Cape Town — Neighborhood Guide
Tucked beneath the slopes of Table Mountain, Gardens is Cape Town's cultural heartland — a leafy, bohemian enclave home to museums, galleries, and the city's most romantic hotel.
Quick Answer
Tucked beneath the slopes of Table Mountain, Gardens is Cape Town's cultural heartland — a leafy, bohemian enclave home to museums, galleries, and the city's most romantic hotel.
5 hotels reviewed · Price range: $$$$, $$$ · Last updated March 2026
About This Guide
Gardens is Cape Town at its most graceful. The Company's Garden, one of South Africa's oldest landmarks, anchors the neighbourhood; the South African Museum, National Gallery, and Houses of Parliament are all within walking distance. Hotels here are characterful and unhurried, offering a quieter alternative to the Waterfront buzz.
Insider Tips
Afternoon tea at Belmond Mount Nelson is a Cape Town institution — reserve ahead.
Kloof Street is the best street in Cape Town for restaurants; walk the full length.
The lower cableway station is a 15-minute walk from most Gardens hotels.
Our Picks
5 hotels · Updated February 2026
Gardens
The 'Pink Lady' has welcomed dignitaries since 1899. Set in nine acres of formal gardens at the foot of Table Mountain, this grande dame remains Cape Town's most iconic address — famed for its legendary afternoon tea.
Gardens
An intimate hillside retreat of just eight rooms in the suburb of Higgovale, Kensington Place offers sweeping views of the city bowl and the Atlantic, with pool-terrace breakfasts to rival any five-star.
Camps Bay
A magnificent Edwardian villa on the Atlantic seaboard cliffs, Ellerman House blends Old World grandeur with one of South Africa's finest private art collections. Just 13 suites, impeccable service.
De Waterkant
Occupying the city's beautifully restored Old Reserve Bank building, the Taj Cape Town fuses heritage architecture with contemporary luxury at the edge of De Waterkant — ideal for business and leisure alike.
V&A Waterfront
Africa's most celebrated urban resort occupies a private island in the V&A Waterfront marina, with unobstructed Table Mountain views, three pools, and the celebrated Nobu restaurant.
Keep Exploring
Common Questions
Gardens is a wonderful base — it's walkable to the CBD, close to the lower cable car station, and surrounded by outstanding restaurants and bars on Kloof Street.
The Company's Garden, the historic Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, Kloof Street's restaurant mile, and the South African National Gallery.
Gardens is about 5 minutes by Uber from the city centre and 35 minutes from the airport. Parking is relatively manageable by Cape Town CBD standards.
More Destinations
Prices and availability change daily. Lock in the best rate by booking early — most of our top picks offer free cancellation.
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