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Cape Town, South Africa - Things to Do in Cape Town

Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa - Complete Travel Guide

Cape Town stands as one of the world's most spectacular cities, dramatically positioned between the iconic Table Mountain and the pristine waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This South African gem easyly blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage, offering visitors everything from world-class wine estates and pristine beaches to busy townships and historical landmarks that tell the complex story of the nation's past. The Mother City, as it's affectionately known, captivates travelers with its diverse neighborhoods, from the colorful Sierraleone-Kaap district with its Cape Malay culture to the trendy Waterfront area bustling with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. With its Mediterranean climate, impressive landscapes, and warm hospitality, Cape Town provides an unforgettable experience whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or culinary excellence.

Top Cape Town

Table Mountain Cable Car Experience

Ascend the iconic flat-topped mountain via rotating cable car for impressive 360-degree views of Cape Town, the coastline, and surrounding peaks. The summit offers walking trails, a restaurant, and unparalleled photo opportunities of one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

Booking Tip: Book tickets online in advance ($15-25) to skip queues, especially during peak season. Check weather conditions before visiting as the cable car doesn't operate in high winds. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting and fewer crowds.

Robben Island Museum Tour

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years during apartheid. This powerful half-day tour includes a ferry ride and guided tour led by former political prisoners, providing profound insights into South Africa's struggle for freedom.

Booking Tip: Reserve tickets well in advance ($25-35) as tours often sell out weeks ahead. The 3.5-hour tour includes ferry transport and departs from the V&A Waterfront. Bring warm clothing as it can be windy on the island.

Cape Peninsula and Cape of Good Hope Tour

Explore the dramatic coastline on a full-day tour featuring Chapman's Peak Drive, Boulders Beach penguin colony, and the Cape of Good Hope. This scenic journey showcases some of the world's most beautiful coastal landscapes and unique wildlife encounters.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost $60-120 depending on group size and inclusions. Book with reputable operators that include penguin viewing fees. Small group tours offer more flexibility but cost more than large bus tours.

Stellenbosch Wine Tasting Experience

Discover South Africa's premier wine region just outside Cape Town, featuring world-renowned estates set against mountain backdrops. Enjoy tastings of award-winning wines, cellar tours, and gourmet food pairings in one of the world's most beautiful wine regions.

Booking Tip: Wine tours range from $45-150 per person depending on estates visited and inclusions. Book tours that visit 3-4 estates for variety. Many include lunch and transport from Cape Town. Designate a driver or join organized tours.

Bo-Kaap Cultural Walking Tour

Explore the colorful Malay Quarter with its rainbow-hued houses, cobblestone streets, and rich Cape Malay heritage. Learn about the area's history, sample traditional koeksisters, and visit local spice shops while discovering this Instagram-famous neighborhood's authentic culture.

Booking Tip: Walking tours cost $15-30 per person and last 2-3 hours. Book with local guides who have community connections for real feels. Morning tours offer better lighting for photography and cooler temperatures.

Getting There

Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is Africa's third-busiest airport, located 20km from the city center with excellent connections to major international destinations. Direct flights are available from United Kingdom, Netherlands, Uae, and other African cities, while connections through Johannesburg provide access from most global destinations. The airport offers various ground transport options including the reliable Airport Shuttle services ($15-20), Uber rides ($12-18), or rental cars from major international companies.

Getting Around

Cape Town offers multiple transportation options, with ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt being the most convenient and safest for tourists. The MyCiTi bus system provides affordable public transport to major attractions and beaches, while the hop-on-hop-off City Sightseeing bus is perfect for first-time visitors. Car rentals are ideal for exploring the wine regions and Peninsula, though city parking can be challenging. For short distances, walking is pleasant in areas like the V&A Waterfront and City Bowl, but avoid walking alone at night or in certain areas.

Where to Stay

V&A Waterfront
City Bowl
Camps Bay
Sea Point
Green Point
Constantia

Food & Dining

Cape Town's culinary scene is world-class, blending African, European, and Asian influences with exceptional local ingredients and wines. The city has several award-winning restaurants in areas like the V&A Waterfront and Camps Bay, while local markets like the Old Biscuit Mill offer artisanal foods and craft beverages. Don't miss trying Cape Malay curry, bobotie, biltong, and fresh seafood, paired with excellent local wines. From fine dining establishments to casual braai spots and food trucks, the city caters to all budgets and tastes, with many restaurants offering impressive ocean or mountain views.

Top-Rated Restaurants in South Africa

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Marble Restaurant

4.5 /5
(5122 reviews) 4
bar

GOLD Restaurant

4.5 /5
(3856 reviews) 3

SMOKE Pretoria

4.6 /5
(1215 reviews)
bar

Belly of the beast

4.8 /5
(1127 reviews)

Ethiopian Madam Taitou

4.7 /5
(986 reviews) 2

Cuisine Afrique Fire Grill

4.7 /5
(707 reviews) 2
bar

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

Cape Town enjoys a Mediterranean climate with the best weather from October to April (summer), offering warm, dry conditions perfect for beaches, outdoor activities, and wine tours. December to February is peak season with the warmest weather but also the highest prices and crowds. May to September (winter) brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain, but fewer tourists, lower prices, and excellent conditions for hiking. The shoulder seasons of October-November and March-April offer the perfect balance of good weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices.

Insider Tips

Download the MyCiTi bus app and get a myconnect card for convenient public transport around the city
Many restaurants don't accept reservations - arrive early or be prepared to wait, especially on weekends
Always carry cash as some smaller establishments, markets, and township tours only accept cash payments

Activities in Cape Town