[imagesource: Gerrit Jordaan]

If you happen to have friends abroad, and they’re planning a visit to Cape Town, things can go one of two ways.

The first, and clearly less preferable, is that they crash at your house. Hey, it’s your spare room, but this is how friendships die.

The second, and I’m going to say optimal, option is to recommend a place for them to stay that perfectly suits their vibe and budget.

Your friends are stoked that they aren’t going to feature in an episode of Banged up Abroad or Hotel Impossible, and you can still lie around the house in your undies without feeling self-conscious.

Everyone’s a winner.

With that in mind, here are seven of Cape Town’s finest hotels, with a little something for everyone.

In the boutique category, there’s Cartel House Hotel:

Cartel House Hotel provides unrivalled comfort and elegance in the heart – and at the top – of the Mother City. With each room distinctively decorated, a rooftop pool and the chance to expand your connections, this boutique hotel has always punched above its weight.

Reserved for founders, funders and freethinkers, Cartel Hotels comprise an integral part of the fabric that makes up the authentic Cartel experience.

That image above is from the Cityscape Room, with views that stretch all the way to Blouberg on a clear day. The room comes with access to the Cartel Members Club lounges and bars, and Inner City co-working spaces across three locations (71 Waterkant, 113 Loop Street and 1 Sandhill Road).

Rates: Between R2 500 and R3 000 a night

Location: 113 Loop Street

More info: www.ideascartel.com

For the ultra-luxurious traveller, there’s The Silo Hotel:

This opulent nest sits above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, and is by far the tallest building in the Cape Town harbour. With a rooftop pool and bar, small library, meeting rooms, a spa and direct access to the Zeitz MOCCA, The Silo Hotel provides a unique experience.

Rates: Vary in season and across rooms

Location: Silo Square, V&A Waterfront

More info: www.theroyalportfolio.com

For a more budget-friendly option, there’s Signature Lux Hotel:

Based in the city centre, Signature Lux combines affordability with warm hospitality. With free Wi-Fi, 24-hour security, daily housekeeping and elegantly furnished rooms, Signature Lux ensure a quality stay.

Rates: From R995 a night

Location: 24 Alfred St, V&A Waterfront

More info: www.signatureluxhotels.com

We pivot back to luxury again with the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel:

This luxury hotel is located in the Cape Town city centre, with impeccable service, magnificent English old school décor and flawlessly groomed gardens. The iconic ‘Pink Lady’ first opened its doors in 1899, and is still renowned for its vast tea selection with over 100 variations to choose from.

Rates: Varied – see here

Location: 76 Orange Street

More info: www.belmond.com/hotels/africa/south-africa/cape-town/belmond-mount-nelson-hotel/

For business travel, check out 71 Waterkant Street, Ideas Cartel:

The Ideas Cartel Hotels are known for their attention to detail. Aside from exceptional service, high-speed Wi-Fi, convenient meeting rooms and a rooftop bar, you’ll have direct access to the on-site café, Hemelhuijs.

Positioned in the heart of Cape Town, Ideas Cartel Hotel attracts corporate travellers seeking a distinctive experience. After a long day’s work, this is a great place to put your feet up.

Rate: R2 200 a night

Location: 71 Waterkant Street

More info: www.ideascartel.com

If you want to go coastal, there’s the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa:

Sitting just below the iconic mountain range, the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa offers a view of the magnificent Atlantic Ocean with five-star service and a world-class restaurant. For a rejuvenating and tranquil experience, The Twelve Apostles Hotel is a winner.

Rates: Varied

Location: Victoria Road, Camps Bay

More info: www.12apostleshotel.com

To finish, and ticking a number of boxes, is the One & Only Cape Town:

This large luxury resort is located in the Waterfront Marina, just 300 metres from the V&A Waterfront itself. The One & Only Hotel provides excellent services and facilities with an award-winning spa, a variety of pools, and magnificent views of Table Mountain.

Rates: Varied

Location: Dock Road, V&A Waterfront.

More info: https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/one-and-only-cape-town-south-africa

These seven Cape Town hotel options above should cover most of your bases.

Now you just owe those friends from abroad a dinner for not letting them crash at your pad.