The Grand Daddy Hotel

The hotel's exterior has changed little since 1895, but the interior sings modern and funky from the moment you enter the reception area, with its blue velvet couch and check-in counter of old-school suitcases. Take the old elevator to the rooftop, where you'll find the Pink Flamingo cinema and Sky Bar, and seven vintage Airstream trailers – the perfect start to your night on the town. Downstairs, the Thirty Ate Eatery serves up a complimentary breakfast, plus other delightful meals.

Accommodation options range from standard and superior to Daddy suites and the seven iconic aluminium Airstream trailers – each with a queen-sized bed, en-suite shower, TV, aircon and fridge. Two spacious suites have private lounges, outside patios, king-sized beds, large en-suite bathrooms with stand-alone tubs and the finest fittings. Smaller rooms face Long Street (double-glazed windows minimise the noise), the inner courtyard or cityscapes. Beds can be configured to accommodate families with kids. Wi-fi, TVs, minibars and aircon are standard.

After a good night's sleep and an excellent breakfast, head to Long, Loop, Bree and Kloof streets to people-watch and try out the trendy bars, cafes and clubs (all within walking distance). Numerous art galleries and museums await downtown – you'll find more info at reception. Further afield, take the ferry to Robben Island, float up Table Mountain in the cable car for some extraordinary views, visit the penguins at Boulders Beach, and taste world-class wines in the Cape winelands.