Step onto the platform at Esplanade Station, and you’ll feel Cape Town’s heartbeat beneath your feet! This historic railway hub isn’t just a transit point—it’s a warm, artistic pulse where daily life meets coastal charm. Morning sun glints off the tracks, sea breeze dances past, and every snapshot feels like a story in motion. Whether you’re a local commuter or a curious traveler, this quiet corner of the city whispers something special—like the rhythm of trains meeting the ocean’s sigh.

Psst… want to hear a secret? Right in the heart of V&A Waterfront, there’s a luxury hotel that feels like a cozy home with a dash of adventure. Imagine waking up to harbor views or the breathtaking Table Mountain panorama from your room—it’s pure magic! Perfect for families, they offer a kids’ pool, play area, and children’s meals. Unwind at the spa or hit the fitness center for some me-time. Rated 4.8, this gem is waiting to welcome you home!

This hotel is located in the prime spot of Cape Town's vibrant city center, surrounded by lively local culture and exquisite international cuisine. Whether you're exploring contemporary art galleries, savoring authentic flavors at local restaurants, or enjoying the bustling nightlife, all amenities are just a stone's throw away. With luxurious facilities like a pool, fitness center, and business center, plus thoughtful services like airport transfers, it's the perfect choice for both business and leisure travelers.
Everything you need to know about Esplanade Station
Near Esplanade Station in Cape Town, Cape Town City Centre Hotel is a top choice, just a 5-minute walk away with excellent transport access. The hotel features modern amenities and offers stunning views of Table Mountain and the Cape Town Harbour from its rooms. It provides free Wi-Fi, 24-hour concierge service, and multilingual staff, making it ideal for both business travelers and tourists.
Another standout option is The Silo Hotel, housed in a converted grain silo with a unique blend of heritage architecture and contemporary design. Its rooftop terrace delivers panoramic views of False Bay, perfect for guests seeking luxury and distinctive ambiance. Both accommodations ensure convenience, comfort, and exceptional access to Cape Town’s vibrant city center.
It takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to reach downtown Cape Town from Esplanade Station via the MyCiTi bus rapid transit system or on foot. The MyCiTi buses run every 10–15 minutes and provide direct access to the City Bowl area, offering scenic views of the Cape Town Harbour and Table Mountain along the way.
Walking along Victoria Road or the Cape Town Waterfront promenade is also safe and enjoyable, allowing travelers to discover local street art, live performances, and charming waterfront cafés. Most major attractions—including the Cape Town Waterfront, National Museum, and V&A Market—are within walking distance, enabling a seamless "arrive and explore" experience without needing additional transportation.
Near Esplanade Station, visitors can enjoy several unique experiences: join a Cape Town Waterfront boat tour to spot seals and seabirds while viewing Table Mountain and Cape Point in the distance. At the Cape Town Waterfront's open-air markets, sample authentic South African delicacies like Biltong (dried meat) and Bobotie (spiced mince dish), immersing yourself in colonial-era culture.
The Art on the Waterfront exhibitions showcase works by local artists, and weekend live music performances add vibrant energy. For nature lovers, strolling or cycling along the Green Point Promenade offers a refreshing coastal escape with sea breezes and panoramic harbor views. These activities seamlessly blend urban charm with natural beauty, creating unforgettable memories.
Near Esplanade Station, the standout choice is The Silo Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel housed in a converted grain silo with breathtaking views of the V&A Waterfront and Table Bay. It's perfectly located for walking to the Cape Town Aquarium, Zeitz MOCAA, and Table Mountain via the cable car. Other excellent options include design-focused guesthouses in the City Bowl area, ideal for families and couples seeking comfort and convenience. The station connects directly to the MyCiTi bus system, offering quick access to downtown and major attractions in under 10 minutes.
From Esplanade Station, hop on the MyCiTi bus to reach the V&A Waterfront in just 5 minutes. The station is steps away from the Cape Town Aquarium, Antarctic Bear Plaza, and the Table Mountain Cableway—all within a 10-minute walk. For Cape Point, take a city bus or rent an electric vehicle (approx. 40 minutes). The station also links to scenic coastal pathways, perfect for walking along the Atlantic Seaboard with panoramic views of Table Mountain and the ocean.
Near Esplanade Station, enjoy a sunset stroll along the Cape Town Seaport Promenade, where you’ll witness stunning views of Table Mountain meeting the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t miss the V&A Waterfront Market Tours, featuring local street food and artisan crafts. Art lovers should visit Zeitz MOCAA, housed in the historic grain silo, showcasing groundbreaking African contemporary art. At night, unwind at The Silo Bar, sipping cocktails with panoramic views of the illuminated V&A Waterfront—a perfect end to a vibrant day in Cape Town.
See what other travelers say about Esplanade Station

Walking into Cape Grace feels like stepping into a luxury sanctuary. From the moment you arrive, the elegant design and exceptional service from the professional staff set the tone for an unforgettable stay. The rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed, each one thoughtfully prepared with a chilled bottle of sparkling wine waiting upon check-in—such a delightful touch. Every room offers breathtaking views of the harbor, making it feel like a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling energy of Cape Town. One standout feature is the innovative 'design for security' approach: the glass doors leading to the stairs and elevator are only accessible with your room key, blending safety with sleek modernity. Breakfast was well-executed, offering both a generous buffet and the option to order hot dishes—perfect for different tastes. But what truly stole the show was the underground whisky bar, boasting an impressive selection that would satisfy even the most discerning connoisseur. Every detail, from the ambiance to the attention to service, felt curated with care. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s an experience. 10/10 without hesitation.

Staying at Pullman Cape Town City Centre was a fantastic experience. Located right in the heart of the city, it’s incredibly convenient—just a short walk or quick ride to everything. The hotel offers a shuttle bus to the waterfront, but it’s essential to book in advance; we recommend securing your spot early. Our room was on a high floor, and the view of Table Mountain was absolutely breathtaking, especially during sunset. Breakfast was decent but nothing extraordinary—options were limited, and it got quite crowded during peak hours, particularly with several Indian tour groups visiting. That said, the location, comfort, and overall vibe make this a great choice for travelers who want to be right in the middle of the action without sacrificing quality. Highly recommended for those looking to explore Cape Town's vibrant city life.

Staying at Lion's View Villa & Apartment was an absolute delight, especially for a large family. The penthouse and private villa offered plenty of space, comfort, and real privacy—perfect for gathering with loved ones. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel welcome from day one. Every corner was spotlessly clean, and the attention to detail was impressive. Elize stood out as exceptionally professional—always helpful, calm, and efficient whenever we needed anything. The location is excellent too—close to public transit and just a short ride from major attractions in Cape Town. This place truly delivers on comfort, service, and value. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxed, upscale stay in a beautiful setting.

I was warmly welcomed upon arrival, and the entire stay was incredibly pleasant. The location is perfect—just a short distance from the airport yet tucked away in a quiet, charming neighborhood. It’s an ideal base for exploring nearby destinations like Stellenbosch, with easy access and a peaceful atmosphere. The hospitality, comfort, and overall experience made this a standout choice. Highly recommended for travelers looking for a relaxing, well-located spot in Cape Town.

Staying at Rhonda's Manor Boutique Guest House felt like stepping into a cozy, well-cared-for home away from home. The hosts are genuinely warm and welcoming, making you feel instantly at ease. The staff go out of their way to assist with anything you might need—always polite and attentive. Security is top-notch, which gives peace of mind, especially when exploring the area late in the evening. Just a short walk away, you'll find some fantastic dining options, including NV80 Steak House—a real highlight for meat lovers. It’s no surprise this place has such a loyal following; it’s often fully booked, so securing a reservation early is key. If you're looking for a quiet, charming retreat just outside the bustling city center, this boutique guest house is an excellent choice. A truly memorable stay that exceeds expectations.

This boutique hotel is absolutely stunning from the moment you step in. The staff go above and beyond to make you feel welcome, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere that truly feels like home. The views are nothing short of breathtaking—Table Mountain sits just outside the door, towering over the property, while the ocean vista stretches endlessly beyond. Every morning felt like waking up in a postcard. The breakfast was exceptional—fresh, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared. I couldn’t have asked for more. This stay exceeded all expectations, and I’m already planning my return visit. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a memorable, authentic experience in Cape Town.

Lion’s Eye Luxury Apartments offered an exceptional location in Cape Town—perfectly situated for exploring the city with ease. The staff were incredibly friendly and went above and beyond to help us. When I accidentally left something behind, they kindly arranged to ship it to me at no extra cost. That level of care and attention to detail made our stay truly memorable. It’s rare to find such a personal touch in a modern apartment setting. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Cape Town.

O on Kloof is an absolute gem! Our room was incredibly comfortable, with elegant decor and a peaceful ambiance that made it feel like a true retreat. The facilities are top-notch—especially the spa area, which offered a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The staff went above and beyond: warm, genuinely helpful, and always smiling. They made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. The location is fantastic—just a short walk to Mojo Market for some local vibes, or a lovely stroll along the beach. A quick ride via Uber takes you straight to the waterfront, ideal for dinner or sunset views. Our stay in Cape Town was unforgettable, and this hotel truly set the tone. We’ll definitely be back—O on Kloof is now one of our favorite places to stay in South Africa.

Staying at Ocean View House for the second time was just as delightful as the first. The room is spacious and well-maintained, with hot water that’s perfect for a relaxing shower and an air conditioner that keeps the space cool and comfortable—especially helpful during Cape Town’s warmer days. But honestly, the breakfast is what truly stands out: fresh, delicious, and full of local flavors. I especially loved the homemade pastries and the grilled sausages—they were simply outstanding. The only minor downside? Check-out time felt a bit early compared to standard hotel norms (I’d expect 12 PM), but it’s not a dealbreaker. Overall, this place delivers exceptional value, great service, and a prime location close to downtown. I’ll definitely be back.

Our stay at Harpers House was absolutely fantastic! The staff went above and beyond to make our experience seamless. We requested an earlier breakfast, and they happily accommodated us without any hassle. Every team member was courteous, attentive, and genuinely hospitable—like true hosts. After check-out, they kindly stored our luggage, which made exploring the city much more convenient. Breakfast was not only delicious and well-prepared but also served promptly, allowing us to start our day on a great note. From warm greetings to thoughtful touches, every detail reflected care and professionalism. This place truly stands out for its exceptional service and welcoming atmosphere. I’d highly recommend Harpers House to anyone visiting Cape Town—it’s a gem!

Located just a short walk from the V&A Waterfront and its vibrant array of restaurants, this hotel offers excellent access to dining and entertainment options. The building itself feels secure with reliable entry access to the canal area—perfect for evening strolls. That said, the unit could use a deeper clean occasionally—especially around the kitchen sink, microwave, and tile grout where some buildup is noticeable. While proper laundry detergent was provided, there was no dishwasher-safe soap included, which was a small inconvenience. Overall, the value for money is solid, especially for a central location. One minor suggestion: consider reversing the fridge door’s swing direction so it opens into the kitchen rather than toward the sleeping area. It’s an easy fix with basic tools and would significantly improve daily convenience. A thoughtful upgrade that makes a big difference.

The staff were incredibly kind and helpful. We got sick from food in Cape Town, and the team went above and beyond to support us. They checked in on us regularly, even brought over a meal in the evening to make sure we were taken care of. It was such a thoughtful gesture—felt like home away from home. The care and attention truly made our stay memorable, and I’d absolutely recommend this place to anyone visiting.
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