This is an innovative hotel with attitude — and it is impressive. It is the place you want to be when visiting Cape Town.

When I arrived at the Radisson RED, I realised that it is not just a place to stay — it is a vibe, where bold design meets social energy. Entering the building, I felt as if I had stepped into a quirky art gallery or lounge. They redefine hospitality with an innovative approach, blending music, creativity and mixology into every aspect of a stay. Whether guests come for leisure or business, their dynamic spaces are designed to inspire participation and connection.

Where Is It Located?

Radisson RED is nestled in the heart of Cape Town, in the Silo area of the vibrant V&A (Victoria & Albert) Waterfront. This iconic waterfront precinct is a bustling hub of entertainment, shopping, dining, and cultural experiences, making it the perfect base for exploring the city and one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa.

The Waterfront sits on the site of the oldest working harbour in the southern hemisphere, with the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop. I enjoyed the hotel’s proximity to the working docks; seeing welding sparks fly from boats offered a wonderful contrast to the otherwise sleek, modern surroundings.

We could immerse ourselves in the rich history and captivating atmosphere as we strolled along the picturesque harbour, lined with charming cafés, stylish boutiques and world-class restaurants. Visitors can indulge in a shopping spree at the V&A Waterfront’s upscale shopping malls and find everything from designer labels to unique local African art. The Silo area forms part of the pedestrianised Waterfront precinct and is not only a shopper’s paradise but also a cultural hotspot.

The hotel is located directly opposite the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, housed in a converted grain silo with an impressive collection of contemporary African art.

The Clocktower precinct is a short stroll away and is the departure point for boats to the former Apartheid-era prison on Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years of his sentence.

Visitors can also explore the Two Oceans Aquarium and get up close with fascinating marine life. Take a harbour tour and enjoy the iconic views from the water, or aim a little higher on the iconic Ferris wheel known as ‘The Cape Wheel’.

With its lively atmosphere, magnificent views of Table Mountain, and an array of activities, the V&A Waterfront offers something for everyone, ensuring an unforgettable stay in Cape Town.

A Bolder Way to Stay

This hotel has personality: bold colours, millennial-style customer experience managed via an app, and unique city chic. Modern rooms, a stunning rooftop terrace, and jaw-dropping views are what guests can expect. There’s nothing stuffy about it.

For the well-travelled, game-for-anything, ageless traveller of the 21st century, the hotel is a perfect fit.

Radisson RED is a select-service brand, targeted at guests with an “ageless millennial mindset”, incorporating more art, music and fashion into its services with a focus on communal spaces such as bars and lobbies, digital customer service, and bold colour interiors. It has its own branded restaurant, OUIBAR, and is marketed primarily at millennials — although during my stay, tourists of all age groups were clearly enjoying their time at the hotel.

The brand’s emphasis is on friendly service, modern design, technology and quick food service.

This is a playful hotel. The red, white, black and grey palette and industrial-style public spaces are packed with personality. It was easy to feel comfortable in this stylish environment with everything needed for a great stay.

What Is the Difference Between Red and Blu?

Radisson RED and Radisson Blu are both upscale hotel brands within the Radisson Hotel Group, but they cater to different preferences. Radisson RED emphasises a playful, design-focused experience with a social atmosphere, while Radisson Blu offers a more traditional, full-service experience with a focus on comfort and high-quality amenities.

Radisson RED hotels are typically found in urban, vibrant locations and are designed with attitude — fun and flexible, where guests can share and connect, aimed at travellers who want control over their experience. RED injects new energy into hospitality through informal service, a social scene built for sharing, and bold design that kick-starts the fun.

Restful Recharge

I really enjoyed the quirky yet considered design of the rooms. Stylish and uncluttered, they are thoughtfully designed with ample storage space. A king or twin bed is set against graphic black-and-white wallpaper, opposite a very large flatscreen television, with a small dining area featuring a freestanding table, contemporary mismatched chairs and an attractive red-webbed bench. The aesthetic is built with the modern traveller in mind — technology-forward and refreshingly minimalist.

The décor is bright and fresh, with clean-lined Scandinavian-inspired furniture on terrazzo floors, restrained pops of red against woodcut-style monochrome graphics. Lighting is good, and as we stayed in a spacious junior suite, we had the luxury of a large edge-to-edge sliding door opening onto an outdoor patio. After an exciting day of exploring, we stepped out onto our private balcony to enjoy the complimentary bottle of red wine and admire the sunset views of the Waterfront and Silo district.

All family units have two large windows with excellent views of Table Mountain, with cosy bunk beds, each with its own television. Every room has an unstocked bar fridge for guests to fill as they wish; motorised blackout blinds with double-glazed windows ensuring a good night’s sleep; double USB ports by the bed; a kettle, teabags and a Nespresso machine. The compact, well-designed bathrooms — with signature red and white touches — have a refreshing rain shower.

All-in-all, it is a functional, easy-on-the-eye and comfortable room that we were happy to wake up in each morning.

This good-value hotel on the V&A Waterfront appeals to a younger market, with 252 contemporary studio, superior, junior suites and fabulous family rooms in a prime location.

Amenities and Vibes

The rooftop bar is edgy and modern with a casual, rustic feel. From its geometric bright yellow chairs huddled around small tables alongside the pool, to the long communal-style wooden table and benches at the bar, the space is comfortable and inviting. The mixologists know how to craft great cocktails, and the views are fantastic — a fabulous place to soak up the sunset over Table Mountain.

Guests can relax at the rooftop bar, grill and pool while sipping on cocktails and smoothies, then feel the buzz later in the evening with live music and DJ sets.

The rooftop area functions more as a bar than a private pool retreat, as it is open to all guests and walk-in visitors alike — worth bearing in mind if you’re seeking a quieter poolside experience.

For meetings and events, the high-tech venues and multi-purpose spaces are well-equipped for private events or corporate gatherings, all featuring the latest technology.

Good Food, Good Mood

Energise with fresh, seasonal food in the vibrant on-site restaurant and bar. From breakfast to late-night drinks, the hotel’s dining outlets offer delightful options for everyone. Bold, flavourful dishes are served in a laid-back atmosphere at the OUIbar + KTCHN and rooftop pool terrace, where Cape Town’s craft food and drink scene takes centre stage.

The breakfast buffet was not the most extensive I have encountered, but it covered all the basics — a cooked breakfast alongside local favourites, fresh fruit and pastries. Allergies were well-labelled, and gluten-free bread was available. Staff were very friendly and helpful.

The dining space felt light and airy, with large floor-to-ceiling windows, stylish tables and chairs. Cuisine was elegantly presented and served by friendly, approachable staff. The wine list is extensive, with some exceptional South African red and white wines available.

Superb Staff

The staff were very attentive and responsive to any requests. The more informal and flexible service style — with its emphasis on social interaction — was a genuine highlight, and the team certainly redefines hospitality with a playful twist. They made guests feel welcome and at home, and in particular the reception team showed real determination to make every guest feel valued. Their casual uniforms — a simple red t-shirt and black trousers — reinforce the social atmosphere and encourage connection.

Forget ordinary. Experience a new wave of hospitality at Radisson RED, where you connect, create and celebrate.

They turn the ordinary into the unforgettable through a blend of three essentials: distinctive design, community connection, and a beating atmosphere. The spaces are casual, sociable, and reflective of local culture, making every experience memorable.

Book your stay or plan your next event:

T: +27 (0)87 086 1578
E: Booking
W: Radisson RED Waterfront Cape Town

Written by Diane McLeish for Luxuria Lifestyle International