Wherever you are in Cape Town the majestic, iconic shape of Table Mountain adds one of the world’s most impressive backdrops to your view. No trip to this South African city is complete without a hike, or a more leisurely cable car ride, to the top, where the breathtaking vistas are known as some of the best in Africa.
The story of Cape Town’s past is written in its architecture. The colonizing Dutch left their mark with their unique “Cape Dutch” style. You’ll recognize this style in those houses with decorative front gables. Subsequent English and Muslim inhabitants made significant contributions too. See their architectural styles as you wander around the colorful houses and periodic minarets of the Bo-Kaap district.
Such a mix of nationalities makes for a rich cultural scene. Food is superb, whether you’re eating from one of the street carts in the Bo-Kaap district or enjoying freshly caught seafood in a fine-dining restaurant on the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.
Learn about the city’s history at the Jewish Museum, Slave Lodge and the South Africa Maritime Museum. Perhaps the most poignant story is to be found on Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was held before the abolishment of apartheid.
More than anything though, Cape Town is destination for those who love the outdoors. A wild coastline surrounds the city. The expansive Table Mountain National Park covers 75 percent of the peninsula, meaning that encounters with wildlife are common. Get face-to-face with African penguins at Boulders Beach, or keep an eye out for baboons, antelopes or whales as you hike one of the trails on the Cape of Good Hope. You can also see more cultivated natural beauty at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.
Though fairly small, Cape Town does not lend itself to exploring on foot. It’s better to rent a car the roads are generally easy to navigate and free flowing. Public buses run some of the major tourist routes as well.
Cape Town’s climate is generally good, with the low humidity making the summer heat bearable. Winters can be quite wet.
Cape Town
Where to stay in Cape Town
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront
The picture-perfect mountain views and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. A stop by Cape Town Cruise Terminal or Two Oceans Aquarium might round out your trip.
Cape Town City Centre
Known for its majestic mountain landscape and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Cape Town City Centre. Check out top attractions like District Six Museum and Cape Town City Hall, and jump on the metro at Woodstock Station or Esplanade Station to see more of the city.
Camps Bay
The beaches and picture-perfect mountain views are top of the list for many visitors to Camps Bay. A stop by Camps Bay Beach or Table Mountain National Park might round out your trip.
Sea Point
The beaches and seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Sea Point. A stop by Sea Point Pavillion or Sea Point Swimming Pool might round out your trip.
Green Point
Travellers like the cocktail bars in Green Point, and Greenpoint Market is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Constantia
Unique features of Constantia include the wineries and gardens. Make a stop by Groot Constantia Winery or Table Mountain National Park while you're exploring the area.
Reviewed on 19 May 2024
Reviewed on 21 May 2024
Reviewed on 21 May 2024
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 19 May 2024
Reviewed on 14 May 2024
Popular places to visit
Boulders Beach
Get a privileged close-up view of an African penguin colony among the spectacular rock formations at this beach that also offers excellent swimming conditions.
Camps Bay Beach
See and be seen, admire beautiful sunsets and go hiking in the famous Twelve Apostles at one of Cape Town’s most stylish beaches.
Table Mountain
One of the world’s oldest mountains creates an iconic backdrop to the Cape Town skyline. Climb to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding coast.
Robben Island
Visit the cell where Nelson Mandela spent most of his sentence and explore the Table Bay island that has also served as a leper colony and a military base.
Cape Town Stadium
Take a guided tour of this modern sports arena and then watch a soccer or rugby match while sitting among an energetic, vuvuzela-playing crowd.
Cape of Good Hope
Experience the stunning scenery and a wealth of native wildlife at what is almost Africa’s most southerly point.
Things to do
Cape Town: Half-Day City Tour
Aquila Safari Game Drive, Lunch & Shared Transfers from Cape Town
Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise or Sunset Hike
Reviews of Cape Town
4/5 - Good
The V&A waterfront area of Cape Town is nice and safe. The centre of town has a more edgy feel although plenty of security around.
4/5 - Good
didnt do much as time was very short and this was my second visit only wanted to relax
5/5 - Excellent
Cape Town is a stunning city. Amazing food options and sights. I felt safe but you just need to be sensible ... as you should be when you visit any big city.
5/5 - Excellent
The most beautiful city by the sea
5/5 - Excellent
Vibrant clean city, excellent restaurants, stunning scenery, beaches, mountains, vineyards, something different to do and see every day
5/5 - Excellent
Great city. Beautiful mountain views. Sad political and economic outlook though.
