Things To Do
in Cape Town
Cape Town is a coastal city anchored by the dramatic peak of Table Mountain, offering unrivaled scenery and a multicultural tapestry. It blends pristine beaches, rugged coastlines, and a rich history reflected in colorful neighborhoods and world-class cuisine. From iconic viewpoints to vibrant markets and winelands just beyond the city, it rewards curious travelers with both adventure and culture.
Expect striking contrasts between urban energy and natural splendor at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Rise before dawn for a cable car ascent up Table Mountain, feeling the crisp Atlantic breeze as you climb. Gaze across the city bowl, Table Bay and Robben Island from the plateau’s vantage points. Spot dassies sunbathing on the ancient sandstone and breathe in the sweeping panoramas.
Descend back into town and wander through the colorful cobblestone streets of Bo-Kaap. Sample spicy Malay dishes at a local café while learning about Cape Malay history and culture. Continue to the District Six Museum to hear powerful personal stories and absorb the city’s complex past.
Head to the lively V&A Waterfront just as harbor lights begin to twinkle against the darkening sky. Dine on fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant while listening to buskers play flattering tunes. Conclude the night with a moonlit stroll along the harbor, savoring the gentle night breeze.
Set off along the breathtaking Chapman’s Peak Drive just after sunrise, stopping at cliffside viewpoints for panoramic ocean vistas. Watch the waves crash against rugged sandstone cliffs far below. Enjoy a roadside picnic breakfast as Atlantic and False Bay merge in a brilliant display of blues.
Continue to Boulders Beach to visit the famous African penguin colony, observing these tuxedoed creatures bobbing in the surf. Wander the boardwalks and photograph the charming birds at close range. Head onward to Cape Point in Table Mountain National Park and hike to the historic lighthouse perched at Africa’s southwestern tip.
Descend to Simon’s Town for dinner at a cozy seaside bistro, sampling freshly caught fish with locally grown greens. Toast to the day with a glass of South African white wine while the sun dips below the ocean. Return along the coastal road under a canopy of stars, listening to the quiet hum of the sea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🍷Dinner for two at a nice restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚌Daily public transport pass | $3-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and beaches
- Vibrant multicultural scene and world-class cuisine
- Tourist crowds at peak seasons
- Safety concerns in some areas and scams in tourist zones
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goeie dag" - Good day
- "Hoeveel kos dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Waar is die badkamer?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kan ek die rekening kry?" - Can I have the bill?
- "Dankie" - Thank you
- "Asseblief" - Please
- "Slaap lekker" - Good night
Places to Visit in Cape Town
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour vantage points around the city offering sweeping views of the mountain and coastline.
Bright, steep streets behind Signal Hill perfect for vibrant street photography.
Industrial-modern scenes with boats and mountain backdrop.
Dramatic coastal cliffs and ocean vistas along the scenic drive.
Close-up shots of African penguins on a sandy beach framed by rocks.
Lush botanical scenes with mountain backdrops and tree canopies.
Food in Cape Town
Cape Town Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting Cape Malay baked dish of spiced minced meat with a creamy egg-topped crust, often served with yellow rice.
Must-Try!
Fragrant curries featuring spices like turmeric, cinnamon, and cloves, often made with chicken or vegetables.
A giant, filling submarine sandwich popular for street food lunches and sharing among friends.
Fried dough pastries (magwinya) often enjoyed with spicy tomato relish (chakalaka) for a quick bite.
A braided fried dough pastry coated with syrup or sugar, perfect with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend market in City Bowl offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and farm-to-table treats.
Saturday market at the Old Biscuit Mill with local produce, street food and craft stalls.
Historic market with local crafts, food stalls, and live performances (best early in the day).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake or a friendly greeting; some use informal greetings in Afrikaans, such as 'Hallo' or 'Goeie dag'.
Smart casual is common; dress codes are relaxed in most places but avoid beachwear in restaurants.
Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas; avoid unlit streets at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Tipping is expected in restaurants and cafes, and is often not included in the bill.
Safety
Tipping in Cape Town
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service is not included. For bars, round up. Cash tips are appreciated but card tips are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, dry days ideal for beach time, outdoor markets, and mountain hikes; expect crowds at top attractions.
Mild temperatures with less wind; great for wine country visits and hiking in the Cape Fold mountains.
Cool to cold and rainy spells; coastal storms can blow in from the Atlantic; use layers and waterproofs.
Blooming fynbos and longer days; perfect for gardens, routes like the Constantia Valley and Table Mountain trails.
Cape Town at Night
Hiking in Cape Town
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep but classic route to the summit with panoramic views.
A popular sunset hike with city and sea views.
Gentle trails through vineyards and forests close to the city.
Short summits with sweeping views; easy to moderate.
Airports
How to reach Cape Town by plane.
Located about 20 km north of the city center; international and domestic flights; well-connected by road and a range of car rental and taxi services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A historic group with a significant urban presence; language distribution varies.
The majority demographic in the country, with diverse cultures and languages.
Strong cultural heritage and a significant presence in the Western Cape.
A smaller but active community contributing to the multicultural city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cape Town and the Western Cape host professional rugby teams and games, with strong fan culture.
Seasonal matches and tours, with scenic grounds around the city.
Local leagues and international friendlies attract crowds at city stadiums.
Coastal spots like Muizenberg and Big Bay draw local surfers and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cape Town.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Cape Town has many vegetarian-friendly restaurants; look for dishes featuring legumes, grains, and vegetables; ask for meat-free curries and sauces.
Many venues offer vegan options; request plant-based dishes and avoid dairy-based sauces; opt for fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and tofu/legume dishes.
Most places can accommodate gluten-free requests; ask for bread and sauces to be gluten-free; opt for grilled meats and seafood with simple sides.