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Observatory hotels in Cape Town

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Our top choices for Observatory hotels

1. 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 HK$651
HK$756 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Mowbray

2. 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 HK$206
HK$261 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Aug - 7 Aug
Cape Town Micro Apartments

3. Riverlands Sunbird Studio

Riverlands Sunbird Studio
3.0 star property
Observatory
The price is HK$949
HK$949 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Aug - 7 Aug
Riverlands Sunbird Studio

4. Green Elephant Backpackers

Green Elephant Backpackers
2.0 star property
Observatory
The price is HK$227
HK$261 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Aug - 8 Aug
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
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (432 reviews)
"nice"
United States
NATALIA
The price is HK$516
HK$594 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town - Upper Eastside

6. City Lodge Pinelands

City Lodge Pinelands
3.0 star property
2 km from Observatory
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (266 reviews)
"Staff is great and welcoming, all amenities are in the room that I want. Overall just a great hotel for the price point"
United Kingdom
Christian
The price is HK$608
HK$699 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Aug - 30 Aug
City Lodge Pinelands

7. 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 HK$738
HK$858 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Aug - 14 Aug
Southern Sun Newlands

8. 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, (1,004 reviews)
"Great airport hotel for an overnight after arriving or departing."
United States
Simon
The price is HK$1,024
HK$1,189 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Aug - 20 Aug
Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport

9. Vineyard Hotel

Vineyard Hotel
4.0 star property
4.6 km from Observatory
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (818 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 HK$1,549
HK$1,781 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Aug - 7 Aug
Vineyard Hotel

10. Taj Cape Town

Taj Cape Town
5.0 star property
5 km from Observatory
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 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 HK$1,206
HK$1,400 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Taj Cape Town

11. 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, (767 reviews)
"Staff was very friendly and helpful"
United States
Lorena
The price is HK$1,560
HK$1,812 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront

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 HK$487
HK$561 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Road Lodge Cape Town International Airport

13. The Rockefeller Hotel by NEWMARK

The Rockefeller Hotel by NEWMARK
4.5 star property
City Bowl, 4 km from Observatory
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (246 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 HK$610
HK$701 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
The Rockefeller Hotel by NEWMARK

14. Radisson RED V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Radisson RED V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
3.5 star property
5.6 km from Observatory
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (835 reviews)
"Great location and very friendly staff."
Canada
neil
The price is HK$1,747
HK$2,030 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Aug - 9 Aug
Radisson RED V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

15. Century City Hotel Urban Square

Century City Hotel Urban Square
4.0 star property
5.6 km from Observatory
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (142 reviews)
"This was a great hotel for attending a conference. Walking distance to a mall with shops and restaurants. Breakfast was great and staff were friendly and helpful. I always felt safe and well looked after."
United Kingdom
Margrette
The price is HK$906
HK$1,053 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Aug - 15 Aug
Century City Hotel Urban Square

16. City Lodge Hotel GrandWest

City Lodge Hotel GrandWest
3.0 star property
7.3 km from Observatory
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (396 reviews)
"Great place for a short stay"
United States
Nicoleen
The price is HK$741
HK$853 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Aug - 17 Aug
City Lodge Hotel GrandWest

17. Southern Sun The Cullinan

Southern Sun The Cullinan
4.0 star property
City Bowl, 5 km from Observatory
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (279 reviews)
"Amazing staff and breakfast, convenient location."
United States
Peter
The price is HK$1,343
HK$1,560 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Aug - 14 Aug
Southern Sun The Cullinan

18. The Commodore Hotel

The Commodore Hotel
4.0 star property
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, 6.2 km from Observatory
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (999 reviews)
"Lovely Hotel, Great location!!"
South Africa
Charlie
The price is HK$1,358
HK$1,562 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
The Commodore Hotel

19. The Cellars-Hohenort

The Cellars-Hohenort
5.0 star property
Constantia, 7.9 km from Observatory
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (170 reviews)
"Beautiful, spacious, room, wonderful food and wine and excellent service."
United States
Jocelin
The price is HK$2,886
HK$3,352 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Aug - 9 Aug
The Cellars-Hohenort

20. InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town by IHG

InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town by IHG
5.0 star property
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, 6 km from Observatory
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (813 reviews)
"From check in to check out everything was excellent. Beautiful decor, stunning views, perfect location, great staff. Big rooms, big bathrooms with ByRedo toiletries. "
South Africa
Vanessa
The price is HK$5,019
HK$5,772 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town by IHG
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 telescope stargazing at the Old Observatory, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.
  • Cultural Attractions: Visit the Observatory Museum and historic Civic Government Building to immerse yourself in local heritage.
  • Vibrant Community: Experience the lively atmosphere filled with cafés, boutique shops, and youthful energy from the student population.
  • Outdoor Activities: Engage in birdwatching and take in spectacular views of Table Mountain.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from inviting guesthouses to comfortable hotels for a delightful stay.

Find great hotels near Observatory

Discover an array of accommodation options in Observatory, Cape Town, ranging from inviting guesthouses to comfortable hotels. This vibrant area caters to both business travellers and holidaymakers seeking adventure, shopping, or a unique vacation experience. Explore the Commodore Hotel, charming inns, and various holiday rentals that promise a delightful stay in this lively neighbourhood.

  • Taj Cape Town: This luxurious 5-star hotel, located 5km from Observatory, offers a blend of grandeur and cultural richness. With a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, Taj Cape Town is ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. The hotel provides a variety of exciting recreational activities such as rafting, surfing, and hiking in nearby locations. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, including supervised childcare and special comforts for children. The hotel’s refined atmosphere and attentive service make it a distinguished choice for a memorable family vacation.
  • AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront: Situated in the bustling city centre, this 4-star hotel also boasts a commendable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. The AC Hotel by Marriott is particularly suited for business travellers seeking convenience and accessibility. Its strategic location near Observatory, just 5km away, allows easy access to Cape Town's vibrant business and cultural landscape. Modern amenities and a stylish design create a welcoming environment for those on corporate trips, ensuring a productive and comfortable stay.
  • Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore: A charming 4-star accommodation located 5km from Observatory, the Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore is rated 8.6 out of 10. This hotel caters to couples looking for a romantic getaway as well as families and adventure enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy activities such as mountain climbing and hiking nearby. The hotel offers romance packages alongside child-friendly amenities, including in-room babysitting services. With its excellent dining options and a focus on creating special experiences, this hotel is a delightful choice for a varied vacation.

Where to stay near Observatory

Observatory, a vibrant neighbourhood in Cape Town, offers a delightful blend of historical charm and trendy vibes. Perfect for families and business travellers alike, you can explore local cafés, boutique shops, and enjoy spectacular views of Table Mountain. The area's student population adds a youthful energy, making it an ideal spot to experience the friendly atmosphere and luxury that South Africa has to offer. Don’t miss the chance to wander through this lively community during your visit.

  • Cape Town: Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town is a vibrant metropolis that serves as the heart of South Africa. Observatory, where you’ll be based, is a trendy suburb brimming with character and creativity. Visitors flock to Cape Town year-round, especially from December to February when outdoor activities are at their peak. You can explore stunning beaches, family-friendly attractions, and world-class golf courses. The city's colourful culture is complemented by its historic landmarks, making it a perfect destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and business travellers alike.
  • Victoria and Alfred Waterfront: Situated approximately 6km from Observatory, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is a bustling harbour area that captivates visitors with its mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. This neighbourhood enjoys a steady stream of tourists, particularly in the warmer months of January, March, and September. Here, you can indulge in retail therapy at the numerous shopping centres or savour a meal with stunning views of the water. The waterfront also offers easy access to family-friendly beaches and vibrant streets, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and business experiences.
  • Cape Town City Centre: Just 5km from Observatory, the Cape Town City Centre is the bustling urban core filled with a blend of modernity and rich history. It attracts visitors year-round, with peaks in January, July, and September, providing a unique city-themed experience. The area boasts a plethora of shopping options, from local boutiques to larger malls, alongside educational institutions and convention centres. With its proximity to picturesque beaches and family-friendly attractions, the City Centre is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Cape Town.

Things to do near Observatory

Shopping

Close to the vibrant heart of Observatory, you can explore the eclectic shops along Lower Main Road, where local artisans showcase unique crafts. Don’t miss the Observatory Market on Sundays for a variety of handmade goods and tasty treats, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs to take home.

Recreation

Explore the peaceful atmosphere at the Yoga Sanctuary, where you can participate in rejuvenating yoga classes and meditation sessions. Afterward, enjoy a stroll through the local markets, where you can find organic produce and artisanal goods, enhancing your wellness experience in Observatory.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views at the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, located 6km from Observatory, where you can enjoy outdoor adventures amidst stunning landscapes. For motorsport enthusiasts, the Killarney Race Circuit, 14km away, offers thrilling racing experiences in a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for adrenaline seekers.

Nightlife

For a lively night out, visit The Obs Cafe on Lower Main Road for their vibrant atmosphere and tasty cocktails. If you're in the mood for dancing, head to The Waiting Room, where local DJs spin tracks, creating an energetic vibe that keeps the crowd moving.

*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, plan your trip between June and August for lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia's last-minute deals for discounts. Saturdays tend to be the most affordable days to stay, while Mondays are pricier. Use Expedia's filters to find eco-friendly options and sort for the best prices. Consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package deal for additional savings. Walking is a cost-effective way to explore the area, allowing you to enjoy free local attractions.

  • 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, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Observatory with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Observatory

Observatory, Cape Town, is an ideal destination for city-themed, family, and business vacations, offering a rich array of attractions. Visitors can explore local highlights such as the Observatory Museum, the historic Civic Government Building, and the vibrant piazza. Cultural experiences abound, with options like Ska Observatory and the Old Observatory, ensuring a fulfilling journey for those seeking to immerse themselves in the local heritage and community spirit.

  • Bree Street: A vibrant thoroughfare just 5km from Observatory, Bree Street is renowned for its trendy cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops. The atmosphere buzzes with urban energy, making it an ideal spot for food enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of local life.
  • Greenmarket Square: Located 5km away, this lively piazza offers a rich cultural experience with its bustling market stalls. Here, you can find unique crafts, art, and local delicacies, all set against the backdrop of historic architecture that reflects the city's diverse heritage.
  • Parliament of South Africa: Situated 5km from Observatory, this historic building stands as a symbol of the nation’s democracy. Visitors can admire its stunning architecture and learn about the legislative processes that shape South Africa's future.

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

Flying into Observatory is convenient as it is situated approximately 13km from Cape Town International Airport (CPT). This airport is served by several major airlines. For accommodation, the Taj Cape Town, One&Only Cape Town, and InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town by IHG are excellent 5-star options, all located around 18km from the airport. Each hotel offers various transportation services to the airport, including accessible airport shuttles and transfers, often with additional fees. These hotels provide a comfortable stay with easy access to the vibrant attractions of Observatory and its surroundings.

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.

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