The coastal city of Cape Town is a great chance to explore the South African culture. Not only that, but the iconic Table Mountain that looks over the city, plus its amazing beaches perfect for surfing, makes it a great destination for outdoor activities.
Being a major city, however, means that you might find more in the way of hotels rather than hostels. Plus there are areas of the city you might want to stay away from.
We’ve looked into it and found you a whole host of places to stay in Cape Town to help your budget. These are all easily the best hostels in Cape Town.
Whether you’re looking for something quiet that’s a good base for exploring the city, or if you’re more into something that’s going to be perfect for a party, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive into Cape Town’s hostels and see what there is on offer!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Cape Town
#1 Best Overall Hostel in Cape Town – The Backpack Cape Town
#2 Best Party Hostel in Cape Town – Long Street Backpackers
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Cape Town – Homebase Cape Town
#4 Best Hostel in V & A Waterfront – Never@home Cape Town
#5 Best Hostel in Green Point, Cape Town – Atlantic Point
#6 Best Hostel in Sea Point, Cape Town – Mojo in Cape Town
#7 Best Hostel in Cape Town Central Station – 91 Loop Cape Town
#8 Best High End Hostel in Cape Town – The Surf Shack
#9 Best Budget Hostel in Cape Town – Cat and Mouse Backpackers
#10 Best Hostel with a Private Room in Cape Town – Ashanti Lodge Gardens
#1 – The Backpack Cape Town
Best Overall Hostel in Cape Town
An outdoor pool and beautiful ambience are only part of the reason why the Backpack Cape Town is the best overall hostel in Cape Town!
An outdoor pool and beautiful ambience are only part of the reason why the Backpack Cape Town is the best overall hostel in Cape Town!
An outdoor pool and beautiful ambience are only part of the reason why the Backpack Cape Town is the best overall hostel in Cape Town!- Cost – $$
- Location – 74 New Church Street
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Backpack Cape Town…
The best overall hostel in Cape Town, we love The Backpack Cape Town for, well, a number of reasons.
They invest in local communities and have an interest in the environment, so they try to promote travellers having a meaningful time when they come to visit Cape Town. Feels like home.
The Backpack Cape Town is perfect for…
If you’re looking to stay somewhere with a little more heart than the average hostel, then this Cape Town backpackers hostel will be perfect.
It helps if you’re sensitive to a little bit of style: the tasteful decoration is on point here, plus there’s even an outdoor pool to use.
#2 – Long Street Backpackers
Best Party Hostel in Cape Town
Don't forget your party pants - Long Street Backpackers is easily the best party hostel in Cape Town!
Don't forget your party pants - Long Street Backpackers is easily the best party hostel in Cape Town!
Don't forget your party pants - Long Street Backpackers is easily the best party hostel in Cape Town!- Cost – $$
- Location – 209 Longstreet
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Long Street Backpackers…
This top hostel in Cape Town is pretty much perfectly located. You’ll find Long Street Backpackers on… Long Street! This is one of Cape Town’s most popular streets when it comes to nocturnal entertainment.
Despite its party reputation, Long Street is super stylish with period features and big balconies. We’re fans.
Long Street Backpackers is perfect for…
Want to party? Looking for the best party hostel in Cape Town? Then you’ve come to the right place. This hostel is all about getting to know other travellers and – of course – partying with them.
There’s a bar downstairs and Long Street itself can get pretty loud too, so if you want to sleep… look elsewhere!
#3 – Homebase Cape Town
Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Cape Town
Why we like Homebase Cape Town…
Homebase not only has a homely name (which is definitely one of the first things that drew us in), but it also happens to be the best hostel for solo travellers in Cape Town.
The homely vibes extend WELL past the name to be honest, plus the location is pretty good too: it’s on fun-loving Long Street.
Homebase Cape Town is perfect for…
As you might expect this is perfect for people who are travelling by themselves. This recommended hostel in Cape Town actively promotes people hanging out together and getting to know each other.
There’s a rooftop bar, which is perfect if you like your socialising accompanied by a few drinkies.
#4 – Never@home Cape Town
Best Hostel near V&A Waterfront
- Cost – $$
- Location – 107 Main Road, Green Point
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Never@home Cape Town…
Arguably the best hostel near V&A Waterfront, we really can’t fault the location of this budget hostel in Cape Town.
The Waterfront itself is just a few steps from the hostel, but if you don’t fancy going out at night you can save a few pennies and eat in the onsite restaurant instead.
Never@home Cape Town is perfect for…
Like being close to the action of the Waterfront itself? Then this one’s for you. It’s a modern hostel, that’s for sure, and has decor that’s more akin to a budget hotel than a hostel – plus it comes complete with an outdoor pool, too.
The private rooms here are pretty nice too – if you fancy them.
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#5 – Atlantic Point
Best Hostel in Green Point, Cape Town
- Cost – $$
- Location – 2 Cavalcade rd, GreenPoint
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Atlantic Point…
Atlantic Point is one of the coolest hostels in Cape Town. There’s a nice little outdoor area complete with a pool and a BBQ. The atmosphere is more like staying in a big, fun houseshare. It’s clean, well organised, the staff are friendly, it’s easy to meet people AND it’s award-winning. What’s not to like?!
Atlantic Point is perfect for…
Interested in Green Point? Then it’s a no-brainer: go with this place, the best hostel in Green Point.
It’s also great if you’re interested in being near good public transport links. Plus if you’re a food fan, the free breakfast here more than sets you up for the day. Party fiend? There’s beer pong every night.
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#6 – Mojo in Cape Town
Best Hostel in Sea Point, Cape Town
- Cost – $$
- Location – 30 Regent Road, Sea Point
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Mojo in Cape Town…
This little Cape Town backpackers hostel, Mojo is the best hostel in Sea Point. There’s a market – Mojo Market, to be exact – which is right nearby, and this hostel is just 50 metres from the Sea Point Promenade too.
Location wise, this place is definitely up there as one of the best hostels in Cape Town.
Mojo in Cape Town is perfect for…
If you feel like soaking up the outdoors, there’s more than enough for you here. That’s thanks in part to a HUGE rooftop terrace that comes complete with unobstructed views of the ocean. Perfect.
If you’re worried about space – don’t. There’s plenty of spacious rooms on offer to suit everyone.
#7 – 91 Loop Cape Town
Best Hostel near Cape Town Central Stadium
- Cost – $$
- Location – 91 Loop Street, Cape Town
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like 91 Loop Cape Town…
Since it’s a mere couple of blocks away from it, we’d definitely say that this is the best hostel near Cape Town Central Station.
We can’t help but love that location. We’re also fans of the big free breakfast served up daily, the music and DJs the hostel puts on, the beer pong, plus the excursions… It’s all good.
91 Loop Cape Town is perfect for…
If being near rail links is interesting to you then you’ll probably love staying at this top hostel in Cape Town. Then again, the My Citi bus stops right outside this hostel too, so fans of getting around by bus will appreciate it, too. On top of that, the social, fun-loving vibe here is strong. Sound like you? Book away!
#8 – The Surf Shack
Best High-end Hostel in Cape Town
- Cost – $$
- Location – 1 Stirling Road, Blouberg, West Beach
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Surf Shack…
Wow. This might be a surf hostel in Cape Town, but this place really doesn’t feel like it.
In fact, this place feels a lot more like a boutique hotel. It’s very nice, a chilled out, beach-located place that really does live up to the title of the best high-end hostel in Cape Town. Definitely.
The Surf Shack is perfect for…
The Surf Shack is the kind of place that people keep coming back to year after year because people love it so much. It may be for surfers, but it’s really immaculately decorated and it’s even got a small swimming pool.
If you’re a couple or even a flashpacker, you’ll love the private rooms at this place.
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#9 – Cat and Mouse Backpackers
Best Budget Hostel in Cape Town
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 305 Long Street, 8001
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Cat and Mouse Backpackers…
It may be the best budget hostel in Cape Town, but that doesn’t mean it skimps on its historical credentials. In fact, it’s actually set in a building that dates back to 1792.
We love the great security and value for money going on here. It’s clean, nicely kept, a bit old school, but charming.
Cat and Mouse Backpackers is perfect for…
Perfect if you’re interested in being near all the bars and restaurants of Long Street, and even more perfect if you don’t mind putting up with a bit of noise for a cheaper stay, this is going to be a budget hostel in Cape Town for you.
Comes complete with views of Table Mountain.
#10 – Ashanti Lodge Gardens
Best Hostel with a Private Room in Cape Town
- Cost – $$
- Location – 11 Hof Street, Gardens
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Ashanti Lodge Gardens…
With rooms that look out onto a swimming pool (the hostel’s own swimming pool, you’ll be pleased to hear), this top hostel in Cape Town also comes with views of Table Mountain.
The dorms here come with nicely sized, big beds with fresh, white linen for every guest. Can’t fault it.
Ashanti Lodge Gardens is perfect for…
If you want a private room, but you’re still travelling on a budget, you’ll be happy to hear that this is the best hostel in Cape Town with a private room.
Ashanti is perfect for couples, flashpackers, or those that just want some space. You’ll also be happy to hear that it comes with a free breakfast and features a chilled bar area, too.
More Best Hostels in Cape Town
#11 – Urban Hive Backpackers
- Cost – $$
- Location – 208 Long Street
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Urban Hive Backpackers…
Set inside a heritage, Victorian style historic building, with windows that overlook the street below, this recommended hostel in Cape Town might be a bit older and less polished than other hostels – and less modern, too – but it’s close to restaurants and bars. It also comes complete with good security.
Urban Hive Backpackers is perfect for…
If you’re unfussy about where you stay, and you’re also looking to be as close as you can be to good food and fun nightlife, then you’d do very well staying at this Cape Town backpackers hostel.
Sure it might not be modern, but it’s actually pretty stylish in an old school way.
#12 – Once in Cape Town
- Cost – $$
- Location – 69 Kloof street
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Once in Cape Town…
A young and friendly Cape Town backpackers hostel that’s all about exploring and having a cool travel experience, this place is located in Kloofstreet. This area is known for its restaurants and cool little places to hang out.
Plus it’s not too far (but far enough – for us) away from Long Street.
Once in Cape Town is perfect for…
If you’re a fan of food then hold your horses – this place is for you!
Once is Cape Town has three restaurants, all serving up a mix of tasty food. One of these turns into a bar in the evening where a vinyl-only DJ spins tunes late into the night. A good place to meet locals plus a good range of activities on offer, too.
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#13 – Aloha Lodge
- Cost – $$
- Location – 6 Algoa Road, Milnerton
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Aloha Lodge…
A little slice of chic, we like that Aloha Lodge really does have a sort of tropical lodge feel to it.
We also like how cool it is – cutely, homely decorated rooms with a friendly feel and stylish design touches make it somewhere that we wouldn’t mind spending a couple of weeks!
Aloha Lodge is perfect for…
If you’re a flashpacker, or maybe a couple, or just someone who wants to stay somewhere local and homely, the host here will make sure that you feel welcome in cool Cape Town hostel.
All different ages stay here, so it’s a good option for any sort of traveller. It’s a good place to relax away from the city centre.
#14 – The B.I.G Backpackers
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 18 Thornhill rd, Green Point
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The B.I.G Backpackers…
Set on a chilled street in Green Point at the bottom of Signal Hill, we like the location of this top hostel in Cape Town.
It’s a great all-round hostel that combines a chill spot with other decent perks like a friendly social atmosphere and free breakfast! We approve.
The B.I.G Backpackers is perfect for…
If you don’t mind being a little further away from the centre of town, then this is the place for you. And if you’re sensitive to design, don’t worry: this is easily one of the coolest hostels in Cape Town.
Polished concrete, clean lines, colour pops, vintage mixed with modern… it’s great!
#15 – A Sunflower Stop
- Cost – $$
- Location – 179 Main Road, Green Point
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like A Sunflower Stop…
Aside from the cute name, we love this Cape Town backpackers hostel because of its friendly atmosphere as well as how close it is to the V&A Waterfront.
The staff here are super helpful, which is definitely something we approve of when it comes to exploring the city, plus we always appreciate a free breakfast.
A Sunflower Stop is perfect for…
If you’re looking to get a quiet night’s sleep in the city, then you might want to consider booking A Sunflower Stop.
There’s a chill garden area, the vibe here is relaxed and defined by its stylish interiors. Plus having all this so close to the Waterfront is a major bonus!
#16 – Cape Surf Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – 29 Dolphin Drive
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Cape Surf Hostel…
You might be able to tell from the name, but Cape Surf Hostel is all about surfing (both regular and kitesurfing). Set at Bloubergstrand Beach. The views from this place, both of Table Mountain and the beach, are perfect.
We love how close this place is to some prime spots for watersports.
Cape Surf Hostel is perfect for…
Thanks to the spacious rooms, this top hostel in Cape Town is perfect for anybody looking to hang out with a group of friends on their trip. Or even a family looking for somewhere different to stay in Cape Town.
There’s an outdoor pool area, which is nice for those who like space to chill. Surfers will love this one, too.
#17 – Big Blue Backpackers
- Cost – $$
- Location – 7 Vesperdene Road, Green Point CT 8001
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Big Blue Backpackers…
Very close the brand new Cape Town Stadium, Big Blue Hostel is predictably set in a big old blue house. There’s a pub here, which we can’t fault, plus a swimming pool outside.
We love the period features going on here, which include large rooms and huge, sweeping wooden staircases.
Big Blue Backpackers is perfect for…
If you’re a solo traveller and you want to meet other backpackers then you’ll love staying here. It’s a recommended hostel in Cape Town for backpackers, after all!
It’s located in Green Point, meaning a more chilled stay than more central hostels, but thanks to the pub you won’t have quiet nights here!
FAQ’s
How Much are Hostels in Cape Town?
Most dormitory rooms are about $15 to $25 per night in Cape Town. If you want more personal space, you can get a private room for between $50 and $100 at most spots.
What are Hostels in Cape Town Like?
Cool, artsy, and fun is the norm! Quite a few hostels have pools and most have great communal spaces where you can relax and meet other guests. Most hostels are centrally located and will help you plan your travels around the city and South Africa.
How Safe are Hostels in Cape Town?
Cape Town is a large city, and some neighborhoods are considered a bit more dangerous. Hostels are generally located in safer areas of the city and have good security, and as long as you're cautious problems are unlikely.
How to Find Hostels in Cape Town?
Start out by searching on HostelWorld to compare all the places. If you're traveling around South Africa, you can ask for recommendations from other travelers or see if your current accommodation has a suggestion!
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Best Overall Hostel in Cape Town
The Backpack Cape Town
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Best Party Hostel in Cape Town
Long Street Backpackers
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Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Cape Town
Homebase Cape Town
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Best Hostel near V&A Waterfront
Never@home Cape Town
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Best Hostel in Green Point, Cape Town
Atlantic Point
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Best Hostel in Sea Point, Cape Town
Mojo in Cape Town
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Best Hostel near Cape Town Central Stadium
91 Loop Cape Town
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Best High-end Hostel in Cape Town
The Surf Shack
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Best Budget Hostel in Cape Town
Cat and Mouse Backpackers
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Best Hostel with a Private Room in Cape Town
Ashanti Lodge Gardens
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Closing Thoughts on the Best Bargain Hostels in Cape Town
Cape Town has so many different types of hostels on offer! Did you manage to find the perfect hostel for you? Budget travellers don’t need to worry as there’s a whole host of choices and safety need not be a concern as many of the top hostels in CapeTown come with top security.
There are some really cool places to hang out in the city, stunning sites to soak up and a whole dose of nature to enjoy and – thanks to a mix of cultures – the food scene is unbelievable too.
So whether you’re in Cape Town for a night or two and just need somewhere clean and convenient to sleep, or you’re in the city for a few weeks and want to get under the skin of the local life, there’ll be a perfect hostel in Cape Town for you.
And if you can’t decide on a hostel, don’t worry: we’d say go for The Backpack Cape Town. This is the best overall hostel in Cape Town, so you can’t go wrong really!
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