Cape Town is a city that has almost everything to offer like beaches, food, mountains, wildlife, history, culture, wine and adventure sports. Exploring Cape Town takes time and life seems to move a little slower here. The locals enjoy their city’s very laid-back attitude, and you’ll want to do the same. Here’s Cape Town Travel Guide.
Cape Town Travel Guide:
Best Time to Visit
Cape Town is worth visiting year-round. However, the best times to visit Cape Town are from March to May and from September to November. These shoulder seasons boast enviable weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Getting Around
Driving is the best way to get around Cape Town, but that doesn’t mean the city is car-friendly. Renting a car will spare you from Cape Town’s unreliable public transportation system. However, if you don’t want to worry about dealing with a car, the city’s rikkis (shared cabs) provide an affordable (albeit slow) alternative to metered taxis.
Things to Do in Cape Town
- Take a Free Walking Tour: Start your visit off with a free walking tour. It’s the best way to introduce yourself to the city and start to get the lay of the land. You’ll see the main sights, learn some history, and get to meet a local expert guide who can answer all your questions. Free Walking Tours Cape Town offers free daily walking tours. Taking one is the best way to kick your trip off. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end (that’s how they make their living).
- Enjoy the View from Table Mountain: Table Mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cape Town. You can hike up the mountain or take the cable car to the top. The views from the top are breathtaking.
- Drive Chapman’s Peak to Cape Point: Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most scenic drives in the world. The road winds along the coast, offering stunning views of the ocean and the mountains. The drive ends at Cape Point, which is the southernmost point of the Cape Peninsula.
Best Places To Visit in Cape Town
Cape Town, South Africa is a city with a lot to offer. Here are some of the best places to visit in Cape Town based on search results:
- Table Mountain: Take a cable car or hike up to the top of this iconic landmark for breathtaking views of the city.
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens: Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic in these beautiful gardens.
- District Six Museum: Learn about the history of apartheid and the forced removal of residents from District Six.
- Chapman’s Peak Drive: Take a scenic drive along this winding road for stunning views of the ocean and mountains.
- Boulders Beach: Visit the penguins at this beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Lion’s Head: Hike up this mountain for panoramic views of the city and ocean.
- Cape Winelands: Take a day trip to the nearby wine region for wine tastings and beautiful scenery.
- Two Oceans Aquarium: Explore the marine life of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
- Bo-Kaap: Visit this colourful neighbourhood for a glimpse into Cape Town’s multicultural history.
- Victoria & Alfred Waterfront: Shop, dine and enjoy entertainment at this bustling waterfront area.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Cape Town. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, you’ll find something to love in this beautiful city.
Where to Stay
There are many great places to stay in Cape Town. Here are some of the best:
- One&Only Cape Town: This hotel is located in the V&A Waterfront and offers the best of both worlds – a prime location and luxury accommodations.
- Ellerman House: This adults-only property in Bantry Bay houses a private modern art collection and offers stunning views of the ocean.
- The Cellars-Hohenort: This hotel is halfway between the city and the Waterfront and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks for visiting Cape Town, South Africa:
- Start your trip on a high point: Make it a priority to get up on top of Table Mountain or Lion’s Head as soon as you can upon arrival. This will give you a great perspective of the city and set the tone for your trip.
- Avoid rush hour traffic: If possible, avoid coming into the city between about 6:30 and 9 a.m. and going out of the city between 4 and 6 p.m. on weekdays. This will help you save time and avoid getting stuck in traffic.
- Check if you can BYOB to restaurants: Some restaurants in Cape Town allow you to bring your alcohol, which can save you money on drinks. Be sure to ask before you go.
- Pack layers: Cape Town’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to pack layers for different weather conditions. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and something with sleeves for your day bag.
- Be cautious at night: While Cape Town is generally safe, it’s best not to wander alone in the city centre after dark. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid quiet areas on Sunday afternoons and Monday evenings.
- Explore the city’s neighbourhoods: Cape Town has many colourful and diverse neighbourhoods such as Bo-Kaap and the V&A Waterfront. Take some time to explore these areas and experience the local culture.
- Take a free walking tour: A free walking tour is a great way to get familiar with the city and learn about its history and culture. You can find free walking tours offered by various companies in Cape Town.
- Visit the beaches: Cape Town has some beautiful beaches, such as Clifton Beach and Camps Bay Beach. Spend some time relaxing on the sand or taking a dip in the ocean.
- Hike the mountains: Cape Town is surrounded by mountains, including Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. Take advantage of the hiking trails and enjoy the stunning views from the top.
- Explore the museums: Cape Town has a rich history, and you can learn more about it by visiting museums such as the District Six Museum and the Slave Lodge.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll have a more enjoyable and memorable trip to Cape Town, South Africa.
