Cape Town is a dream destination for tourists. From bucket list adventures to wine tastings among sweeping vineyards to beautiful white-sand beaches and not one, but two oceans, and in the middle of it all, Table Mountain National Park.
There is something to indulge every kind of traveller. To get you started, here is a list of 10 places to visit in Cape Town:
Also read: A trip to an unforgettable oasis at De Hoop Nature Reserve
1. Hike Table Mountain or take the cable car
The cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain takes about 5 minutes and runs every 10 to 15 minutes, seven days a week. At the summit, enjoy a self-service buffet cafe or a picnic in the national park. Look forward to over 1 000 metres above the city!
Spot rock hyraxes, lizards, butterflies, porcupines, and birds, including eagles and sunbirds.
Do you prefer hiking? Check out trails like Platteklip Gorge, India Venster, and Skeleton Gorge. Many of these trails will test your endurance.
Also read: Experience Cape Town’s majesty in style: Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
2. Enjoy a Robben Island Tour
Since it played a significant role in South Africa’s apartheid history, Robben Island is probably one of the most visited historical sites in the country.
This is one of the places to visit in Cape Town, where you can learn even more about the nation’s history and its people’s fight for freedom. Enjoy views of the city and Table Mountain with a boat tour of the island, and keep an eye out for the penguins and birdlife!
3. Explore the V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is rated as one of the most visited tourist attractions in South Africa. Along with the shopping centre (with over 450 stores), there are a range of activities to enjoy within its vicinity, such as cruises, the Cape Wheel, the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Arts and the Two Oceans Aquarium, making it ideal for a family day out.
Dining out is always on the menu as the waterfront plays host to the wonderful Time Out Market Cape Town and many restaurants, from fabulous fine dining establishments and seafood spots with a view of the harbour to jolly pub fare and café comfort food.
Also read: Burger & Lobster – A Cape Town culinary favourite
4. Discover Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Among the finest botanical gardens in the world, Kirstenbosch is situated beneath the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Amble among the myriad of indigenous and exotic flora at your leisure, stop for a picnic or experience a live show during the popular Summer Concerts.
The garden also features art exhibitions and installations, making it one of the best places to visit in Cape Town. You could also hike to the gardens with many connecting trails.
5. See the penguins at Boulders Beach
Named among the best beaches in the world, Boulders Beach is home to a unique and endangered land-based colony of African penguins. The best spot to see the amusing seabirds is the viewing area at Foxy Beach.
Aside from the penguins, the beach is great for the family. Kids can swim in a safe environment, as the waters are surrounded by large boulders that shield the cove from currents, wind, and big waves.
Also read: The surfing season is upon us – Our top 5 surf spots in Cape Town
6. Try out a Cape Point Day tour
Cape Point ensures you receive the best of nature and some excellent shots, especially if you are a nature enthusiast. Travel along the scenic Atlantic Coastline via Chapman’s Peak Drive to the rugged cliffs of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve.
It is another location rich with biodiversity, and the area has many great hikes. The tour also includes a visit to the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony. Make sure you don’t miss out on one of the top places to visit in Cape Town.
7. Go surfing at Muizenberg
Surfing is at its best in Muizenberg. Its waves are ideal for beginner and experienced surfers, and its beach is known for its iconic colourful huts, perfect for photos.
Surfer’s Corner is where most of the action happens. Its gentle right and left-handers are perfect for groms, longboard riders, or any surfer looking to glide. Do you want to skip the crowds? Visit Muizenberg in the winter. The conditions during the cold season bring strong southwestern pulses into the bay.
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8. Try out a tour through the Bo-Kaap
Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, known for its brightly coloured houses and rich Cape Malay history. Tour the neighbourhood, admire the architecture of the mosques, try Cape Malay food, and more.
Look out for the oldest mosque, Auwal Masjeed, and the Atlas Spice Trading Centre for spices. Don’t miss the chance to visit Greenmarket Square nearby, where you can shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
9. Drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive
The Atlantic Ocean provides a beautiful backdrop on one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads, along Chapman’s Peak Drive. You can stop at Hout Bay for some local seafood fresh off the boats and meander through the markets in the harbour. It’s not just a location for drivers. Chapman’s Peak Drive is also a paradise for sightseers, picnickers, bikers, runners and hikers. Discover the wealth of the many places to visit in Cape Town.
10. Enjoy thrilling helicopter tours
Experience Cape Town as you’ve never seen it before – from up in the sky! You will receive spectacular aerial views of the city, coastline and mountains. Sightseeing in Cape Town can offer an unforgettable view of the city’s most celebrated landmarks.
Cape Town offers rich experiences, including natural wonders and historical sites. Whether hiking up Table Mountain or walking through the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap, the Mother City has bewitched her visitors. So get ready to explore the best places to visit in Cape Town!
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Picture: lovecapetown / X