By Richard Hoskisson – January 2025

Is Cape Town Expensive in 2025? Find Out Today
Recently voted ‘Best City in the World‘ by Time Out Magazine, Cape Town is a must-visit destination for 2025.

If you’re wondering, “Is Cape Town expensive?”, the answer might surprise you. Despite being a long-haul destination for many international travellers, Cape Town offers incredible value for money. For those earning in Euros (€), Dollars ($), or Sterling (£), it’s one of the most affordable destinations for the quality you’ll experience.
From luxurious accommodations to world-class dining, Cape Town delivers an unmatched ratio of quality to cost.
The Cost Of Visiting Cape Town In 2025
Budgeting for a trip can vary widely depending on the experiences you’re after, however Cape Town offers something unique—it’s a competitive travel destination where even a modest budget can go a long way. Whether you’re seeking luxury or simplicity, this city delivers incredible value.

One of my favourite (albeit unscientific) ways to compare costs is through the price of a medium Caffè Latte ☕️ at Starbucks. Here’s how Cape Town stacks up against other places I frequent:
- 🇫🇷 France: €5.45
- 🇦🇪 Dubai: AED 20 (€5.20)
- 🇬🇧 UK: £4.00 (€4.70)
- 🇿🇦 South Africa: R56 (€2.90)
At just over half the price, this small comparison highlights how much more affordable food and drink are in Cape Town. While it’s just a simple example, it reflects a broader trend: Cape Town is significantly cheaper than many other major international destinations.
What’s The Average Daily Budget?1
Which category suits your travel style? Use this breakdown to start planning your budget and ensure your trip to Cape Town matches your expectations!
Expense 2419_459094-e9> |
Budget Travellers 🟢 2419_c49c9e-fb> |
Mid-Range Travellers 🟡 2419_8fe5c4-d1> |
High-End Travellers 🔴 2419_73210e-83> |
---|---|---|---|
🏨 Accommodation 2419_c9ffa6-0e> |
ZAR500 |
ZAR1,429 $94 2419_93bcb2-4d> |
ZAR5,000 |
🚕 Transport 2419_509c72-db> |
ZAR250 |
ZAR1,337 |
ZAR2,000 |
🥗 Food 2419_251d7d-4e> |
ZAR250 |
ZAR1,000 |
ZAR2,000 |
🍷 Drink 2419_40d1bf-c8> |
ZAR150 |
ZAR500 |
ZAR1,000 |
🎪 Entertainment 2419_c5d58d-cd> |
ZAR200 |
ZAR800 |
ZAR2,500 |
Total 2419_4a6e0e-33> |
ZAR1,200 |
ZAR4,046 |
ZAR11,500 |
Breakdown:
- 🏨 Accommodation:
- Budget Travellers: Hostels or budget guesthouses.
- Mid-Range Travellers: Standard hotels or comfortable guesthouses.
- Luxury Travellers: High-end hotels or luxury resorts.
- 🚖 Transport:
- Budget Travellers: Public transport or walking.
- Mid-Range Travellers: Occasional taxis or ride-sharing services.
- Luxury Travellers: Private car hires or chauffeured services.
- 🥗 Food:
- Budget Travellers: Self-catering or local eateries.
- Mid-Range Travellers: Dining at mid-tier restaurants.
- Luxury Travelers: Fine dining experiences.
- 🍷Drink:
- Budget Travellers: Purchasing drinks from supermarkets or local shops.
- Mid-Range Travellers: Enjoying drinks at standard bars or restaurants.
- Luxury Travellers: Indulging in premium beverages at upscale venues.
- 🎪 Entertainment:
- Budget Travellers: Free or low-cost activities (e.g. hiking, walking)
- Mid-Range Travellers: Paid attractions and tours.
- Luxury Travellers: Exclusive experiences and private tours.
Key Points to Note:
- Accommodation is the Biggest Cost Driver:
- Luxury travellers spend 10 times more on accommodation compared to budget travelers.
- Food Costs Increase with Preferences:
- Mid-range travellers allocate 4 times more to dining out than budget travelers.
- Transportation Varies Significantly:
- Luxury travellers often rely on private transport, making this category 10 times higher than for budget travellers.
- Entertainment Spikes for High-End Visitors:
- With activities like private wine tours or helicopter rides, luxury entertainment costs are over 12 times higher.
- Drink is Affordable Across Tiers:
- While luxury travellers enjoy pricier beverages, even budget travelers can indulge in Cape Town’s affordable wine and beer.
- Mid-Range Travelers Find Balance:
- This category offers great value, with moderate spending across all areas.
Exchange Rates Used:
- 1 ZAR = 0.0526 GBP
- 1 ZAR = 0.06 EUR
- 1 ZAR = 0.0658 USD

How Much Does A Weekend Or 7-Day Trip Cost?2
The cost of a trip to Cape Town can vary widely depending on your travel style and the experiences you prioritise. Whether you’re backpacking or indulging in luxury, the city caters to all budgets.
Here’s an estimate of the total cost for two people travelling together:
Duration 2419_3ca45a-0f> |
Budget Travellers 🟢 2419_be1280-ba> |
Mid-Range Travellers 🟡 2419_4b0e14-86> |
High-End Travellers 🔴 2419_e0cafa-73> |
---|---|---|---|
Long Weekend |
ZAR3,600–4,500 |
ZAR7,500–9,000 |
ZAR15,000+ |
7 Days 2419_28afd7-00> |
ZAR8,400–10,500 |
ZAR17,500–21,000 |
ZAR35,000+ |
Key Points to Consider:
- Budget Travellers: Staying in hostels or budget guesthouses, eating at local restaurants, and using public transport keeps costs low.
- Mid-Range Travellers: Expect higher expenses with boutique hotels, casual fine dining, and private transport options like Ubers.
- Luxury Travellers: High-end accommodations, gourmet dining, and private tours can elevate your trip to an indulgent experience.
💡 Top Tip: Booking flights and accommodations early often unlocks significant savings, particularly in high season (December to March).

Is Cape Town Expensive For Backpackers?
As shown in the data above, Cape Town offers excellent value for backpackers. With a daily budget of around ZAR 1,200, you can comfortably cover food, accommodation, and entertainment. This is a fraction of what you might spend in major global cities like London, Paris, or Sydney, where daily costs can easily exceed ZAR 2,500.
Cape Town’s affordability, combined with its rich cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes, makes it a standout destination for budget-conscious travellers.

How Much Does Accommodation Cost in Cape Town?
Cape Town boasts a fantastic range of accommodations to suit every budget. Whether you’re a backpacker, a mid-range traveller, or looking for a luxurious stay, the city offers exceptional options. I’ve always been impressed by the high standards of accommodation whenever visiting South Africa.
If you’re planning to explore beyond Cape Town, don’t miss the chance to stay in the nearby winelands. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl offer charming and equally high-quality lodging options, perfect for extending your trip.
Average Hotel Prices and Seasons
Cape Town’s accommodation costs can vary significantly depending on the time of year. During peak travel seasons like December and January, expect prices to be higher, particularly for beachfront properties. Conversely, visiting during the cooler months (May to September) often comes with lower rates and great deals.
Booking early is key, especially for high-demand areas such as the V&A Waterfront or Camps Bay. Many mid-range and luxury hotels also offer discounts for extended stays or early bookings.
Average prices are around $80 per night, however do bear in mind that prices can always vary wildly from an average depending on location and time of year.

My Hotel Recommendations
🛏️ Budget-Friendly Places to Stay
- The BIG Luxury Backpackers – Situated in the trendy suburb of Green Point, The BIG offers excellent value for money in a high quality backpackers residence.
- Rouge on Rose Boutique Hotel – Nestled between DeWaterkant and Bo Kaap, this delightful hotel is extremely well-situated and excellent value for money.
- Anew Hotel Green Point – Modern and comfortable, Anew Hotel Green Point is close to key attractions and offers excellent facilities at an affordable price.
🏨 The Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Old Foundry Hotel by Ideas Cartel – Located within walking distance of the V&A Waterfront and the tourist friendly suburb of DeWaterkant this relatively new hotel combines industrial design with Cape Town chic.
- Radisson RED Hotel – In Cape Town’s trendiest neighbourhood, enjoy all the facilities and activities at the Waterfront at a fraction of the price of its swankier neighbours.
- The Grey – Though a classic choice, The Grey continues to impress with its charming boutique feel and prime location in DeWaterkant.
- Neighborhood 1st Crescent Camps Bay – Whilst property in Camps Bay comes at a premium, this self-check-in hotel offers great value for money well situated for the beaches of Camps bay.
🏝️ Luxury Options
- The Silo Hotel – If there had to be only one recommendation for Cape Town this would be it. Location is superb, design is exceptional and the hospitality is outstanding.
- 💡 Top Tip – Visit the Willaston Bar for sundowners.
- Ellerman House – Located in Bantry Bay, this boutique hotel offers exquisite luxury, panoramic views, and an extensive collection of South African art. Perfect for discerning travelers seeking privacy and indulgence.
- 💡 Top Tip – Don’t miss the Wine Gallery for an unforgettable tasting experience.
- South Beach Camps Bay – I had a very enjoyable stay here days before the pandemic lockdowns began. Spacious suites equipped with kitchenettes make it ideal for longer stays.
🌄 A Little Further Afield
- Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa– Camps Bay – Perfect for relaxation, the spa offers breathtaking ocean views and world-class treatments. A real favourite of mine, especially for sundowners on the terrace at The Leopard Lounge.
- Villa Pascal Guest House – Durbanville – A little out of town in the suburb of Durbanville, this lovely guest house is owned and run by my French teacher Daniele Pascale who is also an acclaimed French singer.
- Babylonstoren – Stellenbosch – A renowned wine estate and farm hotel in Franschhoek. Experience understated luxury with farm-to-table dining, stunning gardens, and tranquil vineyard views.
- 💡 Top Tip – Explore the garden tours and their on-site spa for a serene escape.

How Much Does Transportation Cost in Cape Town?
Comparing Options
- Public Transport
Public transport in Cape Town is limited and not always safe or reliable for tourists. Minibus taxis are cheap (from R10-20 per ride) but are better suited for locals familiar with the routes. I strongly recommend avoiding using public transport.
💡 Top Tip – Stick to safer and more reliable options like Uber or Bolt for affordable travel.
- Uber/Bolt vs Taxis
Ubers/Bolts are widely available, safe, and often cheaper than traditional metered taxis. For example, a 10 km ride may cost around R50-70 with Uber, compared to R100-150 with a metered taxi.
💡 Top Tip – Download the app and opt for Uber Comfort for extra security features like driver ratings.
Renting A Car: Costs and Tips
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Cape Town and nearby areas like the Cape Winelands or Cape Point. I always recommend booking car hire through Booking.com for the best rates and flexibility.
- Costs: Expect to pay around R300-500 per day for a basic car, excluding fuel. Petrol is about R25 per litre.
- Tips:
- Rent from reputable companies to avoid hidden fees.
- Opt for comprehensive insurance, especially if you plan to drive on gravel roads in rural areas.
- Watch out for speed cameras and tolls (like Chapman’s Peak Drive).

What Does Food and Drink Cost in Cape Town?
🍲 Eating on a Budget
Street food and casual eateries offer great value. Try Gatsby sandwiches (around R60-100) or local markets like Neighbourgoods in Woodstock for affordable and diverse options. Many supermarkets have ready-made meals (R40-80) that are a great budget alternative.
💡 Top Tip – Spar and Woolworths are excellent for high-quality, reasonably priced food.
🍷 Dining for Mid-Range
A meal at a casual sit-down restaurant costs around R150-250 per person. For example, places like The Hussar Grill offer excellent value for steaks and seafood.
🍾 Luxury And Special Occasion
Expect to pay R500+ per person at high-end restaurants like La Colombe or FYN, which feature innovative menus and stunning views.
💡 Top Tip – Book well in advance for top restaurants. Many offer set lunch menus at lower prices than dinner.

How Much Do Activities in Cape Town Cost? (Paid and Free Options)
There are countless attractions in Cape Town, offering a mix of world-renowned landmarks and hidden gems. Whether you prefer exploring iconic sites or enjoying nature, there’s something for every traveller.
Paid Attractions
2025 prices for the main attractions in Cape Town for adults are:
🚠 Table Mountain Cableway – ZAR430 (return)
⛴️ Robben Island Ferry and Tour – ZAR600 (ZAR400 for South African Citizens & Residents)
🐧 Boulders Beach Penguin Colony – ZAR190 (R45 for South African Citizens & Residents)
⛯ Cape Point National Park – ZAR455 (ZAR105 for South African Citizens & Residents)
🌳 Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden – ZAR230 (ZAR100 for South African Citizens & Residents)
🏔️ Chapman’s Peak Drive – ZAR64 per car
💡 TopTip: Book online in advance for potential savings.
Free or Affordable Experiences
Nature & Outdoors
🥾 Hiking Trails (Table Mountain & Lion’s Head): Enjoy breathtaking views from trails like Platteklip Gorge.
🌅 Signal Hill Sunset Views – A perfect spot to watch the sunset over the city and Atlantic Ocean.
🌊 Sea Point Promenade – this is one of my favourite places to run when I visit Cape Town – Enjoy the scenic coastal walk with public art installations and great ocean views.
⛱️ Beaches – Cape Town has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Visit Clifton Beaches, Camps Bay, or Muizenberg for a day by the sea.
💡 Top Tip – Clifton 1st Beach is usually less crowded.
🐧 Penguins at Boulders Beach (Viewing Area) – While the main beach has an entrance fee, you can often spot penguins from nearby public areas.
⚠️ Safety Note: Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking or visiting isolated spots after dark. Find out all about safety in Cape Town here.
Cultural and Historical Experiences
🏠 Bo-Kaap Neighbourhood: Wander through vibrant streets and learn about Cape Malay heritage.
⛲️ Company’s Garden: Relax in this historic park while admiring Table Mountain views.
🏬 Greenmarket Square: Browse African crafts and souvenirs at this bustling market.
Community and Local Life
🏪 Local Markets – Check out markets like the Hout Bay Harbour Market or the Oranjezicht City Farm Market.
🎨 Woodstock Street Art: Explore colourful murals in this creative district, and don’t miss The Old Biscuit Mill on weekend mornings when you can mingle for Capetonians enjoying the weekend vibes.
Free Wine Tastings – Some of the smaller wine farms offer complimentary tastings or require minimal purchases. Explore Stellenbosch wineries here.

💡 10 Tips For Saving Money In Cape Town
- Travel Off-Peak
Visit during off-peak seasons (May to September), when flights and accommodations are much cheaper.
💡 Top Tip – You’ll also enjoy fewer crowds at popular attractions. - Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Opt for budget-friendly accommodation, which often offers excellent quality. - Shop Smart
Take advantage of local markets for shopping, and look out for winter specials on tourist attractions and tours.
💡 Top Tip – Popular markets like Oranjezicht City Farm Market are perfect for affordable eats and unique souvenirs. - Save on Day Trips
Rent a car for a few days to explore sights further afield, like Cape Point, Boulders Beach, Chapman’s Peak, and the Winelands, rather than booking a guided tour.
💡 Top Tip – Share costs by traveling with friends or family. - Explore Free Experiences
Complete my list of Free or Affordable experiences for inspiration on low cost activities in Cape Town. - Book in Advance
Book major attractions like the Table Mountain Cableway or Robben Island in advance online to save on tickets.
💡 Top Tip – Early bookings sometimes come with discounts or fast-track access. - Dine Where Locals Eat
Skip touristy spots and head to local favourites like community markets, small cafés, or chain restaurants such as Spur and Mugg & Bean for affordable meals.
💡 Top Tip – Lunch specials are common in many restaurants and offer excellent value. - Buy a Local SIM Card
Save on international roaming fees by getting a prepaid SIM card from providers like Vodacom or MTN for data and local calls. Cards can be purchased upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport. The guys there are super helpful at getting you set up.
💡 Top Tip – Use free Wi-Fi at cafés and accommodations to stretch your data even further. - Plan Ahead for Wine Tasting in the Winelands
Many wineries offer free or low-cost tastings if you purchase a bottle.
💡 Top Tip – Join group wine tours to split costs while still enjoying the experience. - Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours
Many companies in Cape Town offer free walking tours of iconic areas like Bo-Kaap or the historic city centre. While these tours are technically free, guides rely on tips, so it’s still a budget-friendly option.
💡 Top Tip – Book in advance and opt for morning tours to avoid the midday heat.

Wrapping Up: Is Cape Town Expensive?
Cape Town doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little planning, you can enjoy incredible experiences, from exploring breathtaking beaches to indulging in delicious local cuisine, all while staying within your budget. Travelling off-peak and choosing budget-friendly accommodation are just a couple of ways to stretch your rands further.
While it’s easy to splash out on luxury dining or high-end hotels, Cape Town also offers plenty of affordable or even free activities that don’t compromise on quality. It’s a city where stunning views, vibrant culture, and world-class attractions are available to everyone, no matter their budget.
Ultimately, Cape Town is as expensive as you make it. By following my tips, you’ll be able to enjoy this remarkable destination without overspending.
💡 Want more insights? Check out my posts on Stellenbosch wineries and staying safe in Cape Town to feel confident planning your visit!

Foot Notes
- Sources for Estimates:
Accommodation Costs: Data from platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb for 2025 Cape Town listings.
Food and Drink Costs: Price comparisons based on local averages from Numbeo and Expatistan.
Transport Costs: Information sourced from Uber South Africa and MyCiTi Bus.
Activity Costs: Prices compiled from official websites for attractions like Table Mountain Cableway, Robben Island, and Cape Point.
Additional Data calculated using data from Budget Your Trip and Numbeo ↩︎ - Sources for Estimates:
Accommodation Costs: Data from platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb for 2025 Cape Town listings.
Food and Drink Costs: Price comparisons based on local averages from Numbeo and Expatistan.
Transport Costs: Information sourced from Uber South Africa and MyCiTi Bus.
Activity Costs: Prices compiled from official websites for attractions like Table Mountain Cableway, Robben Island, and Cape Point.
Additional Data calculated using data from Budget Your Trip and Numbeo ↩︎