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Our top choices for Observatory hotels

1. Cape Town Micro Apartments

Cape Town Micro Apartments
3.0 star property
Observatory
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (30 reviews)
"I enjoyed the convenience to the shops and road to CBD, however, my booking was mixed up , the room I got is not the one I paid for and had to complain and the second day was moved to a better room but sill was not the one I booked and paid for. I tried to explain this to the owners of the place and because was traveling with my wife and a 5 months old daughter we could not cancel the booking."
United States
Anonymous traveller
The price is Rp437.497
Rp556.462 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
Cape Town Micro Apartments

2. Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Mowbray

Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Mowbray
3.0 star property
Observatory
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (146 reviews)
"Lovely friendly staff , good breakfast choice nice relaxing place"
United Kingdom
Paul
The price is Rp1.450.926
Rp1.685.250 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Mowbray

3. Riverlands Sunbird Studio

Riverlands Sunbird Studio
3.0 star property
Observatory
The price is Rp2.133.715
Rp2.133.715 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
Riverlands Sunbird Studio

4. Green Elephant Backpackers

Green Elephant Backpackers
2.0 star property
Observatory
The price is Rp607.040
Rp698.096 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Jul - 31 Jul
Green Elephant Backpackers

5. DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town - Upper Eastside

DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town - Upper Eastside
4.0 star property
1.4 km from Observatory
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (431 reviews)
"nice"
United States
NATALIA
The price is Rp1.201.745
Rp1.382.007 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town - Upper Eastside

6. Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport

Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport
4.0 star property
11.8 km from Observatory
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,011 reviews)
"Great location Very friendly helpful staff"
United States
Jeanne
The price is Rp2.184.434
Rp2.537.220 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Jul - 1 Aug
Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport

7. Taj Cape Town

Taj Cape Town
5.0 star property
5 km from Observatory
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,001 reviews)
"Great hotel. Great location for CBD. Staff always wonderful, room was lovely and I got upgraded to a Mountain View which is awesome. The J Wellness spa on site is fantastic too."
United Kingdom
Alistair
The price is Rp2.908.934
Rp3.378.726 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
Taj Cape Town

8. AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront

AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront
4.0 star property
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, 5.1 km from Observatory
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (764 reviews)
"Staff was very friendly and helpful"
United States
Lorena
The price is Rp3.503.209
Rp4.068.977 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Aug - 15 Aug
AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront

9. Southern Sun Newlands

Southern Sun Newlands
4.0 star property
4.2 km from Observatory
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (102 reviews)
"Lovely view of the mountains -nice buffet breakfast"
United Kingdom
kofi
The price is Rp1.659.881
Rp1.927.950 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Jul - 1 Aug
Southern Sun Newlands

10. Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City-Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City-Centre by IHG
3.0 star property
5 km from Observatory
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (722 reviews)
"Great location, helpful staff, nice breakfast."
Canada
Yollande
The price is Rp1.140.146
Rp1.324.279 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Aug - 5 Aug
Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City-Centre by IHG

11. Vineyard Hotel

Vineyard Hotel
4.0 star property
4.6 km from Observatory
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (817 reviews)
"Can’t get a better experience than the vineyard in Cape Town. Staff, Rooms and facilities are all great."
United Kingdom
Ann
The price is Rp3.453.834
Rp3.971.911 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Jul - 31 Jul
Vineyard Hotel

12. Road Lodge Cape Town International Airport

Road Lodge Cape Town International Airport
3.0 star property
11.6 km from Observatory
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,085 reviews)
"Amazing staff always make this hotel so good"
United States
Corrin
The price is Rp1.061.571
Rp1.220.807 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Aug - 2 Aug
Road Lodge Cape Town International Airport

13. The Rockefeller Hotel by NEWMARK

The Rockefeller Hotel by NEWMARK
4.0 star property
City Bowl, 4 km from Observatory
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (244 reviews)
"An absolute gem of a hotel staffed by a polite, friendly, and very warm, professional staff. This is the place you should stay for your next trip to Cape Town. Very quiet. Wonderful breakfast. Excellent gym."
United States
Allan
The price is Rp1.359.455
Rp1.563.373 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
The Rockefeller Hotel by NEWMARK

14. Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel

Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel
4.0 star property
5.1 km from Observatory
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (495 reviews)
"Conveniently located by shops and restaurants/ bars on Long Street, this hotel is clean and really nicely decorated. The breakfast was delicious, the beds super comfy, the bathrooms modern, and the rooms nice and quiet. What really stood out was how thoughtful and helpful the staff were — especially at the front desk. I've stayed here a couple of times now and can't wait to come back next year."
United States
Marian
The price is Rp1.294.479
Rp1.488.651 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Aug - 14 Aug
Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel

15. City Lodge Hotel Victoria And Alfred Waterfront

City Lodge Hotel Victoria And Alfred Waterfront
4.0 star property
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, 5.3 km from Observatory
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (917 reviews)
"Not luxurious but very well maintained and with good rooms"
United States
Marcelo
The price is Rp3.154.757
Rp3.627.971 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Jul - 31 Jul
City Lodge Hotel Victoria And Alfred Waterfront

16. Hotel Sky Cape Town

Hotel Sky Cape Town
3.5 star property
City Bowl, 4.9 km from Observatory
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (435 reviews)
"The staff was very friendly and helpful."
United States
Moncef
The price is Rp1.868.378
Rp2.170.122 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Aug - 5 Aug
Hotel Sky Cape Town

17. ONOMO Hotel Cape Town Foreshore

ONOMO Hotel Cape Town Foreshore
3.5 star property
Foreshore, 4.7 km from Observatory
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (250 reviews)
"Good location very practical hotel all i needed"
United States
Brent M
The price is Rp962.955
Rp1.107.398 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
ONOMO Hotel Cape Town Foreshore

18. The Three Boutique Hotel

The Three Boutique Hotel
4.0 star property
5 km from Observatory
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (122 reviews)
"The property is in the perfect location. It provided everything that one would need. The staff is exceptional in every way! Best breakfast ever. I will be returning!!"
United States
Laurie
The price is Rp1.515.401
Rp1.742.711 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Jul - 1 Aug
The Three Boutique Hotel

19. Sunsquare Cape Town City Bowl

Sunsquare Cape Town City Bowl
3.5 star property
City Bowl, 5.3 km from Observatory
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (250 reviews)
"Great hotel! Lovely and friendly staff! Loved the location and restaurant right at the hotel. Breakfast was included and was definitely quality!!! Made our trip very memorable. Room was cleaned every day and the view is always spectacular!!"
United States
Erica
The price is Rp1.825.479
Rp2.120.294 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Sunsquare Cape Town City Bowl

20. The Portswood Hotel

The Portswood Hotel
4.0 star property
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, 6.1 km from Observatory
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (659 reviews)
"Lots of shopping nearby lots of great restaurant. But the bar and restaurant in the hotel itself were great so made sure to eat there more than a few times"
Canada
Michael
The price is Rp2.488.678
Rp2.861.982 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Jul - 31 Jul
The Portswood Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Where to stay in Observatory

Find the best Observatory areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Victoria and Alfred Waterfront

Enjoy superb waterfront shopping and dining and exquisite views at South Africa’s most visited destination.

Camps Bay

Stunning sunsets and perfect blue water, scuba diving, mountain scenery and beachfront restaurants all make this one of Cape Town’s most popular beach suburbs.

Sea Point

Bring the kids to the playgrounds and cafés in this dynamic, rejuvenated coastal area in the shadow of a mossy mountain.

Cape Town City Centre

Known for its majestic mountain landscape and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Cape Town City Centre. Check out top attractions like Cape Town City Hall and Houses of Parliament, and jump on the metro at Woodstock Station or Esplanade Station to see more of the city.

Green Point

Travellers like the cocktail bars in Green Point, and Greenpoint Market is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Top Observatory Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Observatory

Top reasons to visit Observatory

  • Stargazing Opportunities: Enjoy stargazing through telescopes at the renowned Ska Observatory, offering a unique cosmic experience.
  • Vibrant Cultural Scene: Explore eclectic cafés, lively music venues, and bustling markets that showcase Observatory's artistic spirit.
  • Historical Attractions: Visit the Observatory Museum and the historic Civic Government Building to delve into the area's rich history.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Take advantage of the nearby southern suburbs for scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of charming hotels and guesthouses to suit all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Observatory

Discover a variety of charming accommodations in Observatory, Cape Town, catering to all types of travellers. From well-appointed hotels to inviting guesthouses, you’ll find options that suit business needs, adventurous spirits, and those seeking a shopping getaway. Notable mentions include the best inns and holiday rentals, ensuring a delightful stay in this vibrant neighbourhood. Experience the warmth of hospitality at places like the Commodore Hotel, perfect for your South African holiday.

  • Taj Cape Town: This luxurious 5-star hotel offers a perfect blend of elegance and adventure, situated a mere 5km from Observatory. With a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, Taj Cape Town is ideal for families seeking both relaxation and excitement. The hotel features a variety of adventure sports options nearby, including surfing, rafting, and hiking. Children are well catered for with amenities such as cribs, supervised childcare, and babysitting services. The opulent setting, combined with comprehensive recreational activities, ensures a memorable stay for families looking to explore the vibrant surroundings.
  • AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront: Located in the city centre and just 5km from Observatory, this 4-star hotel caters particularly to business travellers and those looking to immerse themselves in city life. With a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, the AC Hotel offers modern comforts and a professional atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for business-related stays. The stylish accommodations and convenient access to local attractions allow guests to balance work and leisure effortlessly. This hotel is well-regarded for its strategic location and excellent services, ensuring a productive stay.
  • Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore: This inviting 4-star hotel, also situated 5km from Observatory, boasts a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. The Radisson is particularly family-friendly, offering exciting outdoor activities such as mountain biking and climbing in the vicinity. Families can take advantage of services like supervised childcare and in-room babysitting, ensuring peace of mind while enjoying local adventures. The modern facilities and welcoming atmosphere make it a great base for families eager to explore the scenic beauty and vibrant culture of Cape Town.

Where to stay near Observatory

Observatory, a vibrant neighbourhood in Cape Town, offers a unique blend of historical charm and trendy atmosphere. Visitors can explore its eclectic cafés, lively markets, and stunning views of Table Mountain. The area is also a hub for students, providing a youthful energy that enhances its friendly vibe. Nearby, the scenic beauty of the southern suburbs invites outdoor adventures, making Observatory an ideal base for experiencing the diverse culture and landscapes of South Africa.

  • Cape Town: Nestled between the majestic Table Mountain and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town is a vibrant metropolis known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The city offers a plethora of activities for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and business travellers alike. Enjoy shopping in the bustling markets, tee off on world-class golf courses, or relax on beautiful beaches. With its mild Mediterranean climate, the best time to visit is from December to February when the city is alive with energy. Iconic landmarks such as the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway and the historic Robben Island are unmissable highlights of this captivating destination.
  • Victoria and Alfred Waterfront: Located approximately 6km from Observatory, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is a lively hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment. This picturesque area offers a blend of family-friendly attractions and business facilities, making it a popular spot year-round. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, visit the Two Oceans Aquarium, or enjoy a meal with stunning views of the harbour. With peak visitor numbers in January, March, and September, the waterfront is an ideal place to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, explore boutique shops, and discover local art in the nearby galleries.
  • Salt River: Just 1km from Observatory, Salt River is an eclectic neighbourhood known for its artistic vibe and cultural diversity. Popular among families and business visitors, this area boasts a variety of local shops, music venues, and educational facilities. The bustling streets often host vibrant markets and events, making it a lively place to explore. Nature lovers can take a leisurely stroll to the nearby botanical garden or enjoy the scenic views along the local streets. Peak visitor numbers in January to March provide an energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for experiencing the community’s creative spirit.

Things to do near Observatory

Shopping

In Observatory, visit the bustling Obs Market for unique crafts and local delicacies. For a wider selection, the nearby Cape Town Shopping Centre features various shops, including fashion and homeware, perfect for finding thoughtful gifts and souvenirs to take back home.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil atmosphere at The Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in rejuvenating massages and holistic therapies. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens offers scenic walks and the chance to connect with nature, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Adventure

The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway offers breathtaking views as you ascend to the summit, providing a thrilling experience amidst stunning landscapes. Meanwhile, the Killarney Race Circuit invites motorsport enthusiasts for an adrenaline-fuelled day, where you can witness high-speed races and feel the excitement of the track.

Nightlife

In Observatory, The Waiting Room boasts a vibrant atmosphere with live music and stunning views. For a laid-back vibe, check out the Dog's Bollocks, where delicious street food meets craft beer. The local pubs and bars offer a unique blend of culture and camaraderie, perfect for an enjoyable evening out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Observatory

To save money during your visit to Observatory, consider travelling between June and August when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Saturdays for the best rates. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options and eco-certified hotels. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for added savings. For getting around, consider using the local public transport system or simply walking, as Observatory is pedestrian-friendly and offers many free activities to enjoy.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Observatory are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Observatory is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Observatory is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Observatory is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Observatory with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Observatory

Observatory, Cape Town, is perfect for city-themed, family, and business vacations, offering a blend of culture and history. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Observatory Museum, the historic Civic Government Building, and the lively piazza. For a deeper experience, don’t miss the Ska Observatory and the Heart of Observatory, which showcase the vibrant spirit of the area while catering to diverse interests.

  • Cape Town Science Centre: Immerse yourself in interactive exhibits and engaging displays that inspire curiosity about science and technology. This family-friendly venue is ideal for visitors of all ages, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment in a vibrant setting.
  • Castle of Good Hope: Step back in time at this historic castle, the oldest surviving building in South Africa. With its stunning architecture and rich history, it offers a romantic atmosphere and a glimpse into the past, making it a fascinating visit for history enthusiasts.
  • Bree Street: Experience the lively urban vibe of Bree Street, renowned for its trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. This bustling thoroughfare is perfect for leisurely strolls and discovering local culture, providing a true taste of Cape Town's dynamic city life.

Best time to go to Observatory

The best time to visit Observatory can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Observatory falls in January and February. February has slightly high visitor numbers and sunny weather. The coolest average temperature around Observatory falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January70.7°F (21.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February70.7°F (21.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March68.5°F (20.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
April64.6°F (18.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
May60.4°F (15.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September57.7°F (14.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November64.6°F (18.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
December68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Observatory

Arriving in Observatory, Cape Town is convenient with Cape Town International Airport (CPT) located 13km away. Various luxurious hotels are situated close to the airport, such as the Taj Cape Town and One&Only Cape Town, both 18km from the airport. These hotels offer excellent transportation services, including accessible airport shuttles, transfer services, and shuttle options available on request. Another nearby option is the InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town by IHG, also 18km from CPT, providing similar transport amenities. Visitors can easily access Observatory from these hotels, ensuring a seamless travel experience in this vibrant city.

Frequently asked questions

What is Observatory like?
Observatory is a neighbourhood that travellers like for its local tours, mountain views and museums. Make sure that you visit Table Mountain National Park and Cape Town Science Centre as part of your Observatory travel plans.
Where is the best place to stay in Observatory?
Based on our traveller data, Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Mowbray is one of the top choices for your stay in Observatory. This hotel offers a restaurant and an outdoor pool.
How many hotels are there in the Observatory area?
If you're searching for places to stay in Cape Town, Expedia has something to meet your needs with 23 Observatory hotels and other accommodation options to choose from.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Observatory, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most hotel reservations are fully refundable provided that you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before your arrival date. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to cancel it and be given a refund within 24 hours of booking. Plug in your dates, click on "Search", then use the filter option "fully refundable" to review the best deals in Observatory.
What is there to do around this Cape Town neighbourhood?
Sights like Cape Town Science Centre and Magnet Theatre can be part of your cultural tour of Observatory. You could also plan a visit to Table Mountain National Park or South African Astronomical Observatory while you're in the neighbourhood. Heart of Cape Town Museum, Old Biscuit Mill and What If The World are just a few of the places to visit in and around Observatory. While you're out sightseeing in Cape Town, make sure that you visit other sights such as Rhodes Memorial or Cape Town City Ballet.
How can I get around Observatory and the greater Cape Town area?
Ready to get out and explore the city? Observatory Station is the closest metro station.