Table of Contents
Introduction
Cape Town, affectionately known as the Mother City, is a vibrant, dynamic destination that blends the stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture. Nestled between the legendary Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town offers experiences that cater to every type of traveller. Whether you’re drawn to pristine beaches, historic sites, or outdoor adventures, Cape Town has something for you. I was blown away on my first trip here.
Cape Town is relatively unique in that it can be a city perfect for a long weekend or a couple of weeks, there is so much to do it is up to you to prioritise and pick the activities that excite you the most. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to decide how to allocate your time. Should you focus on exploring the city centre, or venture out to the stunning Cape Peninsula? Is a visit to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, a must-do, or should you prioritise a wine tasting tour in the nearby Cape Winelands? Let me help you decide!
In this comprehensive guide, I break down everything you need to know to make the most of your visit. From the best places to stay and eat, to detailed itineraries for trips ranging from one to seven days. You’ll also find essential tips for planning your trip, including the best time to visit, how to get around, and key safety tips
Where to Stay in Cape Town
Best Areas to Stay
Cape Town is a city of diverse neighbourhoods, knowing where best suits your tastes is important. Here are some of the best areas to consider for your stay:
V&A Waterfront
This bustling area is a favourite among tourists. With its array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, it’s a great place to stay if you want to be in the heart of the action. It’s also an excellent base for visiting Robben Island and taking scenic walks along the harbour. This is one of the few areas that I would say walking around at night is an option. We stayed here for this very reason, as we love a stroll at the end of the night. The area felt very safe and had a really nice hustle and bustle about it. We were also lucky enough to see seals in the harbour on a few occasions.
City Bowl
The City Bowl includes the central business district and surrounding suburbs like Gardens and Tamboerskloof. It’s an ideal location for exploring landmarks such as the District Six Museum, Bo-Kaap, and Bree Street’s vibrant food scene. Staying here provides easy access to public transport and a variety of dining and shopping options.
Camps Bay
Known for its stunning beach and lively atmosphere, Camps Bay is the perfect place for those looking to enjoy Cape Town’s coastal beauty. The area is lined with upscale restaurants and bars, making it a great spot for both relaxation and nightlife. It tends to be a little more expensive as it is one of Cape Town’s most desirable areas, but if you are going to balance exploring with down time, either at the beach or in your accommodation, this is likely the spot for you! Because of it’s location, you will likely end up spending more on Uber’s to see the sights, or consider hiring yourself a car.
Sea Point
This neighbourhood offers a mix of seaside charm and urban convenience. With its scenic promenade along the Atlantic Ocean and close proximity to the city center, Sea Point is a great choice for those who want the best of both worlds. It’s also a short drive from attractions like Lion’s Head and Signal Hill.
Accommodation
Cape Town offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or a budget-friendly stay, the Mother City has it all. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best places to stay in Cape Town:
Disclaimer: This article features affiliate links. If you click these links, and choose to book with that hotel or company, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I appreciate the support that allows me to continue providing this information
Luxury Options
For those who want to indulge in the finer things, Cape Town boasts some world-class luxury hotels that offer top-notch amenities and stunning views.
One&Only Cape Town: Located at the V&A Waterfront, One&Only Cape Town is the epitome of luxury. This hotel offers spacious rooms with breathtaking views of Table Mountain, an award-winning spa, and a renowned restaurant, Nobu, serving delectable cuisine.
The Silo Hotel: Perched above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), The Silo Hotel is an architectural marvel. With its unique design and luxurious interiors, it offers panoramic views of the city and the harbour. The rooftop pool and bar are perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail.
Mid-Range Options
If you’re looking for comfortable and affordable accommodations, Cape Town has plenty of mid-range hotels that provide excellent value for money.
Victoria & Alfred Hotel: Situated at the bustling V&A Waterfront, this hotel combines modern comforts with historic charm. The rooms are well-appointed, and guests can enjoy easy access to the waterfront’s shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Radisson RED: Located in the trendy Silo District, Radisson RED offers a vibrant and contemporary stay. The hotel features a rooftop pool and bar, a fitness centre, and modern rooms decorated with quirky, colourful designs. I stayed here and it was absolutely perfect for our week. The breakfast is fantastic and the rooms are very spacious, the rooftop pool was a nice touch at the end of a hot day too!
TOP TIP! If you don’t like these options or are struggling to find availability, click here for more options in the area
Budget Options
Travelling on a budget? Cape Town has a variety of budget-friendly accommodations that don’t compromise on comfort or convenience.
The Backpack/Villa Viva: As one of South Africa’s oldest backpacker hostels, The Backpack offers a friendly and social atmosphere. With a range of room options from dorms to private rooms, it’s a great place to meet fellow travellers and explore the city.
Never at Home Cape Town: Located in the Green Point neighbourhood, Never at Home is perfect for budget travellers. This hostel offers dormitory-style and private rooms, a lively bar, and organised activities to help you make the most of your stay.
POINT TO NOTE: There are also plentiful Airbnb options in Cape Town, with some truly stunning properties available. I decided against this for two reasons, Enhanced security of a hotel and the fact that most big hotels have a generator, meaning you avoid the total power blackout when load shedding is active
More info on load shedding here
Where to Eat in Cape Town
Cape Town has it all, it is a city renowned for the quality of it’s food. I was blown away with some of the meals I had here and it’s one of the reasons I’m certain I’ll be back again. There is no Michelin coverage here, so no stars, but plenty of restaurants that are worthy of their reputation as some of the best in the world. It is also worth noting that Cape Town offers unrivalled value, with quality and craftmanship that is far higher than the price charged. Here are some of the best places to eat in the city, for all budgets:
Fine Dining
For those who appreciate gourmet cuisine and elegant settings, Cape Town’s fine dining restaurants do not disappoint.
Salon: situated in the Old Biscuit Mill, this is an upscale restaurant renowned for its contemporary, farm-to-table cuisine, offering a menu that highlights fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Owned by celebrated chef Luke Dale-Roberts, the visionary behind The Test Kitchen. The set menu takes you on a journey around the world, covering the cities Luke has worked in and drawn inspiration from. The tasting menu combines classic and quirky, my highlight being the savoury black forest gateaux. The entire menu was fantastically presented and incredibly tasty.
La Colombe: Nestled in the Silvermist Wine Estate, Constantia, La Colombe is renowned for its sophisticated cuisine and stunning views. The tasting menus here are a culinary journey, with each course thoughtfully curated to delight the senses. It’s a perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The food and the setting are truly breath-taking!
TOP TIP: Many of Cape Town’s restaurants are quick to book out (some weeks in advance), especially in peak travel seasons, so ensure you book as far in advance as possible. Flexibility around what time you are happy to eat is also advised!
Casual Dining
If you’re looking for a more relaxed dining experience without compromising on quality, Cape Town offers plenty of casual dining options.
Kloof Street House: Set in a charming Victorian house, Kloof Street House offers a cosy and eclectic dining atmosphere. The menu features a mix of contemporary and classic dishes, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients. The garden setting and vintage decor make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
The Bungalow: Located in Clifton this restaurant is known for its relaxed atmosphere and one of the most stunning ocean views in the city! The menu is a mix of seafood, sushi and contemporary dishes. It is a perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed meal with a the backdrop of the Cape Town coastline
Local Favourites
To get a true taste of Cape Town, don’t miss these local favourites that offer authentic South African cuisine and cultural experiences.
Mama Africa: Located on Long Street, Mama Africa is a celebration of African culture and cuisine. The menu features traditional dishes such as bobotie, potjiekos, and game meats. With live music and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Gold Restaurant: Gold Restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines traditional African dishes with an interactive drumming session. The set menu includes a variety of flavours from across the continent, making it a culinary adventure and a true immersive experience, I highly recommend you check out their website and socials to see what I mean! This is an event, rather than just a venue for dinner.
Street Food and Markets
For those who love exploring local markets and street food, Cape Town has several vibrant spots
V&A Waterfront Timeout Market: This bustling market is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of local and international cuisine. From fresh seafood and artisanal cheeses to gourmet burgers and sushi, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite while exploring the V&A Waterfront. This is perfect for a relaxed dinner, lunch or a snack, we visited three times during our week here, I challenge you to resist the urge to try it all!
Old Biscuit Mill: Located in the trendy Woodstock area, the Old Biscuit Mill is home to the Neighbourgoods Market (as well as Salon, mentioned above, and Pot Luck Club, another highly regarded restaurant), held every Saturday. Here, you’ll find an array of food stalls offering everything from freshly baked bread and pastries to exotic street food and gourmet dishes. It’s a must-visit for foodies looking to sample local flavours.
TOP TIP: We used our mobiles for directions all over Cape Town, book Uber’s and map hikes. Coming from the UK our network providers had packages available for data but they were a total rip off. We chose to use Airalo for an eSIM. Giving us all the data we needed at a fraction of the price, without needing to get a physical SIM or change number. It has been fantastic in multiple countries! Get yours here
How many days do you have in Cape Town? My recommended itinerary by day
1-Day Itinerary
If you only have one day to explore Cape Town, I feel for you, military precision is needed to make the most of every moment. This itinerary will help you experience some of the city’s top attractions and get a taste of its unique charm and beauty.
Morning: Visit Table Mountain
Start your day early with a visit to one of Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks, Table Mountain. The cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains. Be sure to check the weather and cable car schedule in advance. The mountain is often shrouded in cloud, affectionately known as “the table cloth”, this can arrive and disappear very quickly, changing the temperature significantly, so take a jumper! Once at the top, take some time to explore the various walking trails and viewpoints. The vistas from up here are simply breath-taking and provide a real sense of scale to the city
It is also very possible to hike up table mountain, I’m not suggesting this with only a day, but would really recommend to anyone staying longer. You can hike up and down, or opt for the cable car one way. I chose to hike up and cable car down and really enjoyed it, there are multiple routes of varying time commitment and difficulty, check out my other article for more details!
My guide to the best hikes in Cape Town can be found here
Afternoon: Explore V&A Waterfront
After descending from Table Mountain, head to the V&A Waterfront, one of Cape Town’s most vibrant areas. The V&A Waterfront is a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, and attractions, set against the picturesque backdrop of the harbour and Table Mountain. Spend the afternoon wandering through the shops, visiting the Two Oceans Aquarium, or taking a boat tour of the harbour. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), which houses an impressive collection of contemporary African art.
For lunch, the V&A Waterfront offers numerous dining options. You can opt for a casual bite at the Timeour Food Market. mentioned above, or enjoy a sit-down meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants.
Evening: Dinner at a Waterfront Restaurant
As the sun begins to set, choose a waterfront restaurant for a memorable dinner with a view. Dine at Harbour House, known for its excellent seafood and stunning harbour views. Another good option is Karibu, which offers traditional South African dishes in a cosy and elegant setting.
If you’re up for it, end your evening with a stroll along the waterfront promenade or a nightcap at one of the many bars in the area. The V&A Waterfront’s lively atmosphere continues into the night, making it the perfect place to wrap up your day in Cape Town.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Follow the 1-day itinerary.
Day 2:
Morning: Visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Start your second day with a visit to the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Situated on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens, explore the various themed areas, and don’t miss the Tree Canopy Walkway, known as the ‘Boomslang,’ which offers spectacular views of the gardens and the mountains beyond.
Afternoon: Tour of Robben Island
After soaking in the natural beauty of Kirstenbosch, make your way back to the V&A Waterfront to catch the ferry to Robben Island. This historic site, where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were held, offers a profound and moving experience. The tour, led by former inmates, includes a visit to the prison and a bus tour around the island, providing deep insights into South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.
You can get your tickets, skip the queue and get a guide here
Evening: Dinner in the City Bowl
For your second evening in Cape Town, head to the City Bowl for dinner. The City Bowl, including areas like Bree Street and Long Street, is known for its vibrant dining scene. Consider dining at Chef’s Warehouse, a trendy spot offering a tapas-style menu that changes regularly, or the laid-back Kloof Street House, mentioned above, known for its eclectic decor and hearty dishes. After dinner, you can explore the lively bars and cafes in the area, enjoying a night out in the heart of Cape Town.
3-Day Itinerary
With three days in Cape Town, you can venture beyond the city centre and explore some of the Cape Peninsula’s stunning attractions.
Day 1-2: Follow the 2-day itinerary.
Day 3:
Morning: Cape Peninsula Tour (Cape Point, Boulders Beach)
Embark on a full-day tour of the Cape Peninsula. Start with a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most breath-taking coastal routes in the world. Your first stop is Cape Point, located within the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Take the funicular or hike up to the old lighthouse for incredible views where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Next, head to Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town, home to a colony of African penguins. The sight of these charming creatures waddling along the beach is sure to be a highlight of your trip. You have the choice to pay a tourist tax and head right down onto the beach, allowing you to get up close and personal and even to swim in the water with them. I would highly recommend this, as it was also a nice refreshing break in the day, take your swim gear!
This trip can be planned all yourself, we did this. However if you want to sit back and relax without having to think about it, there are tours available here
Afternoon: Visit Simon’s Town
After visiting Boulders Beach, spend some time exploring Simon’s Town. This historic naval base has charming streets lined with Victorian architecture, interesting museums, and quaint shops. Have lunch at one of the local cafes or restaurants overlooking the harbour before making your way back to Cape Town.
Evening: Sunset at Signal Hill
End your third day with a sunset visit to Signal Hill. Drive or take a taxi up to this popular viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean. Bring a picnic or some snacks and a blanket to relax and watch the sunset. It’s a perfect way to wrap up your day, get those cameras out and capture the beauty of Cape Town as the sun dips below the horizon.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 1-3: Follow the 3-day itinerary.
Day 4:
Morning: Wine Tasting in Stellenbosch
Head out for a scenic drive to Stellenbosch, one of South Africa’s most famous wine regions. Visit Groot Constantia, one of the oldest wine estates in the country, for a tour and wine tasting session. The beautiful vineyards and historic manor house provide a picturesque setting for sampling some of the region’s best wines.
Afternoon: Explore Franschhoek
Continue your wine journey with a short drive to Franschhoek, another gem in the Cape Winelands. Known for its French heritage and world-class wineries, Franschhoek offers a delightful mix of wine tasting and gourmet dining. Explore the charming village, visit a few more wine farms, and enjoy lunch at one of the excellent vineyard restaurants, such as La Petite Colombe or Le Quartier Français.
TOP TIP: There are many options for a trip to the wine lands, high end food, self drive, the famous Franschhoek wine tram, I explore them in more detail in my article here.
I highly recommend the Franschhoek food and wine tour package which you can find in my article
Evening: Dinner at a Vineyard Restaurant
Wrap up your day with a leisurely dinner at one of Franschhoek’s renowned vineyard restaurants. Many of these establishments offer exquisite cuisine paired with local wines, providing a perfect end to a day of indulgence in the Cape Winelands.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 1-4: Follow the 4-day itinerary.
Day 5:
Morning: Hike Lion’s Head
Start your day with an early hike up Lion’s Head. This iconic peak offers one of the best views of Cape Town and is a favourite among locals and visitors. The hike is moderately challenging and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the city, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a perfect way to kick off your day with some exercise and breath-taking scenery.
If you are unsure of taking this hike on yourself, check out the guides available here
Afternoon: Visit the District Six Museum
After your hike, head back to the City Bowl to visit the District Six Museum. This museum is dedicated to the vibrant community that was forcibly removed during the apartheid era. The exhibits provide a poignant and personal look into the lives of the former residents, offering deep insights into Cape Town’s complex history. It’s a sobering but essential experience for anyone interested in understanding the city’s past.
Evening: Explore Nightlife on Long Street
Cape Town’s nightlife is as diverse as its daytime activities, and Long Street is the perfect place to experience it. Known for its lively bars, clubs, and restaurants, Long Street offers something for everyone. Start your evening with dinner at a trendy spot like Mama Africa, where you can enjoy traditional South African dishes and live music. Afterwards, hop between the various bars and clubs, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re into craft beers, cocktails, live music, or dancing the night away, Long Street has you covered.
6-Day Itinerary
Day 1-5: Follow the 5-day itinerary.
Day 6:
Morning: Boat Trip to Seal Island
Begin your sixth day with a boat trip to Seal Island. Departing from Hout Bay, this excursion takes you out to a small island that’s home to thousands of Cape fur seals. The boat ride offers stunning views of the coastline and is a great way to see these playful animals in their natural habitat. It’s a short trip, usually lasting about an hour, leaving you plenty of time for other activities.
TOP TIP: For those of you who like to snorkel, or dive, there is another option here. To jump in and explore the kelp forests and seals first hand. We had this booked but unfortunately had our trip cancelled as it was too windy, meaning the water was too rough to go.
Snorkelling with the seals can be organised here
Afternoon: Relax at Camps Bay Beach
After your morning adventure, head to Camps Bay Beach for a relaxing afternoon. Camps Bay is known for its white sandy beach, turquoise waters, and palm-lined promenade. It’s the perfect place to unwind, swim, or simply enjoy the sun. The beach is also lined with a variety of cafes and restaurants where you can grab a leisurely lunch or a refreshing drink. The backdrop of table mountain makes for some spectacular photos and an amazing sunset too.
Evening: Dinner at a Seafood Restaurant
Cap off your day with dinner at one of Cape Town’s top seafood restaurants. The Codfather in Camps Bay is a great choice, offering a wide selection of fresh seafood in a laid-back setting. Another excellent option is Harbour House in Kalk Bay, which boasts beautiful ocean views and a menu filled with delicious seafood dishes.
7-Day Itinerary
Day 1-6: Follow the 6-day itinerary.
Day 7:
Morning: Visit the Bo-Kaap Neighborhood
Start your last day in Cape Town with a visit to the colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood. Known for its brightly painted houses and cobblestone streets, Bo-Kaap is a historic area that reflects Cape Town’s rich cultural heritage. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, visit the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn about the history of the Cape Malay community, and don’t forget to snap some photos of the vibrant facades.
Afternoon: Explore the Castle of Good Hope
Next, head to the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa. Built by the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Cape Town’s colonial past. Join a guided tour to explore the various rooms, dungeons, and exhibits. You’ll learn about the history of the fortress and its role in South Africa’s early colonial history.
Evening: Farewell Dinner at a Top Cape Town Restaurant
For your final evening in Cape Town, treat yourself to a memorable farewell dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants. My top recommendations would be La Colombe and Salon, in that order. If you are unlucky and struggle to get a reservation consider dining at The Pot Luck Club in the Old Biscuit Mill, where you can enjoy a variety of inventive small plates with stunning views of the city. Another excellent option is FYN, a fine dining restaurant that blends Japanese and South African flavours in a sophisticated setting.
Further Tips for Planning Your Trip
Best Time to Visit
Cape Town’s climate varies throughout the year, so it’s important to choose the best time to visit based on your preferences and activities.
Summer Months (December to February): This is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and plenty of sunshine. It’s perfect for beach activities, outdoor adventures, and festivals. However, it can get quite crowded, and prices for accommodation and flights tend to be higher. Early booking is recommended.
Winter Months (June to August): Winter in Cape Town is cooler and wetter, but it’s also a great time for fewer crowds and lower prices. This season is ideal for hiking, visiting museums, and enjoying cosy indoor activities. If you’re interested in seeing great white sharks, this is also the prime time for shark cage diving.
Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May): These shoulder seasons offer a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers, especially in September, while autumn is perfect for wine tasting in the Cape Winelands.
How to Get Around
Public Transport: It is not advised to travel on public transport in South Africa. I was told this by numerous people before travelling there and followed that advice
Car Rental: Renting a car is the best way to explore Cape Town at your own pace. Major rental companies operate in the city and at the airport. Ensure you have an international driving permit, or a license that is recognised in South Africa
Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Metered taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are widely available and offer a convenient way to get around, especially at night or when travelling short distances. I used Uber throughout my trip and it was great value for money
Biking and Walking: Cape Town is a bike-friendly city with several dedicated cycling paths. There are quite a few options for bike hire as well. With the heat and traffic in some areas, I wouldn’t rely on it as your only mode of transport though!
Safety Tips
I had a decent amount of trepidation ahead of my trip to South Africa, many people had said how dangerous it could be, with warnings stronger than I’m used to, even having travelled to a lot of remote far flung places.
I’m pleased to say, it wasn’t as bad as people had been warning, but definitely somewhere to ensure you are vigilant and sensible. The below is advice I recommend you follow
Stay Alert: Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Avoid displaying expensive items like jewellery or electronics openly.
Use Reputable Transport: Stick to reputable taxi services, ride-hailing apps, or pre-booked transport. Avoid accepting rides from strangers or unlicensed taxis.
Stay in Safe Areas: Stick to well-lit and populated areas, particularly at night. I was advised to get a taxi and not walk anywhere at night, advice I followed everywhere except the V&A waterfront, where we walked several nights and felt safe.
The official Cape Town tourism office advice can be found here
Conclusion
Deciding how many days to spend in Cape Town depends on your interests and schedule, but whether you have one day or a full week, the city offers a wealth of experiences to suit any itinerary. From exploring iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and Robben Island to enjoying the vibrant culinary scene and scenic coastal drives, Cape Town captivates with its natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture. A well-planned visit, even if brief, can provide an unforgettable taste of what the Mother City has to offer.
Pingback: The Best Full Day Cape Town Wine Tour Options for You - Travel tips and guides - Global Trip Diaries
Pingback: Your guide to the best hikes and trails in Cape Town - Travel tips and guides - Global Trip Diaries