Cape Town is one of those places that has it all: stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant city life that keeps you entertained from morning to night. Whether you’re an adventure junkie, a foodie, or someone who just loves soaking in incredible views, this city has something for you. Here are the top 10 things you need to do when you visit Cape Town.
Hike or Take a Cable Car up Table Mountain
If there’s one thing that should be on your agenda in Cape Town, it’s heading up Table Mountain. This iconic flat-topped mountain is visible from almost everywhere in the city. If you’re feeling energetic, hiking up is an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of trails depending on how adventurous you are. Don’t feel like breaking a sweat? The cable car is a super easy way to get to the top, and it even rotates so you can take in the views all around. From the top, you’ll view jaw-dropping panoramas of the city, the ocean, and beyond.
Explore the V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is the heart of Cape Town’s hustle and bustle. It’s a beautiful blend of historic harbour charm and modern shopping, dining, and entertainment. You can spend hours wandering through shops, enjoying street performances, and grabbing a bite at one of the waterfront restaurants. The backdrop of the harbour with Table Mountain looming large makes it even more special.
Take a Ferry to Robben Island
Robben Island is one of the most significant historical sites in South Africa. This is where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years during apartheid. A ferry ride from the Waterfront gets you to the island, and the tours are led by former political prisoners, who give deeply personal insights into the island’s history. It’s a powerful experience that brings South Africa’s difficult but inspiring past into sharp focus.
Chill at Camps Bay Beach
Cape Town’s beaches are legendary, and Camps Bay is arguably the most famous of them all. With its wide stretch of soft, white sand and the dramatic backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, it’s the perfect spot to relax. Grab a drink at one of the chic beachfront cafés, take a dip in the refreshing Atlantic, or just sit back and soak up the sun. Camps Bay is also known for its stunning sunsets, so it’s worth sticking around until the evening.
Stroll Through Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
If you’re a nature lover, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is pure heaven. Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, these gardens showcase South Africa’s incredible flora, including many plants you won’t find in many other places. Take your time wandering the paths, and be sure to walk the “Boomslang” canopy walkway, which gives you a bird’s-eye view of the gardens and the surrounding mountains. It’s a peaceful oasis where you can easily spend an entire afternoon.
Drive Along Chapman’s Peak
Looking for the ultimate scenic drive? This is it! This winding coastal road between Hout Bay and Noordhoek is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world. The route hugs the cliffs, offering spectacular views of the ocean and the rugged coastline. There are plenty of places to stop along the way to snap photos, have a picnic, or just take in the beauty around you.
Wine Tasting in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
Just an hour outside of Cape Town are two of the most picturesque wine regions in the world: Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just love a good glass of vino, the wine estates here are not to be missed. Many offer guided tastings, and some even let you explore the vineyards on foot or by bike. You can also opt for more eco-friendly tours that focus on sustainability. Pair your wine with gourmet food, and you have a well-spent day.
Wander Through Bo-Kaap
Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town’s most colourful and culturally rich neighbourhoods. Its brightly painted houses and cobbled streets are perfect for a leisurely wander, and the area is steeped in history. Home to Cape Town’s Muslim Cape Malay community, Bo-Kaap is known for its rich heritage and delicious cuisine. If you get the chance, sign up for a Cape Malay cooking class, where you can learn how to make local dishes like samosas and boboties.
Explore Cape Point
Cape Point, located in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, is where you’ll find some of the most breathtaking scenery in Cape Town. Towering cliffs, wild ocean views, and rugged landscapes define this area, home to plenty of wildlife too – think baboons, ostriches, and antelope. A hike to the lighthouse offers fantastic views, and in whale season, you might even spot some from the shore!
Go Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai
For adrenaline junkies, shark cage diving in Gansbaai is an absolute must. Just a couple of hours from Cape Town, Gansbaai is known as the best place in the world to see great white sharks up close. You can enter a cage and be lowered into the water as these incredible predators swim around you – all while staying perfectly safe. Not up for getting wet? Boat tours let you see the action from above the surface.
Bonus: Cape Town’s Festivals and Events
Cape Town is a city that knows how to celebrate, with a packed events calendar. From the world-renowned Cape Town International Jazz Festival to the thrilling Two Oceans Marathon and the vibrant Cape Town Carnival, there’s always something happening. Make sure you check out what’s on when you visit – you might just catch something unforgettable!
Photography Credits: Kaylin Jacobs via Pexels | Taryn Elliott via Pexels | Arthur Brognoli via Pexels | Magda Ehlers via Pexels | Mike van Schoonderwalt via Pexels | Western Cape Tours and Transport | David Stanley via Flickr | Randy Greve via Flickr | Jono Hey via Flickr | South African Tourism via Flickr | Ed via Flickr | Timur Saglambilek via Pexels | Royz_monocle | Nicolas Raymond | African Budget Safaris
