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A coming-together of cultures, cuisines and landscapes, there's nowhere quite like Cape Town, a singularly beautiful city crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain National Park.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Location and unique flora combine to make these 5.28-sq-km botanical gardens among the most beautiful in the world. Gate 1, the main entrance at the…

Cape of Good Hope

Simon's Town & Southern Peninsula

This 77.5-sq-km section of Table Mountain National Park includes awesome scenery, fantastic walks, great birdwatching and often-deserted beaches. The…

Table Mountain

Around 600 million years old, and a canvas painted with the rich diversity of the Cape floral kingdom, Table Mountain is truly iconic. You can admire the…

Robben Island

Green Point & ­Waterfront

Used as a prison from the early days of the VOC (Dutch East India Company) right up until 1996, this Unesco World Heritage site is preserved as a memorial…

Boulders Penguin Colony

This picturesque area, with enormous boulders dividing small, sandy coves, is home to a colony of some 3000 delightful African penguins. A boardwalk runs…

District Six Museum

It's impossible not to be emotionally moved by this museum, which celebrates the once lively multiracial area that was destroyed during apartheid in the…

Groot Constantia

Simon van der Stel’s manor house, a superb example of Cape Dutch architecture, is maintained as a museum at Groot Constantia. Set in beautiful grounds,…

Silvermine Nature Reserve

The Silvermine Reservoir, a beautiful spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk on the wheelchair-accessible boardwalk, is the focal point of this section of…

Top picks from our travel experts

10 best things to do in cape town.

Yours Truly Cafe & Bar

This place is hopping from early morning to late at night. Travellers mingle with hipster locals, who come for the excellent coffee, craft beer, gourmet…

Nobel Square

Here’s your chance to have your photo taken with Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela. Larger-than-life statues of both men, designed by the artist Claudette…

Twelve Apostles

Sea Point to Hout Bay

The name of the Twelve Apostles is said to have been coined by British governor Sir Rufane Donkin in 1820. There are actually well over 12 buttresses on…

Constantia Glen

There's a sweeping view of the vineyards from the terrace in front of the tasting room at this boutique winery, which is known for its sauvignon blanc and…

For breezy beach walks, it doesn’t get much better than this aptly named stretch of white sand. There are stunning views up the mountainous coastline as…

Sea Point Promenade

Strolling along Sea Point’s wide, paved and grassy promenade is a pleasure shared by Capetonians from all walks of life. Once a white-only area, it’s now…

Bloubergstrand

The beaches beside this pleasant coastal suburb are where the British won their 1806 battle for the Cape. The panoramic view they provide of Table…

Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts

Don't miss taking a picnic and some bubbly to one of these wonderful outdoor concerts, staged in the stunning botanical gardens beneath Table Mountain on…

Muizenberg Beach

Popular with families, this surf beach is famous for its row of colourfully painted Victorian bathing chalets. Surfboards can be hired and lessons booked…

V&A Waterfront

This historic working harbour has a spectacular setting and many tourist-oriented attractions, including masses of shops, restaurants, bars, cinemas and…

Eagle’s Nest

Try the viognier or shiraz at this boutique winery nestling among the Constantia vineyards, and enjoy a deli cuts platter (R145) or artisan cheese board …

Table Mountain National Park

Stretching from Signal Hill to Cape Point, this 220-sq-km park is a natural wonder, its range of environments including granite and sandstone mountains,…

This particularly beautiful stretch of sandy beach is roughly a 15-minute walk to the south from the Sunset Rocks parking area at Llandudno. As Cape Town…

Signal Hill

The early settlement’s lookout point is so named because it was from here that flags were hoisted when a ship was spotted, giving the people below time to…

Two Oceans Aquarium

This excellent aquarium features denizens of the deep from the cold and the warm oceans that border the Cape Peninsula. It's a chance to see penguins,…

Olympia Cafe & Deli

Setting a high standard for relaxed rustic cafes by the sea, Olympia bakes its own breads and pastries. It’s great for breakfast, and its Mediterranean…

Camps Bay Beach

With soft white sand and a backdrop of the spectacular Twelve Apostles range (part of Table Mountain), this Blue Flag beach is one of the city’s most…

Meaning ‘Upper Cape’, the Bo-Kaap, with its vividly painted low-roofed houses, many of them historic monuments, strung along narrow cobbled streets, is…

Hout Bay Harbour

Partly given over to tourism with complexes such as Mariner’s Wharf, Hout Bay’s harbour still functions and the southern side is a fishing port and…

Zeitz MOCAA Museum

The Waterfront's old grain silo has been transformed into this state-of-the-art museum for the contemporary Southern African art collection of…

Noordhoek Beach

This magnificent 5km stretch of beach is favoured by surfers and horse riders. It tends to be windy, and dangerous for swimmers. The Hoek, as it is known…

Clifton 1st Beach

The first of Clifton's four beaches strung along Victoria Rd at Clifton. As with the other three, it's almost always sheltered from the wind and offers…

The 9 best free things to do in Cape Town, South Africa

Grand Parade

A prime location for Cape Town’s history, the Grand Parade is where the Dutch built their first fort in 1652; where slaves were sold and punished; and…

Greenmarket Square

This cobbled square is Cape Town’s second-oldest public space after the Grand Parade. It hosts a lively and colourful crafts and souvenir market daily…

The pedestrianised portion of this street, between Burg and Long Sts, hosts a flea market (8am to 3pm Monday to Saturday) and has several interesting art…

Mariner’s Wharf

A touristy complex of seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and fish and chips stands beside sandy Hout Bay Beach. The Wharfette Bistro & Takeaway (mains…

Long Street

A stroll along Long St is an essential element of a Cape Town visit. This busy commercial and nightlife thoroughfare, partly lined with Victorian-era…

St James Beach

This small beach, next to St James train station, has colourful bathing chalets and a tidal pool for safe swimming. It's popular with families.

Cape Town City Hall

Cape Town's old city hall is a grand Edwardian building dating to 1905. Nelson Mandela made his first public speech from the front balcony here after…

Company’s Garden

These shady green gardens, which started as the vegetable patch for the Dutch East India Company, are a lovely place to relax. They are planted with a…

Llandudno Beach

The exclusive enclave of Llandudno has a giant-boulder-flanked beach that’s a beauty. It’s a popular spot with families. There’s surfing here on the beach…

Kalk Bay Harbour

This picturesque harbour is best visited in the morning, when the community’s fishing boats pitch up with their daily catch and a lively quayside market…

Green Point Urban Park

One of the best things to come out of the redevelopment of Green Point Common for the 2010 World Cup is this park and biodiversity garden. Streams fed by…

Bay Harbour Market

This imaginatively designed indoor market at the far end of Hout Bay Harbour is one of Cape Town's best. There’s a good range of stalls selling items from…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

It won't take you long to get your head around Cape Town but these hints, tips and tricks will make your trip as straightforward as possible.

Best Neighborhoods

Get to know Cape Town's unique mix of cultures and beautiful landscapes through its neighborhoods. These are 7 of our favorites to help you decide.

Cape Town is hard to leave, but take a day trip outside the city, and you'll be glad you did.

Money and Costs

Cape Town is home to some of the most spectacular attractions in the world and we want you to see them all without breaking the bank.

Transportation

Travel safely around Cape Town with this guide to the city’s transportation options.

Free Things to Do

With mountaintop hiking trails and gorgeous sandy beaches, some of the best experiences in Cape Town are completely free.

Traveling with Kids

The best places for family fun in the South African capital.

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Cape Town and beyond

24 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Cape Town

Written by Becca Blond and Carri Wilbanks Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Becca Blond and Carri Wilbanks consider Cape Town their second home. They have visited dozen times and Becca has written guidebooks on South Africa.

Set between mountains and the sea, Cape Town flaunts its natural beauty with pride. Iconic Table Mountain is one of the city's most famous attractions, botanical gardens beckon from its slopes, and the city's long stretches of beautiful beaches are some of South Africa's best.

Travelers can enjoy a range of outdoor fun, from hiking, biking, surfing, and paragliding to whale-watching trips and cage dives with great white sharks. You'll find no shortage of things to do here but the type of activities may depend on the time of year.

As the oldest European settlement in Africa, Cape Town has a rich and, at times, turbulent past. At Robben Island , history buffs can see where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years. In the hinterland, elegant Stellenbosch is a Nirvana for foodies.

Along the rugged coast, scenic drives offer a chance to see penguins waddle on pristine beaches, and Cape Point is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site with one of the richest floral kingdoms in the world.

Explore the best things to do in the "Mother City" of South Africa with our list of the top tourist attractions in Cape Town.

1. Climb Table Mountain

2. wander kirstenbosch national botanical gardens, 3. sunbathe at clifton and camps bay beaches, 4. shop the victoria & alfred waterfront, 5. ride the cape wheel, 6. pay respect at robben island, 7. cruise along chapman's peak drive, 8. sunset at signal hill and the noon gun, 9. indulge at the old biscuit mill, 10. cage dive with great white sharks, 11. see city hall & the castle of good hope, 12. browse the canal walk shopping center, 13. the heart of cape town museum, 14. iziko museums of south africa, 15. the district six museum, 16. zeitz mocaa, 17. explore bo-kaap, 18. surf muizenberg, 19. snap pics with penguins at boulders bay, 20. take a day trip to cape point, 21. go whale watching at hermanus, 22. picnic at llandudno beach, 23. explore stellenbosch: a foodie's dream, 24. splash in the tidal pools at st. james, where to stay in cape town for sightseeing, cape town, south africa - climate chart.

Highlight: Cape Town's most iconic landmark, you can either hike to the top or take a cable car for amazing views

Rising 1,087 meters south of the city center, flat-topped Table Mountain is the most photographed landmark in South Africa and a constant reminder that nature is queen in this stunning seaside city. The mountain forms the northern end of the Cape Peninsula and lies within Table Mountain National Park.

The park protects an astounding diversity of plants and more than 1,470 flower species, as well as animals such as cute snub-nosed dassies (rock hyraxes), caracals, and baboons. Within the park, Devil's Peak flanks the mountain on the east, and Lion's Head on the west, while the crags known as the Twelve Apostles loom over the beach resorts on the Atlantic coast.

A layer of clouds, called the "tablecloth" frequently cloaks the mountain's peak, but when the clouds clear, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Cape Town and the entire Cape Peninsula from the summit. Bring a sweater as it can be cold and windy at the top.

For those short on time, and energy, a revolving cableway climbs to the summit, covering the distance of 1,244 meters in seven minutes. The cableway runs daily — except in high winds, so it's a good idea to check the website or call for current conditions before heading out. Also to avoid long lines, try booking tickets online.

At the upper station of the cableway, a café features a small viewing terrace and serves as the starting point of three short walks, which highlight the gigantic scale of the landscape. Those wishing to summit the mountain on foot can choose between more than 350 different routes varying in difficulty.

Depending on the starting point, the climb takes between two to four hours. For superb views of Table Mountain and the best vantage point to photograph this iconic landmark, hike or drive up Signal Hill or Lion's Head — both offer stunning views from their summits.

Highlights: Home to more than 20,000 native South African plants, set on a sprawling reserve with walking trails

In a beautiful setting on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are part of the Cape Floristic Region UNESCO World Heritage site . The site was bequeathed to the state by Cecil Rhodes in 1902 and the gardens were established in 1913 to preserve the country's indigenous flora — one of the first botanical gardens in the world with this mission.

More than 20,000 native South African plant species are collected, grown, and studied in the hilly 528-hectare nature reserve of indigenous forest and fynbos.

Of particular historical interest are a hedge of wild almond trees planted by Jan van Riebeeck in 1660 and an avenue of camphor and fig trees planted by Cecil Rhodes in 1898. The flowers, shrubs, and trees are arranged so that a show of blossoms and color brightens the gardens throughout the year.

Don't miss the proteas; the scented garden; the impressive collection of cycads; the Sculpture Garden; and the Botanical Society Conservatory, a custom-built greenhouse with plants from arid regions. Well-marked trails thread through the wooded slopes, and the Tree Canopy Walkway provides panoramic views across the mountain-backed gardens. One of the trails leads through a ravine to the summit of Table Mountain. In summer, the gardens make an evocative venue for outdoor concerts.

Green thumbs and garden lovers should also visit Company's Garden, an oasis of exotic trees, flowers, aviaries, and ponds in the heart of the city. While here, visitors can also explore the Iziko South African Museum and Planetarium and the Iziko National Gallery.

Address: Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town

Highlights: Clifton's four beaches are Cape Town's most impressive; located in coves accessed via a long set of stairs, they are sheltered from the wind

About six kilometers from the city center, the beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton lure the buff, the bronzed, and the beautiful — as well as the big bucks. At Clifton, Cape Town's St. Tropez, some of the city's priciest real estate overlooks four gleaming white-sand beaches flanked by smooth granite boulders and washed by sparkling, but crisp, blue seas.

First Beach is a favorite volleyball venue and offers decent surf when the conditions are right. Just south of Clifton, trendy Camp's Bay sports another stunning beach, backed by the magnificent Twelve Apostles and the distinctive peak of Lion's Head .

People-watching is an art along this pretty palm-lined stretch as well as at the chic cafes and boutiques fringing Victoria Street — especially during weekends and holidays when locals and tourists throng here to soak up the scene.

Camp's Bay and Clifton's Fourth Beach boast coveted Blue Flag status awarded for clean water, safety, and environmental management making them a great choice for families as well.

Highlights : One of Cape Town's top tourist attractions, it's a wonderful place to spend an afternoon shopping, dining, and wandering

Stretching around two harbor basins, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is a buzzing entertainment quarter reminiscent of Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.

Once a scruffy fishing harbor, this reimagined waterfront district is now one of the city's top tourist attractions, and many of the old buildings have been preserved and restored. Millions of visitors a year flock here to the shops, jazz venues, restaurants, hotels, theaters, drama school, cinemas, and museums.

Sports fans will love the Springbok Experience Rugby Museum , which traces the story of South African Rugby through interactive exhibits.

Two Oceans Aquarium features more than 300 species of fish from the Atlantic and Indian oceans, in particular from the area around the Cape of Good Hope. Highlights include a touch tank, penguin encounter, predator exhibit, and diving experiences, which allow visitors to view fascinating marine creatures up close.

Trips to Robben Island leave from the Nelson Mandela Gateway on the waterfront, but anyone is welcome to explore the museum exhibits here.

West of the waterfront, the trendy Green Point precinct is also home to the lovely Green Point Urban Park with its biodiversity garden as well as the Cape Town Stadium , which hosted many FIFA World Cup matches in 2010.

Address: 19 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Highlight : Riding the giant Cape Wheel with 360-degree bird's eye city views

Walking around the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, it is impossible to miss the Cape Wheel in the Market Square area. The giant wheel features 30 fully enclosed cabins with air-conditioning that take you on about a 15-minute ride in four loops with 360-degree bird's-eye views.

At the top of the wheel, you'll be about 120 feet above the ground, and the panoramic views of Cape Town's city center and harbor, Table Mountain, the Cape Town Stadium in nearby Green Point, and even the Paarl Mountains is stunning on a clear day.

The Cape Wheel is also wheelchair accessible, with two specially adapted cabins. The wheel operates daily from 9am to 7pm.

Highlight: It's a somber highlight, but important to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site preserving the cell at the brutal prison where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years during the apartheid era

For nearly 400 years, Robben Island in Table Bay, was a brutal prison where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years in a tiny cell during the apartheid era. Today, the island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see attraction for anyone interested in South African history.

Tours to the island begin with multimedia exhibits in the museum at the Nelson Mandela Gateway on the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront before travelers board vessels to the island. The boat trip takes about 30 minutes to an hour depending on weather conditions and can be rough during big swells.

While on the island, visitors tour the maximum security prison, Mandela's former cell , and the lime quarry where prisoners were forced to endure back-breaking labor. The interesting part about the tour is that the guides are former prisoners of Robben Island who share their experiences and offer insight into the atrocities of apartheid and the power of forgiveness.

After leaving this hellish six-square-kilometer island, Mandela said, "As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn't leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I'd still be in prison." These wise words are even more potent after a tour here.

The Cape Town Townships Tour including Robben Island , gives visitors an overview of South Africa's past and present. The full-day small group guided tour includes a round-trip ferry ride to Robben Island, a visit to Cape Town's District Six Museum , and the communities of nearby townships of Langa and Gugulethu.

Highlight: Drive it at sunset when the panoramic viewpoints are made even more stunning by the fire show in the sky

About 25 kilometers from the city center, Chapman's Peak Drive, affectionately called "Chappies" by the locals, is one of the most jaw-dropping driving routes in the world.

Cut into the sheer face of Chapman's Peak, which plunges to the sea, this spectacular toll road snakes its way for about nine kilometers between Noordhoek and Hout Bay passing panoramic Chapman's Peak point along the way. With 114 curves carved into the rock face, some perched more than 500 meters above the sea, this is not a route for those prone to motion sickness.

Around sunset, cars cram along the panoramic viewpoints as sightseers stake a spot to watch the sun sink while sipping a cool drink in the time-honored South African tradition known as "sundowners." Look for southern right whales and dolphins in the sparkling Atlantic Ocean below, and drive slowly and carefully. The road was closed on and off for several years due to rockfall dangers, but it has now been stabilized and is open every day — except during severe weather events.

As well as being used as a location for TV commercials, Chapman's Peak Drive is the setting for the popular Cape Argus Cycle Race and Two Oceans Marathon . After admiring the magnificent sea views, hungry travelers can feast on fresh fish at one of the excellent seafood restaurants in Hout Bay.

Highlights: Stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town, and Table Bay from the top; come for sunset

Five minutes drive west of the city center, Signal Hill offers stunning views over Cape Town, Table Bay, and the glittering Atlantic Ocean from its 350-meter summit. The hill forms the body of the adjacent Lion's Head peak and was named for its historical use when signal flags were flown from here to send messages to approaching ships.

Many locals and visitors drive up to watch the sunset and stay to see the shimmering lights of Cape Town ignite after dark. At noon every day (except Sundays and public holidays), a cannon activated by an electronic impulse from the Observatory fires a single shot.

In earlier days this " noon gun " served to give the exact time to ships anchored in the bay. Tourists are welcome to attend a free presentation on the history of the Noon Gun at the Lion Battery and then stay to watch the firing.

Those headed to the top of the hill for sunset views should take a jacket as it can be chilly after the sun dips. On busy weekends and holidays go early to score a parking spot.

Highlight: Visit on the weekend for the Neighbourgoods Market, where you can buy directly from local designers and artisans

Located in the heart of Cape Town's trendy college neighborhood, Woodstock, the Old Biscuit Mill is open all week but is especially lively on weekends when the Neighbourgoods Market happens.

Self-described as a community for talented people to collaborate and share their passions, from food and art to clothing and homemade goods, the Old Biscuit Mill is where you'll find some of South Africa's most creative artists and designers.

On the grounds, you'll find a range of one-of-a-kind restaurants, food stalls, workshop spaces, and designer stores. Every Saturday and Sunday from 9am, the Neighbourgoods Market takes over the parking lots.

It offers a full market vibe, with local artisans and designers selling their creations. There are also a host of food and drink vendors. Festivals also happen throughout the year at the Old Biscuit Mill.

Address: 375 Albert Road, Cape Town

Highlight: It's an adrenaline rush to come face-to-face with great white sharks, but the diving is a controversial subject

In the chilly waters off Cape Town's coast, thrill seekers can come face-to-face with one of the ocean's most feared predators: great white sharks. Protected by the thick bars of an iron cage, divers score a hefty dose of adrenaline as these magnificent creatures swim within inches of the bars.

Tour operators in Cape Town offer shark cage dives in areas such as Simon's Town , Dyer Island , Mossel Bay, Seal Island , and Gansbaai, the "Great White Shark Capital of the World." The best time to see these magnificent creatures is between April and October. No diving certification is needed, since divers are enclosed in the custom-built cages, and part of the funds go towards shark research and conservation.

Those who prefer to appreciate these awe-inspiring creatures from a distance can watch all the excitement from the boat. Seal, dolphin, penguin, and whale-watching tours are also available for less daring animal lovers.

Highlights: Shopping Greenmarket Square for African handicrafts like wooden giraffes, stone sculptures, and colorful batiks

History buffs can visit two notable historic buildings within five minutes' walk of each other in central Cape Town. Built in 1905, Cape Town City Hall is a striking mix of Italian Neo-Renaissance and British colonial style. The 60-meter-high bell tower, with a carillon installed in 1923, was modeled on Big Ben in London.

Highlights of the interior include the beautiful mosaic floors, marble staircase, and impressive stained glass. Notice the balcony overlooking Grand Parade where Nelson Mandela, the country's future president, addressed a jubilant crowd in 1990 after 27 years in prison. Music lovers should also try to attend a performance by the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra based here.

Across the road from the Grand Parade, The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest surviving stone building in South Africa. It was built in 1666-79 as the residence of the Governor and for the protection of the early settlers, but the castle, which is in the form of a five-pointed star, was never exposed to attack. A highlight here is the William Fehr Collection , which includes pictures, porcelain, fine glass, ceramics, and furniture of the 17th to 19th centuries from South Africa, Europe, and Asia.

A short walk from the fort up the shopping hub of Longmarket Street leads to Greenmarket Square, an atmospheric little cobbled plaza, with a number of Art Deco buildings as a backdrop. Shoppers can browse the small flea market held every day of the week here except Sunday.

Highlight: Head here on a rainy day to peruse some 400 shops selling everything from clothing to kids' toys

South Africa's third largest shopping center, Canal Walk is located just off the N1 in Cape Town's Century City suburb. With around 400 shops selling everything from clothing to jewelry, homewares to music, and kids' toys, there is no shortage of products on sale here.

Wandering around the mall is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon, especially if the weather isn't great. The mall has an opulent vibe and is bustling inside. If you are in the mood for a film, there is a movie theater here. Dining options are also varied. Grab a quick bite at the Food Court or a sit-down meal at one of the many restaurants spread around the mall.

Address: 490 Century Blvd, Century City, Cape Town

Highlight: The world's first heart transplant took place in Cape Town; this museum honors the world-changing medical procedure

In the Groote Schuur Hospital, The Heart of Cape Town Museum opened in 2007 to honor the 40th anniversary of the first heart transplant performed here by Christiaan Barnard. Knowledgeable docents take visitors on a fascinating two-hour tour to see recreations of the operating facilities in the actual rooms where the surgery took place.

The tours also explore everything from the ethical implications of the time to the history of the recipient and the donor. Even visitors with no medical background appreciate learning about the history of this life-saving procedure.

Highlight: The Bo-Kaap Museum illustrates 19 th -century Muslim life in Cape Town

Iziko Museums of South Africa comprises 11 museums governed by a council appointed by the Minister of Arts and Culture.

A top museum in this group is the Bo-Kaap Museum in the Bo-Kaap District , an old Malay quarter with brightly-painted two-story houses that are still occupied by the descendants of slaves who were brought to the Cape from the East Indies in the second half of the 17th century. This excellent museum illustrates aspects of 19th-century Muslim life in a rare early Cape-Dutch house circa 1763. A room on the premises houses a collection of carts and carriages.

The Old Town House is another popular attraction in the museum group. It was originally built in 1755 in a Dutch-Rococo style and lies in Cape Town's hub on the west side of Green Market Square . Formerly Cape Town's City Hall, the Old Town House now displays a collection of pictures presented to the country by Sir Max Michaelis in 1914, consisting mainly of works by 17th-century Dutch and Flemish masters, including Frans Hals, Jan Steen, Jacob van Ruysdael, and Jan van Goyen.

Another highlight of the group is the Koopmans-de Wet House, built in 1701 on a U-shaped ground-plan, with a façade by Louis Thibault (1771). The original interior has been preserved and gives a vivid impression of the lifestyle of a successful 18th-century businessman. Also in the group, the South African Museum and Planetarium and the National Gallery, in Company's Garden , are worth a visit for natural history buffs and budding astronomers.

Highlight: Uses multi-media documentary style and sound to introduce guests to this vanished neighborhood's history

In 1966, 70,000 residents of multi-ethnic District Six were displaced when the South African government decided the community was to be a white one.

This poignant District Six Museum honors the people of this now-vanished district. On the museum's floor is a large-scale map where former residents are encouraged to label their old homes and features of their neighborhood.

The museum's permanent exhibit is known as Digging Deeper and is focused on documenting various parts of District Six life through a moving visual experience that incorporates multi-media documentary, digital, and sound elements. The exhibit introduces guests to the area's former residents, and tells their life histories through various themes.

Address: 25A Buitenkant Street, Cape Town

Highlight: Home to the world's largest collection of African contemporary art

Opened in late 2017, the Zeitz MOCAA (Museum of Contemporary Art Africa) is the largest museum on the continent dedicated to African contemporary art in the world. Housed in a converted 9,500-square-meter grain silo with the backdrop of the iconic Table Mountain on the Victoria and Alfred waterfront, this visually stunning museum has nine floors with over 100 galleries.

This world-class museum, on par with New York's MoMA or London's Tate, features 21st-century art from all around Africa and its diaspora, including the private collection of Jochen Zeitz, German-born former CEO of Puma and conservationist.

Some of the most outstanding collections include a series of photographs featuring intriguing eyewear from Kenyan Cyrus Kabiru, colorful and playful imagery from South African Athi-Patra Ruga, and a fantastic woven wall installation made from discarded materials by Ghana-born El Anatsui.

The museum also houses centers for photography, performing arts, and the moving image; an art education institute; a curatorial training program; and a Costume Institute. Entrance is half-price from 4pm to 9pm every first Friday of the month.

Highlight : Strolling the hilly neighborhood looking at the brightly colored houses

Gently rolling streets lined with brightly colored houses greet visitors in the Cape Malay (commonly referred to as Bo-Kaap) neighborhood.

Located in the heart of the city at the foot of Signal Hill , this vibrant area is home to Cape Town's Muslim community, consisting of those who have descended from the "Cape Malays," slaves brought by Dutch settlers from Indonesia, Malaysia, and other African countries.

The residents are passionate about preserving their history and the buildings, and visitors often see signs stating, "This Heritage Site is Under Threat," in an attempt to discourage gentrification.

Learn about the neighborhood's origin at the Bo-Kaap Museum , housed in the neighborhood's oldest building. Enjoy authentic Malay curry at a local restaurant and cool off with ice cream before hitting some stores for a little shopping.

Don't miss taking Instagram-worthy shots in front of the colorful houses (as long as you aren't capturing the residents in your pictures). Bo-Kaap can be reached by foot from downtown Cape Town or the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront or by cab from other areas.

Highlights : Surfing Muizenberg's consistent waves; the water here is slightly warmer than on the Atlantic side

Famous for its brightly colored beach huts and excellent surfing , Muizenberg is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Cape Town. It is located on the False Bay side of the peninsula, so the water here is marginally warmer than at Camps Bay Beach for instance.

The beach is Blue-Flag-rated and one of the best places to visit for beginner surfers to practice riding waves — the surf here is consistent, and the waves aren't huge.

You'll still likely want to wear a wet suit, however, as the water is still very cold, even in summer. These can be rented at a number of shops in the town set behind the long beachfront. You can also rent surfboards and book lessons from a number of companies around town.

The colorful beach huts that you've likely seen in photos on social media are actually known as bathing boxes. They were originally used in the Victorian era, when women would use them for privacy to change into chin-to-ankle bathing suits.

Highlights: Seeing thousands of penguins waddling down a white sand beach or swimming amidst boulders

Penguins are adorable in any setting, but seeing them waddle around in their natural environment is a particular thrill for wildlife lovers.

About an hour's drive from Cape Town, Boulder's Bay in Simon's Town shelters a breeding colony of more than 2,000 endangered African Penguins. This beautiful wind-sheltered, white-sand beach belongs to the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area , and the park charges an entrance fee to access these shores. But it's worth it.

Visitors can enjoy close-up encounters with these charismatic creatures, all in a stunning setting with giant granite boulders, rock pools, calm bays, and blissfully uncrowded patches of gleaming sand. A short walk from here, Foxy Beach is also great for viewing the penguins with a walkway that leads past the prime sites. This is a fantastic family-friendly excursion for animal lovers and beach lovers alike.

Take a private tour of the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point from Cape Town to experience the fascinating wildlife of the Cape Peninsula. The tour gives visitors a choose-your-own-adventure option to either visit the penguins at Boulders Beach or explore the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve , home to hundreds of species of birds, as well as bucks, baboons, and Cape zebra.

Highlight: Driving to Cape Point via Chapman's Peak Drive, one of the world's most stunning stretches of pavement

About 60 kilometers from Cape Town, Cape Point lies within the southernmost tip of Table Mountains National Park and is part of the Cape Floral Region , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the richest areas of flora in the world.

The scenic drive from Cape Town along the Cape Peninsula takes travelers past the surf breaks of Muizenberg , and the pretty seaside town of Kalk Bay , as well as the prime-penguin-viewing beaches at Simon's Town.

Wildlife is also diverse on this soaring seacliff. About 250 species of birds are found here as well as eland, Cape zebra, reptiles, and troops of brazen baboons. Visitors can enjoy the view from the Cape Point lighthouse by taking the Flying Dutchman funicular or hiking up the many stairs to the top. Other things to do include whale watching, shipwreck spotting from the beach, and nature walks.

For a twist on this eye-popping seaside scenery on the return trip, drive along the 114 bends of Chapman's Peak drive , and stop for a succulent seafood feast at Hout Bay or Noordhoek.

Cape Point is the most southwesterly tip of Africa, not to be confused with Cape Agulhas, about 150 kilometers away, which is the most southerly tip of the continent where the currents of the two oceans, the Indian and the Atlantic, meet.

Highlight: Seeing large numbers of southern right whales migrating through the waters off Hermanus

About 120 kilometers east of Cape Town, Hermanus is one of the world's whale-watching hotspots. From July through November, large numbers of southern right whales migrate through these waters, and visitors can even spot them from shore — especially during the prime months of September, October, and November.

On foot, the best places to visit to see these magnificent creatures are the 12-kilometer-long Cliff Path , the Old Harbour viewing terraces, and Sievers Point . Alternatively, sightseers can join a guided sea kayak trip, hop aboard one of the popular whale-watching cruises, or enjoy a scenic flight for a bird's eye view.

Hermanus celebrates these magnificent creatures with an annual whale festival in September, and the town is also popular for its beautiful beaches and many water sports, including fishing, swimming, and shark cage diving.

Highlights : Less-crowded beach about 20 minutes' drive from downtown; a local favorite with great sunsets

Most tourists head to Camps Bay or Clifton Beaches when they visit Cape Town. But continue south of the city towards Hout Bay for about 20 kilometers to reach Llandudno Beach. This is the spot locals head to when they want to escape the crowds on summer days.

The ocean is definitely going to be cold here. The current comes up from Antarctica just like it does on Cape Town's beaches , but when it's really hot, the chilly water can feel refreshing. There can be good surfing here, as well as body boarding, but you might want to wear a wet suit to stay in long.

Pack a picnic, as there are no restaurants here. There are also no shops, so you'll want to bring everything you need for the day with you, including beach loungers and umbrellas if you want them. The beach is located down a narrow and winding road, and there is a small parking lot. Since the beach faces in a westerly direction, the sunsets are often stunning.

Highlight : Strolling through the pretty university town with its elegant Cape Dutch architecture

About 53 kilometers east of Cape Town, Stellenbosch is one of South Africa's prettiest towns. Elegant Cape Dutch estates rise amid a patchwork of vine-cloaked fields and ancient oaks backed by mountains.

This lively university town resides in a picturesque valley, and its fertile soils nurture some of the country's best produce, which the town showcases at its acclaimed restaurants, atmospheric alfresco cafes, and popular markets.

To soak up some of the region's history, visit the Village Museum , a group of four restored houses and gardens dating from 1709 to 1850.

Rupert Museum spotlights works by South African artists, and the Botanic Garden at the University of Stellenbosch is a lovely spot to stroll and relax with an organic tea at the cafe. Outdoor adventures await in the beautiful Jonkershoek Nature Reserve where nature lovers can hike and bike on the wilderness trails.

North of Stellenbosch, Paarl also boasts beautiful scenery and a rich agricultural heritage, while the charming town of Franschhoek, about 35 minutes from Stellenbosch, is known as South Africa's culinary capital. Closer to Cape Town, the Constantia Valley is another hotspot for foodies.

Highlights: A family-friendly beach with freshwater tidal pools and colorful beach huts

Located between the fishing village of Kalk Bay and the surfing town of Muizenberg, St. James Beach is about a 30-minute drive from Cape Town. Here, you'll find one of the most famous freshwater tidal pools around The Mother City.

It is a great spot for kids to splash around, as the tidal pool is protected from the open ocean and crashing waves by rock or concrete barriers (it's like a natural swimming pool). The pools fill with the tides.

St. James Beach is also very family-friendly, as the surf and sand here are sheltered from the wind by a cove — although, there is also decent surfing on the reef if you want to ride some waves. During summer, the beach can get very busy, especially on weekends, so head out early to take a dip with fewer people.

Also like at Muizenberg, St. James Beach is home to the colorful bathing huts that have become such a popular social media backdrop. After you are done playing in the sea, you can grab lunch or check out the shops in Kalk Bay, which is about a 15-minute walk or a quick drive away.

We recommend these convenient hotels in Cape Town with easy access to top attractions like Table Mountain and the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront:

Luxury Hotels:

• Cape Grace is a beautiful waterfront property with luxury accommodations, situated between the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and the international yacht marina.
• South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel is the top luxury boutique property in Camps Bay. Just across the street from the trendy beach and within walking distance of numerous restaurants, it has a minimalist modern ambience throughout and impeccable 5-star hotel service. The views are also awesome.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Situated below Signal Hill, Blackheath Lodge is a Victorian guest house with wonderful staff, a heated pool, and native gardens.
• Derwent House Boutique Hotel is a charming guesthouse located in the vibrant Tamboerskloof/Gardens neighborhood, with rooms celebrating African design.

Budget Hotels:

• Victorian-style Antrim Villa features Afro-Scandinavian accents, and has affordable rates and a saltwater pool; it's conveniently located in Green Point.
• Centrally located Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre is a modern high-rise with budget-friendly rates and a complimentary breakfast.

The best time to visit Cape Town is during December, January, and February. The summer months bring the warmest air and sea temperatures, and the city has a fun vibe during this time.

Thanks to a current that comes directly from Antarctica, the water off Cape Town's beaches remains frigid year-round, especially on its Atlantic coast side. The summer months are also the driest months, and you'll find days are often sunny with clear blue skies.

June and July are the coldest and rainiest months of the year. You still get lots of sunny days, but there is a chill in the air and some days can feel downright cold when the rain falls. If you aren't concerned about beach weather, however, you can score some great hotel deals visiting in the winter.

The swing season months of March, April, and May and August and September are also great times to explore Cape Town. Attractions are less crowded and the weather is usually decent.

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The 40 Best Things To Do in Cape Town

By Inside Guide

Iconic sites and landscapes, from every perspective.

Cape Town draws the crowds not only for its beauty, but also for its heritage and cultural diversity. There is a rich bounty of things to do to suit every kind of adventurer. And the fact that it’s considered one of the top culinary destinations in the world only enhances its appeal.

With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of things to do that showcase our magnificent city, from must-visit destinations to exhilarating outdoor activities.

Find your next adventure here: Table Mountain V&A Waterfront Sea Point Promenade Cape of Good Hope South Peninsula Don’t miss these things to do near Cape Town

Things to do on Table Mountain

Ride the cable car.

Be whizzed to the top of the Table in a revolving cable car. It’s an exciting five-minute journey, especially as you get an up-close look at the rocky, fynbos-covered mountainside near the end of the trip. Once there, it’s all about the views – enjoy them from the restaurant, multiple viewpoints (including a couple of coin-operated binoculars) and three short trails on the “table” or plateau. Explore on our own, or join the free 30-minute guided walks (every hour on the hour, 9am – 3pm) to learn more and discover great photo ops. Good to know Buy tickets online to skip the queues; tickets are slightly cheaper after 1pm. Times Until 15 December 2023: Daily, 8.30am – 7pm 16 December – 31 January 2024: Daily, 8am – 8.30pm 1 February – 30 April 2024: Daily, 8am – 7.30pm 1 May – 31 August: Daily, 8.30am – 5pm Cost Return: R420 (adult), R210 (child); R120 (senior citizen); R250 (student) Contact 021 424 0015, [email protected] Cableway weather/operational updates: 021 424 8181 Book Now

Visit the highest point

At 21 metres above the Upper Cableway Station, Maclear’s Beacon is the official highest point on Table Mountain (1 085m) – and therefore the highest you can get in Cape Town! Signs at the cable station point you towards the beginning of the hike, and from there the 5.5km trail is marked by yellow footprints (around 2 hours, there and back). There is a short section of rocky steps on the edge of the mountain that needs to be negotiated using chains and handholds. If you do the Platteklip and Maclear’s Beacon trails in one go, then you can truly say you’ve hiked from the bottom of Table Mountain to the very top! Good to know A longer hike – heading southeast from Maclear’s Beacon – will take you to the five dams on top of Table Mountain: Woodhead, Victoria, Alexandra, De Villiers and Hely-Hutchinson, which famously has a white-sand beach (note: this can only be accessed if you ascend the mountain via Skeleton Gorge). Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office) TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300

Hike up Lion’s Head

The distinct slope next to Table Mountain, known as Lion’s Head, is Cape Town’s most popular hike and something of a pilgrimage. At 669m, it offers magnificent 360-degree views of the city, Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles, Table Bay and the Atlantic Seaboard, making it a top spot for Instagrammers. It can get pretty busy, especially around sunset and full moon (bring a headlamp). The trail starts on Signal Hill Drive, at the base of the Forestry Road, and it takes two to three hours (up and down). It’s a fairly easy spiral ascent of 2km, with a bit of climbing near the top using handholds and chains to assist you. If you’d prefer to avoid the climbing and chains, a roundabout route (that’s still quite steep) adds half an hour to your hike. Good to know In the interests of safety, never hike the trail alone – crimes and accidents do happen. Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office) TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300

Explore on a mountain scooter

You may have travelled these mountain paths many times before, but have you ever done it on a freewheeler? Scootours’ eco-friendly, nonmotorised, off-road scooters are a unique way of enjoying Table Mountain and Signal Hill. Take in the views and fresh air as you traverse the slopes during a two-hour tour. The two-wheelers are extremely stable (developed to navigate the slopes of the Swiss Alps during summer) and easy to control, making for a family-friendly experience. Kids will love them, but that’s not to say adults won’t get a kick out of the experience as well. Good to know Kids younger than 10 can’t drive a scooter, but can still have a fun time doubling up with their parents (minimum age 4 years). Scootours also operates on wine farms in Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. Times Monday – Sunday, 10am; 12.30pm; 3pm Cost R750 (driver) R350 (passenger) Where to find it Kloof Nek Parking Area, Tafelberg Road, Cape Town Book Now

Paraglide over the city

Experience Cape Town’s magnificent topography from up high – and get your adrenaline pumping – on one of these tandem adventures. No previous experience of paragliding is necessary – your instructor will run through some guidelines, clip you in securely, and then you’ll be attached to an expert pilot. Once in the air, all you have to do is sit back and relax as you glide from Signal Hill or Lion’s Head to the Sea Point Promenade. Flights last between five and 30 minutes, depending on the wind. In perfect weather, the instructor will show you how to steer so you can fly the paraglider yourself! Good to know If you’d like inflight videos and photographs, bring R300 cash. Minimum age is 14 years, maximum weight is 135kg. Times Monday – Sunday, 7.30am – 6pm Cost R1 500 Where to find it At the end of Signal Hill Drive, Cape Town Book Now

Abseil down Table Mountain

The views from the summit of Cape Town’s iconic landmark are spectacular enough; just imagine what you’ll see as you rope your way down the side of Table Mountain. At 1 067 metres above sea level, this is the world’s highest commercial abseil, and it makes for an exhilarating experience as you are lowered 112 metres down the side of the cliff, the vast blue ocean below you, and Lion’s Head and The Twelve Apostles forming a panorama of splendour all around. It takes around an hour, including a safety demo, harnessing up and a 30-minute hike to get back to the top of the mountain afterwards. Good to know Children are permitted, but there is a 45kg minimum weight. (If a little lighter, a tandem abseil can be booked for an additional R300.) The price of the cable-car tickets is not included. Times Monday – Sunday, 9.30am – 3.30pm Cost R850 Where to find it Meet at the top of Table Mountain (next to the big wheel with cables). Book Now

Explore Kirstenbosch Gardens

Founded in 1913, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is 528 hectares of beauty and diversity, 36 hectares of which is cultivated and the rest being wild. Situated on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, the garden has over 7 000 species of flora, plus many birds and small animals. It’s idyllic for scenic strolls in tranquil surrounds, with the Boomslang Canopy Walk a definite highlight for those views! Pack a picnic (or pick up a catered basket at the on-site eateries) and settle in for the afternoon, while the kids roam free, exploring streams, climbing rocks and enjoying the wide-open space. Kirstenbosch has five themed trails, which explore the forest and fynbos; it is also the starting point for the Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine hikes to the top of Table Mountain. Good to know If you’re in Cape Town in summer, don’t miss the legendary sunset concerts on Sundays and the Galileo Open-Air Cinema screenings once or twice a week. Times Monday – Sunday, 8am – 7pm (September – March) Monday – Sunday, 8am – 6pm (April – August) Cost Adults: R100 (SA + SADC); R140 (other African residents); R220 (international) R40 (children 6 – 17 years) R60 (students over 18 years with a valid SA-institution card) Free (children under 6 + senior citizens on Tuesdays, except public holidays) Contact 021 799 8783, [email protected] Concert information: 021 799 8620 Dining or picnics: 021 797 4883 (Fynkos Tea Room); 021 762 9585 (Moyo) Where to find it Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town Book Now

Things to do in the V&A Waterfront

Tour the two oceans aquarium.

This world-class aquarium is a respected conservation and research facility that’s home to thousands of sea animals of all shapes, sizes and colours, uniquely covering both Atlantic and Indian Ocean species. It’s an exciting peek into life off our shores, with a mesmerising swaying kelp forest, schools of shiny fish swimming in unison, gliding turtles and even sharks, which can also be viewed from within a 10-metre glass tunnel. There are more curious creatures too, such as jellies, octopus, seahorses, pufferfish, moray eels and amphibians. The popular penguin exhibit is always a hit, and kids can get up close to anemones and starfish in the Touch Pool. Good to know You can learn to scuba dive in the tanks (PADI certification) or have a taste of it with the Discover Scuba experience (suitable for anyone age 10 and older). Times Monday – Sunday, 9.30am – 6pm Cost R235 (adults); R175 (adults after 3pm) R175 (teens, students, pensioners); R135 (after 3pm) R110 (children 4 – 13 years); R85 (after 3pm) Contact 021 418 3823, [email protected] Where to find it Dock Road, V&A Waterfront Book Now

See top art and architecture at Zeitz MOCAA

Touted as Cape Town’s “Tate Modern”, it’s impossible to miss the impressive circular structure that houses the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa when visiting the Waterfront. Its signature raw-concrete bulk and convex windows tower over nearby buildings and ships in Cape Town’s docklands. Known for its cutting-edge exhibitions and for showcasing and researching modern African art, the building itself is a showstopper, too – 56 old grain silos that received an eye-catching makeover courtesy of the UK’s Heatherwick Studio in 2017. The Zeitz MOCAA’s many and varied spaces over nine floors include the cathedral-like Atrium, Centres for Costume, Photography and The Moving Image, a rooftop sculpture garden and a shop stocked with arty items, as well as a café and sixth-floor bar with fabulous views. Good to know Free entry on Wednesday mornings for SA and African citizens (with ID). Times Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 6pm Cost R250 (adult) Free for children and teens Contact 087 350 4777, [email protected] Where to find it Silo District, S Arm Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Book Now

Take a helicopter flip

To truly appreciate the grandeur of Cape Town’s mountain-strewn, fynbos-covered setting, you’ll need to get high – way up high, cruising at an altitude of around 2 500 feet in a helicopter. The Waterfront is the main heli-port for the Mother City, from where you can book a variety of trips. Cape Helicopters’s scenic flights vary in distance and duration, taking you over the city and harbour, along the Atlantic Seaboard, over Robben Island or all the way to Cape Point and False Bay. Trips to wine estates are available, too, as well special Experience trips such as up the West Coast for a seafood lunch on the beach, to Cape Point or the Winelands for a mountain-top picnic, or on a photographic safari. Good to know Flights can be shared or booked exclusively. Helicopter flights can also be combined with a boat cruise or other activities, such as mountain biking and golf. Times Daily, 9am – 5.30pm Cost R2 200 – R8 250 per person (Cape Town destinations) From R9 700 per person (Winelands destinations) Where to find it 36 East Pier Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Book Now

Enjoy a sunset cruise

For quintessential Cape Town sundowners, hop aboard a luxury teak-decked catamaran to watch the sun go down. Recline on the trampolines in front, or relax on comfortable cushion seating and be sure to have a camera ready, as the cruise offers stunning views of the city with Table Mountain as its backdrop. The yacht leaves from the Waterfront and heads out into Table Bay and along the Atlantic Seaboard, returning 90 minutes later… in time to see the first stars appear and the moon rise in the velvety blue sky. Good to know A complimentary glass of bubbly is included, and the onboard cash/card bar serves other drinks (or BYO alcohol and pay corkage). Morning and midday trips, as well as private charters and a helicopter flight combo, can also be booked. Times Monday – Sunday, one hour prior to sunset Cost R550 per person (1.5 hours) Where to find it 36 East Pier Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Book Now

Visit Robben Island

Hop on one of the ferries (once used to transport staff and prisoners) to Robben Island for a guided tour – some of which are conducted by former inmates. Once there, you’ll board a bus to visit historical sites such as Robert Sobukwe’s house, the quarries and leper cemetery, a church and Muslim kramat, and learn all there is to know about the island’s 500-year history, culminating in a visit to the prison and Nelson Mandela’s cell. Keep an eye out for dolphins and seals along the way, as they often swim alongside the boat. The views of the city and Table Mountain alone are worth the four-hour trip. Times Monday – Sunday, 9am; 11am; 1pm (all year) + 3pm (September – April) Cost South Africans: R400 (adult); R210 (children and teens) International visitors: R600 (adult); R310 (children and teens) Where to find it Nelson Mandela Gateway, Clocktower Precinct, Fish Quay Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Enquire Now

SUP around the Waterfront

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUPing) has seen a surge in popularity over the past decade, and if you’d like to try your hand at it, the Waterfront’s calm, wave-free canals are the perfect training ground. You’ll be provided with all the gear and introductory training – expect a few tumbles into the shallow water – and once you’ve mastered the art of balancing on the board, it’s time to set off on a three-kilometre scenic loop of the private waterways. Should you require it, a guide will accompany you; if you already know how to SUP, you can simply rent a board and cruise the canals, or even rent one for a weekend getaway. Good to know Children under 16 years old will need adult supervision or hire an instructor. Times Daily, 8am – 6pm (summer); 9am – 5pm (winter) Cost R250 (1 hour) Where to find it Battery Park, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town (parking access from Alfred Road, just behind City Lodge) Book Now

Browse the Oranjezicht City Farm Market

Managed by the people who revived the Oranjezicht urban farm, OZCF is a cheerleader for local, home-grown produce. Take your pick from the rainbow harvest of in-season veggies, herbs and fruit (which may include some rare and heirloom beauties), alongside cheeses, breads and bakes, preserves, smoked fish, charcuterie and more. Stay for a leisurely meal, with a variety of global cuisines on offer (Korean fried chicken, bao, tacos, galettes, pizza, Vietnamese street food, traditional Jewish food, Richard Bosman’s meat pies, pastéis de nata ) – with special diets well catered for. There’s plenty of outdoor seating, a bar area for craft beers and cocktails, space for kids and dogs, and a real buzz. Good to know You can also visit the Oranjezicht farm at 87 Upper Orange Street on weekdays to stock up on fresh produce. Times Saturday, 8.15am – 2pm Sunday, 9am – 2pm Wednesday, 5pm – 9pm (October – March) Contact 083 628 3426, [email protected] Where to find it Haul Road, off Granger Bay Boulevard (or Beach Road), V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Feast at the Time Out Market

Time Out Markets, which began in Lisbon in 2014 and spread to New York, Miami, Chicago, Montreal, Dubai and more, gather the best of the best under one roof to reflect the cool culinary and cultural trends of a city. On a quay overlooking Table Mountain, the Mother City’s Time Out Market will feature well-known chefs and mixologists wielding their magic in 13 kitchens and four bars. The names announced so far include Bertus Basson’s De Vrije Burger, John van Zyl’s The Melting Pot, Vusi Ndlovu’s ‘Fires Of Africa’ concept, Peter Tempelhoff’s Ramenhead, Matt Manning’s Culture Bar, Barakat (Cape Malay fine-dining from the chefs behind Happy Uncles), plus How Bao Now, YARD pizzas and Unframed ice cream. With a stage for live performances and plenty of seating inside and out, it’s sure to be a cooking spot this summer. Opening Sunday – Wednesday, 11am – 10pm Thursday – Saturday, 11am – 11pm Where to find it Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Ride the Cape Wheel

An exhilarating experience for kids and a source of sweet nostalgia for adults, the Cape Wheel – in its new ocean-side location – delivers 360-degree views from 40 metres up. In the comfort of your air-conditioned glass cabin, play “I Spy” as you spot Waterfront landmarks, and see across the stadium, Signal Hill, Table Mountain and the city. It need not be said, but the views at twilight are perhaps the most magical. There is also a “Dine in the Sky” option, with a picnic basket (BYO food), table and double the time. Good to know Each cabin seats up to six adults and two are wheelchair accessible. No booking is required, except for the VIP gondola, with tinted windows, leather seats, a glass floor, music and a complimentary bottle of bubbly (or non-alcoholic option). Times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 10pm Cost R175 (SA adult); R250 (international adult) R95 (children 4 – 17 years + SA pensioners until 6pm) Free (children up to 4 years) Sky Dining: R320 (adult); R150 (child) Contact 087 470 0696, [email protected] Where to find it The Lawns, Breakwater Boulevard, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Enquire Now

Have freewheelin’ fun at Battery Park + Rollercade

If your kid loves whizzing around on wheels – be it two, four or eight wheels – this 1.2-hectare urban park at the Waterfront is the perfect safe space to do it. Apart from the world-class skatepark (with a pump hump, quarter pipes, layback banks, ledges and rails), it also has a scooter path and space to rollerblade, a kiddies playground and a multi-court for basketball, netball or soccer games. Plus, for old-school roller-skating (or when the weather’s bad), inside the parking garage is Rollercade – a spacious rink complete with music, disco lights and mirror balls, a cafe, pool tables and games arcade. Good to know Rollercade operates two-hour sessions and booking is essential to reserve your skates. Times Park: Monday – Sunday, 6am – 6pm Rollercade: Wednesday – Friday, 1pm – 6pm Saturday + Sunday, 10am – 6pm Friday + Saturday, 7pm – 9pm (over-16s only). Cost Park: free Rollercade: R150; R80 (with own skates); R40 (spectators) Contact 021 408 7600, [email protected] 072 064 3963, [email protected] Where to find it Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Rollercade: P3 (third floor), Battery Park Parking (off Alfred Road or Dock Road) Book Now

Paddle the waterways at sunset

As adventures go, kayaking – by night – on the Waterfront canals may be the most tranquil and unexpectedly fascinating after-dark activity in town. At this time of day, you’ll share the water with very few other craft (but perhaps with a Cape otter, if you’re lucky). You’ll drift under bridges, past the glittering lights of upmarket apartments and hotels that line these waterways, stare up at the city’s high-rises and even catch glimpses of the harbour and Table Mountain. The kayaks sport colourful lights, adding to the romance as the water reflects your shimmering glow. The hour-long trip stretches between One&Only Cape Town and the Westin, adjacent to the CTICC. The paddling is easy and there are no waves or rough waters. Good to know Children 8 – 15 years are permitted if accompanied by an adult. Kayaks seat one or two people. Times Monday – Sunday, 6pm; 7pm; 8pm Cost R450 per person Where to find it Battery Park jetty, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Book Now

Things to do on the Sea Point Promenade

Swim at the sea point pavilion.

One of Cape Town’s most prized public spaces, the Pavilion and its pool have been serving the community since 1914. On the very edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the city’s only Olympic-sized saltwater swimming pool comes to life early in summer. Triathletes, squad swimmers and, rumour has it, even actual Olympians, train here. Later, the leisure swimmers, sunseekers, families and pensioners filter in to enjoy the pools, picnic on the surrounding lawns and enjoy the view. Besides the large main pool, there are two shallower pools perfect for kids to splash around in, and a diving pool. There are change rooms with lockers, toilets and showers on site, and lifeguards on duty to ensure things remain safe and above board. Good to know Up Cycles runs a bike-hire booth at the Pavilion, and there are several food vendors. Times Tuesday – Sunday + public holidays, 7am – 7pm (8am – 5pm in winter) Monday from 12pm; closes at 1pm on 24 + 25 December Cost R34,50 (adult); per month R421 R20 (child under 16 years old); per month R184 Free (pensioners and toddlers) Contact 021 814 1051 Where to find it Lower Beach Road, Sea Point, Cape Town

Ride a tandem bicycle

Looking for a novel way to start or finish your day? Hire a bicycle built for two (with your partner, bestie or kid) and take a gentle ride to your favourite spot along the Promenade, soaking up the fresh air and the sights and sounds. Or explore further along the stunning Atlantic coastline and head to Cape Town’s iconic beaches. These fabulous freewheeling experiences are offered by Atlantic Outlook (also known for its guided hiking trips and kayaking with dolphins experience). For the tandem rides, choose your route and your stops within your time slot, setting off from the base at Granger Bay at the Waterfront and going as far as Camps Bay if you like. Good to know Children from age 8 are welcome to join the ride, partnering with an adult. Snacks and drinks at the stops are not included in the price. Times Daily, 9am – 6pm Cost R400 for two people (Classic Promenade Cruise) R1 250 for two people (Kayaking & Bike Experience) Where to find it Granger Bay parking garage (next to the Oranjezicht City Farm Market), Granger Bay Boulevard, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Book Now

Kayak along the Atlantic Seaboard

Paddling on the open ocean evokes a sense of freedom and adventure. This two-hour guided kayaking trip departs from Three Anchor Bay beach below the Sea Point Promenade and ventures along the coastline to Bantry Bay or, in the other direction, into Table Bay and towards the Waterfront – depending on the weather and your preference. You’ll cruise past shipwrecks and dolphins, perhaps encountering penguins, seals and sunfish. Plus, you’ll get to see what the city and its glorious mountains look like from the sea. The Sunset Adventure adds the magnificent skyscapes of sundowner time. Good to know Minimum age is 6 years old, maximum weight is 120kg, and “average” fitness levels are required (no previous paddling experience needed). Times Daily, 7am; 9am; 5pm Cost R500 Where to find it 179 Beach Road, Three Anchor Bay, Cape Town Book Now

Explore the Lion Trail

A five-hour urban nature adventure, this guided excursion is designed to take in the best views of the Mother City – heading through Sea Point, up the slopes of Signal Hill, skirting Lion’s Head and descending through the forests of The Glen, before ending up on the seashore at Maiden’s Cove near Clifton (an icy dip in the Atlantic is optional). The final leg is an e-scooter ride along the stunning coastal road and Sea Point Promenade. Along the way you’ll stop for two gourmet picnics, complete with mimosas and Insta-worthy vistas. The tour is brought to life through fascinating stories on Cape Town’s history, nature and people, ensuring that even locals will learn a lot about the city’s character. Good to know Minimum age is 10 years old. Minimum booking of two people required. Times Monday – Saturday, 8am – 1pm Cost R1 050 per person (including picnics and e-scooter ride) Where to find it Green Point Lighthouse, 100 Beach Road, Mouille Point, Cape Town Book Now

eScooter along the Promenade

A battery-powered, fat-tyred electric scooter is just the thing for cruising Sea Point’s glorious seaside strip – you’ll cover more ground in less time, with less effort. Breeze past the dog walkers, joggers and skaters while taking in the scenery. The scooters come in different sizes, and are suitable for anyone five years and older. The entire Promenade, from Granger Bay to Bantry Bay and beyond, is yours to explore, or pop into the Green Point Park for a change of scenery if you like. ElecTrek also offers a guided Cape Town food tour on your escooter, stopping at some popular spots, or in the Winelands with stops at three Helderberg farms. Good to know An ID is required to rent scooters. E-bikes are also available to hire. Times Daily, 9.15am – 6pm Cost R200 (1 hour) R300 (2 hours) Contact 082 494 3720, [email protected] Where to find it Queens Beach Circle parking lot, Beach Road, Sea Point Shop: Surrey Place, off Beach Road, Mouille Point Book Now

Cruise the coast on an efoil

It’s a little like surfing, but more hi-tech… and less strenuous. Electric hydrofoils (or efoils) are surfboards with an electric propeller attached to a large fin underneath, that allows a foiler to ride above the water – or “fly” (to use the lingo). It takes about an hour-and-a-half to learn the ropes – you’ll be supplied with a wetsuit, helmet and lifevest, and after a short intro and safety briefing, head into the water for your lesson with the pro. Before you know it, you’ll be standing up, cruising and carving above the ocean on your emission-free Fliteboard. Once you know what you’re doing, you can take two-hour guided tours of the coastline. Good to know Efoiling is also available in the Winelands, at Devonbosch Dam in Stellenbosch. The minimum age is 11 years and maximum weight 100kg. You don’t need to be especially fit or athletic for this activity. A 6-hour package can be used on a single day or split up into multiple lessons. Times Daily, 8am – 6pm Cost R1 500 per hour per person R7 500 for 6 hours Where to find it Various locations including Clifton, V&A Waterfront, Hout Bay or Simon’s Town, Cape Town. Book 5 hours Book 10 hours

Things to do in the Cape of Good Hope

Visit cape point.

The 7 750-hectare Cape Point Nature Reserve protects the extraordinary landscape of the Cape of Good Hope. The main attraction is Cape Point, where visitors catch the Flying Dutchman funicular to visit the lighthouses, and follow walking paths to viewpoints – one looks over the actual “Cape of Good Hope”. Elsewhere in the reserve, you can learn about the rich history, flora and fauna of the area at the Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre, enjoy a stroll on one of the many stretches of pristine beach, or head out on a more adventurous hike (where you might encounter some wildlife such as buck or ostriches). Good to know The resident chacma baboons can be aggressive – keep your food hidden and do not feed or threaten them. There are no lifesavers on duty, and the sea is generally not suitable for swimming due to strong currents. Times Daily, 6am – 6pm (October – March); 7am – 5pm (April – September) Cost Cash-free entry SA residents: R100 (adult), R60 (child, 2 – 11 years) SADC nationals: R200 (adult), R100 (child) International visitors: R400 (adult), R200 (child) Contact Visitor Centre: 021 712 7471 Funicular: 021 780 9010, [email protected] Where to find it Plateau Road (M65), via M4 from Simon’s Town, Cape Town Book Now

Hike in the Cape of Good Hope

There are several hiking trails in the Cape Point Nature Reserve. There are three in particular we’d recommend: Lighthouse Keeper’s Trail (1 hour): This dramatic path affords invigorating high-angle views of the rocky cliffs that drop away to a wild, battered coastline. Starting just behind the Upper Funicular Station (at the lighthouse), it’s overlooked by most tourists rushing to get to their next stop. At 3.4km, it’s an easy walk along a narrow path, with historical bunkers, two lighthouses (old and new), thick fynbos and some of that world’s-end atmosphere that makes Cape Point so special. Antoniesgat Trail (2.5 hours): This trail from Buffels Bay beach leads south to an amazing sea cave in the red- and orange-tinged Rooikrans cliffs. The 3.5km hike is a thrilling walk along one of the wildest sections of the False Bay coastline, beside pounding waves and along the cliffs (with caves and tunnels to explore, if that’s your thing). Note that viewing of Antoniesgat is from above, on a small platform with a sheer drop of around 30 metres (climbing down into the cave is dangerous and not advised unless you’re a skilled rock climber.) Farmer’s Cliffs Trail (3 hours): This easy-to-follow 8km stone path reveals fantastic views that cannot be seen from your car. It starts 1km outside the reserve at the Smitswinkel Viewpoint parking area and ends on Buffels Bay Beach. The path winds up and down a number of hills – including Kanonkop, with its cannon used back in the day to warn Simon’s Town of approaching ships – and includes some rock-climbing (or boulder-hopping, if you prefer). (Take two cars, leaving one at Buffels and taking the other to the start point.) Good to know Other day-hiking trails in the reserve include the Shipwreck Trail along the beach at Olifantsbos, the circular Kanonkop Trail (which can include Venus Pools) and the Gifkommetjie Trail. SANParks runs a two-day Cape of Good Hope Trail (34km) with overnighting in the reserve. Contact Cape Point Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre: 021 712 7471 SANParks Tokai Office: 021 712 7471 TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300

Go beach-hopping

Surrounded by ocean and stunning seascapes, Cape Point has many unspoilt beaches. These are must-sees: Diaz Beach: Without a doubt one of Cape Town’s most stunning shores – it is literally at the tip of Cape Point (on the western side) and encircled by dramatic cliffs and wild waves. Best of all, it remains largely undisturbed thanks to the 20-minute walk down steep wooden stairs to the white sands. Swimming is off-limits due to the strong currents – also, keep an eye out for baboons along the path. To find it, from the main car park at Cape Point, follow the gravel footpath (the ‘Cape of Good Hope’ walk), which then swings right and becomes a wooden boardwalk. Buffels Bay: This half-moon bay is on the calmer eastern side of Cape Point, so swimming is possible – and it’s top-notch; you might even be joined by a surfing seal or two. There is also a large tidal pool, great for younger children; rock pools to explore; and braai and picnic spots aplenty on a stretch of lawn (bring your own grid and wood). With powder-soft sand and ocean as far as the eye can see, this rhapsody in blue is well worth the drive and entry fee on a midsummer’s day when all other beaches are crowded. Platboom: Afrikaans for “flat tree”, Platboom is perhaps the wildest yet most accessible (but also deserted) beach in the Cape Point Nature Reserve, on the western flank of the promontory. If you’re feeling energetic, explore the chalk-white sand dunes and rocky outcrops, or simply take a long, undisturbed stroll along the spellbinding coastline. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching and picnicking (don’t feed the wildlife!). Access runs past Dias Cross, though some folk recommend the hike south from the Gifkommetjie viewpoint.

Explore kelp forest (with seals)

Only visible off our Cape shores, the Great African Seaforest is an underwater wonderland of giant, swaying bamboo kelp, home to myriad creatures, big and small (including pyjama sharks, shy sharks, cat sharks, gully sharks – and octopuses). Immerse yourself in this world on a guided scuba-diving excursion at Pyramid Rock and Partridge Point in False Bay, just a few miles up the coast from Cape Point. The maximum depth is 12 metres, which makes for great visibility and a good choice for beginner divers. The outing is also available as a snorkelling experience, where curious, playful seals play with swimmers on the surface. Afterwards, look forward to a hot shower and lunch. Good to know Wetsuits and gear are supplied for divers and snorkelers. A scuba certificate is required for diving (you can sign up for a PADI course). Times Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 2pm Cost Diving: R2 700 (two dives) Snorkelling: R1 200 (one session); R2 200 (two sessions) Where to find it Pisces Divers, 1 Main Road, Simon’s Town Book Now

See Cape Point from the water

For an exhilarating open-ocean adventure, why not visit Cape Point by boat? There are various trips available , suited to different interests and occasions. The scenic eco-tour along the coastline to Cape Point will appeal to leisure travellers (with a visit to Seal Island included), while serious fishermen will relish being in the nutrient-rich waters, up to 40 nautical miles off Cape Point, where tuna abound; there’s also yellowtail and snoek to be hooked (and crayfish in summer). Bait and tackle are provided, and an experienced guide and photographer are optional. Snacks and refreshments are served on board. Good to know The trips and charters, all sustainability-focused, allow six to seven passengers at a time. All trips are subject to weather conditions; fish species are seasonal. When Daily, your choice of time Cost Marine eco-tour: R1 200 per person (two hours); R5 500 per person (private hire) Fishing: R3 500 per person; R13 500 (private hire) Contact 083 544 6748, [email protected] Where to find it Yacht Club Jetty, Wharf Street, Simon’s Town, Cape Town Enquire Now

Tour on two wheels

Sign up for a full-day cycle tour of the Cape of Good Hope. The relaxed e-bike safari in the Cape Point Nature Reserve will have you spotting the resident species – baboons, ostriches, buck and Cape mountain zebra – and hopping off your bike for a closer look at the landmarks and views. Then it’s on to Cape Point itself, where you can visit the lighthouses and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace. Once done, you have the option of going to see the penguins at Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town. Good to know Included in the 8-hour guided tour is the entrance fee to the reserve, the services of a professional guide, pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, water and the rental of a helmet and the electric bike. Minimum age is 12 years. Times Daily, 8.30am –  5pm Cost R2 150 per person (full-day tour) Where to find it Cape Point Nature Reserve Enquire Now

Things to do in the South Peninsula

Visit the penguins at boulders beach.

The preferred haunt of some of the last African penguins on the planet is world-famous and a top tourist spot. Their sanctuary is actually next door, on Foxy Beach, where boardwalks and viewing platforms keep their nests undisturbed. However, the birds also hang out on Boulders Beach, waddling between sunbathers and speeding past swimmers like torpedoes. Apart from the penguins, this wonderful wind-sheltered beach offers amazing swimming: gentle and about as warm as you get in Cape Town. Come early to claim your patch of sand – it’s a small beach, and depending on the tide, it can get even smaller. It’s part of Table Mountain National Park, so there is an entry fee (cashless), and numbers are restricted to prevent overcrowding. Good to know A kayaking tour to Boulders will give you a different perspective – and be less busy. Penguins can also sometimes be seen at Seaforth Beach and nearby Windmill Beach. Times Daily, 8am – 6.30pm (October, November, February + March); until 5pm (April – September) 7am – 7.30pm (December + January) Cost SA citizens: R45 (adult), R25 (child) SADC nationals: R95 (adult), R50 (child) International visitors: R190 (adult), R95 (child) Book Now

Learn to surf in Muizenberg

Riding the waves is a rush, no matter your age. To learn how, all you need to bring is a swimming costume, towel and a bucket of enthusiasm – Surf Emporium provides the wetsuits and boards. The clubhouse is at Surfers Corner, the best spot in Cape Town (and among the top 10 in the world) to learn the ropes because of the gentle rolling waves, sandy bottom and warmer water. The 90-minute sessions are suited to your skill level, proceed at your pace and can be booked as a private group session (a family, for example). Groms under 10 get special one-on-one “freezer” lessons. Good to know They also do SUP lessons and rent out surfboards, bodyboards, SUP boards and wetsuits (hourly, daily or weekly rates). Times Daily, 7am – 6pm Cost R350 – R450 per person per lesson R900 – R1 350 per person (four-lesson package) R385 per child “freezer” lesson; R1 540 per child (5-lesson package) Enquire Now

Explore Kalk Bay Harbour

The colourful fishing boats and red-and-white-striped lighthouse at the tip of a bustling pier is one of the enduring images of this coastline. A popular spot for an early morning or evening amble during summer, in winter the harbour sheds its laidback image and gives new meaning to the phrase “Cape of Storms”, as large waves crash against the jetty and lighthouse. But most days, this is an idyllic spot – you’ll encounter playful resident seals, thieving seagulls and colourful characters, be able to buy fresh-off-the-boat fish to take home for dinner, and indulge in some of the best fish and chips in town at one of the picturesque harbourside restaurants. You’ll come for the harbour, but be tempted to linger longer… The village of Kalk Bay is irresistible with its buzzy, bohemian vibe and myriad shops, galleries and eateries. Where to find it Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town

Go tidal-pool hopping on the False Bay seaboard

The False Bay coastline has several heavenly tidal pools – all pilgrimage sites for the morning/cold-swim tribe and Instagrammers (the early birds know these east-facing pools are one of the best places to be at sunrise). On hot summer days, they attract families – the calmer, sheltered pools make for safer swimming if you have little ones in tow, and the adjacent rock pools are great for exploring. St James is Cape Town’s most famous tidal pool – the one you’ll see on the postcards. The Victorian-style bathing huts add a bright splash of happy colour that, along with the aqua waters and children playing in the sand, paints an idyllic seaside-holiday scene. (For a lovely walk, head along the ocean-hugging catwalk to Muizenberg.) You’ll find Dalebrook nestled between St James and Kalk Bay; it is the most like a “swimming pool”, with steps into the water and no beach. Its unique feature is the large boulder in the middle of the pool, inviting bathers to make like mermaids contemplating the horizon… Wooley’s Pool is hidden from view, just as you’re leaving Kalk Bay en route to Fish Hoek. It’s smaller and often quieter; it also has a shallow “splash” pool built into a corner of the main pool. Beautiful and remote Miller’s Point, about 5km beyond Simon’s Town, is a boulder-dotted beach with a stunning tidal pool (complete with water slide), incredible views across the rocky bay, changing rooms and a grassed picnic and braai area. There is a small entry fee on weekends and during peak season.

Pedal a water-bike in Simon’s Town

These state-of-the-art water bikes make “walking on water” as easy as pie. All you need to do is take a seat and pedal away, exactly like you would on a normal bicycle. It’s the best way to view marine life, including seals, penguins (and even whales in season), as well as the picturesque scenery of False Bay. Besides being fun, water bikes are super-stable and don’t require fuel, making them ecofriendly and quiet way to cruise the ocean. The crew are close by, on a nearby guide boat, to take you from Simon’s Town pier, past the naval base, on an ocean adventure. The standard tour is one hour, but 30-minute and two-hour tours can be arranged. Good to know Minimum age is 13 years, and teens must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum height (to reach the pedals) is 1.5 metres tall; maximum weight is 110kg. Times Daily, 8.30am; 10am; 11.30am (one-hour tours) Cost R590 (1 hour) Where to find it Jetty at 1 Wharf Street, Simon’s Town, Cape Town Book Now

Try coasteering in False Bay

If sunning yourself on the beach or wading on the shore is a little tame for your tastes, how about a pirate-style seaside adventure? You’ll make your way along a section of the False Bay coastline, swimming, snorkelling, rock-scrambling and jumping off boulders into the water – all while getting up close to the marine life (and a few penguins) in the wilder sections of the bay. Think kloofing or canyoning, but in an ocean environment. You don’t need to be an athlete but you’ll need to be reasonably fit and agile. You’ll be accompanied by a guide and equipped with a PFD (personal flotation device) and helmet. A wetsuit and booties can be rented. Good to know Minimum age is 8 years, and there is a 10% discount for under-18s. Private group bookings are available on request, and a picnic lunch can be included. Times Daily, 9am – 11am Cost R680 per person (minimum 4 people) R100 (optional wetsuit hire) Where to find it Windmill Beach, Simon’s Town Book Now

Ride a horse on Long Beach

This enticing sweep of dazzling white sand (stretching over eight kilometres from Noordhoek to Kommetjie) is one of the most beautiful in the Cape. Glimpsing it from Chapman’s Peak Drive, few can resist the urge to stop and explore it. Probably the best way to do this is on horseback. Saddle up at Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie, where you’ll head through the wetlands and onto the beach for a 90-minute outride. You’ll get to see the ruins of the Kakapo shipwreck poking out of the sand and possibly spot a few marine creatures while your horse splashes through the shallows. Good to know All levels of riders are welcome; minimum age is 12 years old; maximum weight is 95kg. For younger kids, there are pony rides on the farm. Times Monday – Sunday, 9am; 12pm; 3.30pm Cost R750 Contact 082 774 1191, [email protected] Where to find it Imhoff Farm, Kommetjie Road, Kommetjie, Cape Town Enquire Now

Cruise Chapman’s Peak Drive in a convertible

Cape Town is a city made for road-tripping: the Peninsula creates the ideal circular itinerary offering awe-inspiring scenery and stops in every direction… the Atlantic Seaboard, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Point, Boulders Beach, the False Bay coast, Constantia Winelands. Sure, you could take a tour bus or drive an ordinary rental car – but it’ll be much more fun in a classic Cobra sports car with the wind in your hair. Various self-drive options are available, or enquire about chauffeur-driven tours that take in all the iconic spots. Good to know Self-drive is for over-23s only, and you’ll need to pay for extra fuel and a deposit. Times Daily; depends on option booked Cost R2 200 (sundowner trip) R2 850 (day hire self-drive) R3 550 (24-hour self-drive) Contact 083 376 0376, cobraexperience.co.za Where to find it 19 Solan Road, Gardens, Cape Town Book Now

Swim at Silvermine Dam

Less than an hour’s drive from the city centre, this large, glistening, mountain-top reservoir is easily accessible to everyone and is hugely popular for leisurely swims and picnics. The water is a little warmer than the ocean, and there’s a one-kilometre boardwalk trail around the dam (wheelchair and pram friendly). It’s also the starting point for various hikes, the most popular of which are Elephant’s Eye Cave, Silvermine Ridge and Sentinel View. Good to know Entry is cash only. ID or passport required. Dogs are allowed with a Level 1 My Activity Permit (R340 for a year). Contact SANParks Tokai Plantation Office on 021 712 7471. Times Daily, 7am – 5pm (summer); 8am – 4pm (winter) Cost SA residents: R40 (adult); R20 (child, 2 – 11 years) SADC nationals: R80 (adult); R40 (child) International visitors: R160 (adult); R80 (child) Day dog walking permit: R90 Where to find it TMN Silvermine Section, Gate 1, Ou Kaapse Weg (M3), between Tokai and Noordhoek, Cape Town

Don’t miss…

Catch the steam train to elgin.

Few things are more evocative than a steam-train ride… Ceres Rail’s grand old locomotives make a full-day round trip to Elgin in the Overberg on weekends, departing from the city and travelling up and over Sir Lowry’s Pass (one of the steepest rail lines in South Africa). Enjoy breathtaking mountain and ocean scenery, and views of fynbos-covered hills, farmlands and orchards, while you sit back in the Bar Lounge car and sip on a cocktail or glass of wine. There’s also a wine-tasting option, with the onboard sommelier. Prefer privacy? Book a family coupé. The destination is the steampunk-style Elgin Railway Market, where live music and street-food stalls create a fun day out, and kids can let off a little steam of their own in the play area. Times Saturdays + some Sundays, 7.30am – 6pm Cost From R625 (adult); R450 (child) Contact 079 401 9353, ceresrail.co.za Where to find it Harbour Bridge Hotel platform, Dockrail Road, Foreshore, Cape Town Book Now

Soar on a mountain zipline in Elgin

Soar Tarzan-style through an aerial playground of fynbos, forests, majestic gorges and thundering waterfalls on this half-day zipline adventure . Based in the Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve, the Cape Canopy tour has opened up previously inaccessible parts of this craggy wilderness. It all kicks off with a 4×4 ride high into the mountains, where guests are attached to cables that run from platform to platform, and supervised by professional guides. There are 11 slides in total – the longest is 320 metres. Including a walk across a suspension bridge that spans a gorge with a majestic double waterfall. Good to know Maximum weight is 120kg. Tandem rides are available for those under 50kg. Times Daily, 8am – 2pm Cost R995 R1 790 (adult-child combo) Where to find it Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve, R321, Elgin-Grabouw Book Now

Go Kloofing in Kamikaze Kanyon

The name says it all! This full-day nature excursion starts with breakfast and ends with cold beers; in between you’ll be ticking off your adventure wishlist: jumping off cliffs (from three to 22 metres high) into crystal-clear rock pools, abseiling down the spectacular 65-metre Thunder Falls, not to mention hiking amid gorgeous scenery with incredible sea views. It all takes place in the Steenbras River Gorge, part of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve renowned for its rich fynbos and craggy mountains. Run by qualified guides, this outing is suited to novice and seasoned adrenaline junkies alike. Good to know Minimum age is 10 years old. The price includes permit fees, guiding, breakfast and a drink afterwards; bring your own snacks and beverages for the hike. Times Wednesday – Sunday, 8am – 5pm (8.30am in winter, May – September) Cost R2 250 Where to find it Pitstop/Grille Shack, Clarence Drive (R44), Gordon’s Bay Book Now

Visit the Mother City’s wine estates

Right on the doorstep, less than 20 minutes’ drive from the city centre, you’ll find historic and modern estates producing excellent wines in two “Wine of Origin” regions: Constantia Winelands: A leafy enclave hidden on the back slopes of Table Mountain, there are nine estates forming this beautiful wine route. The signature varietal is Sauvignon Blanc. Groot Constantia is where it all started – the oldest wine estate in South Africa. Its neighbours are Klein Constantia and Buitenverwachting (also a fine-dining destination), and further up in the hills are Eagles’ Nest, Constantia Glen, Beau Constantia (a boutique winery famed for its excellent restaurant) and organic estate Silvermist (home to world-famous La Colombe restaurant). There’s also Steenberg (with a hotel, great dining options and golf) in the Tokai area, and Constantia Royale in the Alphen area. Durbanville Winelands: In the opposite direction from the city, this wine valley lies adjacent to Stellenbosch. It has 15 wine estates to explore, many steeped in history and offering fantastic wines and an array of restaurants, country kitchens and deli-style eateries. These hills are also a mountain-biking mecca, and many farms have those picture-perfect iconic views of Table Mountain. We recommend starting your exploration with De Grendel, Groot Phesantekraal, Durbanville Hills, Diemersdal, boutique winery Klein Roosboom and family-run Maastricht. Bloemendal, Meerendal and D’Aria are great for active types too.

See modern art at the Norval Foundation

This family-friendly haven of art and nature in the Constantia winelands needs time to be appreciated, so make a half-day of it. Inside the purpose-designed building you’ll find a bouquet of exhibitions in nine galleries, showcasing top South African and African modern art in a variety of mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture and media art. Outside is an interactive sculpture garden amid the indigenous flora and wetlands, and a children’s playground. The onsite restaurant has seating indoors or outside, with views across the gardens and to Table Mountain. Picnics are available in summer. Times Wednesday – Saturday + Monday, 9am – 5pm Sunday + public holidays, 10am – 4pm Cost R200 (SA + African); R300 (international) R100 (students 18 – 24) Free (under 18 years) Contact 087 654 5900, [email protected] Where to find it 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai, Cape Town Book Now

Tackle a treetop obstacle course

Within the Constantia Nek forests, in the shadow of the misty mountains, this treetop playground has all the ziplines, cargo nets and elevated platforms a budding Indiana Jones could wish for. Acrobranch has four aerial obstacle courses – two of which are suitable for young children, and two geared towards tweens, teens and adults (you’ll need a head for heights for the High Flying course) – with trained instructors on hand to provide a safety briefing on each one. Good to know Climbing gloves are available at reception (R25). There is a restaurant on site and the entire facility is a cash-free zone. There is also an Acrobranch course in Stellenbosch. Times Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 6pm (last slot 4pm) Cost R160 (Acro-Twigs) R200 (Monkey Moves) R240 (Swinging Tarzan) R300 (High Flying) Where to find it 1 Hout Bay Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town Book Now

What are your favourite things to do in the Cape? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

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The Inside Guide has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location.

Time of publication: 06 September 2023

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5 responses to “the 40 best things to do in cape town”.

good recommendation and follow in 2024

Please send me the list prices of all the activities you have

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You’ll notice that the cost of each activity is listed with the relevant activity.

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Home » Travel Guides » South Africa » 25 Best Things to do in Cape Town

25 Best Things to do in Cape Town

‘The fairest Cape we ever saw’ said a sailor aboard the sixteenth-century ship Golden Hind when seeing Cape Town. Almost 450 years later, I have to agree.  It’s a city which promises a lot – and delivers. That’s why as a South Africa expert I have no issue with immediately recommending it.

Cape Town has everything. The beauty of its natural location really cannot be overstated. Table Mountain rises up from one side and the rolling waves of the Atlantic from the other. As South Africa’s first city, it’s intrinsically tied to South Africa’s history, containing important sites and some of the country’s best museums.

Then there’s the weather. It’s fine enough to ensure there’s almost always an excuse for getting outside, whether for a beach day or hiking. My pick on the 25 best things to do in Cape Town are therefore as eclectic as they are memorable. Miss them at your peril.

1. Table Mountain

Table Mountain is more than an impressive backdrop to Cape Town. Enclosed within South Africa’s most visited national park, its slopes are draped in indigenous fynbos flora including stunning proteas. Among these flowers skuttle lizards and cute-as-can-be dassies (hyrax). Large numbers of birds of prey keep watch while using the thermals to rise up the mountain’s flanks.

A favorite of hikers and trekkers, even the easiest route to the summit, following Platteklip Gorge, is a strenuous assault on the legs. But have no fear. The Table Mountain Cableway lifts visitors to the mountain’s famed flat summit effortlessly. The 1,000 meter peak tops out at Maclear’s Beacon, where viewpoints provide endless panoramas of the city below. Exploring fully can easily take over an hour. I suggest to take a sweater, it does get chilly at the top!

2. Robben Island

Visible as a small oval from Table Mountain, Robben Island became the obvious place for authorities over centuries to exile their most troublesome prisoners. From 1964 until 1982, this included Nobel Peace Prize winner and future South African president Nelson Mandela. Incarcerated for treason against South Africa’s apartheid state, the island then became a tourist attraction in the 1990s.

Tours are often led by other former political prisons. They include a stop at Mandela’s cell and the quarry where he was forced to break rocks by hand. There’s no more visceral way of understanding South Africa’s modern political history, than a visit to Robben Island (A must-visit in my opinion).

3. Company’s Garden

Cutting its way through a swath of central Cape Town, the Company’s Garden is named after the Dutch East India Company. This was the organization which first founded Cape Town. It planted the garden to supply its ships with fresh fruit and vegetables. Laid out some time in the 1650s, it’s South Africa’s oldest dedicated garden. One of its pear trees was planted in 1652.

The garden is also a beautiful space in which to relax to the sound of birds and trickling water. There are plenty of shady benches to choose between after checking out monuments including the increasingly controversial bronze of Cecil John Rhodes.

4. Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

One of Cape Town’s newest attractions, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront saw boat-building basins turned into a thriving dining and shopping district. A mix of modern indoor mall and open-air shopping made out of historic dock structures, it has a vacation feel year-round.

The Cape Wheel provides the opportunity to take it all in, although simply sitting with a view of Table Mountain is hard to resist. Nearby, a small number of impressively-stinky Cape fur seals bask on the sunbaked paving before taking dips in the harbor.

5. South African National Gallery

Originally founded in 1872, the South African National Gallery’s current home dates back to 1930. It contains a permanent collection which therefore emphasizes European culture, with artworks predominantly from Britain, France, and the Netherlands. In recent years the gallery has used its temporary exhibitions to highlight contemporary works, creating a fascinating mishmash of styles.

Artists contained within the collection include Abraham van Beerstraten and Thomas Baines, known for his drawings of colonial South Africa. Among its sculpture is The Butcher Boys , created by highly-respected South African artist Jane Alexander.

6. Castle of Good Hope

Once situated on the edge of Table Bay, today the Castle of Good Hope lies slightly marooned beside the main train and bus station. Even so, the seventeenth-century fortification provides an unmissable part of any Cape Town itinerary.

The oldest colonial structure in South Africa, the castle was built by the Dutch East India Company. It’s generally labelled the best fort of its kind anywhere in the world. Forming a star-shape of bastions, and boasting some impressive architecture, it comes complete with its original moat. Attractions inside the complex of buildings include a torture chamber, slave quarters, and a military museum.

7. Green Point

One of several upmarket neighborhoods lining the coast, Green Point has been called the Soho of Cape Town thanks to its nightlife. By day, Capetonians tend to head to Green Point Park. It contains various walking and jogging trails alongside a maze and a biodiversity garden. The square red-and-white striped lighthouse makes for an attractive photo op, as does the nearby Mandela’s Glasses art installation.

Come evening, the attention turns to Main Street. Here you’ll find a multitude of laid-back dining options, such as burger joints, Cuban, and Italian cuisine. For seafood, I would consider Sea Point Promenade instead.

8. Long Street

Long Street stretches all the way from the harbor-front Convention Center to the lower slopes of Table Mountain. Along the way it’s adorned by a great selection of independent cafes, book shops, and antique stores.

Maintaining its feel of a Victorian throughfare as a result of the elegant ironwork balconies which line many of its buildings, the street evolves again come evening. At this time of day, it’s the many restaurants, bars, and clubs which take to the fore. Needless to say, the fun continues long into the night…

Colorful Bo-Kaap is probably Cape Town’s most distinctive of neighborhoods. Located at the base of Signal Hill, it’s just five minutes from the heart of Cape Town. Bo-Kaap gets its distinctiveness from the southeast Asian immigrants who settled in the area in the 1760s. A blend of Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture, the neighborhood’s structures took on their bold coloration as a celebration of freedom from slavery.

Wale Street contains the district’s oldest building, now containing the Bo-Kaap Museum.  However, in my view the best way to enjoy Bo-Kaap is to walk its cobbled streets. Coincide it with the sound of the muezzins in the local mosques, and the atmosphere only builds further.

10. Zeitz MOCAA

One of the newest additions to the Cape Town skyline is the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa. Unveiled to the world in 2017, the nine-floor converted grain silo became the largest gallery to African contemporary art anywhere in the world.

Bolstered by an impressive series of rotating temporary exhibitions and fine permanent exhibits, visitors can be sure of plenty to absorb. From all the colors of the rainbow, to seriously thought-provoking new additions, top off your trip to Zeitz MOCAA with the elevator ride to the rooftop restaurant.

11. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are not only important as a place for preserving South Africa’s unique plant species, but also as a playground within Cape Town’s city limits. Situated on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, the gardens are as close as you can get to what the region looked like before the arrival of European colonizers.

Formerly created in only 1913, Kirstenbosch is nonetheless rich in history. Attractions include part of a wild almond hedge planted by South Africa’s first colonizer, Jan van Riebeeck. More modern editions to the garden include the Boomslang canopy walkway. Named after the deadly South African snake, it winds its way through Kirstenbosch’s arboretum. Stretching for 130 meters, it provides intimate views of the gardens, alongside Cape Flats township and the mountains.

12. Two Oceans Aquarium

Part of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, the Two Oceans Aquarium is named for the fact the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet just a short distance from Cape Town. Despite this, it contains sea creatures from right around the globe. The Diversity Gallery highlights the role of South Africa’s Benguela and Agulhas currents through species including seahorses, moray eels, and clownfish.

Meanwhile, a walk-through tunnel contains 1.6 million liters of seawater home to rays and turtles among other species. The Shark Exhibit celebrates critically endangered ragged-tooth sharks. However, the biggest display is the Kelp Forest Exhibit. Showcasing the natural habitats of a huge range of creatures, rockhopper penguins use it for daily exercise.

13. Boulders Beach

To observe Africa’s only mainland dwelling penguins, you only have to go as far as Boulders Beach. Situated near Simon’s Town in suburban Cape Town, the beach unexpectedly became a home for African penguins in 1982.

Since then, the small colony has continued to grow to around 3000 individual birds. Wooden boardwalks have been built for visitors to see these noisy animals. Sounding like donkeys, their other name is the jackass penguin.

If you’re interested in a guided tour I’d suggest this one that included Table Mountain, Cape Point and Boulders Beach .

14. Iziko South African Museum

Housed in an elegant building on the edge of Company’s Garden, the Iziko South African Museum has collections ranging from zoology to archeology. Spanning four floors, exhibits include the world-renowned Lydenburg Heads, some of the oldest Iron Age artworks found in South Africa.

The natural world plays a key part in the museum, with separate galleries displaying whales, birds, sharks, and mammal taxonomies. Heading to level 3, you can explore the bones of a 250 million year old reptile discovered in the country’s arid Karoo region.

15. Muizenberg Beach

Known for its highly-photographed row of beach huts painted in primary colors, Muizenberg is one of Cape Town’s most popular beaches. Located in the suburb of the same name, the beach has a Blue Flag for cleanliness and plenty of soft sand despite the crowds.

Watched over by lifeguards during the swimming season, Muizenberg is also the birthplace of surfing in South Africa. This makes it a great place to jump on to a board for the first time. Waves rarely get large enough to trouble first-timers.

With fun for all the family, Muizenberg Beach makes for a good break from the cultural attractions of central Cape Town.

16. Bree Street

Hailed by the likes of Vogue , Bree Street has certainly come a long way from its humble origins. Perhaps Cape Town’s trendiest address, it gets its name from the Dutch for broad. It was made deliberately wide so ox carts had a chance to turn around.

These days it’s street art, including some incredible full-building murals, you have to look out for rather than animal dung. A place to hang when you’re after a relaxing afternoon, there are no shortage of cafes and bars.

All are small enough that you’ll never feel lost in the crowd. Add to that a number of chic homegrown artisan products – from fabrics to pottery – and you’ve got those lazy hours well taken care of.

17. Signal Hill

Standing to one side of Table Mountain, Signal Hill is the site of the noon gun which fires most days at midday. The guns themselves date to 1794, making them the world’s oldest guns in routine use. Maintained by the South African Navy, the 18-pound guns fire every day except Sundays and public holidays.

The hill also makes for a great alternative to hiking Table Mountain. There’s also a car park close to the summit for anyone who doesn’t want to walk. At the top, visitors will find a handful of street food vendors, alongside places to rent mats to watch the sunset.

18. Saint George’s Cathedral

The first Saint George’s Cathedral opened to congregations in 1834. But Saint George’s is not only a historic place of worship for Cape Town’s Anglican communities. It played an intriguing role in the anti-apartheid movement too.

Its replacement was designed by important British architect Herbert Baker in the early 1900s. Construction is yet to be completed. In spite of this, it has already entered the history books after cathedral authorities ignored apartheid segregation laws and welcomed everyone to worship.

Led by Archbishop Demond Tutu, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984, the cathedral also witnessed 30,000 people protest apartheid in 1989. It would end just five years later.

19. District Six Museum

Another link to South Africa’s past of racial discrimination, the District Six Museum tells the tale of a single Cape Town neighborhood. Once multiracial, the apartheid authorities forced the rehousing of 60,000 non-white residents.

Dominating its central space is a map pinpointing the homes of specific residents. Many of these homes were demolished during ‘regeneration’ schemes which have left much of the area desolate to this day.

What’s unique about this museum is its focus on individuals. This makes it an important part of any Cape Town tour, even for people who have already uncovered some of the city’s apartheid past.

20. Chapman’s Peak Drive

Chapman’s Peak Drive is a short but epic coastal drive which has also become popular with cyclists. Connecting Noordhoek with Hout Bay, it promises sheer drops, alluring vistas over the Atlantic Ocean, and an impressive array of engineering structures to protect the road from falling rocks.

Count carefully, and you’ll discover Chapman’s Peak Drive has no less than 114 curves. It means you’re never looking at the same view for more than a few seconds. Add to this the fact the drive leads southwards towards Cape Point Nature Reserve, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect day out.

21. Llandudno Beach

It’s not as famous as Clifton Beach, but that’s exactly why I’ve chosen Llandudno Beach for anyone looking for peace and tranquility. Tucked into a small arching bay, the beach comprises a delightful expanse of rich golden sand.

Being on Cape Town’s Atlantic coast, the waters can be cold. But there are still plenty of reasons to visit, from sunbathing to sand castle building. Llandudno Beach has also developed a reputation for romance, making it popular with couples come sunset.

The boulders on the lefthand side of the beach have become known as Sunset Rocks.

22. Old Biscuit Mill

Constructed in the late 1800s, the Old Biscuit Mill has been turned from a factory space to a cool hangout in the Woodstock neighborhood. Its series of old buildings have become home to a range of artisan producers. This is alongside office space for designers, and a choice of restaurants. Farm stores are on hand to offer up the best of local produce from Cape Town’s farmland, in addition to sweet and savory treats that need no cooking time.

The Old Biscuit Mill plays host to markets both during the day and at night. One of the most popular with locals is the ‘Neighborgoods Market.’ This family-friendly event is a heaven for anyone with a love for the gourmet.

23. Mitchell’s Plain Township

The term ‘township’ refers to the settlements created by the apartheid regime to house South Africa’s non-white population. Although democracy has existed in the country since 1994, most of Cape Town’s non-white residents continue to live in townships. These include Mitchell’s Plain. In fact, many residents from District Six were forcibly relocated here.

Found on False Bay, around 20 kilometers from downtown Cape Town, tourism is being used as a way to improve the area. Visit on a well-run official tour, and you’ll see the reality of life for the majority of South Africans.

24. Groote Schuur

Translating from the Dutch for ‘big shed,’ Groote Schuur was first used as a farm in the 1650s. Passing through a number of hands over the centuries the Cape Dutch style building was bought in 1893 by Cecil Rhodes. He paid £60,000 for the property, a huge amount at the time.

The home of South African prime ministers and then presidents for almost a hundred years, it was also the site of an important meeting between FW de Klerk and Nelson Mandela. A museum open by appointment, visitors are able to admire the furnishings and books which remain, as well as learning more about its position in the history of South Africa.

25. Wine tasting

Cape Town and vineyards go hand in hand, and have done since the very foundation of the city. Understandably, most of the big names in wine are located outside of the city, in towns including Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Wellington, and Paarl.

There are plenty of organized tours that will take in the winelands in each of these regions, if I’d had to suggest one I’d have a look at this tour that includes visiting 3 estates. That said, you don’t have to leave Cape Town to get your fill of one of the city’s most-loved exports.

Tasting rooms dot the city limits, while most of the city’s wine stores will also happily provide tastings.

I’ve got some more content on South Africa for further reading:

• 15 Best Places to Visit in South Africa
• 15 Best Tours in South Africa

25 Best Things to do in Cape Town:

• Table Mountain
• Robben Island
• Company’s Garden
• Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
• South African National Gallery
• Castle of Good Hope
• Green Point
• Long Street
• Zeitz MOCAA
• Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
• Two Oceans Aquarium
• Boulders Beach
• Iziko South African Museum
• Muizenberg Beach
• Bree Street
• Signal Hill
• Saint George’s Cathedral
• District Six Museum
• Chapman’s Peak Drive
• Llandudno Beach
• Old Biscuit Mill
• Mitchell’s Plain Township
• Groote Schuur
• Wine tasting

Cape Town   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Dimitri Otis | Getty Images

Why Go To Cape Town

Sporty, stylish, stunning, sociable… If Cape Town was a person, it would be that Hollywood starlet we all secretly envy. The Mother City is unlike any other destination in Africa: Separated from the rest of the continent by a ring of mountains, Cape Town stands as a glittering, metropolis juxtaposed with one of the world's most breathtaking natural landscapes. But good looks aren't the only thing Cape Town has going for it. You'll fall in love with this city's khaki-colored beaches, rolling vineyards, sizzling cuisine, thriving nightlife, and, of course, the spectacular Table Mountain . It may have taken an international soccer tournament to catch the world's attention, but since Cape Town took the global stage, no amount of buzzing vuvuzelas can drown out its magnificence.    

Cape Town is by far the most cosmopolitan city in South Africa, as it hosts a hodgepodge of cultures that contributes to the city's eclectic music, food, and festival scenes. But to better appreciate Cape Town as it is now, it's important to understand what the city has experienced. Decades of racial and economic oppression invoked by apartheid has left a festering wound. Although many tourists only experience Cape Town's gorgeous beaches and vibrant restaurant scene, those who visit Nelson Mandela's jail cell on Robben Island or peruse the exhibits in The District Six Museum will see that there's a somber undertone to this otherwise vibrant city.

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• # 5 in Best Places to Visit in March 2024
• # 8 in Best Places to Visit in Africa in 2023
• # 9 in Best Wine Vacations

See All 5 Rankings

Best of Cape Town

Best hotels in cape town.

• in Ellerman House
• in Cape Grace Hotel
• in Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Best Things to Do in Cape Town

• # 1 in Table Mountain
• # 2 in Constantia Valley
• # 3 in Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront

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Cape Town Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Cape Town are from March to May and from September to November. These shoulder seasons boast enviable weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. When planning your trip, it's important to note that the seasons here are reversed: South Africa's summer corresponds with America's winter, and vice versa. That said, Cape Town's summer is the most popular (and most expensive) time to visit. Hotels and attractions are usually overflowing with travelers. Meanwhile, the Mother City clears out between June and August when chilly weather and frequent rainfall puts a damper on tourist activities.

Weather in Cape Town

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Prepare for rain and shine Cape Town is often said to experience four seasons in one day. The city's shape and location results in microclimates, meaning you can enjoy warm sunshine in one area and chilly rain in another.

A good map goes a long way Driving is the best way to get around, but that doesn't mean the city is painless to navigate. Street signs can be confusing, so having a detailed map will make things easier.

Spare food, not change Poverty is still a noticeable problem in Cape Town, but offering money doesn't do much good. If you want to be charitable, offer food instead.

How to Save Money in Cape Town

Stay within limits Many car-rental agencies offer unlimited mileage for an additional cost, but unless you're planning to trek across all of South Africa and back, you can save big by keeping your daily limit small.

Save your receipts A 14-percent value-added tax (VAT) accompanies most purchases in Cape Town, but you can often get a refund at airport customs. Just make sure you have proof of all your purchases.

BYOB for a smaller fee Tasting the local wine is a must while in Cape Town, but you should expect to pay more for a bottle in a restaurant than at a wine shop. Although you will encounter a corkage fee, your bill will be smaller if you bring your own booze.

Culture & Customs

Many historians agree that Cape Town owes its existence to Table Mountain ; after all, it was the mountain's fresh-water streams that lured European explorers to settle here in the first place. Back in 1652, when Dutch colonial administrator Jan van Riebeeck established a seaport here for the Dutch East India Company, Table Mountain's streams were able to sustain a growing population. As a result, Cape Town became the first European settlement in South Africa (which is why Cape Town is often referred to as the "Mother City"). Over the years, Cape Town grew to encompass a population of 20,000 European settlers and 25,000 slaves from areas like Java, Madagascar, and Guinea. When the British took over the city at the end of the 18th century, they brought additional forced laborers from Ceylon, India, and the Philippines and wiped out the indigenous populations that had previously herded cattle along the coast.

This mélange of cultures is still represented in Cape Town, but cohabitation hasn't been easy. Although apartheid (government enforced racial segregation and discrimination) ended in the 1990s, the scars remain. Venture outside of central Cape Town and you'll discover neighborhoods comprised of makeshift shacks and struggling populations (referred to as "the coloureds" by many Capetonians). Poverty, crime, illness, and drug addiction also remain common societal problems. Although many tourists don't see these afflictions in Cape Town's more developed areas, a trip to one of these fringe neighborhoods is a harsh reminder that the Mother City still has a long way to go on the road to recovery.

In central Cape Town, you have little to worry about in terms of safety (although pick-pocketing is common, so keep an eye on your belongings). In fact, visitors have benefited from the presence of many different nationalities. Many different languages are spoken here; including Afrikaans (an evolved Dutch dialect) and numerous African languages, but a large portion of the population speaks English. The convergence of lifestyles has enriched Cape Town's music and culinary scenes: Jazz thrives here, and you'll find restaurants serving everything from Italian food to sushi.

The official currency here is the South African Rand (ZAR), which is equal to about $0.13 USD. U.S. dollars are not accepted in Cape Town establishments; however, most credit cards are.

Getting Around Cape Town

The best way to get around Cape Town is by car. Although signage can be a bit confusing, the city is relatively automobile-friendly, with ample parking and fewer congestion issues (when compared to cities of similar size). You can rent a car at the Cape Town International Airport (CPT), which is located about 12 miles southwest of the city center. Renting wheels will also spare you from Cape Town's unreliable public transportation system and pricey taxis. However, if you don't want to worry about dealing with a car, the city's rikkis (shared cabs) provide an affordable (albeit slow) alternative to metered taxis.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Americans traveling to South Africa will need a valid passport with at least one blank visa page. However, South African immigrations officers have been known to require two unstamped pages: one for the South African temporary residence permit sticker and the other for entry and exit stamps. Without these blank pages, you may be refused entry to the country. Travelers planning to spend fewer than 90 days in South Africa do not need a visa. If you are traveling to South Africa via a country where yellow fever is present (even if you are not even leaving the plane), you will be required to present a valid International Certificate of Vaccination (known as a "yellow card") that has been approved by the World Health Organization. To learn more, visit the U.S. State Department website .

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A Travel Insider’s Guide to Cape Town: A 3-Day Itinerary

I have lived in Cape Town since February 2014 so you could call me a true Capetonian now. In that time, I have walked or driven to almost every part of the Mother City, seeing all the touristy attractions, unearthing hidden gems and experiencing all that Cape Town has to offer. So I think it is time that I share my local knowledge of this beautiful city through a travel insider’s three-day itinerary.

Exploring the Mother City in Three Short Days

While I could share the usual tourist spots and mainstream attractions – and I will include some – I prefer to give you an insider’s take on the Mother City. This will help you get the most out of a short stay.

Three days is not nearly enough time to experience all that Cape Town and its surrounds offer . Still, it makes for a good start, especially if you are pressed for time or cannot enjoy a longer stay.

I will share a suggested itinerary for each day, with some optional ideas (ideal if the weather doesn’t play ball and you need a Plan B because yes, we really do get four seasons in a day in Cape Town).

A Local’s 3-Day Guide to Cape Town

Day one in the mother city, 1) hike up table mountain or catch the cable car (weather permitting).

If the weather is good and your fitness levels are decent , a hike up Table Mountain’s Platteklip Gorge is a relatively easy, fun hiking experience .

This hike is free to enjoy and you can either hike up and back down the mountain – or you can catch the cable car one way.

Safety Tips

However, for safety, it is best to hike in a group and to always check the weather in advance, as it can quickly change up the mountain.

As you hike, you have the option of sticking with Platteklip Gorge – or branching off into the scenic India Venster. But be advised that India Venster is a much trickier route up Table Mountain and should only be used by experienced hikers heading up the mountain.

Note : Both hiking and the cable car are weather-dependent activities so please check ahead beforehand. If you are catching the cable car, check their website for crucial live weather updates.

The cable car is not a cheap outing but it is worthwhile and SA citizens generally enjoy discounted rates. For cable car fares, times and operational status, please see here .

Things to See and Do on Table Mountain

Once you reach the top of the mountain, you can enjoy exploring the mountain using the different mapped out routes; visiting one of the little shops; grabbing a meal or drink and more.

I would say set aside a morning or afternoon for visiting Table Mountain . You need about 45 minutes to an hour to explore the top of Table Mountain properly – and that excludes hiking and/or travel time.

If you are hiking up,   factor in a good 1.5-2 hours each way.

Especially during weekends and holiday seasons, the cable car can get very busy so it is advisable to book online if possible . The cable car is quick if you don’t have to queue for ages.

2) Head on Citysightseeing bus tour to either see the city/coastline or explore the Constantia Winelands. Alternatively, enjoy a self-drive or guided tour experience.

One of my best ways to explore Cape Town is through the affordable, highly professional and fun Citysightseeing Cape Town bus tours.

These eye-catching, cherry red double-decker buses allow you hop on, hop off and explore the city , winelands and even the coastal areas.

Different Citysightseeing Tours to Enjoy

My personal favourite Citysightseeing tours are:

• Mini Peninsula Bus Tour : this can take you from the Two Oceans Aquarium to Kirstenbosch, the Constantia Winelands and back to the Waterfront office via Camps Bay and Green Point.
• Red City Bus Tour: this takes you through the city to Table Mountain Cableway and then back through Camps Bay, Green Point to the Waterfront.
• Sunset Bus – only available from November to early May: this takes you from the Waterfront, through Sea Point and Camps Bay and up to Signal Hill, where you watch the sunset before heading back to the Waterfront office.
• Harbour Cruise: this is a cheap, yet unique way to explore the Waterfront and Cape Town harbour from the water.

Not only is a Citysightseeing tour a safe, highly family-friendly way to see the city but these trips also offer great insights, thanks to the audio tours that you enjoy as you ride.

Along the way, you can hop off and explore a number of interesting places , like Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, the Constantia wine farms, World of Birds, local beaches like Camps Bay and Clifton and much more.

Note : Standard Citysightseeing ticket prices do not include entry fees or on-site offerings, food and drink or other activity fees. Although they do have different ticket options that include vouchers and discounts.

For all their Cape Town tours and offerings, fares or to book online, please see here .

If you prefer to go your own way, take a self-drive from the CBD and explore the coastline from Camps Bay to Hout Bay and beyond. A drive along Chapmans Peak is unbeatable.

3) Explore the V&A Waterfront and Silo District on foot

One of my favourite places to safely explore on foot is the world-famous V&A Waterfront and chic new Silo District.

Here, you can find world-class boutique- and retail-stores, cinemas, a wide array of fast food and restaurant offerings, classy hotels and some pretty cool local attractions like the Cape Wheel, Hamleys (kiddies) train, Two Oceans Aquarium, V&A Food Market , Makers Landing and much more.

V&A Waterfront Highlights

Other highlights include arts and crafts stalls, the Watershed, Oranjezicht City Farm Market (open over weekends and Wednesday nights), Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) , Nobel Square, Clock Tower and more.

If you have a mid-morning, afternoon or early evening free, explore the Waterfront. It is vast but if you select the stores or attractions you want to see, you can do it in 1.5-2.5 hours if pressed .

If you want to visit the Zeitz MOCAA for a museum tour, then I would add on maybe 3-4 hours minimum for the Zeitz MOCAA.

OPTIONAL IDEAS FOR DAY ONE:

Day One is already quite jam-packed with activities and local attractions but if you have the time (and budget), here are some optional ideas you might try add in:

4) Enjoy a harbour cruise with Cityseeing Cape Town

As I mentioned earlier, this is a fun, affordable and lovely way to see the Waterfront and working harbour.

You will see plenty of boats, ships, yachts, fish (if you are lucky) and maybe even the odd Cape Fur seal or two.

This activity is quick and ideal for all ages and travellers. Tours generally last for about 25 minutes.

5) Book a tour to Robben Island

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Robben Island Museum (@robben_island)

Robben Island is one of Cape Town’s most iconic local attractions . It is now a World Heritage Site and museum.

As the place where former president Nelson Mandela and many other former political prisoners were imprisoned, this island has a deep-seated South African history.

Tour Insight

There are boat tours that run from the Waterfront to Robben Island. Once there, you get an island tour, which is led by a former political prisoner. I have not been yet but I have heard the tours are worth doing.

Standard tours take about 4 hours but it can be longer with boat travel times to factor in.

For more information on the tours and Robben Island itself, please see here .

6) Enjoy afternoon tea in the Mother City

If you are looking for a lovely food and drink experience in the Mother City, our hotels all generally offer enviable afternoon tea spreads.

These tea offerings are generally suited to two guests or more and pricing and offerings vary per establishment – but I can say that all are really quality and decadent treats.

Best Afternoon Teas in Cape Town

From personal experience, some of my favourite Cape Town afternoon teas  include those from the Belmond Mount Nelson, Table Bay Hotel and Cape Grace.

Tip : For these tea experiences, you don’t need to don your Sunday best – but it is important to dress a bit smartly, so a smart casual dress code is advised.

7) Explore our array of world-famous beaches

The Mother City’s CBD is a short drive away from some incredible, world-famous beaches.

Although you can head further out to places like Simon’s Town or Bloubergstrand for more beach bliss, there are enough gorgeous beaches close(r) to the city to enjoy. Especially if you are short on time and just want to quickly visit a few during your trip.

Some of my picks in and around the city are:

• Camps Bay Beach
• Clifton 1-4 Beaches
• Oudekraal Beach ( you pay a small conservation entry fee here)
• Kommetjie’s Long Beach
• Noordhoek Beach

Be Beach Wise

You need to be vigilant visiting any public space in the city and beaches, especially near sunrise or sunset, are much the same .

I would not recommend visiting them alone if you can avoid it. Some can be a bit isolated, especially when it is dark or quiet.

However, if you are travelling solo , rather visit when there are some crowds out. Otherwise, go in a group for some fun in the sun.

If you want to visit all these beaches, you can drive from the city via Camps Bay, Hout Bay, then along Chapmans Peak Drive and into Noordhoek and even Kommetjie before doubling back to the CBD.

Rent a Classic Car or Motorcycle for Chapmans Peak Drive

There are a number of classic car- and motorcycle-rental options and tours that you can enjoy Chapmans Peak Drive, otherwise fondly known as Chappies, through.

Either way, it’s a beautiful drive and one that you can essentially do in an hour or two, depending on traffic and how far you wish to spend at each spot etc.

Note : After passing a certain point, you have to pay to continue driving along Chapmans Peak Drive.

It is a toll road and the fee applies both ways. Fees vary per vehicle type.

Also, sometimes the Chappies road is closed following dangerous weather conditions and rock falls. So always check ahead to confirm it is open and safe to use.

8) Enjoy a sunset cruise

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The Waterfront is home to a selection of different boat tours and pirate and/or sunset cruises that visitors can choose from.

For most, it seems that you can generally book at the harbour a short while before departure. Although some offer online booking services too.

There are a number of charters, like Waterfront Charters and Waterfront Adventures, that offer different options. With some options, you can cruise and dine or enjoy some MCC/bubbles as you ride.

Just Cruising into the Sunset

If you want a romantic experience, I would recommend a sunset cruise. I have heard these are great and this experience has been on my must-try ‘date night’ list for a while now.

This could be a great way to end off your first evening in the Mother City! 🙂

Cruise times and durations vary, especially during the different seasons. However, generally most tours seem to be minimum 1 – 1.5 hours in duration .

Day Two in the Mother City: Head to the Cape Winelands

No visit to South Africa is complete without experiencing our world-famous, beloved Cape Winelands.

Steeped in rich Cape history and Dutch architecture, with stunning scenery and world-class wines, food and experiences, the Cape Winelands is one of our most popular destinations – and for good reason.

Best of all, you don’t even have to be a wine lover to enjoy it. Because the Cape Winelands and South African wine farms at large offer so much beyond their award-winning wines.

The Winelands near Cape Town

While the Cape Winelands is spread across the province, there are a few regions and towns that are +/- 20-30 minutes’ drive from the Cape Town CBD. Think: Durbanville, Paarl, Wellington, Stellenbosch and of course, fair Franschhoek.

So for Day Two of your Cape Town adventure , let’s look at all you can sample and savour in the verdant Cape Winelands.

Tip for Day Two

Note : You can’t fit the whole Cape Winelands into Day Two because it is vast and spread across the province. But you can definitely spend a day driving around the Winelands, visiting a wine farm or two and of course, savouring some local experiences or food and wine.

This is especially doable if you can stay overnight in one of the towns or at a local wine farm . So do your research and pick the winelands town or region you want to explore for the day.

For example, Paarl and Wellington are relatively close together so you could try squeeze both in for Day Two. Alternatively, you could do Stellenbosch and Franschhoek – or even Durbanville and Stellenbosch.

If you prefer to focus on one town, like Stellenbosch, find some wine farms in the area that interest you and enjoy exploring several farms for Day Two.

1) Enjoy a range of outdoor experiences in the Cape Winelands

If you thought the Cape Winelands and our local wine farms are stiff places that only offer wine tastings and bottles of the good stuff – then think again. Because our wine farms offer a host of incredible indoor and outdoor experiences and activities for all ages.

If you are into outdoor adventure, there are segway tours, MTB and e-bike trails, horse rides, hikes, wine trams and even tuk tuk tours etc.

For culture vultures, preserved Cape Dutch buildings, historic national monuments, on-site museums and old gardens are the order of the day.

While, for the foodies among us, there are a host of food and drink offerings to enjoy. Everything from fun markets with all sorts of local goodies to wine farm picnics, afternoon teas and of course, amazing fine dining too.

Fabulous Wine Pairings

The wine pairings found in the Cape Winelands are also incredibly varied and fun. There is everything from chocolate and wine to savoury eats like bunny chows and quiches to ice-cream and of course, our iconic cheese- and/or charcuterie-platters that are second to none.

Just when I think I have tried it all, a new wine pairing pops up and I have another interesting one to try!

Also, the Cape Winelands offers stunning accommodation. It has everything from cosy B&Bs to affordable, yet quirky Airbnbs to immaculate, five-star wine farm hotels, glamping offerings and even exclusive spas. So there is no shortage of excellent accommodation either.

2) Relaxed lunch or seasonal picnics in the Cape Winelands

While many restaurants in and around the Cape Winelands are high-end, fine dining offerings, there are still a few affordable, yet high quality eateries that both locals and tourists can afford.

Better still, many wine farms also offer beautifully curated, family-friendly picnics. Not only do you get to feast on excellent local food and cheeses but you also get to really soak up the atmosphere of our beautiful farms.

Some of my personal favourites for relaxed, yet classy winelands’ lunches are The Kraal Restaurant at Joostenberg (Stellenbosch), Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant (Franschhoek), Steenberg (Constantia) and Constantia Glen (Constantia), Babylonstoren’s Greenhouse (Franschhoek) and La Paris Bistro (Franschhoek).

While for picnics, I love Mont Rochelle, Boschendal, Spier, Hazendal, Warwick, De Meye, La Bri and many more besides!

3) Explore a beautiful garden near the Winelands

Another wonderful boon of our local wine farms and indeed, Winelands’ towns at large is that they offer unadulterated Cape nature and stunning gardens.

Some of my favourite wine farm gardens can be found at:

• Babylonstoren
• Delaire Graff
• Nitida (Durbanville)
• Joostenberg Wines
• And many others

We also have some incredible local gardens and nature reserves in and around the Cape Winelands.

Some of my personal favourites include:

• Tygerberg Nature Reserve (near Durbanville Wine Valley)
• Old Nectar estate gardens
• Avondale Open Garden (near Durbanville Wine Valley; only open once a year to the public )
• Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden ( bookings are essential )
• Jonkershoek
• Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve
• Meulwater Botanical Garden

Some of the gardens, like Dylan Lewis or Old Nectar, and reserves require you to pay a small entrance fee but it is worth it.

FAMILY FRIENDLY WINELANDS ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE:

If you thought wine farms are not kid-friendly, think again.

These wine farm activities and offerings are hugely popular among the little folk: – Hazendal’s Wonderdal, an interactive and educational state-of-the-art play centre – Picnics and child-friendly meals at Hazendal – Pony rides, MTB fun and more at Boschendal – Segway tours and gardens at Spier

– Gorgeous gardens and farm animals at Babylonstoren – Adorable, famous goats and family-friendly dining at Fairview – Picnics for all (most wine farms offer child-friendly versions of their adult picnic offerings. These include the likes of Spier, Boschendal and Warwick to name a few.) – Child-friendly tastings (instead of wine, kiddies enjoy sweets, treats and juice as a fun, non-alcoholic wine pairing option. Many estates like Rickety Bridge, Bloemendal or Van Loveren offer these kid-friendly pairings.)

Day Three: See the Countryside or Coastline Beyond

You cannot do everything in three days so sadly, this is the part where I am going to force you to pick one option for your final day in Cape Town.

Happily, all of these are stellar offerings and, no matter which option you choose, you will be spoilt with rich Cape beauty, abundant nature and wildlife, mountains and beautiful towns and villages.

Each trip is about +/- 1-2.5 hours from Cape Town so you don’t have to spend hours on the road. In fact, if you leave early enough, you can easily drive to and back from even the furthest of these destinations in the same day.

Although ideally, you can stay overnight in your destination and travel back to the Mother City for your return flight or departure the next day.

Option 1: Head to Cape Point and soak up the False Bay coastline

People often ask me what my top destinations are in Cape Town and I usually say something along the lines of: “Obviously, the Cape Winelands, Table Mountain and/or our beaches – oh and you have to visit Cape Point at least once in your lifetime!”

And I stand by that recommendation because if all else fails and you really cannot squeeze everything in, those recommendations will still afford you incredible memories, overflowing with rich, natural beauty, history and world-class offerings.

If you choose option 1, here are some of the False Bay highlights you can enjoy :

• Boulders Beach, famous for its resident, endangered African penguin colony;
• Wild, semi-deserted Cape Point beaches, like Platboom and Dias Beach;
• The incredible Cape of Good Hope , which is the most south-western point of the African continent;
•  Within the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point Nature Reserves, travellers can enjoy incredible coastal hikes, picnic spots, rustic accommodation and seeing amazing natural flora and fauna – everything from seasonal whales to ostriches, Chacma baboons and zebra.

Note : As they fall within the jurisdiction of the vast Table Mountain National Park, both Boulders Beach and Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope have a separate conservation fee payable upon entry to each attraction.

Once you have explored Cape Point, you can either travel back to the city from Simon’s Town. Or you can head back via Noordhoek and Chappies or even Ou Kaapse Weg.

This ensures a truly scenic, special end to your third day.

Option 2: Explore the West Coast

The Cape West Coast is one of the jewels of the Western Cape . It offers everything from quaint coastal towns and sleepy villages to breathtaking flora and fauna, seasonal flower- and whale-spotting, stunning, sun-kissed beaches, local wine farms and craft breweries and a host of outdoor offerings like fossil sites, game drives, archery and 4×4 and MTB trails.

If you pick option 2, I recommend exploring small towns like Darling, Yzerfontein and Langebaan. While you are at it, enjoy some outdoor fun.

My personal picks include the likes of Thali Thali Game Farm and the West Coast National Park – but there are so many hidden gems found throughout this gorgeous region.

Soak up the pristine coastline and white sand beaches; unleash your inner adventurer; be charmed by rustic, peaceful Cape small towns and villages – and discover why the West Coast is the best coast.

Option 3: Head to Elgin Valley

One of my favourite places in South Africa is the lush Elgin Valley . Like something out of a fantasy novel, this beautiful region is blessed in abundance with mountains, forested landscapes and natural, wild beauty.

Situated in the stunning Cape Overberg Region, Elgin is a special town and region. It offers everything from cool climate wine farms to apple orchards, lush gardens and incredible MTB trails.

Some of my top picks in and around Elgin include:

• Steampunk-inspired Elgin Railway Market;
• Epic ziplining in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve;
• Thrilling e-bike adventures and MTB trails;
• Special cool climate wine farms;
• A unique, timeless steam train experience that runs from Cape Town to Elgin Railway Market on selected dates;
• Stunning local accommodation – everything from designer airstream trailers to glamping camps, e-bike hotels and tranquil farm cottages.

Tip : When travelling to and from Elgin, I suggest going via Franschhoek Pass one way – and then returning via Sir Lowry’s Pass and Strand the other (or vice versa). That way, you can soak up even more of the Cape in one trip.

Option 4: Take a road trip from Cape Town and explore the famous Route 62

I grew up in the heart of the Route 62 and Klein Karoo so I am biased towards the region – but this semi-arid region is loved by travellers the world over so my bias is well-supported.

The iconic Route 62 is famed for its charming small towns and villages , winelands, outdoor adventures, farm stalls and rich Cape scenery. It is also an unmissable part of the Cape.

If you can, use this option to travel from Cape Town and explore some of the route’s most iconic towns along the way.

Some of my personal favourites include Tulbagh , Wellington, Rawsonville, Robertson, Montagu , Barrydale and Swellendam to name only a few.

Like I said before, it is impossible to explore Cape Town in three days (or even in three years!) because this city and its surrounds offer so much to see and do.

But I hope that my itinerary will at least help you to safely and happily explore some of its best local attractions, destinations and experiences over a three-day period (or even slightly longer).

Best Months to Visit Cape Town

Many tourists and locals enjoy exploring the Mother City during our summer and heading into early autumn (generally December to March). This is because the warm weather really is a treat in Cape Town. Think: warm, scorching temperatures and clear blue skies for days.

Unfortunately, during the spring and summer months , Cape Town gets a pretty strong south-easterly wind (known locally as the Cape Doctor) that sweeps through the city, blowing everyone along in its path. So it can be challenging at times.

That said, we do get pretty intense, cold and wet winters (usually from May to August), with Cape storms, gale-force winds and lashing rains so you have to choose what works best for you.

Personally, I love exploring the Mother City year-round and I think you can make the most of any day in this city.

There is no ‘best’ month to visit Cape Town because our city is incredible no matter the weather and offers plenty of indoor and outdoor attractions.

Just choose what works for you. If you like warm weather, visit any time from September to even early April. If you prefer rainy days or colder temperatures with crispness in the air, then May to August are equally great months.

My favourite months are actually late August right through to April because I love the milder weather and warm sunshiny days the city enjoys then. 🙂

How Much to Budget for on Your Trip

Cape Town, like any major city, is not the cheapest place to visit. Especially if you opt for all the tourist attractions and top restaurants.

We offer some of the world’s best restaurants and wine farms though, so this is to be expected.

That said, during my student years, I explored Cape Town on a tight, shoestring budget (think: under R150 per day). So you can definitely explore the city for less.

If you book affordable accommodation options (like self-catering or Airbnb stays or B&B guesthouses ), you can save a pretty penny. The same goes for shopping for groceries and enjoying some homecooked meals, as opposed to dining out thrice daily.

For a three-day visit to Cape Town, excluding accommodation, travel/petrol and meal expenses, I think you can safely get by on R1500-2000 per person, per day. This includes ticket prices, activity fees and even some food and drink options too.

Calculate Your Day Trip Expenses Before Visiting

But again, daily costs will vary from person to person. I might be able to explore the city for under R500 because I possess a local’s street savvy – whereas a tourist might spend R3000 p/p minimum and not even think it is a lot.

The best plan of attack is to figure out what you would want to do for each da y and calculate ticket prices and the like based off that.

Use tools like the Uber fare calculator or check the Citysightseeing or MyCiTi bus prices to try get a sense of your travel expenses .

If you are renting a hired car (which is arguably the best way to explore Cape Town, especially on a budget) – factor in a full tank of petrol and how many kilometres you can get out of it with your rental car.

How to Get Around Cape Town

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One of the best ways to explore Cape Town is to hire a rental car. But if you have any qualms about driving in a foreign city or country, the city offers Uber, private tour guides and the MyCiTi or even Citysightseeing buses.

We do have modes of public transport, including Golden Arrow buses and Metrorail trains but I would not recommend these to tourists or even locals unless you have no other option. (And I say this as someone who has used both options extensively and felt the frustration and delays that come with both.)

During the day , you can walk in most parts of the city, especially in the busiest parts of the CBD or quiet suburbs in the CBD, Southern and Northern Suburbs but crime is always a concern. Especially if you are not used to where and when to go.

So, if you do decide to explore on foot – you need a professional guide or at least a Cape Town friend who knows the city well to accompany you .

Otherwise, just stick to the places that are designed to be as safe as possible for foot traffic. Think: Sea Point Promenade ( not at night though, stick to daytime)  or the V&A Waterfront and its immediate surrounds.

Using Uber and MyCiTi to Get Around the City

Ubers and private tour buses are the most expensive options if you need to travel far out of or around the city – but for short trips around Cape Town, MyCiTi buses and Uber work well .

Note : For MyCiTi, you need a MyConnect bus card; you top up your card with money as needed.

While for Uber, you need to download and install the app, set up a verified Rider profile and link your PayPal or bank/credit card to it. You can pay with cash but most Uber drivers prefer bank/credit card- or PayPal-payments and these methods of payment are safer for you too .

Perhaps the biggest tip I can give when exploring Cape Town is to stow valuables out of sight, especially when you are out and about or walking from place to place.

Also, only ever carry a small amount of cash on your person. It is far safer and easier to have payment apps on your phone (like Zapper or SnapScan); use a bank/credit card; or carry a bus card or ticket (like for MyCiTi or Citysightseeing).

I almost never carry cash on me – but still I try keep small change (think a few R5 coins or a few R20, R50 notes) on me just in case.

Not only is it easier but it is safer too. You can always cancel a card or buy a new phone, if needed – but you can’t get back cash once it gets lost, blown away, damaged or stolen.

Where to Shop for Groceries and Snacks During Your Stay

Cape Town has no shortage of malls and large grocery stores throughout the city but some are pricier than others.

For example, shopping at the V&A Waterfront or Century City might be convenient but it isn’t necessarily cheaper.

If you are staying in a accommodation offering or Airbnb in a peaceful suburb, rather shop at your local grocery store like Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths, SPAR or even Game.

Checkers and Pick n Pay are the cheaper options, while SPAR and Woolworths are a bit more elitist but may offer a wider range of goods. (Woolworths has clothing, home and food offerings in most of its main stores so you can shop for everything in one place if needed.)

Many suburbs also offer kiosks, or spaza shops, for daily essentials but I would recommend sticking to one of our main grocery stores, like Checkers or Pick n Pay.

For online food delivery services , you can use Uber Eats, Mr D Food, CheckersSixty60, Pick n Pay or Woolies Dash to name a few.

If you need basic, comfy clothing or shoes during your stay , Mr Price, Edgars, Woolworths, Ackermans, MrP Sport, Pick n Pay Clothing or Jet all offer good clothing and shoes at affordable to moderate prices – especially compared to the likes of Foschini, Zara, H&M, Cotton On etc.

Travel Essentials to Keep on Your Person

When exploring Cape Town, a small backpack, drawstring bag or sturdy sling handbag are all handy for storing valuables and essentials.

I would recommend always carrying the following:

• a smartphone charger or power bank;
• bank/credit card over petty cash;
• warm fleecy top/jersey or light rainproof jacket ( even on the hottest day, the wind can cool things down or slice through you);
• sunscreen and sunhat/peak cap ( yes, even in overcast or cooler weather ; our South African sun is intense).

Also, always wear comfortable, sensible shoes .

For general city exploration and day outings, sandals, pumps/flats or trainers/sneakers are your best bet. Leave your heels and dress shoes at home unless you are going out for a proper meal.

If you go hiking, you will need proper hiking/exercise shoes with a good, firm grip.

You might think it is a good idea to carry an umbrella in the Mother City. And to that I say: don’t even bother!

The Cape Town wind is fierce and relentless. It has mercilessly destroyed or claimed many an umbrella of mine.

If you must carry an umbrella, get a small pocket one that can easily be stored in your bag or slung about your wrist. Generally though, a hoodie or windbreaker jacket (with a hood) are far better for windy or rainy conditions.

During winter, rainboots or durable shoes and socks are a good idea. During our winter spells, fashion takes a backseat over warmth and practicality.

Useful Online Resources

Below are some useful websites and information resources for visitors to Cape Town to refer to:

• Cape Town Travel/Love Cape Town 
• City of Cape Town
• Safe Travels
• Accuweather Cape Town
• Winelands (winelands.co.za)
• Visit Stellenbosch
• Paarl-Wellington
• South African Police Service

Emergency Contact Numbers to Know

Here are some essential emergency numbers .

I recommend memorising or at least keeping these on your smartphone or in your wallet :

• Police response (nationwide): 10111
• Ambulance services (it can be used in conjunction with police or fire services): 10177
• Cellphone emergency (free): 112
• Cape Town fire emergencies (24 hours ): +27 (021) 480 7700

For more information on what to do in an emergency or who to contact, please see here .

COVID-19 Disclaimer

Please bear in mind that COVID-19 restrictions and lockdown levels may affect the availability, opening times, crowd capacity, activities and offerings of certain facilities, wine farms and destinations.

If visiting Cape Town and surrounds, please be responsible and abide by all COVID19 rules and regulations.

About the Author

Tamlyn Ryan

Technical writer by day and blogger by night, Tamlyn Ryan passionately runs her travel blog, called Tamlyn Amber Wanderlust – Travel Writing and Photography, from her home base of Cape Town, South Africa.

Tamlyn is a hopeless wanderer, equipped with an endless passion for road trips, carefully planned, holiday itineraries and, above all else, an innate love for the great outdoors.

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36 Hours in Cape Town

By John Eligon Updated March 21, 2024

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By John Eligon Photographs by Samantha Reinders

John Eligon is the Johannesburg bureau chief for The New York Times.

As far as beauty goes, Cape Town is nothing short of spectacular: a city built on the Atlantic Ocean, around a mountain, allowing for stunning views in every direction. The elephant in the room, though, is the harsh legacy of apartheid, when South Africa’s white-minority government pushed the Black majority to the fringes of the city. Areas where most visitors tend to go still have a largely white population. To this day, navigating Cape Town as a person of color can bring uncomfortable moments. But South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy this year and has, for all of its challenges, tried to embrace the mantra of the “rainbow nation” — a place of racial and ethnic diversity. In that spirit, Cape Town is shedding its Eurocentric identity and emerging as a culturally rich African hub.

Recommendations

• Chapman’s Peak Drive , one of the world’s most beautiful drives, is a 5.5-mile sojourn along a rocky coastline set against the turquoise ocean and mountain views.
• See Langa , one of South Africa’s oldest townships, with a walking tour led by the artist and guide Tozamile Mnapu .
• The African Food and Storytelling Tour , led by the food writer and activist Dennis Molewa, gets you away from the chichi European restaurants and takes you to casual African eateries that will leave your belly full and spices lingering on your tongue.
• Selective Live provides an intimate setting, with a mountain view, to watch music performances from an array of genres that include Afro jazz, African folk and hip-hop.
• Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is the largest contemporary African art museum on the continent, with exhibits spread across a modern building that was once a grain silo.
• Imiso Ceramics has both a small studio and gallery that features large-scale sculptures by its founders, who find inspiration in their Xhosa heritage.
• The Castle of Good Hope is South Africa’s oldest colonial building, a former fort that now houses nine mini-museums that tell a story of the country’s diversity.
• Earthbox is a unique art exhibit that takes you beneath the earth for relaxation and reflection.
• Bailey’s Kloof is a hiking trail that will test your fitness at first, but is worth the coastal views.
• Theater Arts stages plays in an old Methodist church that showcase a range of experiences and backgrounds in South Africa.
• Time Out Market , an upmarket food hall, captures the diverse range of South African foods, from a chef’s take on a traditional barbecue at Mlilo , to Cape Malay cooking with a modern twist at Barakat .
• Therapy , a restaurant run by a pair of D.J.s from the vibrant Black township of Khayelitsha, offers comfort food and a hip vibe.
• Hari Kitchen , set on a vineyard in the town of Franschhoek with mountain views, serves what its self-taught chef and owner calls Afro-fusion cuisine.
• At Klein Goederust , the first fully Black-owned winery in the Franschhoek Valley, you can pair your wine tasting with a hearty Cape Malay buffet featuring spit-roasted lamb.
• Reuben’s Restaurant and Bar in Franschhoek offers creative plates inspired by family traditions.
• The Silo Hotel is perched above the Zeitz Museum, with “pillowed-glass” windows (many triangular panels of glass create a three-dimensional bubble effect), art on the walls and contemporary rooms with traditional décor, like couches with scrolled armrests and studs. Rooms start at 30,100 rand, or $1,589, per night during peak season.
• Labotessa Luxury Boutique Hotel sits on one of Cape Town’s most historic sites — Church Square, one of the first public plazas in the city, which used to serve as a slave market. It has seven modern suites starting at 13,000 rand per night.
• Kaap Mooi Luxury Guest House is tucked away amid gardens, making you feel as if you’re in an oasis away from the city, even though it is near downtown in the Tamboerskloof neighborhood. There are eight rooms with various South African themes starting at 2,200 rand per night.
• For short-term rentals , there are lots of apartments in the city center, around Bree Street, close to bars, restaurants and street shopping. If you want to be close to the ocean and the city center, try the Sea Point neighborhood, which has a lovely promenade for a run or a stroll. If you want to tuck in near the beach and stay along the stunning coastline, you can book anywhere between Clifton and Camps Bay, though you will pay a premium.
• It’s easiest to use a car in Cape Town. Taking Uber won’t break the bank, though it will cost you a little more to go out to wine country, about 45 minutes outside the city center. Bolt is another ride-hailing app that is widely used and reliable.

A mural by Tozamile Mnapu in Langa

The apartheid government prohibited Black and colored (a multiracial ethnic classification) South Africans from living in cities, instead forcing them to live in established townships in the least desirable areas. But township residents often turned their communities into areas of vibrant resistance and robust arts and culture. Langa, about 30 minutes outside central Cape Town, is one of the nation’s oldest townships. Tozamile Mnapu , a local painter, offers three-hour tours into the community (450 rand, or $24, per person). Starting from iKhaya le Langa , a community center where he also hosts art workshops, Mr. Mnapu takes visitors past street graffiti to a small art gallery above a narrow home, and another one near a gritty town center with a large monument to the resistance that residents put up against the apartheid police. Book directly with him at [email protected] or at +27 73 073 3529.

Time Out Market , the chain of upmarket food halls in several major world cities, opened its first location in Africa last year in an airy, industrial space on the main waterfront promenade. Stop by Mlilo to try the chef Vusi Ndlovu’ s global twists on a traditional “shisanyama,” or South African barbecue. Order the Senegalese lamb (180 rand) or grilled hake with Ghanaian dressing (250 rand). Just across the hall, at Barakat , the wife-and-husband team of Yolani Abrahams and Anwar Abdullatief offers takes on Cape Malay cooking, a cuisine born in the kitchens of Southeast Asians often enslaved by South Africa’s colonizers. You can’t go wrong with the pan-fried kingklip fish (195 rand) or bobotie, a casserole of sweet, curried minced beef topped with egg custard (80 rand). Have a koesister (10 rand), like a doughnut ball, for dessert.

Selective Live

You can stick around at Time Out Market (cocktail specials begin at 4 p.m.), where you can dance to tunes spun by a D.J. until 10 p.m. Or catch a short Uber ride to Selective Live , an intimate performance space and recording studio in the Gardens neighborhood near the city center. Some nights the live music could be African folk, others it could be hip-hop, and still others it could be Afro jazz. Settle into this second-floor space that feels more like someone’s living room — rather than on a stage, artists perform in a nook with a fireplace and a bookshelf. Then step out onto the balcony for fresh air and — what else? — a picturesque mountain view. Tickets start at 60 rand.

The powerful southeasterly winds make Dolphin Beach, in the Blouberg area, one of the world’s most legendary kite-surfing spots.

Trails are aplenty in this mountainous city. The most famous peaks are Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, and indeed trekking up them can provide plenty of exercise and adventure. But to avoid the crowds and get uninterrupted coastal views try Bailey’s Kloof , another scenic trail that starts along the coast about 30 minutes outside downtown. The first half hour or so is steep and moderately intense. But once you make it past that, it’s a delightful roughly two-hour loop through thick vegetation, including colorful irises, mimetes and cape snow flowers. There are detours for a pond, a cave and a rock formation. Stop and take in the delicious ocean views. Before you go, download an offline version of the area in Google Maps (in case cell service is unavailable) to help you navigate as parts of the trail are not well marked.

Cape Town hosts several art fairs annually, but even if you can’t make it to one , there are lots of opportunities to see great art. One obvious stop is the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (entry, 250 rand), the largest contemporary African art museum on the continent. Housed in a former grain silo on the waterfront, Zeitz includes an exhibition that offers commentary on African liberation movements and their connection to the Palestinian struggle, as well as photography and film works that explore connections to the spiritual world. For something more intimate, head to the Salt River neighborhood and visit Imiso Ceramics , a studio and gallery that features large-scale sculptures by the founders Zizipho Poswa and Andile Dyalvane. Their works are inspired by their Xhosa heritage, which they share with arguably South Africa’s most famous person, Nelson Mandela.

Cape Town’s dining scene may best be known for high-end restaurants. But there are also plenty of casual eateries serving classical African dishes. Dennis Molewa , who is from Germany but has lived in South Africa for 15 years, offers three-hour-long African food tours (starting at about 1,400 rand per person) through downtown that include interesting stories about the city’s history and culture. He takes you to a Somali restaurant for chapati, spaghetti and beef stew, but also a blunt conversation about anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa. At Nobantu Restaurant you’ll enjoy a traditional hearty Xhosa Sunday lunch, or what locals call a seven-colors meal (named for the array of colors on the plate). You’ll also meet flower vendors descended from enslaved Cape Malay people, sip tea in a Methodist church and indulge in stewed meats at Fatima’s , a pan-African restaurant owned by a couple from Mali.

Chapman’s Peak Drive runs five and a half miles along the winding Atlantic seaboard from Hout Bay to Noordhoek, and it is often heralded as one of the most beautiful drives on the planet. That’s hard to dispute. It’s a mix of rocky coastline and green water as far as the eyes can see. Get entranced by the ocean and mountain backdrops, but be careful not to get blown away by the stiff winds when you step out to take pictures at one of the many viewpoints. At the end of the route, stop at Noordhoek beach and take a walk. It is a vast, flat plain of sand, and almost feels as if you’re in a desert on the ocean. (Note that the road has tolls, starting at 61 rand.)

Kloof Street was once a dirt road leading from the city center to outlying farms. Today, it’s an eclectic and busy mix of clothing boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and nightlife. For dinner and drinks, you can’t go wrong with Therapy , a sophisticated space that opened last year with sleek, plush banquettes and marble tabletops. It was founded by two D.J.s, Loyiso Mdebuka and Vincent Mvelase Manzini , who are from Cape Town and were raised in the Black township of Khayelitsha. As young Black creatives, they wanted to create a hip vibe and a therapeutic experience, challenging what they saw as an African taboo against therapy. The menu delivers a range of transformed comfort food, like lamb ribs with couscous salad and harissa mayo. Three courses without drinks, about 550 rand per person.

Housed in an old Methodist church a short drive from downtown, Theater Arts is an intimate venue to see a play. Shows tackle a variety of themes, from South Africa’s regular, frustrating power outages to the efforts of young people trying to achieve success, told through a comical tale of life in Lagos, Nigeria. Built on what it says are “the tenets of affordability, inclusivity and accessibility,” the theater company provides space for emerging artists from various cultural, social, economic and skill backgrounds to develop their craft onstage. Tickets start at 150 rand.

The Twelve Apostles mountain range, visible from Camps Bay, forms the back of Table Mountain.

The Castle of Good Hope was built as a fort starting in 1666 by the colonists of the Dutch East India Company. It now stands as the oldest colonial building in South Africa. It served many purposes over the years, including a military base, a slave port and a government headquarters. Today, the castle houses nine mini-museums that tell the story of the diverse people who shaped the Cape and the nation. The Cape Heritage Museum was created by Igshaan Higgins, a human rights lawyer, during the pandemic. With artifacts that Mr. Higgins assembled over 25 years, the museum tells the stories of settler colonialism and the various groups who struggled through that oppression, including the Indigenous Khoi and San people, the Cape Muslims and the Xhosas. The castle also houses the William Fehr Collection, an assemblage of oil paintings and decorative art created by settlers that reflects on themes including slavery and the wars of dispossession.

Tune out the noise with a subterranean journey. At Earthbox , which opened last year as an immersive art exhibit on the Lourensford Wine Estate in the suburb of Somerset West, visitors walk into a bunker of sorts carved into the ground. The high walls of dirt, changing mood lighting and lulling soundtrack provide a perfect opportunity to relax, meditate or just let your mind go. Tickets range from 170 rand to 250 rand. For an additional 50 rand, you can purchase an audio guide — there’s one for meditation, and another that teaches about the ancient rocks and sediment surrounding you. Earthbox hosts regular music concerts and private dinners with local high-end chefs. After your visit, you can roam the wine estate, which includes restaurants, a wine tasting room and a market with live music, food stalls, and arts and crafts vendors.

Reuben’s Restaurant and Bar

Lose yourself in the serenity of wine country at Hari Kitchen , on the Topiary Wine Estate, with one of the best meals in the Franschhoek Valley. The chef and owner Munashe Kwaramba did not attend culinary school, but learned his style of Afro-fusion cooking by observing high-end chefs and by cooking with his grandmother in Zimbabwe. Another option just down the road is Klein Goederust , the first fully Black-owned winery in Franschhoek. On weekends, you can pair a wine tasting with a Cape Malay buffet (495 rand per person) where spit-roasted lamb is a highlight. Or on Franschhoek’s quaint main street, pop into Reuben’s Restaurant and Bar , where the chef and owner Reuben Riffel serves refined dishes like dukkah-spiced lamb and pickled fish inspired by the culinary traditions of colored families like his own.

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30+ Best Things to Do in Cape Town, South Africa (2024)

W elcome to your go-to guide to Cape Town, a city that promises diverse and unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re planning to explore the majestic Table Mountain or indulge in the renowned Cape Winelands, this guide has got you covered, complete with travel tips and accommodation advice. There is no shortage of fun things to do as you see the Cape. 

Situated in South Africa’s Western Cape, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the coast, Cape Town is a unique blend of cultures and cuisines, offering a vibrant scene that attracts culinary enthusiasts worldwide.

It’s not just a haven for food lovers with some of the best restaurants; its picturesque landscapes make it a paradise for adventurers and a budding hotspot for digital nomads, thanks to its thriving café culture and co-working spaces.

Cape Town is an incredible city and has been a dream destination for so many. Now, we invite you to explore the top 30 experiences that make Cape Town a city that enchants every visitor.

So, let’s dive in and uncover the magic that makes Cape Town a must-visit, continually captivating the hearts of travelers worldwide.​​

Need a perfect 5-day Cape Town Itinerary? Check out my post here!

Top Attractions in Cape Town

Cape Town is a blend of stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural attractions. Situated between the magnificent Table Mountain and the azure Atlantic Ocean, it offers a harmonious blend of natural splendor and urban charm.

Essential stops include the Table Mountain National Park, where a cable car ride unveils panoramic views, and the bustling V&A Waterfront, a shopping, dining, and entertainment hub.

The historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, is a significant marker of South Africa’s history. At the foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens provides a serene retreat amidst lush greenery. For beach enthusiasts, Clifton and Camps Bay offer pristine sands and a vibrant beach culture.

Cape Town Travel Guide

Embarking on a Cape Town adventure necessitates thoughtful planning to enjoy its diverse experiences fully. From the vibrant streets of Bo-Kaap to bustling markets showcasing local crafts and cuisines, there’s something for everyone.

Depending on the season, the city offers varied attractions; summer is ideal for beach outings and vibrant nightlife, while winter presents opportunities for whale watching and exploring the Winelands.

Transportation options, including Ubers, rental cars, and public buses, facilitate easy exploration of the city’s gems. Accommodation varies, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels catering to diverse travelers.

Popular Cities in Cape Town

Surrounding Cape Town are smaller cities and suburbs, each offering unique attractions. 

Stellenbosch, in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is a paradise for wine lovers, boasting numerous vineyards and wine-tasting tours.

Simon’s Town, home to the South African Navy, combines beautiful landscapes with historic attractions, including the renowned Boulders Beach, inhabited by African Penguins. Nearby, Hermanus offers prime whale-watching between June and November.

Muizenberg, known for its colorful beach huts and surf spots, exudes a relaxed beach atmosphere. These neighboring cities enrich the Cape Town experience, offering a blend of cultural and natural adventures, making day trips a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

Things to Do in Cape Town

1. summit table mountain.

Embarking on the journey to summit Table Mountain is akin to stepping into a living postcard. Dominating Cape Town’s skyline, this iconic landmark offers a thrilling adventure that promises breathtaking panoramic views at every turn of your ascent.

Whether you hike up its challenging trails or opt for the convenient cable car ride, reaching the top of Table Mountain is a rewarding experience.

As the sun sets, the mountain transforms into the perfect spot to gaze upon the vast ocean and the enchanting realms of the Western Cape. To enhance your experience, consider booking a private guide for a tailored adventure.

Pro Tip: Remember to pre-book your tickets to avoid the queues, especially during the high season from late November to February.

2. Hiking Table Mountain

For the spirited and resolute, hiking Table Mountain offers an exhilarating challenge that promises unparalleled rewards.

This adventure is not for the faint-hearted; it demands a moderate to advanced level of hiking proficiency, with over 4 hours to reach the summit and return.

Platteklip Gorge stands out among the popular routes, offering a 1.5 to 3-hour hike amidst breathtaking scenery. Other favored trails include the Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine, guiding you through a 5-mile trek with a significant elevation gain of 2,100 ft.

Remember, safety comes first: never hike alone, and carry ample water to stay hydrated throughout your adventure.

3. Make Your Way Around the V&A Waterfront

Step into the vibrant world of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, affectionately known as the V&A, a picturesque seaside neighborhood that embodies the spirit of Cape Town.

Here, every moment celebrates life, offering a delightful array of experiences that cater to every taste and preference. From indulging in gourmet cuisine to exploring quaint shops and engaging in lively social interactions, the V&A promises a well-spent day.

Take advantage of a spin on the iconic Cape Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning city views. Also, visit the Watershed, where local artisans showcase exquisite crafts and creations.

4. Explore the Colorful Bo-Kaap Neighborhood & Museum

Step into the vibrant heart of Cape Town as you explore the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood and museum. Wander through hilly streets adorned with houses that boast a riot of bright colors, a delightful sight that promises to uplift your spirits.

Despite its small size, this neighborhood is significant in history, being the birthplace of the Afrikaans language and a fascinating cultural crossroads.

As you stroll, feel the rich tapestry of cultures that have intertwined here over centuries, making it a living historical landmark. Don’t miss the museum, where you can delve deeper into the captivating stories that shaped this unique area.

5. Take in Chapman’s Peak Drive

Prepare yourself for a drive that promises a journey and an experience that’s etched in your memory forever.

Chapman’s Peak Drive, affectionately known as “Chappies,” offers a panoramic paradise with winding roads between the rocky coastline and cliffs.

As you navigate through the curves, each turn unveils a more breathtaking view than the last, making it a photographer’s dream. Remember to pull over at the viewpoints to soak in the majestic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.

This drive promises a golden, unforgettable spectacle, whether at sunrise or sunset.

6. Stroll The Oceanside Sea Point Promenade

Begin your stroll at the vibrant Sea Point public pool, a popular starting point for locals and tourists alike. From here, make your way down to the picturesque coast, where the rhythmic sound of waves creates a soothing backdrop for your walk.

The promenade is a hive of activity frequented by joggers, bikers, and dog walkers, all soaking in the refreshing sea breeze.

If you’re in the mood for a bit of speed, you can rent bicycles or electric scooters available at various points, adding a dash of velocity to your coastal exploration. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the vibrant local life while enjoying stunning ocean views.

7. Visit The Penguins at Boulders Beach

Embark on a delightful journey to Boulders Beach, near the quaint Simon’s Town. This pristine haven, part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area, promises an enchanting encounter with the adorable African Penguins.

Always immaculately maintained, the beach offers a perfect backdrop to watch these charming creatures frolic in their natural habitat.

Visitors can enjoy an unobstructed view from the designated viewing point at Boulders Beach, accessible via three wheelchair-friendly boardwalks.

Pro Tip: While seeing these cute birds might be tempting, remember to maintain a safe distance to avoid their surprisingly sharp beaks.

8. Hike Lion’s Head For The Sunrise

Kickstart your day with an exhilarating hike up Lion’s Head to catch the sunrise, painting the sky with hues of gold and pink.

Sitting 670 meters above sea level, this popular trail is a favorite among families and couples, offering a moderate challenge and a chance to bond over the breathtaking landscape.

As you ascend, you’ll be greeted with unparalleled views of iconic beaches like Camps Bay and Sea Point, nestled below in all their morning glory.

Lion’s Head, a majestic peak standing proudly beside Table Mountain, offers a 360-degree panoramic spectacle that’s simply unforgettable.  

9. Hit Up a Few Markets

Cape Town is home to various farmers’ markets, each offering a unique blend of fresh produce, artisanal products, and vibrant culture. Here are some top-notch options you shouldn’t miss:

• Oranjezicht City Farm Market: Nestled beside the V&A Waterfront, this market is a haven for organic produce lovers. It operates every Saturday, offering a delightful range of fresh vegetables, fruits, and homemade goods.
• Neighbourgoods Market: Situated in the Old Biscuit Mill, this market is a hotspot for food enthusiasts every Saturday. From gourmet dishes to craft beers, it’s a place where culinary dreams come true.
• Earth Fair Market: With locations in Tokai (Wednesday and Saturday) and St Georges Mall (Thursday), this market is known for its wide array of quality products, including organic foods, baked goods, and more.
• The Blue Bird Garage Food and Goods Market: Located in Muizenberg, this Friday market is a great place to unwind with food stalls, craft beers, and live music.
• Cape Point Vineyards Community Market: If you find yourself in Noordhoek on a Thursday, this market offers a picturesque setting to enjoy a variety of gourmet food stalls complemented by the vineyard’s exquisite wines.

Each market has its unique vibe, offering a delightful glimpse into Cape Town’s vibrant community and food scene. Make sure to check them out for a taste of the local culture!

10. Head To The Beach

Cape Town, affectionately known as the Mother City, is a haven of picturesque beaches that beckon locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the city’s coastal charm.

Each beach, unique in its own right, offers a distinct experience, ranging from vibrant beachfront promenades to tranquil sunset spots.

Whether you’re seeking the bustling atmosphere of popular spots or the serene embrace of secluded bays, Cape Town’s beaches promise unforgettable moments. Let’s take a virtual tour to explore the pristine sands and azure waters that await you.

Camps Bay Beach

• Vibe: Vibrant and bustling, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
• Features: White sandy beaches with palm trees, backed by the majestic Twelve Apostles mountain range.
• Amenities: Many trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars along the beachfront promenade.
• Activities: Sunbathing, volleyball, and picnicking.
• Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during summer.

Llandudno Beach

• Vibe: Tranquil and secluded, offering a more peaceful beach experience.
• Features: Nestled between granite boulders and surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a picturesque, relaxing setting.
• Amenities: Limited amenities, so bring along snacks and drinks.
• Activities: Surfing, sunbathing, and romantic sunset walks.
• Tip: The parking area is relatively small, so try to visit during off-peak hours.

Sunset Rock

• Vibe: Quiet and serene, a hidden gem for sunset enthusiasts.
• Features: Elevated rocky outcrops offering stunning views of the sun setting over the ocean.
• Amenities: None; it’s all about the natural beauty here.
• Activities: Photography, sunset viewing, and contemplative solitude.
• Tip: Bring a blanket and snacks to enjoy a peaceful sunset picnic.

Kloof’s Corner

• Vibe: Adventurous, a popular spot among hikers and nature enthusiasts.
• Features: A hiking trail that leads to a viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.
• Amenities: None. Be sure to bring water and snacks for the hike.
• Activities: Hiking, photography, and bird-watching.
• Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat.

Signal Hill

• Vibe: Relaxed and family-friendly, a popular spot for picnics and strolls.
• Features: Offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean, with well-maintained picnic spots.
• Amenities: Parking is available, with several benches and picnic spots.
• Activities: Picnicking, kite flying, and enjoying the view.
• Tip: It’s a popular spot for watching the Noon Gun, a historic time signal in Cape Town.

11. Taste Wines in Constantia

Imagine yourself wandering through the lush vineyards of Constantia, the birthplace of South Africa’s wine industry, with the majestic mountains embracing you in the backdrop.

Your companion on this journey? A glass of exquisite wine embodies centuries of viticulture heritage, adding a touch of elegance to your expedition.

This isn’t a mere day out but a voyage through time, witnessing the rich tapestry of wine-making traditions that have graced this region since the 1600s.

I highly recommend indulging in the legendary Vin de Constance, a golden nectar that narrates tales of royalty and grandeur with each sip. It’s not just a wine tasting but a rendezvous with history, promising an experience that’s nothing short of unforgettable.

12. Drive Along the Cape Peninsula

Set out on a picturesque adventure as you navigate the breathtaking landscapes of the Cape Peninsula. Renting a car is your ticket to freedom, allowing you to discover the region’s natural splendors at your own pace.

The journey promises encounters with craggy mountains, mesmerizing turquoise waters, and untouched white sand beaches. Don’t miss the vibrant atmosphere of Kalk Bay, the tranquil shores of Fish Hoek, and the historic charm of Simon’s Town. The Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point are both must-see destinations. These iconic landmarks offer breathtaking views, from the rugged cliffs and pristine beaches to the diverse wildlife and fascinating shipwreck stories.

Each stop offers a unique slice of the peninsula’s beauty, making for a day of unforgettable exploration and scenic wonders.

13. Paragliding From Lion’s Head or Signal Hill

For adrenaline junkies seeking the thrill of a lifetime, paragliding from Lion’s Head or Signal Hill is an unmissable experience in Cape Town.

Imagine soaring like a bird, with the majestic Table Mountain as your backdrop and the expansive blue sea stretching as far as the eye can see.

Whether you’re launching from the rugged peaks of Lion’s Head or the gentle slopes of Signal Hill, the rush of wind and the weightlessness will leave you exhilarated.

Guided by experienced instructors, this adventure promises safety alongside heart-pounding excitement, making for an unforgettable sky-high journey over the city’s iconic landscapes.

14. Go on a Safari Game Drive

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with a safari drive in the heart of South Africa’s mesmerizing landscapes.

Just a short 2-hour trip from Cape Town is Karoo, a semi-arid geographic region that hosts great game drives for those seeking a quick day trip or overnight stay. 

Check out Aquila Safari, one of the better-known lodges that offer half- and full-day game drives. For those staying overnight, you can choose between their lodges or cottages. You are provided three meals at their restaurant, inclusive of your stay. They have a spa if you’d like a relaxing massage after a long day under the hot sun. 

Take the chance to witness the majestic Big Five in their natural habitat, a truly unforgettable experience that brings you face-to-face with the wild heart of South Africa.

15. Join a Free Walking Tour

Discover the rich tapestry of Cape Town’s history and culture by joining a free walking tour. With flexible starting times at 11:00, 14:00, and 16:20, you can choose a tour that fits your schedule.

Each time slot offers two distinct tours departing separately, allowing you to pick the one that piques your interest. Opt for the “Historic City Tour” to delve into the city’s storied past or the “Apartheid to Freedom Tour” to understand the journey towards liberation.

Alternatively, explore the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood with its dedicated tour. Book your adventure at Free Walking Tours Cape Town and embark on a 1.5-hour journey of discovery.

Pro Tip: I recommend tipping them R200-400 to show your appreciation for their effort.

16. Go Surfing/Kitesurfing

Dive into the vibrant surf culture of Cape Town by riding the waves at renowned beaches such as Llandudno, Big Bay, and the legendary Dungeons.

(Museum of Contemporary Art Africa)

Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a newbie eager to learn, the city’s coastline offers a variety of waves to suit every skill level. For those keen on kitesurfing, the strong winds provide the perfect conditions for an exhilarating session.

To make the most of your surfing or kitesurfing adventure, consider booking with reputable companies like Surf Emporium or High Five Kitesurf School , which offer lessons and equipment rentals to ensure a safe and thrilling experience on the water.

17. Do a Whale-Watching Tour

Prepare yourself for a mesmerizing encounter with the ocean’s gentle giants on a whale-watching tour. The coastal waters of South Africa are a playground for these majestic creatures, offering you the chance to witness their grace and might up close.

From July to November, the coastline comes alive with breaching whales, a spectacle that is nothing short of magical.

I highly recommend booking your tour with “Southern Right Charters,” known for their responsible tourism practices and exceptional onboard amenities. Their experienced guides will provide insightful commentary, enhancing your whale-watching experience.

Remember to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking moments when these magnificent beings breach the water’s surface, offering a display of nature’s grandeur that you’ll cherish forever. Check out their offerings and book your tour on their website .

18. Snorkel With Seals

Dive into a world of aquatic wonder at a petite island in the picturesque Hout Bay, where you can snorkel with a vibrant colony of cape fur seals. These playful and furry locals are ready to share their underwater paradise with you.

For 2.5 hours, priced at $54.39 USD, you can immerse yourself in the clear waters, observing and interacting with the seals responsibly and ethically.

It’s more than just a snorkeling experience; it’s a chance to connect with Cape Town’s charming marine life in their natural habitat. Head over to book with Snorkel With Seals, and let these delightful creatures welcome you with their infectious enthusiasm!

19. Kayak With Dolphins in Table Bay

Picture yourself smoothly gliding across the tranquil waters of Table Bay, the majestic Table Mountain forming a breathtaking backdrop. Your companions on this journey? A pod of playful dolphins adds a sprinkle of magic to your kayaking adventure.

This isn’t a figment of imagination but a tangible, exhilarating experience awaiting you in Cape Town. I highly recommend using Kaskazi Kayaks for this adventure, a company renowned for offering tours where you can witness these graceful creatures in their natural habitat.

It’s not just a tour but a testimony to the harmonious coexistence between humans and the vibrant marine life that adorns our oceans, promising an unforgettable experience.

20. Explore Cape Winelands

Embarking on a journey through the Cape Winelands is a must for any wine enthusiast visiting South Africa. The region, comprising Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, is renowned for its exceptional grapes and unique weather patterns. It is one of the premier wine destinations globally.

Visitors are welcomed with open arms, treated to generous pours and affordable tastings that showcase the rich variety of wines, including the distinctive Pinotage, a South African exclusive.

Among the notable vineyards are Tokara Wine Estate , known for its splendid views, and the picturesque Babylonstoren in Paarl. For a hassle-free experience, consider joining an organized tour, which often includes convenient transportation from Cape Town.

Pro Tip: You can also take part in the cycling tour through Cape Town Winelands, which is a great way to enjoy the views while getting some exercise.

21. Franschhoek Wine Tram

Embark on a delightful journey with the Franschhoek Wine Tram, your gateway to the enchanting world of the Cape Winelands. This hop-on, hop-off experience invites you to discover the region’s renowned vineyards at your own pace.

Spend your day indulging in the exquisite flavors of local wines, strolling through picturesque vineyards, and delving deep into the secrets of wine-making with captivating cellar tours.

Complement your wine-tasting adventure with world-class cuisine that promises to tantalize your taste buds.

Getting there is a breeze; opt for a convenient Uber, rent a car, or book a tour with round-trip transportation, making your wine escapade seamless and enjoyable.

22. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight

Elevate your Cape Town adventure by indulging in a scenic helicopter flight. Numerous companies offer this exhilarating experience, allowing you to capture stunning photographs from a vantage point like no other.

Imagine soaring high above the city, with breathtaking aerial views of the iconic Table Mountain and the majestic Cape of Good Hope unfolding before you.

For a reliable and exceptional experience, we recommend booking your aerial adventure with Cape Town Helicopters . Their seasoned pilots and well-maintained fleet promise a safe and unforgettable journey through the skies of this beautiful city.

23. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Nestled at the foot of the iconic Table Mountain, the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens offer a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace.

Here, you can immerse yourself in a world adorned with a rich tapestry of African plant life, where walking paths invite you to explore breathtaking landscapes and exotic flora.

It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon where you can lose yourself in the captivating beauty of the great outdoors. If you find yourself in Cape Town during the summer months (November – March), seize the opportunity to attend a Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert.

Experience live music in a magical setting where nature’s beauty forms the perfect backdrop. Learn more about these enchanting concerts here , especially with the BYOB policy.

24. Take The Ferry to Robben Island

Step back in time as you take a ferry to Robben Island, a place echoing the stories of the arduous battle against apartheid. Your journey begins at the vibrant V&A Waterfront, where you’ll board a ferry to this historic island.

Upon arrival, air-conditioned tour buses await to transport you through the poignant chapters of South Africa’s history.

Guided by former inmates, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the struggles endured here, enriched by comprehensive historical insights provided by an English-speaking guide.

The highlight of your visit is the museum, once a prison, where Nelson Mandela spent many defining years of his life.

25. Go for a Sunset Cruise

A catamaran sunset cruise in Cape Town is a delightful experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. As the sun starts to dip below the horizon, there is nothing like the beauty of watching it slowly disappear beneath the ocean’s surface. The view of the surrounding mountains and beaches from the water is breathtaking, and on a clear evening, you are likely to have an unobstructed view of Table Mountain. 

During your cruise, the crew will provide drinks and snacks while you relax and soak up the sights. The boat’s gentle swaying motion and calm atmosphere make it an ideal spot for conversation or relaxation. As the sun sets, savor some of Cape Town’s renowned cuisine while music plays in the background – this will surely add more magic to your evening! 

The best part about a catamaran sunset cruise in Cape Town is that everyone can enjoy it. Whether you are looking for something romantic or want to get away from daily life for a few hours, everyone can find something special about this experience. With its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere, a catamaran sunset cruise in Cape Town promises to be an unforgettable experience!

26. Go Shark Cage Diving

Dive into the adventure of a lifetime in Gansbaai, the undisputed shark diving capital of the world. This exhilarating experience doesn’t require any scuba diving certification or special qualifications.

All you need is the courage to hold your breath and step into the cage, coming face-to-face with the majestic Great White Sharks that rule these waters.

But don’t worry, if diving isn’t your thing, the surface viewing offers a spectacle just as breathtaking, allowing you to witness the grandeur of these creatures from the boat’s safety.

Gansbaai Shark Diving Trips are available every day, weather permitting. To secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure, I recommend visiting sharkdiving.co to book your adventure.

27. Try Amazing Restaurants

Embark on a gastronomic adventure in Cape Town by visiting these remarkable restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience:

Chef’s Warehouse :

Dive into a culinary wonderland at Chef’s Warehouse, where every dish is a masterpiece. Renowned for tapas-style dining, the restaurant offers a daily changing menu showcasing the freshest local ingredients.

The open kitchen allows you to witness the artistry that goes into crafting each dish, making your dining experience interactive and memorable.

You can transport yourself to Greece without leaving Cape Town. Ouzeri is a Greek taverna in the city’s heart that serves traditional dishes with a modern twist.

The restaurant exudes an inviting atmosphere, accentuated by its al fresco dining and relaxing ambiance. Enjoy delicious small plates such as dolmades and spanakopita paired with refreshing craft cocktails. I recommend you try the Kouros Sour; it is divine.

Emazulwani:

Step into the vibrant world of African cuisine at Emazulwani. This hidden gem offers a diverse menu that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the continent. From hearty stews to flavorful grills, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity.

The vibrant atmosphere, adorned with African art and crafts, offers a warm and welcoming setting, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture.

28. Visit Zeitz Contemporary Art Museum

Embark on a cultural journey at the Zeitz Contemporary Art Museum, Africa’s beacon of modern art. Nestled within a transformed grain silo, the museum is a masterpiece, boasting intricately designed windows and staircases that are artworks in their own right.

Dedicate a half-day to explore the rich tapestry of contemporary art that graces its halls, offering a feast for both eyes and soul.

While there, seize the opportunity to visit the luxurious Silo Hotel, perched atop the museum, where a night’s stay starts at a lavish $1,000, marrying art and opulence in a unique blend.

29. Cape Point Nature Reserve

Venture into the wilds of Cape Point Nature Reserve, a spectacular site where you can experience some of the most stunning landscapes in South Africa.

Here, you can explore the untouched beauty of nature as you walk among rolling hills and pristine beaches. With its diverse range of flora and fauna, from rare antelopes to dolphins, this is one of the most magical places in Cape Town.

The best way to capture its beauty is by taking a tour of the reserve, where you can explore the many trails and savor a picnic with views of breathtaking scenery. Don’t forget to visit the historic lighthouse at Cape Point for panoramic views of this wild wonderland.

30. Visit a Cape Dutch Manor House

As you step into the grandiose world of a Cape Dutch manor house, take a journey through time. This type of architecture is unique to Cape Town and is inspired by Dutch gables combined with local building techniques. The result is an exquisite product of centuries-old traditions.

The most fascinating way to explore this style is by taking a tour of Groot Constantia, one of the city’s most famous Cape Dutch estates. This historic site offers charming gardens and a well-preserved manor house, each offering a window into a world that has been carefully preserved for centuries.

Tours are available daily, providing you with an unforgettable experience. Remember to try the delicious wines while you’re there!

Tips for Visiting Cape Town Attractions

Embarking on a journey to Cape Town is a thrilling adventure, and to make your experience truly unforgettable, we’ve curated a list of essential tips for navigating the city’s most iconic attractions with ease and enjoyment.

Best Time To Visit Cape Town

Envision setting forth on a tranquil adventure to Cape Town, a city where each season unveils a new facet of its alluring beauty. Your perfect moment to visit? It intricately depends on your desires and the experiences you seek in this vibrant metropolis.

From our perspective, the prime time to immerse yourself in the wonders of Cape Town spans from December to April, the summer months in the southern hemisphere.

However, it might be wise to sidestep the peak periods of Christmas and New Year to truly enjoy the city’s essence without the hustle and bustle. January, a bustling and pricey month, could also be avoided to ensure a serene and budget-friendly experience.

February emerges as the golden period, where the summer vibrancy is still palpable, yet the city gradually transitions out of its peak season.

Following suit, March and April present themselves as excellent choices, offering splendid weather and a respite from the crowds, allowing you to explore Cape Town in its full glory but with tranquility.

How To Get To Cape Town

Navigating your way to the heart of Cape Town is a breeze, with several convenient options at your disposal. The Cape Town International Airport (CPT), situated approximately 20 km from the bustling city center, serves as your gateway to this vibrant city.

Depending on your exact destination within Cape Town, the journey from the airport might extend by 30 minutes, so plan accordingly. While various modes of transportation are available, many visitors find Uber the most economical and convenient choice.

Not only is it a popular service in the area, but it also offers affordability that is hard to beat – a trip from the picturesque Sea Point to the airport, for instance, generally costs around R237, roughly equivalent to $13 USD.

If you prefer steering the wheel yourself, renting a car for your stay is a fantastic option, allowing you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace.

How To Get Around Cape Town

Navigating through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant neighborhoods of Cape Town is a vital part of your adventure. Here, we explore the most convenient and popular modes of transportation that the city has to offer:

Uber/Rideshare Apps

In Cape Town, rideshare apps like Uber have become a popular choice for locals and tourists. These apps offer a safe, reliable, and affordable way to traverse the city without the hassle of finding parking spaces in busy areas.

Download the app on your smartphone, and you’ll have quick access to rides wherever you are in the city.

Get a Rental Car

Renting a car is a fantastic option for those who prefer more autonomy in their travels. It not only allows you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace but also makes it easier to visit the picturesque locales that are off the beaten path. This will give you access to more places to see in Cape Town in a shorter time. 

I recommend using Discover Cars to scout for the best deals. This platform compares prices from various rental car agencies in the area, generally helping you save substantially in the long run.

Public Bus System

Taking the public bus is an excellent choice if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture. Cape Town boasts a well-maintained and efficient bus system connecting all major city parts.

It’s not only a cost-effective way to get around but also gives you a chance to experience the city like a local, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps discovering some hidden gems along the way.

Acquaint yourself with the different routes and schedules to maximize this transportation option.

Where To Stay in Cape Town

Embarking on a journey to the expansive city of Cape Town can initially seem overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure about the best locales to settle in. But fret not; I’m here to guide you through the prime neighborhoods that have enriched my visits to this vibrant city.

This locale often evokes a sense of affordability akin to a budget-friendly San Diego for visitors.

It stands out as a secure area in contrast to the bustling Central Business District (CBD), offering numerous dining options and a stunning seaside promenade that eliminates the need for a vehicle.

It has become my preferred destination for leisurely summer getaways lasting approximately three months.

Central Business District/Kloof:

Positioned east of Signal Hill, extending around the famous Kloof Street towards Lion’s Head, this region is a hub for modern eateries, bars, and lively nightlife.

Despite its vibrant atmosphere, be prepared for a denser urban setting, slightly removed from the coastal charm. It stands as the premier choice for those seeking an energetic nightlife.

Nestled between the hills and the sea, Camps Bay offers a luxurious retreat with a picturesque backdrop, albeit at a higher price range.

While it houses a few establishments, anticipate a longer commute, especially during peak hours, to reach the CBD for a wider variety of amenities. It’s the ultimate destination for those yearning for a tranquil seaside retreat away from the urban hustle.

Green Point:

Situated between Sea Point and the Waterfront, this residential enclave is renowned for its lush surroundings, featuring numerous public parks and the iconic Cape Town stadium. It is an excellent base for digital nomads or those seeking a homely atmosphere.

Dewaterkant/V&A Waterfront:

This area is a hotspot for tourists and is close to the vibrant activities at the V&A Waterfront. While there might be better choices for extended stays, particularly for digital nomads, it offers excellent walkability, making it a favorite for short-term vacationers.

I have meticulously selected the top 4 hotels in Cape Town, South Africa, each offering a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and picturesque views, promising an unforgettable stay.

• The Silo Hotel: Situated atop the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, this luxury hotel offers rooms with a blend of industrial and elegant designs, providing breathtaking views of the V&A Waterfront, the city, and Table Mountain.
• Cape Grace Hotel: Nestled on a private quay between the vibrant V&A Waterfront and the tranquil yacht marina, this hotel offers a blend of modern luxury and traditional Cape culture, making it a unique place to stay.
• Ellerman House: Perched on the slopes of Lion’s Head, this boutique hotel offers an exclusive and serene retreat with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, complemented by a fine art gallery and a world-class wine cellar.
• Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa: Located near Table Mountain National Park, this hotel offers a tranquil escape with stunning ocean views, luxurious rooms, and a range of spa treatments, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing getaway.

Ways To Tour Cape Town

• City Sightseeing Bus: The hop-on-hop-off city sightseeing bus is convenient for exploring Cape Town’s major attractions. With various routes available, it covers landmarks like Table Mountain, Camps Bay, and the V&A Waterfront, offering informative audio commentary in multiple languages.
• Guided Walking Tours: Discover the hidden gems of Cape Town through guided walking tours. These tours often cover historic districts like Bo-Kaap and the city center, offering insights into the city’s rich history and culture.
• Cycling Tours: For the environmentally conscious traveler, cycling tours offer a great way to explore the city. Whether it’s cycling along the Sea Point Promenade or through the vineyards of Constantia, it’s a healthy and eco-friendly way to tour Cape Town.
• Helicopter Tours: Experience Cape Town differently with a helicopter tour. These tours offer breathtaking aerial views of landmarks like Table Mountain, the Twelve Apostles, and the stunning coastline.
• Boat Tours: Embark on a boat tour to witness the marine life around Cape Town. From whale-watching tours in Hermanus to seal snorkeling adventures in Hout Bay, these tours offer a unique maritime experience.
• Wine Tasting Tours: The Cape Winelands region’s lush vineyards and historic estates are a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Many companies offer guided tours where you can indulge in wine tastings and learn about the wine-making process.
• Adventure Tours: For adrenaline junkies, Cape Town offers a range of adventure tours, including shark cage diving in Gansbaai, paragliding from Lion’s Head, and abseiling down Table Mountain.
• Cultural Tours: Engage with the local communities through cultural tours. These tours often include visits to townships to learn about the local culture and traditions and interact with the residents.
• Self-Drive Tours: Rent a car and explore Cape Town at your own pace. The scenic drives like Chapman’s Peak Drive offer stunning ocean views and mountains, making for a memorable road trip.
• Gastronomic Tours: Explore Cape Town’s culinary scene through gastronomic tours. These tours take you to various eateries, markets, and restaurants where you can savor local delicacies and learn about South African cuisine.

Remember to choose a tour that aligns with your interests and allows you to explore Cape Town in a way that resonates with you.

FAQS: BEST THINGS TO DO IN CAPE TOWN

What are the top 6 attractions in cape town.

The top 6 attractions in Cape Town are Table Mountain, Robben Island, V&A Waterfront, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape of Good Hope, and Boulders Beach, famous for its penguins.

What is Cape Town famously known for?

Cape Town is famously known for its stunning natural scenery, including Table Mountain and picturesque coastal landscapes. It’s also renowned for its rich cultural heritage and history, notably its role in the struggle against apartheid, as well as its vibrant food and wine scene.

How can I spend 3 days in Cape Town?

In three days in Cape Town, you can visit Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront on day one, explore Robben Island and the city on day two, and take a Cape Peninsula tour to see the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach penguins on day three.

What to do in Cape Town for 6 days?

For a 6-day Cape Town itinerary, you can follow the 3-day plan mentioned above and additionally explore Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, visit the District Six Museum, take a wine tour in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek, and enjoy a day in Hout Bay and drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive.

How many days do you need in Cape Town?

At a minimum, you should plan to spend 3-4 days in Cape Town to see the main attractions. For a complete experience and to explore the surrounding areas, consider staying for 6-7 days.

What is the most beautiful place in Cape Town?

Many consider Table Mountain to be the most beautiful place in Cape Town, since it offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Other contenders include the Cape Peninsula, with its dramatic coastal scenery, and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

What is the best month to go to Cape Town?

The best time to visit Cape Town is during the South African summer, which falls between November and March. December to February is particularly popular for its warm weather, but Cape Town’s mild climate makes it a year-round destination.

Why is Cape Town worth visiting?

Cape Town is worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty, diverse cultural experiences, historical significance, and world-class food and wine scene. It offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and relaxation.

Do I need a car in Cape Town, South Africa?

While a car can be convenient for exploring the outskirts of Cape Town, it’s not strictly necessary within the city itself. Public transportation and taxis are readily available for getting around the urban areas.

Can you get around Cape Town without a car?

Yes, you can get around Cape Town without a car. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and minibus taxis. Ridesharing services like Uber are popular and convenient options too.

What is unique to Cape Town?

Cape Town’s uniqueness lies in its stunning natural landmarks, such as Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope, its rich history tied to the struggle against apartheid, its diverse cuisine influenced by various cultures, and its thriving wine industry.

Is Cape Town walkable?

Parts of Cape Town, especially the city center and waterfront areas, are walkable. However, to explore the broader metropolitan area and natural attractions, you may need a vehicle to reach certain places.

What is the best way to travel in Cape Town?

The best way to travel in Cape Town depends on your itinerary. Public transportation, taxis, and ridesharing services are suitable for urban exploration, while car rentals or guided tours are recommended for venturing further.

What is the coldest month in Cape Town?

The coldest month in Cape Town is typically July, which is during the South African winter.

How do people dress in Cape Town?

Cape Town’s dress code is generally casual and relaxed. Lightweight clothing is suitable for summer, while layers are necessary in cooler months. In more formal settings or upscale restaurants, business-casual attire is appropriate.

Is it expensive to visit Cape Town?

The cost of visiting Cape Town can vary widely depending on your choices. While some attractions and activities are affordable, others, like fine dining and wine tours, can be relatively expensive. Overall, Cape Town offers options for various budget ranges.

The post 30+ Best Things to Do in Cape Town, South Africa (2024) appeared first on Malcolm Travels .

CAPE TOWN FOR CAPETONIANS

Africa Travel Week celebrates a decade of tourism growth in Cape Town

Africa Travel Week, a premier gathering for global travel professionals, returns to Cape Town for its 11th edition, showcasing the region’s tourism offerings through a series of shows, conferences and award ceremonies.

The World Travel Market (WTM) Africa, the continent’s premier B2B exhibition for inbound and outbound travel, opens at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Wednesday, 10 April.

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With over 9 500 pre-scheduled meetings and 7 000 delegates from 100+ countries, WTM Africa fosters trade, networking and deal-making opportunities in the tourism sector.

The City of Cape Town, a partner since 2014, has witnessed substantial growth in visitor numbers and economic impact due to Africa Travel Week.

Also read: Tell Me On A Sunday heads to The Avalon Auditorium

Alderman JP Smith, mayoral committee member for safety and security, highlighted the city’s commitment through a three-year agreement to support Africa Travel Week until 2025.

Since 2014, World Travel Market Africa has hosted over 18 000 exhibitors and generated over 17 000 jobs, with approximately R200 million in foreign direct investment into Cape Town’s economy.

The event catalyses business deals, with an estimated $450 million worth of agreements signed annually.

Looking for a deal on a car, but tight on a budget? Have a look at these offers for under R100 000. View the deals  here .

Alderman James Vos, mayoral committee member for economic growth, emphasised the significance of WTM Africa in driving tourism-related job opportunities.

Cape Town aims to showcase its initiatives to attract international visitors and promote economic growth through engaging industry organisations and media during the event.

Popular eatery, The Melting Pot, to permanently close its doors

Picture:  City of Cape Town

Article written by Jules Keohane

CapeTownETC

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Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Tourism in Cape Town - statistics & facts

Post-pandemic recovery of tourism, performance of accommodations in cape town, natural tourist attractions received the most visitors, key insights.

Detailed statistics

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Why tourism is important to Cape Town

25 June 2022

Cape Town is South Africa’s most visited city. Located where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Indian Ocean, this beautiful city is popular amongst both domestic and international travellers. 

Cape Town has a diverse offering from sightseeing to culture, outdoor and adventure activities. Its hospitality sector boasts world-class restaurants, bars and wine farms – all of which play a crucial role in the tourism sector. 

Tourism is vital to Cape Town’s economy and the employment of its citizens. Its benefits are far-reaching and can be measured in more than just Rand value. Infrastructure, the environment and entrepreneurship are all advantaged by tourism in the Mother City. 

Tourism drives economic development and employment

The tourism sector is the largest job creator in South Africa. According to Stats SA , 1 in 23 people are employed by tourism in the country. In the Western Cape, tourism drives economic development and job creation. Around 300,000 jobs in the province are created by tourism with more than 100,000 of those in Cape Town. 

Tourism contributed R800 million to the City of Cape Town’s economy in December 2021 – a vast improvement from the same period in 2020, when the country was still reeling from local and international Covid-19 lockdowns. The total contribution of tourism to the city’s economy in 2021 was R5.8 billion.

On top of this, our relatively weak currency acts as a drawcard for international tourists, who spend generously when visiting the city. 

Infrastructure improvements benefit tourists and locals

When increased spending is localised, it makes it possible for local governments and communities to improve on infrastructure such as roads, parks, hospitals, schools, and digital connectivity. Good infrastructure assists local areas to run smoothly – something for which Cape Town is well known. 

The public transport system in Cape Town is another example of efficient infrastructure – with the city boasting a system is like no other in South Africa. This alone counts in Cape Town’s favour when tourists are considering which destinations to visit. A more connected city also makes it easier for the government and citizens to work efficiently – creating a ripple effect of economic benefits. 

Heritage showcased and preserved 

Cape Town is well-known for its diversity, heritage sites and role in South Africa’s history. Tourists are drawn in by the city’s impressive cultural scene and communities in turn are proud to share their traditions and history with both international and local tourists. 

Showcasing these cultural traditions and heritage sites helps to preserve them for future generations in an ever-changing world.

A city for all seasons

Western Cape Tourism has initiated a campaign to counteract the effect that seasonability has on the tourism sector. This means that tourism in Cape Town will be able to go full throttle all year-round avoiding severe dips in the traditionally rainy winter season which creates income and employment struggles. 

With the focus on year-round tourism, Cape Town will also be positively impacted by an increase in direct flights; the use of car hire, public transport, and hospitality; and the support of tourism sites around the city. 

Sustainable tourism benefits environment and communities

Responsible and sustainable tourism are of high importance to the sector in Cape Town. Both encourage sustainable development in the form of environmental integrity, social justice and maximising local economic benefits. In this approach, individuals, organisations and businesses are asked to take responsibility for their actions.

Keeping tourism environmentally friendly is advantageous to everyone involved. Tour operators and businesses in the tourism industry are encouraged to be more environmentally aware, this in turn helps protect these areas.

Responsible and sustainable tourism makes sense from a business perspective as well. A growing number of tourists are becoming more aware of the increasing impact tourism is having on our world and they look for better experiences and products where the “tourism footprint” is less noticeable and where their own impact will be less damaging to nature.

Research based on UK holidaymakers has led us to believe that more than half of tourists are more likely to book a trip to a destination where they are guaranteed to see good working conditions and where the environment is protected.

Entrepreneurial Innovation 

Innovation is crucial for the competitiveness and growth of tourism systems and its economy. 

The tourism industry attracts substantial growth in a variety of industries, such as transport, accommodation, restaurants and even craft manufacturing. This growth encourages innovation in all industries affected by tourism. The city works with the private bodies to fund this growth to ensure the continued innovation and development in the sector. 

Business owners and entrepreneurs alike are obliged to maintain a world class tourism experience. Generating new and attractive experiences, services and products for tourists to enjoy, creates work opportunities for a vast majority of Cape Town’s community. It also puts the city’s real estate, IT and business services sectors on the global map. 

Cape Town is South Africa’s most visited city. Located where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Indian Ocean, this beautiful city is popular amongst both domestic and international travellers.  Cape Town has a diverse offering from sightseeing to culture, outdoor and adventure activities. Its hospitality sector boasts world-class restaurants, bars and wine farms – all of […]

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Cape Town Foreshore Tower Block site up for auction

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The scale of investment in this small 5km² strip arguably makes it the most exciting and vibrant development node in South Africa, says High Street Auctions director Greg Dart, and an area that private equity investors can’t ignore.

“Big groups such as Amdec and the V&A Waterfront are dominating the latest development drive in the narrow strip of seafront acreage that is to all intents and purposes the only remaining greenfields land in the immediate vicinity of Cape Town’s CBD.

“These companies have sunk billions of rands into the area, because they recognise its value. If that isn’t a banner headline for developers to fight for the Tower Block development lease - when High Street takes it to auction at the DHL Stadium in Green Point - I don’t know what is!”

Dart says it wouldn’t be an understatement to call Cape Town’s Foreshore and immediate surrounds, the holy grail of South African real-estate locations, because the 5km² under discussion ticks every development-value box, including:

• Being the undisputed hub of Cape Town’s multi-million-rand business tourism industry. This is anchored by the world-class CTICC and its cluster of luxury hotels and surrounding amenities that include the Christiaan Barnard Hospital, The Artscape Theatre Centre and fine-dining restaurants.
• The CTICC business tourism hub located just a short stroll away from the V&A Waterfront.
• The Waterfront itself being a global visitor attraction and South Africa’s most popular tourist destination, with a footfall of 24 million a year.
• Growing status in lieu of offering the most attractive, modern and practical mixed-use developments in line with universal demand for live work and play communities that deliver in every respect.

High Street associate director Shawn van Jaarsveld says the area’s investment potential has grown exponentially since 2000, and now appears to be reaching terminal velocity.

“The latest surge started with The Yacht Club. After Amdec completed the R1.5bn mixed-use development in Roggebaai five years ago, the group began to roll out an ambitious R15bn plan for a six-tower precinct called Harbour Arch on what was hitherto 5.8ha of wasteland at Culemborg on the eastern edge of the Foreshore.

“In mid-2023 Tower One, which was fully-financed by Absa Bank, was taken to market. Amdec sets the value of the 80,000m² build at around R2.4bn, which includes 560 apartments, restaurants, retail spaces and more than 1,000 parking bays. The apartments’ launch prices were between R2.1m and R8m.”

Van Jaarsveld says Cape Town Central City Improvement District figures note that between 2014 and 2017, more than R5bn was invested in various Foreshore developments.

“What we’ve been seeing of late, though, is single developers committing triple, or even quadruple, that amount to projects that will forever change the skyline of that narrow oceanfront corridor between Culemborg and Granger Bay.

“After Harbour Arch’s launch came the City of Cape Town’s announcement that it would auction a 99-year-lease for a 25,000m² bulk Tower Block development nestled in the Foreshore precinct, adjacent to the CTICC.

“Shortly after that, the Waterfront said it hoped to start rolling out a R20bn development plan the following year, and was in the process of applying for an additional 440,000m² in development rights across its footprint, with most of the new builds planned for Granger Bay.

“Developments on this scale bode extremely well for the ongoing success of the area. It’s already thriving, and with all this new development the only way is up.”

Critical importance: Tower Block

High Street Auctions managing director, James Dall says the Tower Block development site is of critical importance to developers looking to capitalise on Cape Town’s thriving economy and rapidly expanding tourism industry.

“The Foreshore’s greenfields development opportunities are rapidly disappearing. Land is scarce, and finding a willing seller, even harder. The moment to get into this very, very finite market is now.”

Dall says the Tower Block development lease auction date was shifted to 25 April from 27 March after numerous bidders requested additional time for technical site inspections and to complete internal due-diligence procedures.

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“The City of Cape Town and High Street Auctions are unequivocal in wanting a level playing field at the auction, so we were happy to make this accommodation.

“But while the auction has changed, the auction parameters have not. Registered bidders will enter bids reflecting the monthly rental [exclusive of Vat] they are willing to pay under a Triple Net Lease agreement encompassing all repair-, maintenance- and insurance costs.

“The initial lease period is 60 years, with a 20-year renewal opportunity followed by an additional 19-year optional extension. Cumulatively, the total lease option is 99 years.”

Hospitality industry priority

Dall says that he believes by virtue of the location, that hospitality companies should be at the head of the auction bidding queue to snap up the Tower Block development lease.

“Those visionary entrepreneurs who could pull off a next-level luxury apart-hotel offering 24-hour concierge services, valet parking, limos on demand, personal shoppers on call – basically the whole nine yards – should also be jostling right alongside them, because it’d be a unique offering in the area.”

The Foreshore Tower Block lease will be one of two substantial City of Cape Town development opportunities going under the hammer at DHL Stadium in Green Point starting at noon (Central African Time) on 25 April.

The second is a sale auction of one of the few remaining development sites in the highly desirable Century City precinct with GB3 zoning and permissible bulk of approximately 25,000m².

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The Century City site is located in the proximity of mixed-use developments combining office-, retail-, residential and leisure components in an integrated, stimulating and aesthetically pleasing urban environment.

The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth James Vos said: “These sites form part of the City's property disposal pipeline to unlock private sector-led development opportunities.

"It will certainly have a ripple effect that will boost Cape Town’s local economy, creating jobs and contributing significantly to the metro's GDP. The proceeds from these property transactions will be used for service delivery and related infrastructure investment across the city.”

Dall says High Street’s two-lot auction on behalf of the City of Cape Town starts at noon sharp Central African Time on 25 April at the DHL Stadium in Green Point, Cape Town.

“Our event on the 25th will be a hybrid live and digital live-stream auction, with bids in ZAR accepted in real time from the room and from online bidders around the world."

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