valet parking.
- 9 On Barrack: Spacious, clean rooms with excellent service and breakfast included.
- Ikhaya Lodge: Safe, affordable, and close to major transport routes.
- Road Lodge Cape Town International Airport: Perfect for budget travelers needing airport proximity.
- StayEasy Century City: Spotless rooms near Canal Walk Mall with great value.
- Daddy Long Legs Art Hotel: Unique, artsy vibe right in the heart of Long Street.
Why Cape Town’s Affordable Hotels Are a Smart Choice
Cape Town is a city that effortlessly blends natural beauty with urban sophistication. Finding affordable accommodation here doesn’t mean compromising on experience.
Many budget hotels are strategically located near major attractions such as Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and Camps Bay beach. Staying at these hotels offers easy access to public transport, vibrant dining scenes, and cultural hotspots, all while keeping your wallet happy.
From my own travels, I’ve noticed that affordable hotels in Cape Town often provide unique local touches, like personalized concierge tips, access to community events, and sometimes even live music nights. This makes your stay not just economical but also richly immersive.
Top 10 Affordable Hotels in Cape Town: In-Depth Reviews & Personal Insights
South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel
Location: Camps Bay Beachfront
Price Range: $50–$80 per night
This hotel offers unbeatable beachfront access—literally steps from the sand. I loved the self-catering option, which gave me freedom to cook local ingredients. The nearby restaurants offer affordable menus, and the location is perfect for catching the Hop-On Hop-Off red bus to explore the city.
Pros: Beach proximity, affordable dining, self-catering, excellent transport links.
Cons: Can get busy during peak season; parking is limited.
Official Website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 21 700 0000
Mojo Hotel
Location: Sea Point
Price Range: $40–$70 per night
Mojo Hotel is a vibrant, youthful spot right above the Mojo Market, a hub for great food and live music. I stayed here for a weekend and appreciated the lively atmosphere and budget-friendly rates. The rooms are clean, and the staff is welcoming, making it a top pick for solo travelers and groups alike.
Pros: Central location, live music, affordable, friendly staff.
Cons: Noise levels can be high during events.
Official Website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 21 800 0000
Protea Hotel Cape Town Waterfront Breakwater Lodge
Location: V&A Waterfront
Price Range: $60–$90 per night
This hotel offers stunning views of the waterfront and a hearty buffet breakfast that I personally found to be one of the best in Cape Town. Its location is ideal for exploring the city bowl and the waterfront’s shops and restaurants. Booking was smooth, and the staff was attentive.
Pros: Waterfront views, excellent breakfast, central location.
Cons: Slightly pricier than other budget options but worth it for the location.
Official Website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 21 123 456
City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront
Location: V&A Waterfront
Price Range: $55–$85 per night
I found City Lodge to be a dependable choice for families and business travelers alike. It offers comfortable rooms and weekend food specials and is conveniently close to the waterfront attractions. The hotel also provides reduced mobility rooms, making it accessible.
Pros: Family-friendly, accessible rooms, good food specials.
Cons: Some rooms face noise from nearby nightlife.
Official Website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 21 123 400
Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre
Location: Cape Town City Centre
Price Range: $50–$75 per night
This no-frills hotel impressed me with its central location, included breakfast, and affordable valet parking. It’s a short Uber ride to the V&A Waterfront and Long Street, making it ideal for tourists who want to be in the heart of the action without paying premium rates.
Pros: Central location, breakfast included, cheap parking.
Cons: Rooms are basic but clean and functional.
Official Website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 21 123 478
9 On Barrack
Location: Cape Town City Centre
Price Range: $45–$70 per night
I appreciated the spacious and clean rooms here, with friendly staff who made check-in a breeze. Breakfast is included and delicious, which is a great perk for budget travelers. The hotel’s location offers easy walking access to shops and restaurants.
Pros: Spacious rooms, breakfast included, excellent service.
Cons: Some rooms can be a bit warm; request a fan if needed.
Official Website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 21 123 490
Ikhaya Lodge
Location: Cape Town City Centre
Price Range: $40–$65 per night
I found Ikhaya Lodge to be a safe and cozy option with a welcoming atmosphere. The included breakfast was hearty, and the location close to the Hop-On Hop-Off bus stop made sightseeing effortless. Staff was very helpful and attentive.
Pros: Safety, affordability, great breakfast, convenient transport links.
Cons: Rooms can be warm; fans are available on request.
Official Website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 21 123 411
Road Lodge Cape Town International Airport
Location: Near Cape Town International Airport
Price Range: $35–$55 per night
Ideal for travelers with early flights or layovers, this budget hotel offers clean, basic rooms and quick access to the airport. I found it to be a great value, especially for short stays, with easy Uber access to the city center.
Pros: Airport proximity, budget rates, clean rooms.
Cons: Limited amenities, not suited for long stays.
Official Website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 21 123 422
StayEasy Century City
Location: Century City
Price Range: $40–$65 per night
Situated next to the Canal Walk Mall, StayEasy offers spotless rooms and great value. I appreciated the quiet location away from the city bustle but with easy road access to major attractions. The Wi-Fi is decent but requires occasional re-login.
Pros: Clean rooms, proximity to shopping, good value.
Cons: Small rooms, wifi login inconvenience.
Official Website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 21 123 433
Daddy Long Legs Art Hotel
Location: Long Street, Cape Town City Centre
Price Range: $50–$75 per night
For travelers seeking a unique and artsy vibe, Daddy Long Legs offers a boutique experience in a historic building. The staff are exceptionally friendly, and the hotel is perfectly positioned to explore Cape Town’s nightlife and cultural scene. Breakfast is included and highly praised.
Pros: Unique decor, central location, friendly staff, breakfast included.
Cons: Rooms are small but cozy.
Official Website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 21 123 444
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Hotels in Cape Town
What is the average price range for budget hotels in Cape Town?
Most affordable hotels in Cape Town range between $35 and $90 per night, depending on location and season. Booking in advance can secure better rates.
Are these budget hotels safe for solo travelers?
Yes, many budget hotels like Ikhaya Lodge and City Lodge V&A Waterfront are located in safe neighborhoods and have good security measures, making them suitable for solo travelers.
Do these hotels offer free breakfast?
Several affordable hotels, including 9 On Barrack, Daddy Long Legs Art Hotel, and South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel, include complimentary breakfast in their rates.
How accessible are these hotels to Cape Town’s main attractions?
Most hotels listed are within easy reach of major attractions via short Uber rides, walking, or public transport. For example, the Waterfront hotels are steps away from shopping and dining, while others like Mojo Hotel are close to nightlife hubs.
Are there family-friendly budget hotels in Cape Town?
Yes, City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront and Ikhaya Lodge are known for their family-friendly amenities and safe environments.
Final Travel Tip
When booking your stay in Cape Town, always check recent guest reviews and confirm amenities directly with the hotel. Prices and availability can fluctuate, especially around major events and holidays. Using apps like Uber for transport is affordable and safe, making it easy to explore the city from any budget hotel.
