Cape Town city guide - Gardens

Planning a holiday to Cape Town? Then you’re most likely looking to stay in an area that allows you to explore the Mother City in the best way possible. If that’s the case, then the trendy suburb of Gardens is the ideal base.

If you’re looking to explore the city – you’ll need a reliable vehicle. The good news is that car rental Cape Town is cheap and easy in South Africa – and there’s wheels to suit any budget.

Where is Gardens?

I really love just walking though the gardens in Cape Town. Whether I am on my way to the museum or just to see all the different types of people passing through. It always makes me smile �������� #capetown #southafrica #city #capetowngardens #gardens #beautiful #capetownmag #streetphotography #explore

A photo posted by Monique Earley (@i_am_earley) on

Apr 19, 2016 at 11:03pm PDT

Located just south of the Cape Town CBD below the towering Table Mountain and the ever popular hiking destination of Lions Head, Gardens is the ideal base for travellers looking to explore the busy Cape Town CBD and the area just outside of Cape Town.

Where to stay in Gardens?

The Mount Nelson Hotel

Home for next few nights ❤️ #mountnelsonhotel #mountnelson #capetown #southafrica #myafrica #southafricantravel #westerncape #travel #traveller #mytravel #globetrotting #travelpics

A photo posted by Tara D’Agostino (@taradagostino) on

Nov 18, 2016 at 11:45am PST

Website: http://www.belmond.com/mount-nelson-hotel-cape-town/

If you’re looking for luxury during your Cape Town holiday – then a stay at the Mount Nelson Hotel will provide you with exactly that.

Opened on 6 March 1899, the Mount Nelson Hotel is made famous by its afternoon teas and it’s iconic pink exterior. Boasting 209 rooms in six different styles, the Mount Nelson Hotel has seen numerous famous faces walk through its doors, some including the Dalai Lama, Tiger Woods, Oprah Winfrey and Lenny Kravitz.

Once in Cape Town

A photo posted by Bona (@bona_handondo) on

Dec 18, 2015 at 11:51pm PST

Website: http://onceincapetown.co.za/

Founded in 2015 by five entrepreneurs who love to travel, the Once in Cape Town is a hostel ideal for travellers planning on exploring Cape Town and it’s surrounding. A room at the Once in Cape Town includes breakfast on the go from it’s Yours Truly cafe, fast free internet as well as access to a self-catering kitchen.

If you’re looking for more privacy, there are private rooms available with all the amenities of the 3-star hotel, which has access to your own private bathroom.

Where to eat in Gardens?

Arnolds

Mimosas all around! #sundayfunday #mimosa #friends #instamoments #instamood #instalife

A photo posted by Dirk Joubert (@joubertdirk) on

Aug 7, 2016 at 3:14am PDT

Website: http://www.arnolds.co.za/

Located right opposite the historic Mount Nelson Hotel, Arnold’s is one of the go-to places for locals in Cape Town. Founded in 1998, Arnolds doesn’t only provide great food but also gives guests great views of Table Mountain.

Cafe Paradiso

A top lunch spot on Kloof Street in Cape Town. Grab a table in the garden outside! For more Capetonian restaurants, check out the blog. #capetown #southafrica

A photo posted by NomadSeeksHome (@nomadseekshome) on

Feb 21, 2016 at 2:07pm PST

Website: http://www.cafeparadiso.co.za/index.php

If you’re looking for food with a Mediterranean touch, then a visit to Cafe Paradiso in the busy Kloof Street should satisfy your cravings. With its beautiful garden setting and gentle décor, this landmark restaurant is a great place for travellers to escape from the busy city and enjoy food made only from the freshest ingredients.

What to do in Gardens?

Hike Lions Head

#SouthAfrica #CapeTown #lionshead

A photo posted by Kent Thai (@act.now.worry.never) on

Nov 20, 2016 at 11:52am PST

If you travelling to Cape Town, a hike up Lion’s Head is a must – as it provides you with the best possible views of city bowl and harbour, Table Mountain, Robben Island and Camps Bay. The hike is approximately 1-2 hours up and down, and it’s one that everyone can enjoy – from kids to adults.

Watch a movie at the Labia Theatre

Girls night. #neonlights #theatre #bridgetjones

A photo posted by Chereé Thomson (@cheree_thomson) on

Nov 2, 2016 at 11:22am PDT

Originally an Italian Embassy Ballroom, the Labia Theatre has opened four decades ago – and is currently the oldest independent art-repertory cinema in South Africa. Watch old movies and experience the joys of yesteryear at this old cinema which has four screens.