Cape Town has added another international accolade to its growing list of achievements after being ranked among the ten most beautiful places to stay in the world in a new global study, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The Mother City secured eighth place in research conducted by interior design specialists Sharps, placing it alongside some of the world’s most sought-after holiday destinations.
The ranking celebrates destinations where travellers can experience exceptional accommodation that blends striking architecture, thoughtful interiors and memorable surroundings.
For locals, the recognition is another reminder that Cape Town’s appeal stretches far beyond its famous beaches and mountain views. Increasingly, visitors are travelling here not only for the scenery but also for the unique homes, villas and boutique stays that reflect the city’s distinctive character.
A city where design meets natural beauty
Cape Town scored 96.2 out of 100 in Sharp’s ‘Beautiful Base’ rankings, which assessed more than 200 luxury travel destinations around the world.
Researchers evaluated each destination using several factors, including:
- The number of luxury accommodation options available
- Average nightly accommodation costs
- Guest reputation scores
- The overall availability of design-focused places to stay
The result places Cape Town among a global collection of destinations where accommodation is considered an essential part of the travel experience rather than simply a place to sleep.
That recognition reflects something many visitors already discover when they arrive. Whether it’s a contemporary villa overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, a restored heritage home in the city centre or a luxury retreat surrounded by vineyards, Cape Town offers accommodation that often mirrors the landscapes and culture around it.
Cape Town stands proudly alongside global favourites
While Bali claimed the number one position thanks to its tropical villas inspired by traditional island architecture, Cape Town comfortably held its own against internationally recognised travel hotspots.
The top 10 destinations include:
- Bali, Indonesia
- Paris, France
- Yucca Valley/Joshua Tree, United States
- Florida’s 30A Area, United States
- Saint Barthélemy
- Los Cabos, Mexico
- London, United Kingdom
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Big Island, Hawai’i
- Park City, Utah
Cape Town was the only African destination to feature in the global top 10, highlighting the continent’s growing reputation for world-class hospitality and design-led tourism.
Why travellers are choosing homes over hotels
According to Sharps interiors expert Natalie Prince, travellers are increasingly looking for accommodation that tells the story of a destination.
Rather than booking standard hotel rooms, many visitors now prefer homes that showcase local architecture, craftsmanship and interior design. These properties offer more privacy, extra space and a stronger connection to the places they are visiting.
That trend has worked in Cape Town’s favour. Across the city, travellers can choose from modern cliffside homes, elegant heritage properties and stylish apartments that embrace natural light, local materials and spectacular views.
More than just a beautiful destination
Cape Town has long been recognised for iconic attractions such as Table Mountain, the Cape Winelands and its world-famous coastline. This latest recognition suggests that where visitors stay has become just as memorable as the destinations they explore.
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Picture: Sharaan Muruvan / Unsplash
