There are endless reasons why Cape Town is one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations – and also why it is one of the best places I have ever visited.
Cape Town has a rich history, dating back to its founding in 1652 as a supply station for Dutch ships sailing to East Africa, India and the Far East.
This city is famous for its natural landmarks and heritage, such as Table Mountain and its setting in the Cape Floral Kingdom. The Cape is home to nearly 7,000 plants which are completely endemic to the city and occur nowhere else in the world. This tiny point of Africa hosts almost 20% of all the flora on the continent!
This city has a bit of everything – beaches, mountains, gardens, nightlife, culture and history. The landscape is incredible when you see it from above, especially either via helicopter or viewed from the dramatic plateau of the majestic Table Mountain.
It is easy to see why Cape Town is the top cultural and design hub of the country and voted one of the top international tourist destinations, year after year.
View my Cape Town travel tips and start planning an unforgettable trip.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Also known as the Mother City, Cape of Good Hope and Cape of Storms, Cape Town is a city of contrasts. Although it’s often joked that one can experience all four seasons in a day, the Cape’s idyllic Mediterranean climate produces cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers.
Cape Town Travel Booking Resources
These are my favourite companies to use when I travel.
• Search cheap flights with Skyscanner.
• Find the best deals on hotels on Booking.com.
Cape Town Tours
Wondering through Cape Town, you cannot miss the iconic City Sightseeing red buses. These bus trips offer wonderful guided tours around Cape Town, an ideal way to see the city’s landmarks.
A cultural tour of the city is a must for first time visitors and you can hop on one of the well-known red City Sight Seeing buses which stop at several museums or take the ferry to Robben Island, the former prison island where Nobel Prize winner Nelson Mandela, was incarcerated for many years.
Some local and international operators also offer trips to multiple destinations in South Africa and surrounding countries, including getting to go on safari.
Book sightseeing tours & attraction tickets on GetYourGuide or Viator.
Top Things to Do in Cape Town
Cape Town may be a wonderful place to visit but there is so much to do, it creates a “problem” to figure out which ones to choose! Impossible to fit in all of the amazing things to do in this beautiful city, especially if you are short on time, I’ve decided to put together a top list to help the adventure-hungry traveller!
Table Mountain
Its hard not to miss (one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature) but don’t miss actually going up Table Mountain. To get to the summit, you can either make the steep, two-hour hike, or take the cable car for 170 Rand (approximately $25 USD).
If you do go up, take in the expansive views of central Cape Town and bring water, sunscreen, a hat and a jacket with you, as the weather at the top can be unpredictable. When you’re back at ground level, look out for the brilliantly named ‘Table Cloth’; a layer of cloud that descends on the mountain most afternoons. This is one of the best things to do in the whole of Africa!
Waterfront + Robben Island
For shopping and entertainment, make your way down Table Mountain, to the V&A Waterfront which sits on Cape Town’s harbour. This is a popular spot with visitors as well as residents. The Waterfront features an aquarium, a marine museum, various harbour tours, and helicopter rides to the Cape Peninsula.
From the harbour you can also tour notorious Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was a political prisoner for nearly 30 years. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a former prison, whose inmates included Nelson Mandela and Walter Susulu. If you manage to work up an appetite, the Waterfront also boasts some excellent Cape Town restaurants.
The Inner City
The Inner City of Cape Town has a spectrum of cultures and classes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Watch the city wake up along St. George’s Mall, grab lunch at a popular restaurant in Cape Town’s city center, or for a more traditional approach head up to Signal Hill and pick from dozens of restaurants and coffee shops! If you find that your’e looking night life, the Inner City’s Long Street is one of the most happening nightlife scenes! Party on!
Museums
Don’t be too distracted too much by Cape Town’s plethora of cafes and bars, this is a city with a thousand stories, each more incredible than the last. Check out the fantastic District Six Museum, which charts the impact of apartheid on the city’s once thriving heart. The Holocaust Centre is equally as powerful.
The Townships
Cape Town’s townships are the perfect ideal for an enjoyable day. There are many admirable locations to visit, but none as famous as Mzoli’s in Gugulethu. Despite what headlines may say, there are little to no risks in connection with these trips.
If you’re unfamiliar with the area, which many of you are, it is best to venture out with a reputable tour company, and make sure you are completely comfortable with the idea before making plans. An afternoon of eating native meats and foods while dancing to some deep South African beats is an experience of a lifetime.
Castle of Good Hope
Visit the 17th century Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa.
Camps Bay
For a breath of fresh air, escape to any one of the city’s exquisite beaches, such as Camps Bay — which some consider to be one of the world’s most beautiful — or Clifton Beach, a hot spot for the “in crowd”.
Bo-Kaap
Enjoy a stroll alongside the brightly coloured buildings of Bo-Kaap, Cape Town’s cobbled historical Islamic quarter. This is one of the most Instagrammable locations in the city.
How would you like to live in that house? I know what you’re thinking, maybe pink just isn’t your color. If that doesn’t interest you, there are plenty of other houses you can choose from in the Bo-Kaap Quarter in Cape Town, South Africa. Perhaps you are interested in something more warm and muted…
I first heard of the Bo-Kaap Quarter from a photo I saw in a travel book. The pictures of the houses painted in bright paint was something that I had to see in person to believe. I had the opportunity to visit this area a few years ago and was glad I did. Wandering the streets of the Bo-Kaap is like stepping into a coloring book. House after house after house is painted in these bright colors.
The Bo-Kaap Museum shares the story behind this historic district of Cape Town. Sadly, I didn’t have enough time to visit, I was too enchanted by the buildings. I have to admit though, walking through the neighborhood, taking photographs felt a bit odd. This isn’t a tourist area, it’s a local neighborhood. Imagine if some stranger walked through your streets taking photos of your house. How would you feel?
Yet I wonder… do the locals think they live in a “funny-colored” house? They must, right? Or is their house painted in just another color available from the paint store and strangers like me are an oddity and perhaps, an interruption to their privacy. Not wanting to be too intrusive, I only took a few shots and left the residents of the Bo-Kaap Quarter to continue with their daily routine.
If you find yourself in Cape Town with 30-minutes to an hour spare, consider a brief stroll through this delightfully colorful and intriguing district of Cape Town. As an added bonus, if you take a few photos and show them to your Homeowner’s Association, maybe they won’t be so hard on you next time you want to enhance your property!
The Sea Point Promenade and Greenpoint Urban Park
The Sea Point Promenade is a well-kept pathway that runs from Bantry Bay to Mouille Point on the Atlantic Seaboard coast. You can swim in one of the many public pools and then head over to the flat promenade perfect for jogging or a peaceful walk! And if you want to know about a new and best-kept secret, walk the promenade down to Greenpoint Urban Park. It’s an open public space and is a prime spot for a nice picnic or a relaxing sunset watching to wind down your day.
The Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill
In a sea of exchange students, hippies, and hipsters one can find the treasures of organic and locally grown foods that make up the Neighbourgoods Market at Old Biscuit Mill. But don’t be turned off by the jam-packed event, the whole reason it’s awesome to visit is because it’s jam-packed!
It’s a union of all things food and drink. In one of the most chill environments Cape Town has to offer, the food set out and the beer is unbeatable. Multiple vendors offer an array of microbrews, coffees, meals and desserts galore! The market is located at 373 Albert Road, Woodstock, and is only open on Saturdays from 9am to 2pm.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
To see some local flora and fauna, stop in at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. These are mentioned among the best botanical gardens in the world. The grounds feature plants from every region of South Africa, including rare species, medicinal plants, and a giant baobab tree. The gardens cover 36 hectares on a 528 hectare estate, which is home to a wide variety of wildlife. If you want to spend the day, you can bring a picnic lunch, or have a meal at one of the property’s several restaurants.
Diving with Sharks
Cape Town is also popular for its outdoor water sports, such as surfing, diving, and deep sea fishing. If you plan to scuba dive, you may need to get a permit, as the waters around the Cape Peninsula are a Marine Protected Area. These waters, however, are known for sharks, which you may not want to swim with but if you feel like a fright or are just looking for adventure, consider going cage diving with Great White Sharks!
Another option is to try the diving at Two Oceans Aquarium, which lets you test your scuba skills in a 2.2 million litre tank. The tank is filled with many types of ocean wildlife, including fish, sting rays, ragged tooth sharks, and a lonesome loggerhead turtle. 30 minutes in this massive tank runs as much as 400 Rand (approximately $60 USD), or 325 Rand for those who bring their own scuba gear.
South African Sundowner
To get into a South African tradition, the sundowner is the only way to go. Grab some snacks and your favorite drink and head to the endless locations that are perfect for watching the sunset. Some really amazing places to do this are any of the Clifton beaches, the rocks at Llandudno, Chapman’s Peak Drive, or more secluded, Bantry Boulders. But please do remember that these locations do not allow alcohol! Trade those champagnes and wines in for some sparkling fruit juices!
Check out my Cape Town one week itinerary if you for more suggestions for places to see.
Cape Town Travel Tips
Food and Drink
In terms of restaurants, food and drink in Cape Town is an eclectic mix and you can be as daring as you like. You can try springbok (think antelope), ostrich, or even some crocodile.
Be sure to check out the Neighbour Goods Market, held Saturdays from 9-2. This market is host to over 100 traders of food, wine, and local produce. Take advantage of the samples, which give you the chance to try wines, cheeses and other delicious local morsels.
Cape Town’s many popular restaurants are a true reflection of the cultural diversity which have influenced the city itself. The city offers several Indian, Cape Malay, seafood and fusion restaurants which cater to all palates, whilst wine connoisseurs will enjoy local wines that rival the finest in the world.
South Africa is pretty well regarded in terms of wine and many vineyards close to the city offer free tastings for those so inclined.
Nightlife
Looking for a nice calming cocktail overseeing Cape Town’s shore? How about a 4am bumpin’ party? Cape Town had BOTH. There is always something happening every night of the week in Cape Town. If you’re looking to dress fancy, any one of Camps Bay bars, clubs, and restaurants are the place to be. If you’re looking for that party party, Long Street and the City Centre offers dozens of places that go on till sunrise.
How to Visit Cape Town on a Budget
Don’t let its looks overwhelm you or your wallet. Cape Town is a city which can easily be done on a tight budget. There is so much to see in Cape Town, and many things can be experienced for zero cost.
From a planning perspective, food and accommodation will likely be the most expensive part of your trip. Worry not, Cape Town is rife with choices. While there are luxury resorts in Cape Town, there are also several hostels well situated throughout the city that can run as low as $10-20 a night. Thus two nights will only set you back less than $50, leaving you with plenty for food and sights.
Don’t forget to take advantage of discounts and deals, many of which can be found online, especially in the winter when tourism hits a lull and prices are much cheaper.
Upon arrival, one of the first things you’ll notice is Table Mountain – it can be seen from almost anywhere in the city making it hard to miss. Gorgeous views of Cape Town and ocean abound from the upper reaches of Table Mountain. Plus, it’s easily accessible; you can strap on your trainers, the no cost alternative, or ride up via cable car.
Another worthwhile and beautiful outdoor adventure is the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. If you head to Cape Town during the right season, you can catch one of the Sunday night concerts at the gardens. Make sure you bring your picnic basket. Admission is approximately $5 with discounts for students and children.
The Victoria and Albert Waterfront, aka the V&A, is also a hot spot to see. At the foot of Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront is in Cape Town’s working harbor and lined with shops, entertainment options, and plenty of restaurants. It’s worth the stroll if only for the people watching.
Located at the V&A is the Shimansky diamond and jewelry workshop, which offers free tours of its facilities. Whatiftheworld Gallery is also part of the free club. The Gallery showcases work from contemporary artists at its Argyle Street location and is a pleasant way to spend a few hours when you need a break from the great outdoors.
All in all a trip to Cape Town offers up a little something for every traveler, whether you want to climb mountains or museum hop. The best part is, it can all be done within a reasonable budget.
Best Places to Visit Near Cape Town
Tour the Peninsula
Cape Town has the cutest penguins you ever will see! This is definitely not an hour’s worth of time. The best way to experience the peninsula is to make it a whole day’s worth.
Start off at Boulders Beach in Simonstown, African penguins have set up camp here and prove to be a favorite with tourists who spy on the birds from the safety of the rocks. If you are traveling with kids, they will love Boulders Beach.
Be sure to check out the many villages along the way, and make sure you have enough time to explore Cape Point to end your day. The landscape and views are unbelievable, making it a perfect spot to take those vacation pictures. There are many trails and beaches to keep the adventurers busy for hours.
Atlantic Coast
For a rush of purity, hit the 114 corners of Chapman’s Peak Drive along the Atlantic coast, this famous 9km stretch climbs steeply from Hout Bay to Chapman’s Point, revealing breathtaking views of the peninsula, before descending back to reality in Noordhoek.
West Coast
A trip along the West Coast should be on every tourist’s to-do list. The West Coast Biodiversity Corridor is one of only 35 areas in the world that qualify as Biodiversity Hotspots. Here long white beaches are the order of the day as a drive along the West Coast stretches into panoramic views of magnificent sunsets, unique flora and fauna and down-to-earth fisherman willing to share tall tales and local legends whilst trying to sell you their catch of the day.
Winelands
The breathtaking scenery of the Cape Town wine lands is a must, even if your taste buds don’t like wine. With the abundance of estates along the world famous Cape wine route there’s no way you’ll regret your decision to view this peaceful ambiance.
I suggest if you do like wine, get yourself a few samples of the world’s best, order a meal, and picnic on the beautiful greenery of the estates. If you decide a sample isn’t enough, take home a case or two of wine at reasonable prices!
Plan a Trip to Cape Town Today
Cape Town is one of the world’s most diverse and spectacular cities, and it really is one of the most special places I’ve been. South Africa has tons of amazing cities like Johannesburg, but I would highly recommend Cape Town to anyone!
You really shouldn’t leave without going up Table Mountain or walking along the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town’s most popular attraction, and leave plenty of time to visit the city’s most infamous one; Robben Island. View more recommendations on my South Africa travel guide.