Live prices for your dates · free cancellation on many rooms

Hostel · Cape Town · Western Cape

House On The Hill

A 2-star hostel in Cape Town's central district, a short walk from the V&A Waterfront, with a relaxed, artistic feel and a guest-favourite host.

  • Short walk to V&A Waterfront
  • Free private parking
  • Guest-loved host Fred
8.4 Great 428 reviews Booking.com 8.4 · 428 reviews

About

House On The Hill

House On The Hill is a 2-star hostel in Cape Town, set on a hill near the city centre. It’s a no-frills stay with a warm, artistic vibe — think parquet floors, shared kitchen and a garden terrace. The property offers free parking, which is a genuine rarity in this part of the city, and guests consistently mention the helpfulness of the staff, especially Fred.

The rooms vary from twins and quads to a family room, some with a balcony or kitchenette. The hostel is practical rather than luxurious, but it’s the little touches — electric blankets, board games, a cosy TV lounge — that make it feel like a home away from home. It’s a solid base for exploring Cape Town without stretching the budget.

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out

In brief

What works, what to weigh

+

Strengths

4 reasons to book
  • Guest-favourite staff — Multiple guests single out Fred and the team for going out of their way with recommendations and help.
  • Free private parking — A rare perk in central Cape Town, and guests mention it as a major convenience.
  • Short walk to V&A Waterfront — Guests mention the waterfront is a 15–20 minute walk, with restaurants, supermarkets, and bakeries nearby.
  • Good value — Reviewers consistently mention that the price-to-quality ratio is excellent.

Worth weighing

3 to weigh
  • Basic comfort — The lowest rating category is Comfort at 7.5, and some guests note the rooms are simple.
  • Limited check-in window — Check-in is only from 11:30 to 16:00, which may be tricky for late arrivals.
  • Not a quiet retreat — The hostel’s central location means street noise and activity, which might not suit everyone.

01 — Rooms

Rooms & rates

High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.

Twin Room

  • 2 Single beds,1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed

Family Room

  • 1 King-size bed
  • Shower
  • Heating

02 — Amenities

Services & amenities

Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • Security
  • Key access
  • Housekeeping

Food & drink

  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Shared kitchen
  • Electric kettle
  • Outdoor dining area

Services

  • VIP check-in/out
  • Express check-in/out
  • Luggage storage
  • Car hire
  • Tours/Ticket assistance

Outdoor & recreation

  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Garden area
  • Wind surfing
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Golf course

In-room

  • Heating
  • Electric blankets
  • Ironing facilities
  • Parquet floor
  • Curtains
  • Cots

Entertainment

  • Leisure/TV room
  • Board games

03 — Reviews

What guests say

Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.

8.4
Great 428 reviews

Guest-rated 8.4/10 from 428 reviews

Booking.com · 8.4 · 428 reviews
8.4Verified guest

“Rooms were spotless with a vintage feel mixed with modern Cape Town art. Great location – easy walk to restaurants and a supermarket. The V&A Waterfront is close by, and there’s plenty of free parking. Fred was super helpful with recommendations. Excellent value for money.”

8.4Verified guest

“Lovely stay at this hotel on a hill in Cape Town. Rooms were perfectly clean and facilities well maintained. Location is a big plus – near restaurants and attractions, and close to the V&A Waterfront. Staff were attentive and made the stay better.”

8.4Verified guest

“The room was comfortable with a small en-suite shower. I loved the little kitchenette with a fridge – perfect for breakfast and storing drinks. Great location with easy access to restaurants and a supermarket, and just a short walk to the V&A Waterfront. The friendly host Fred went above and beyond with recommendations. Great value for the price. Highly recommend. Cons: nothing – it was perfect!”

8.4Verified guest

“The location is ideal – easy access to good restaurants and a short walk to the waterfront. The property is also easy for seniors, with no stairs and comfortable seating throughout.”

8.4Verified guest

“Fantastic location close to the V&A Waterfront, making it easy to explore the shops, restaurants and attractions. Rooms are well-furnished and spacious for couples. Staff are friendly and helpful. Breakfast was delicious with fresh bread rolls, meats, and cheeses.”

8.4Verified guest

“Amazing stay. Room was spacious, clean, and had a lovely view. Bed was comfortable, and the gas fire/heater kept it warm. Nice touches like lotions, candles, and chocolates. Mini bar was well-stocked. Location was perfect – close to the city centre and a 15–20 minute walk to the V&A Waterfront. Staff were friendly and the owner shared useful info. Breakfast had great variety. Sitting on the open-plan dining room deck was a perfect experience.”

04 — Location

Getting around Cape Town

The property sits in Cape Town.

V&A Waterfront: A 15–20 minute walk from the hostel, the V&A Waterfront is Cape Town’s main harbour-side hub, with shops, restaurants, and the Two Oceans Aquarium.

Castle of Good Hope: About a 25-minute walk away, this historic fort is one of the oldest buildings in South Africa.

Local dining: Guests highlight the easy walk to restaurants, supermarkets, and bakeries, perfect for self-catering and grabbing a bite.

5 Norman Road, Cape Town, Western Cape, 8001, South Africa

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05 — Good to know

Policies & conditions

Hotel details are shown for reference. Final rate terms are confirmed on the partner’s site at booking.

Check-in
From 11:30-16:00
Check-out
By 10:00-11:00
Cancellation
Free cancellation on many rates — terms on booking page
Payment
Pay-at-hotel available on many rates; final terms at booking
Pets
Allowed
Property
9 rooms

06 — Questions

Frequently asked

What time can I check in and check out?

Check-in is from 11:30 to 16:00, and check-out is from 10:00 to 11:00.

Is parking available?

Yes, the property offers parking, and guests mention free private parking is available.

Are pets allowed?

Yes, pets are allowed at House On The Hill.

What room types are available?

The hostel offers Twin Rooms (2 single beds, or 1 single or double), Quadruple Rooms for 4 guests, and Family Rooms with a king-size bed. Some rooms feature a shower, heating, and a balcony.

Is there a shared kitchen?

Yes, there is a shared kitchen, and guests mention having access to a kitchenette in some rooms.

How far is the V&A Waterfront from the hostel?

Guests report a 15–20 minute walk to the V&A Waterfront.

The bottom line

House On The Hill is a dependable, wallet-friendly choice in Cape Town for travellers who value location, free parking, and a personal touch over luxury. It’s ideal for couples or small groups wanting to explore the V&A Waterfront and city centre on foot. The quirky, artistic rooms and the legendary hospitality of the staff make it a standout for the price.

8.4A solid pick for budget-conscious explorers who want a base near the V&A.

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