This incredibly unique city skillfully blends together a relaxed beach town, a cosmopolitan vibe and an abundance of natural beauty. Cape Town is an alluring, present-day hotspot that has something special for every type of traveler—evident in the number of tourists wandering the city year-round. Wake up with a coastal ride along Chapman’s Peak all the way to Boulders Beach where you can swoon over adorable penguins. Lunch in a Stellenbosch vineyard before going on your wine tasting way. And after you’ve sipped on a gin & tonic overlooking the sunset, indulge in one of the city’s many gastronomic experiences.

Stay

The Silo

Photo Credit: Adam Letch

Beware of staying at this design-centric hotel, as you may decide to never leave. Its electric accommodations are covered in colorful rugs and bold furniture, offset by opulent chandeliers. So much more than an impressive facade filled with swanky decor, The Silo is perfectly situated just outside the V&A Waterfront and on top of the very popular African Art Museum.

The Twelve Apostles

Photo Credit: Ekaterina GoroshkoThis stylish, boutique hotel overlooks the rippling sea from its idyllic location inside of charming Camps Bay. Its overall nautical design is counterbalanced by the hotel’s eclectic restaurants and bars—think leopard carpet. The overall vibe is smart and upscale, clearly declaring The Twelve Apostles as a destination with its two restaurants, live music bar, cinema room and elaborate spa.

Ellerman House

Photo Credit: Ellerman House

With only 11 guest rooms, The Ellerman House is a true retreat inside of a bustling city. Its unparalleled position atop Bantry Bay allows for stunning cliffside views, while an exceptional collection of African Art is on display inside of this exclusive mansion. Its purposeful isolation and quiet elegance inspires travelers who feel as if they’d just discovered one of Cape Town’s best kept secrets.

Cape Grace

Photo Credit: Cape Grace Hotel

A classic approach to an exuberant design, this hotel is consistent and reliable. Cape Grace is simultaneously particular and universal, with a clientele of repeat customers. Its location is ultra convenient right on the V&A Waterfront, and yet a walk away from the area’s busier pockets. Above are Table Mountain views and below guests can look out on to the lovely marina, making this hotel a dependable choice for all travelers.

Belmond Mount Nelson

Photo Credit: Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

This grandiose building painted light-pink has attracted well-to-do guests with its masterfully modern, yet classically English, decor for 100 years. Guests are invited to experience the glamour of a bygone era restored through contemporary finishes. The Belmond Mount Nelson is a sanctuary of flower-filled gardens and palm-lined lawns, while just in the back is the trendy Kloof Street populated by hip cafes and restaurants.

Wine & Dine

Kloof Street House

Photo Credit: Kloof Street House

This quirky place-to-be, is the go-to spot if you’re looking for a lively night dining out. It has a bubbly courtyard set under strings of lights and endless greenery. And inside? Just as happening and equally as vibrant. Bohemian lamps glow over an environment filled with mismatched art pieces that happen to complement one another perfectly, as if by mistake. Kloof Street House wants guests to feel at home, which is also reflected in its contemporary comfort food.

La Colombe

Photo Credit: La Colombe

If there’s a restaurant you’ve already heard of on this list, it’s La Colombe. It combines some of the best that Cape Town has to offer—an incredibly scenic setting in the picturesque Constantia Valley and an inventive tasting menu consisting of exquisite French-Asian cuisine. The establishment’s worldwide acclaim comes from creative dishes such as finely marinated raw tuna inside an actual tin can, plus so much more.

La Mouette

Photo Credit: La Mouette

Its brilliant milieu is sure to stun you, as your first glance inside of the restaurant is within its cobbled courtyard, complete with a vast fountain at its center. And it gets better. La Mouette offers an incomprehensibly affordable—however, totally decadent—three-and five-course tasting menu comprised of French-inspired dishes with Mediterranean flair.

The Stack

Photo Credit: The Stack

More than just a restaurant, The Stack is also known to be a private members’ club—giving us some serious Soho House vibes. Luckily, the loud patterns, bright colors, and plush furnishings are scattered all throughout the brasserie, bar, and club—thus, blessing every single guest with a trendy ambience. Expect chic locals, imaginative cocktails and French fare.

The Test Kitchen

Photo Credit: The Test Kitchen

Considered one of the top 50 restaurants in the world, The Test Kitchen is a delectable oasis for the true food lover. The restaurant’s approach pushes every boundary—even those set by gastronomic standards. Its layout consists of a Dark and Light Room, and serves a maximum of 40 people a night. We recommend making an immediate reservation, as the waiting list is extra long, and the innovative menu is not to be missed.