Observatory Hotels, Cape Town

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Our top choices for Observatory hotels

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, (144 reviews)
"Such a beautiful property with a very rich history, I thoroughly enjoyed staying here."
United States
Leigh
The price is NZ$231
includes taxes & fees
14 Mar - 15 Mar
Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Mowbray

Cape Town Micro Apartments

Cape Town Micro Apartments
3.0 star property
Observatory
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (29 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
Cape Town Micro Apartments

Green Elephant Backpackers

Green Elephant Backpackers
2.0 star property
Observatory
The price is NZ$76
includes taxes & fees
25 Feb - 26 Feb
Green Elephant Backpackers

StayEasy Century City

StayEasy Century City
3.0 star property
Century City, 5.8 km from Observatory
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (95 reviews)
"Had a great stay and the breakfasts are awesome."
South Africa
Craig
The price is NZ$164
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
StayEasy Century City

Blackheath Lodge

Blackheath Lodge
4.0 star property
7.5 km from Observatory
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (413 reviews)
"Beautiful property. The staff were wonderful and made our trip so fun (Mimi and Simon were such a delight). The breakfast was quite good, and the location was fantastic. We felt very safe and cared for our entire stay."
Canada
Miranda
Blackheath Lodge

Zest Boutique Hotel

Zest Boutique Hotel
5.0 star property
Green Point, 6.1 km from Observatory
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (205 reviews)
"Nice hotel with lovely team"
United Kingdom
Daniel
Zest Boutique Hotel

City Lodge Pinelands

City Lodge Pinelands
3.0 star property
2 km from Observatory
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (254 reviews)
"Perfect location to get everywhere in cape town"
United States
Chris
The price is NZ$188
includes taxes & fees
7 Mar - 8 Mar
City Lodge Pinelands

The Alphen Boutique Hotel & Spa

The Alphen Boutique Hotel & Spa
5.0 star property
8.6 km from Observatory
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (109 reviews)
"Wonderful break, just wish we could have stayed longer. Lovely big rooms, great food, excellent service. A really beautiful hotel in stunning surroundings: "
United Kingdom
Lisa
The price is NZ$1,342
includes taxes & fees
26 Feb - 27 Feb
The Alphen Boutique Hotel & Spa

O' Two Hotel

O' Two Hotel
4.0 star property
7.4 km from Observatory
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (65 reviews)
" excellent location, clean rooms, friendly staff"
United States
nikolay
The price is NZ$791
includes taxes & fees
25 Feb - 26 Feb
O' Two Hotel

Colosseum Hotel

Colosseum Hotel
4.0 star property
Century City, 6.3 km from Observatory
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (318 reviews)
"The rooms were very big. Staff were friendly and helpful. Whilst the first room didn’t have aircon they did do the next best thing and put a big standing fan next to the bed, before I had to ask. "
United Kingdom
Martin-Dale
The price is NZ$292
includes taxes & fees
28 Feb - 1 Mar
Colosseum Hotel

SUN1 Foreshore Cape Town

SUN1 Foreshore Cape Town
2.5 star property
City Bowl, 4.2 km from Observatory
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (5 reviews)
"The room is very small and gives off ship cabin vibes. The bathroom is a big plastic box. If you need to use the toilet while someone is showering, you will get really wet. However, the staff was friendly, thr location was quiet, and the price was good. "
United States
Daryll
The price is NZ$85
includes taxes & fees
9 Mar - 10 Mar
SUN1 Foreshore Cape Town

The Clarendon - Fresnaye

The Clarendon - Fresnaye
5.0 star property
Fresnaye, 8.3 km from Observatory
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (33 reviews)
"We enjoyed our anniversary and had the best time of our life. The staff are very friendly, Daud, Mavuto and rest of the crew thank you for being so kind."
Ireland
Augustine
The price is NZ$918
includes taxes & fees
3 Mar - 4 Mar
The Clarendon - Fresnaye

Southern Sun Newlands

Southern Sun Newlands
4.0 star property
4.2 km from Observatory
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (94 reviews)
"clean room breakfast good a solid 8 out of 10."
United Kingdom
Derek
The price is NZ$262
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Southern Sun Newlands

Head South Lodge

Head South Lodge
4.0 star property
7.4 km from Observatory
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (142 reviews)
"Charming, spacious building with character, friendly service, 24/7 security, great location, possibility of convenient parking."
United Kingdom
Douglas
Head South Lodge

The Tree House Boutique Hotel

The Tree House Boutique Hotel
5.0 star property
Green Point, 6.3 km from Observatory
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (234 reviews)
"Nice boutique hotel"
Canada
William
The price is NZ$537
includes taxes & fees
3 Mar - 4 Mar
The Tree House Boutique Hotel

Century City Hotel Urban Square

Century City Hotel Urban Square
4.0 star property
Century City, 5.6 km from Observatory
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (131 reviews)
"Nice restaurant, beautiful setting, room with excellent amenities."
United States
Lee-may
The price is NZ$227
includes taxes & fees
28 Feb - 1 Mar
Century City Hotel Urban Square

Protea Hotel Fire & Ice by Marriott Cape Town

Protea Hotel Fire & Ice by Marriott Cape Town
4.0 star property
Gardens, 5.7 km from Observatory
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (387 reviews)
"The room was clean and comfortable "
United States
christiane
The price is NZ$264
includes taxes & fees
2 Mar - 3 Mar
Protea Hotel Fire & Ice by Marriott Cape Town

Home Suite Hotels Station House

Home Suite Hotels Station House
4.0 star property
Sea Point, 8.1 km from Observatory
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (81 reviews)
"Room was spotless. Bed was very comfortable. "
United States
Craig
Home Suite Hotels Station House

Steenberg Hotel & Spa

Steenberg Hotel & Spa
5.0 star property
15.8 km from Observatory
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (162 reviews)
"The Steenberg Hotel is a fabulous oasis of tranquility, with wonderful, knowledgeable, and courteous staff, great breakfasts and an excellent dinner menu at Tryn. Thank you for the perfect ending to our Cape Town trip."
United Kingdom
Andrew
The price is NZ$1,631
includes taxes & fees
27 Feb - 28 Feb
Steenberg Hotel & Spa

Island Club Hotel & Apartments

Island Club Hotel & Apartments
4.0 star property
Century City, 6.2 km from Observatory
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (124 reviews)
"Very nice stay . Staff very helpful ."
United States
Renjitha
The price is NZ$298
includes taxes & fees
11 Mar - 12 Mar
Island Club Hotel & Apartments
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.

Our guide on where to stay in Observatory

Find the best Observatory areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Observatory
Learn more about Observatory

Victoria and Alfred Waterfront

Indulge in some retail therapy, learn about South Africa’s history or just kick back and enjoy the spectacular views from Cape Town’s historic waterfront.

Camps Bay

Sublime mountain scenery and a lovely beach make this stylish neighbourhood one of Cape Town’s favourite seaside destinations .

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 Castle of Good Hope, 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

  • Vibrant Atmosphere: Observatory boasts a lively mix of culture, trendy cafes, and local shops, perfect for soaking in the neighbourhood's charm.
  • Cultural Experiences: Explore museums, historic universities, and event venues that showcase the area's rich heritage.
  • Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking sights from nearby Table Mountain, a must-visit for any traveller.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: With a range of attractions and parks, Observatory offers fun for all ages.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from chic hotels to charming guesthouses, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Observatory

Observatory, Cape Town offers a variety of accommodation options for every traveller, from chic hotels to charming guesthouses. Whether you're seeking a business-friendly environment, an adventurous getaway, or a shopping spree, you'll find suitable lodgings that cater to your needs. Experience the local culture and enjoy the comfort of top-rated hotels, ensuring a memorable stay in this vibrant suburb.

  • Taj Cape Town: Nestled in the heart of Cape Town, Taj Cape Town is a luxurious 5-star hotel that caters to families, shoppers, and business travellers alike. Located 4.8km from Observatory, this hotel seamlessly blends opulence with functionality. The property is designed with business amenities including a 24-hour business centre, conference space, and accessible facilities. Families will appreciate thoughtful services such as childcare options, free cribs, and a first aid kit designed for children. Situated in the vibrant shopping district, guests can easily explore local markets and attractions.
  • AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront: This 4-star hotel, located 4.8km from Observatory, offers a refreshing blend of business efficiency and natural beauty. Ideal for professionals and nature enthusiasts, the AC Hotel boasts modern business facilities including meeting rooms and accessible business centres. Guests can enjoy the beautiful waterfront views, making it a delightful retreat after a productive day. The hotel's focus on comfort and functionality ensures a pleasant stay, whether you're in town for work or leisure.
  • Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore: The Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore is a stylish 4-star option located 4.8km from Observatory, perfect for families, shoppers, and business travellers. With multiple meeting rooms and a dedicated coworking space, it caters to the needs of professionals. Families will find the on-site babysitting services and supervised childcare a great convenience. Positioned in a bustling shopping district, this hotel provides easy access to a variety of dining and retail options, making it a prime choice for visitors looking to explore Cape Town.

Where to stay near Observatory

Observatory, Cape Town, is a vibrant neighbourhood that offers a unique blend of history and trendy vibes. Visitors can explore stunning venues like the nearby Table Mountain for breathtaking views, or enjoy the local cafes and shops that reflect the friendly atmosphere. With its proximity to the city centre and scenic harbour views, Observatory is ideal for families, couples, and business travellers alike, ensuring a memorable stay filled with culture and charm.

  • Cape Town: A vibrant metropolis, Cape Town is the heart of the Western Cape and lies in close proximity to Observatory. This iconic city is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the majestic Table Mountain and picturesque beaches. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking to surfing, while families can explore attractions such as the Two Oceans Aquarium and the Cape Town Science Centre. The bustling shopping areas and a range of golf courses cater to both leisure and business travellers. Peak tourist seasons occur between December and February, so plan accordingly for a lively experience.
  • Victoria and Alfred Waterfront: Situated approximately 6.4km from Observatory, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is a lively hub of entertainment, shopping, and dining. This picturesque area, with its stunning views of the harbour and Table Mountain, attracts visitors year-round, particularly in January, March, and September. The waterfront offers a variety of shopping centres and malls, as well as family-friendly attractions like the Cape Town Aquarium and various restaurants serving local cuisine. The area’s convention centre also makes it a popular choice for business travellers seeking leisure options.
  • Salt River: Just 1.3km from Observatory, Salt River is a trendy neighbourhood that boasts a unique blend of artistic flair and urban charm. Known for its vibrant street art and creative spaces, Salt River offers an outdoor experience with its local parks and proximity to golf courses. It’s an excellent area for families, with attractions such as the nearby botanical garden and beautiful beaches. Peak visitation occurs from January to March, making it a great spot for those wanting to experience the local culture while enjoying a city-themed getaway.

Things to do in and around Observatory

Observatory in Cape Town offers a vibrant mix of activities perfect for families and business travellers alike. Visitors can explore various shopping centres and malls, while also enjoying nearby tourist attractions such as exhibition spaces and live shows. With plenty of day activities to choose from, Observatory is an ideal destination for those seeking a lively city experience.

Shopping

One mile from Observatory, the Old Biscuit Mill offers a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment, perfect for unique gifts. Three miles away, Adderley Street and the Pan African Market provide a bustling atmosphere with a variety of local crafts and souvenirs to explore.

Recreation

At Cape Town Stadium, immerse yourself in an energetic atmosphere while enjoying various sports activities. Rondebosch Golf Course offers a serene outdoor experience, perfect for golf enthusiasts. For a family-friendly outing, Sea Point Pavilion features a refreshing pool set against a beautiful backdrop, ideal for relaxation and recreation.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking views from the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, located 6.4km from Observatory, offering an exhilarating ride above stunning landscapes. For those seeking a challenge, the Newlands Forest Hiking Trail, 4.8km away, provides scenic trails amidst lush greenery, perfect for outdoor adventure enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Observatory by visiting the Artscape Theatre Centre for culture and romance. Catch a show at the Cape Town City Ballet, just 1.6km away, or explore the entertainment vibes at the South African Astronomical Observatory, right in the heart of the area.

*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 on your trip to Observatory, consider visiting between June and August when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Mondays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options and eco-certified hotels. Additionally, look for package deals that combine your flights, accommodation, and activities for extra savings. Walking around the area is also a cost-effective way to explore.

  • 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 set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable accommodation right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you can easily discover sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: Consider saving some dollars by combining your Observatory hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Observatory

Observatory in Cape Town is perfect for city, family, and business-themed holidays. Visitors can enjoy a mix of cultural experiences with attractions like event venues, museums, and historic universities. Nearby highlights include the observatory tower and Carter Observatory, offering a range of tourist attractions. Whether you're exploring local points of interest or seeking family-friendly activities, Observatory has something for everyone.

  • Cape Town International Convention Centre: A hub of business activity, this state-of-the-art venue hosts a variety of events and conferences. Its modern architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it an intriguing spot to explore, even if you're not attending an event.
  • University of Cape Town: Renowned for its academic excellence, this historic university boasts stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage. Stroll through its beautiful campus and soak in the vibrant student life, all while enjoying breathtaking views of Table Mountain.
  • Castle of Good Hope: As the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa, this castle offers a glimpse into the country's history. With its romantic ambiance and cultural exhibitions, it's an enchanting place to learn about Cape Town's past.

Best time to go to Observatory

The best time to visit Observatory is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January and February are its hottest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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

When visiting Observatory, Cape Town, flying into Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is your best option, situated 12.9km away. Nearby, you’ll find excellent accommodation choices such as Gorgeous George by Design Hotels and Taj Cape Town, both 17.7km from the airport, offering various airport shuttle services. The Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers, located 11.3km from the airport, also provides convenient transport options. All these hotels feature 24-hour shuttle services and additional transport arrangements, ensuring a smooth journey between the airport and your stay in Observatory.

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 Magnet Theatre as part of your Observatory travel plans.
Where is the best place to stay in Observatory?
Based on Expedia customer reviews, Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Mowbray is the highest ranked property 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 26 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 Magnet Theatre and Cape Town Science Centre 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, Irma Stern Museum and Old Biscuit Mill 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 What If The World or Rhodes Memorial.
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.

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