A city’s connectivity can make or break the experience for visitors and remote workers alike - with access to reliable Wi-Fi influencing everything from navigation and bookings to work productivity and safety.
To see which destinations really make it easy to stay connected, international eSIM provider Holafly analysed cities worldwide using a wide range of factors. Instead of focusing only on internet speeds, the study also considered how easy it is to find free public Wi-Fi, how many hotels offer complimentary internet, mobile data costs and how widely mobile connections are used across the city's population.
Kuala Lumpur emerged as the most connected city globally, thanks to its low mobile data costs and strong network penetration. Asia and Europe dominate the top connected cities. Milan, Lisbon, and Porto, in particular, are celebrated for their "affordable data and a dense Wi-Fi coverage". At the same time, Doha is noted for its "lightning-fast speeds despite higher data pricing".
South Africa doesn't make a showing in the top global ranking. Still, Holafly’s country-level data shows that Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban perform competitively within the region, with Cape Town narrowly leading the connectivity charge locally.
The Mother City has the highest overall connectivity score, driven by the largest concentration of free Wi-Fi hotspots, strong download speeds and a high number of hotels offering complimentary internet access.
Fun Fact: South Africa has a significant mobile network, with more active connections than its actual population!
In Cape Town, with over 1,700 Free Wi-Fi hotspots ranging from cafés, markets, hotels and public attractions, we've ranked the best based on visibility, visitor relevance, accessibility and geographic spread across the city.
The V&A Waterfront's buzzing Time Out Market brings together some of Cape Town’s best local chefs, drinks and creative experiences. With free Wi-Fi available throughout the venue, it’s an easy place to stay connected, while sampling the city’s food scene or taking a break between activities.
A vibrant retail and design hub at the Waterfront, popular with tourists and locals. Reliable free Wi-Fi makes the Watershed ideal for browsing, planning or working between shops and eateries.
Address: 17 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront.
Widely regarded as the leading museum for contemporary African art, Zeitz MOCAA plays a defining role in shaping how African creativity is seen, shared and understood across the continent and beyond. As an internationally recognised cultural landmark, it offers guests Wi-Fi that allows visitors to stay connected and share their perspectives while exploring this powerful space for African voices and expression.
Address: Silo District, V&A Waterfront.
A popular weekend market where visitors can enjoy local food and produce while staying connected through free public Wi-Fi.
Address: Granger Bay Boulevard, V&A Waterfront
READ: Oranjezicht Market Blueprint: Why SA needs hundreds more farmers’ markets
One of Cape Town’s most historic public spaces. Free Wi-Fi supports tourists browsing markets, meeting guides or navigating the city centre.
Address: Burg St &, Longmarket St, Cape Town City Centre.
A key stop for first-time visitors to the city. Free Wi-Fi at its Downtown Tours office helps travellers plan routes, book experiences and stay oriented in the city.
Address: Long Street, Cape Town CBD
This city hotel sits on the edge of one of the Mother City's most historic neighbourhoods, Bo-Kaap. Offering strong guest Wi-Fi, the Hyatt is a dependable option for business travellers and digital nomads alike.
Address: Buitengracht Street, Cape Town CBD
Read our review: Urchin at the Hyatt Regency
Located in the heart of Cape Town’s creative district, Neighbourgood Bree Street is one of the group's modern co-working spaces designed for remote workers, freelancers and digital nomads. It’s a great option for travellers looking for a productive place to work in the city centre.
Address: 44 Bree Street, Cape Town CBD
A trendy eatery and coffee spot, situated on one of the Mother City's most popular streets, Blondies offers free Wi-Fi in a relaxed, social setting.
Address: 71 Kloof Street, Cape Town
READ: Cape Town favourite grabs spot on the World's Coolest Streets list
Set just off Bree Street, The Ladder is a creative, multi-use space that brings together co-working, retail and community events. With free Wi-Fi available, it’s a useful stop for travellers looking to get some work done or take a breather while exploring another one of Cape Town’s most vibrant streets.
Address: 103 Bree Street, Cape Town CBD
A Cape Town favourite for coffee, pastries and light meals, Jason’s Bakery offers a relaxed atmosphere and free Wi-Fi, making it a popular spot for casual meetings or a short work session. Its central location also makes it a convenient stop while exploring the city.
Address: 83 Main Rd, Green Point
A popular creative and food hub in Woodstock, The Old Biscuit Mill is best known for its weekend markets, local designers and artisan eateries. Free Wi-Fi in and around the precinct makes it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the area, grabbing a coffee or spending time between shops and market stalls.
Address: 375 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
Read our sit-down interview with Carla Schulze, executive chef at Salon, located in the Old Biscuit Mill.
One of the largest shopping centres in Africa, Canal Walk is packed with cafés, coffee shops and public areas with free Wi-Fi.
Address: 490 Century Blvd, Century City.
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