Discover the Best of Solo Travel in Cape Town
Cape Town, with its diverse neighborhoods, rich history, and stunning natural beauty, is a city that tantalizes solo travelers with a unique mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Bo-Kaap, hiking the rugged Cape Peninsula, or savoring the local cuisine, there's always something new to discover. This guide will help you find the best cheap hotels in Cape Town, along with tips on what to see, how to get there, when to go, and what it costs.
Best Cheap Hotels in Cape Town
For a budget-conscious traveler, there are several affordable accommodations in Cape Town that offer great value for your money. Here are some top picks:
1. Cape Town Backpackers Hostel?
Address: 116 Bree Street, Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa
Price: Starting from R200 per night (approximately $14 USD per night)
Proximity: Located in the heart of Cape Town, just a stone’s throw away from the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain.
What to See: Explore the nearby Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, grab some street food, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
2. Hostel 101?
Address: 253 Adderley Street, Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa
Price: Starting from R150 per night (approximately $11 USD per night)
Proximity: Situated in the central business district, close to major attractions like the Cape Town City Hall and the Greenmarket Square.
What to See: Visit the Company’s Garden, explore the historic city center, and catch a show at the Baxter Theatre.
3. Cape Town Hostel?
Address: 200 Bree Street, Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa
Price: Starting from R160 per night (approximately $11 USD per night)
Proximity: Located in the central business district, near the V&A Waterfront and the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
What to See: Enjoy the shopping and dining options in the Waterfront area, and take a stroll along the Victoria Embankment.
4. The Hostel?
Address: 275 Bree Street, Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa
Price: Starting from R170 per night (approximately $12 USD per night)
Proximity: Situated in the central business district, close to the Cape Town City Hall and Greenmarket Square.
What to See: Visit the historic city center, explore the Greenmarket Square, and catch a show at the Baxter Theatre.
Things to Do and Places to Visit
There are numerous attractions and activities to keep you busy in Cape Town. Here are some highlights:
1. Table Mountain?
Price: R240 (approximately $17 USD) for the cable car; R120 (approximately $8.50 USD) for the cable car with a guided hike
Proximity: From Cape Town city center, approximately 30 minutes by taxi or bus
What to See: Take a cable car to the top for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Alternatively, hike up Table Mountain for a more adventurous experience.
2. Robben Island?
Price: R240 (approximately $17 USD) per person for the ferry; R300 (approximately $21 USD) for the ferry and guided tour
Proximity: From Cape Town city center, approximately 45 minutes by ferry
What to See: Visit the former prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years, and learn about the history of apartheid in South Africa.
3. Cape Point?
Price: Free
Proximity: From Cape Town city center, approximately 1.5 hours by car
What to See: Explore the scenic coastal road, hike to the lighthouse, and enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean.
4. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden?
Price: R120 (approximately $8.50 USD) for adults; Free for children and students
Proximity: From Cape Town city center, approximately 15 minutes by taxi or bus
What to See: Wander through the lush gardens, admire the diverse plant life, and enjoy the serene environment.
Practical How-To
Planning a trip to Cape Town? Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the city:
1. Getting Around?
Public transportation in Cape Town is reliable but can be crowded. The MyCiTi bus service and the Cape Town Metro train are good options for getting around the city.
2. Best Time to Visit?
The best time to visit Cape Town is from April to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, be prepared for higher prices during this period.
3. Local Cuisine?
Cape Town offers a diverse culinary scene. Try local dishes like bobotie, braai (barbecue), and Cape Malay cuisine. Many restaurants and food markets offer affordable options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Cape Town from Johannesburg?
The journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town, approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes by car, offers a glimpse of South Africa's diverse landscapes. Alternatively, you can take a train or fly.
What is the best way to explore Table Mountain?
You can take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain for stunning views or hike up for a more adventurous experience. The cable car is a good option for those who prefer a shorter, easier ascent.
Are there any budget-friendly tours in Cape Town?
Yes, many tour operators offer budget-friendly options, such as guided walking tours or day trips to nearby attractions. Check out local tour companies like Cape Town Tours and City Sightseeing.
How do I book a cheap flight to Cape Town?
Use budget airlines like Mango or Air Namibia to book flights. Be sure to book in advance to secure the best deals.
What flights LON to CPT actually cost
Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
The cheapest return found right now is €618 with Z0, departing 10 Oct 2026 (11h 30m each way). See current fares.
Cheapest dates to fly
| Departure | Price | Airline | Stops | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Oct 2026 | €618 | Z0 | Direct | Check |
| 3 Nov 2026 | €637 | A1 | Direct | Check |
| 3 Sept 2026 | €647 | Ryanair | 2 stop | Check |
| 3 Oct 2026 | €657 | Z0 | Direct | Check |
| 1 Oct 2026 | €661 | Z0 | Direct | Check |
Live fares, checked 27 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.
Booking in Cape Town: where to look
We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.
- Tiqets — Instant mobile tickets for museums and landmarks
- Klook — Attraction tickets and passes, strong in Asia
- KKday — Local experiences and day tours
- QEEQ — Car hire comparison with price drop alerts
Sources
For more information, visit the official Cape Town Tourism website.
Planning your solo adventure in Cape Town? With its rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and natural beauty, the city offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. From budget-friendly accommodations to must-see attractions, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your trip. Happy travels!