Colourful buildings in this historical area hold some of Cape Town’s best restaurants, bars and boutique hotels, each with their own unique character.
Many of the semi-detached houses in De Waterkant survive from the days when Cape Town’s architecture was heavily influenced by 18th-century Europe. These characterful buildings have been restored, painted in cheerful colours and the area is now one of the city’s most hip and vibrant suburbs. Many of the streets are paved with cobblestones, making it easy for travellers to stroll from a tapas bar or Parisian-style cafe to a salsa club, art gallery or sidewalk restaurant.
Many of the coffee shops in De Waterkant also double as exhibition space for local clothing and furniture designers, giving each spot its own atmosphere and style.