1. Take a Free Walking Tour
Kick off your Cape Town adventure with a free walking tour! It’s the perfect way to get your bearings, soak up some history, and check out the city’s main attractions. Plus, you’ll have a local guide who can answer your questions and share insider tips.
Free Walking Tours Cape Town runs daily tours, and it’s a great way to ease into your trip.
2. Enjoy the View from Table Mountain
Table Mountain offers the most spectacular views of Cape Town, standing over 3,500 feet above sea level. Taking the cable car up is a popular choice, though it costs 340-395 ZAR depending on the time of day.
For the more adventurous, hiking up is an option too. The shortest trail takes about two hours. Once at the top, you’re treated to a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city, harbor, mountains, and beaches. Sunset is the best time to visit—pack some snacks, hike up, and enjoy nature’s show.
3. Drive Chapman’s Peak to Cape Point
Chapman’s Peak Drive is a must! This scenic road hugs the cliffs of Table Mountain and leads to Cape Point National Park. The park is where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet, and it’s home to incredible hikes, unique birdlife, and the famous fynbos shrubland.
While there’s a 57 ZAR toll, the stunning views make it well worth it. The drive is unforgettable—just you, the open road, and jaw-dropping scenery.
4. Visit Robben Island
Robben Island is a deeply moving experience. This former prison, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tours are led by former inmates who share personal stories about their time there.
Walking through the cells and hearing firsthand accounts of resilience and hope is both sobering and inspiring. It’s a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come—and how much further we can go.
5. Explore Hout Bay
Hout Bay is bustling on weekends, thanks to the lively Bay Harbour Market. Vendors and artisans gather here to sell everything from fresh seafood and crêpes to art and jewelry. There’s live music too, making it a fun stop for the whole family.
The bay itself is full of life, with seals, seabirds, and—if you visit between June and November—migrating whales. It’s a spot we kept returning to for its vibrant energy and natural beauty.
6. See Kirstenbosch Gardens
Set against Table Mountain’s slopes, Kirstenbosch Gardens is a haven of beauty and tranquility. Often called “Africa’s most beautiful garden,” it spans over 1,300 acres and showcases 22,000 plant species.
Don’t miss the tree canopy walkway for amazing views. If you’re visiting in spring, the vibrant blooms make it extra special.
7. Relax at Muizenberg Beach
Muizenberg Beach, a laid-back surfer’s paradise, is just a 30-minute drive from the city center. Whether you’re trying surfing for the first time (lessons are only 350 ZAR) or enjoying the beach’s colorful stands, it’s a great place to unwind.
For a slower pace, check out the area’s yoga studios or local events. We even joined a free yoga class before grabbing a healthy snack and soaking up the seaside vibes.
8. Hike Lion’s Head
For a shorter, quicker hike than Table Mountain, try Lion’s Head. The climb takes just 45 minutes and rewards you with stunning views of Cape Town, the ocean, and the surrounding mountains.
Sunrise and sunset hikes are especially popular, so bring a camera to capture the magic. We loved capping off our hike with a sundowner—our pick was a refreshing gin and tonic.
9. See the Boulders Beach Penguins
A visit to Boulders Beach to see its 3,000+ African penguins is unforgettable. A raised boardwalk lets you get close to these adorable creatures while respecting their space.
Hearing their distinctive “jackass” call was a fun highlight. It’s a must-visit spot for nature and animal lovers alike.
10. Wine and Dine in Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch, one of the world’s top wine regions, is just 45 minutes from Cape Town. With hundreds of vineyards offering tastings (usually 60-95 ZAR), it’s a wine lover’s dream.
If you don’t have a car, guided tours are available for around 684 ZAR per person. Hostels in Cape Town often have great deals, so shop around for the best price. Pair your wine with delicious food for an unforgettable experience.
Cape Town truly has it all—breathtaking beaches, rich history, diverse culture, adventure, and world-class wine. It’s a destination that leaves you wanting more!
