35+ Super Fun Things to Do in Cape Town, South Africa

From epic hikes and world-class wine to stunning beaches and vibrant markets, the Mother City is packed with unforgettable experiences. This guide covers the top things to do in Cape Town, whether you’re an adventure seeker, foodie, or culture lover—plus insider tips to make the most of your visit!

Situated in the Western Cape of South Africa, right on the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town is unlike any other city in the world.

A captivating blend of cultures and cuisines makes for an exciting foodie scene, and access to both mountains and the ocean creates a perfect environment for adventure-seekers.

Cape Town has been on our travel dream list for years, and each time we talk with people who’ve traveled to the Mother City, it continues to rise higher on our list!

Our team member, Amanda, has spent over a year (collectively) living in Cape Town, and says it is her favorite city in the world. So much so that she keeps going back! 

Amanda has agreed to share her favorite things to do in Cape Town as well as some super helpful insider tips to make the most of your time. 

This article is an information-packed guide that goes beyond the typical tourist sites.

Tip: Be sure to bookmark or pin this article for later so you have access to it during your travels.

Let’s jump right in with her favorite things to do in Cape Town…

Now your trip to Cape Town is almost planned!

But don’t stop here…

Want more ideas? Well, you are in for a treat, my friend, because this article is absolutely PACKED with all kinds of epic things to do in Cape Town plus all sorts of insider tips!

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1. Summit Table Mountain

No matter which time of year you’re visiting Cape Town, you cannot miss the iconic Table Mountain towering above the vibrant city. It dominates the skyline and demands your attention.

There are several ways to summit this bad boy. While a hike to the peak is a challenging endeavor, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best panoramic views of the city the whole way up. 

Some prefer the convenience and speed of the cable car. Purchase tickets online before you go and you’ll avoid the long queues that gather during the high season (December – February).

A word of caution: No cable car trip up is guaranteed a trip back down. On days where high winds whip the cape, cable car service is temporarily suspended. You may have to hike back down, so keep this in mind as you plan your adventure.

Insider Tip: The top of Table Mountain makes a great place to watch the sunset from, whether you choose to take the cable car up or hike. Just be sure it’s a clear day with no wind if you want to ride down in the dark. Read about more epic sunset views in #2…

Hiking Table Mountain

If you are a die-hard and want to tackle this peak head-on, you can always choose to hike to the top of Table Mountain. 

Before you make the trek, be aware that all Table Mountain hikes require moderate to advanced level hiking and can take 4+ hours to summit the peak and return. 

One of the most popular routes is Platteklip Gorge which takes about 1.5 to 3 hours to zig-zap up the table and brings you right to the cable car station at the summit. You can either choose to turn around and hike back down or take the cable car down to save time. 

Skeleton Gorge/Nursery Ravine are other popular routes, both of which begin in Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and run parallel to one another. 

The distance is just over 5 miles to the top with an elevation gain of 2,100 ft. This means stairs – lots and lots of stairs! The Skeleton Gorge trail even has ladders you need to climb at certain parts and a few rock scrambles.

It is recommended to bring plenty of water – 2 liters per person minimum – on any Table Mountain hike and sun protection as there isn’t much shade in certain areas. Never hike alone as the terrain can be tough and tourists do, unfortunately, at times attract crime.

2. Catch an epic sunset

Being that Cape Town is on the west coast of the continent, it should come as no surprise that there are plenty of places to take in incredible sunset views. 

Pack yourself a picnic and a bottle of South African wine and head to one of these spots to take in the sights. Cozy up as the sun sets over the ocean and the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink.

17 Best Sunset Spots in Cape Town (+ how to avoid the crowds!)

Note: All of these spots have direct views of the sun setting over the ocean, but they also have some pretty epic views of the topography too.

3. Hike to Kloof Corner

Speaking of sunsets… Kloof Corner is my favorite hike in Cape Town for incredible golden hour views. This short 1.2-mile hike also offers the most bang for your buck, when it comes to ROI.

The hike, which takes 30 minutes to reach the top, starts on Tafelberg Road (the same road you’ll find the cable car station on) and is basically a series of stairs that’ll take you to the “corner” of Table Mountain, which faces Lion’s Head and looks out over the city with panoramic views. 

Plus, the well–marked trail won’t be as challenging to descend if you choose to stay past sunset. Just be sure you have a light source like a headlamp or use of your phone’s flashlight.

4. Hike Lion’s Head

Table Mountain’s next door neighbor is considerably more hiker-friendly, though still a physical feat. At just over 3 miles long with a 1,600-ft elevation gain, the Lion’s Head hike will take you anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours to get to the top, depending on your speed and fitness level.

Oh yeah…and did I mention the views!? Just because it’s an easier hike than Table Mountain, does not mean you will be missing out on the views. 

Lion’s Head is a true peak with 360° views of the endless ocean and the city below, and Table Mountain as your backdrop. 

Find out all the details in our complete guide to hiking Lion’s Head.

Lion’s Head Hike: Guide to Cape Town’s Best Trail

5. Make your way around the V&A Waterfront

Probably one of the most visited areas of this bustling city is the seaside neighborhood known as the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront (V&A for short!). Wandering around this area can easily occupy the better part of a day with so much to see and do.

There’s not much you can’t do here. You can eat, work, shop and socialize your way through this part of town. 

The Cape Wheel (a giant ferris wheel) boasts the best bird’s eye views of the city while street performers entertain the crowds beneath. Restaurant after restaurant will be serving up freshly caught seafood and the V&A Food Market is worth a gander… Even if just to get a taste of South African biltong – a local favorite!

The waterfront district has revived aging warehouses into a gigantic space for fantastic local artisans known as The Watershed. Take a gander through the craft market and keep an eye out for souvenirs that might make great gifts for friends and family back home!

→ Psst! Looking for a place to stay during your visit? We’ve rounded up the coolest Airbnbs in Cape Town!

6. Kayak with dolphins in Table Bay

One of the best ways to see Cape Town is from the sea. If you’re looking for an active adventure in Cape Town, a kayak tour of Table Bay may be the perfect addition to your itinerary.

If you’re lucky you’ll see dolphins frolicking in the waves and depending on the time of year, you might even encounter a humpback whale up close (like I did!). 

Looking to lower your carbon footprint? The best locally-owned kayak tour company in Cape Town, Atlantic Outlook, is now offering a special tours focused on sustainable tourism.

You can kayak with dolphins (and whales if you’re lucky!) in Table Bay—which I’ve done multiple times and highly recommend—hike Table Mountain and even kayak with penguins at Boulders Beach (see #10 for more info!).

7. Tour Robben Island

During the moving Robben Island experience, former inmates of the infamous prison help visitors to understand the struggle against apartheid. 

Take a ferry from the V&A Waterfront to the island where you will be ushered onto tour buses. On the air conditioned bus ride, your English speaking guide will explain the history of the island, pointing out some significant sites along the way. 

You will then be dropped off at the entrance to the prison, where a former inmate will take over as your guide. 

You’ll walk through the prison-turned-museum where Nelson Mandela spent many years of his life. Enter the cells and read personal stories from each of the individual inmates that once slept there as you make your way through the prison. 

8. Step aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram

The Franschhoek Wine Tram hop-on, hop-off experience is a unique way to discover the Cape Winelands and sample some of the world-renowned wines that come from this region.

You can choose white route you wish to take based on the stops on each of the different lines. Each route makes a loop, allowing passengers to hop on and hop off as they please to experience the activities offered at each of the vineyard stops. 

Plan to spend a day sampling local wines, strolling the vineyards, taking a cellar tour or two and enjoying world-class cuisine. The best part is, you won’t need to worry about having a sober driver as the open-air tram will take you everywhere you need to go!  

We put together a detailed guide to taking the Franschhoek Wine Tram, which details each of the routes and which stops we’d most recommend. 

Franschhoek Wine Tram: ESSENTIAL Guide + Tips

9. Get lost in Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden

Located at the foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden is a can’t-miss for anyone who loves exotic plant life, beautiful landscapes or simply the outdoors. 

With an array of African plant life intermixed with walking paths, you can easily get lost in the gardens for an afternoon. 

If you are visiting Cape Town during the summertime (November – March), be sure to catch a show as part of Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts. 

Even if you don’t know the music, the experience is totally worth it! Pack a picnic (BYOB!) and arrive early to stake out your space in the grass to enjoy the concert.

10. Explore the Cape of Good Hope & Cape Point Nature Reserve

A trip down the Cape Peninsula to Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope is an absolute must while in Cape Town. This stunning section of Table Mountain National Park is home to dramatic cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and some of the most breathtaking coastal views in South Africa.

Cape Point is the southwesternmost tip of the continent, where rugged cliffs drop into the vast ocean, while the Cape of Good Hope is a historic maritime landmark. The park is a haven for adventure seekers, whether you’re hiking, spotting wildlife, or soaking in the views.

The best way to explore is by renting a car (we recommend Discover Cars for the best rates), but you can also hire a private driver or arrange a round-trip Uber.

For more details on visiting this iconic park—including what to see and how to get there—check out our day trips from Cape Town guide.

11. Meet the penguins at Boulders Beach

Simon’s Town is a great base for several breathtaking sights along the Cape Peninsula. However, it’s best known for a set of residents that seem just a bit out of place on the African continent.

Penguins!

To see Simon’s Town’s African penguin colony up close, skip the overcrowded boardwalk area. Instead, head down to the parking lot at Boulders Beach. 

Check out our day trips from Cape Town guide for more details on how to get to Boulders Beach and what to expect.

Responsible Travel Note: As with any wild animal encounter, always keep your distance and respect the space of the animals. Remember this is their home you are entering and you want to make sure you are not causing any harm during your “visit.” Never, ever try to touch, pet or hold a wild animal. Check out more responsible travel tips. 

Looking for a more unique experience? If lounging on the beach and taking photos sounds a bit drab. Why not paddle alongside the penguins on a sustainable kayak tour!

12. Take in Chapman’s Peak Drive

Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most scenic drives I have ever taken and well-worth the R64 or so it costs per car. The road hugs the coastline along the cliff side, similar to the drive along the Amalfi Coast in Italy. And the views are just as stunning!

The pinnacle of the drive is Chapman’s Peak Lookout Point, where you’ll find a small parking lot (get there early or you won’t get a spot!). The viewing platform is perched on a cliff overlooking Hout Bay to the right and breath-taking views of the ocean to the left. 

You can imagine why everyone tries to get here for sunset!

13. Get your grub on at Mojo Market

This giant indoor food hall in Sea Point will become your best friend in Cape Town. 

With 30 food stalls serving up cuisines from all over the world, there is surely something to please everyone here. And the center bar boasts “the widest selection of beverages on tap in the Southern Hemisphere”. 

Catch live music daily or join a crew to watch a screening of a popular sporting event. Some of my favorite food stalls are: Sha Sha Warma, Earthfire Pizza, WTF Plant, Bunka Ramen and Dashi Poke. 

Bonus: Mojo Market has free wifi (no password required!) which makes it a fun place to work from during the week.

14. Hit up a farmer’s market

One of my favorite things about Cape Town is the many markets set up to offer an array of food stalls (definitely come hungry!), fresh produce, breads, meats, artisan crafts, and locally made products for sale.

​​The most popular markets in Cape Town are the Oranjezicht and Neighbourgoods Markets.

Oranjezicht City Farm Market

• Location: Next to the V&A Waterfront (contrary to its name) 
• Hours:
  • Saturdays 8:15 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Sundays 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Wednesdays (Nov – March) 5-9 p.m.

Neighbourgoods Market 

• Location: Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock
• Hours:
  • Saturdays 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Sundays 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Bonus: Cape Point Vineyards Thursday Night Market

Another fun market is the Cape Point Vineyard Market in Noordhoek, which happens every Thursday evening and makes for a great place to watch the sunset!

• Location: Cape Point Vineyard in Noordhoek
• Hours: Thursdays 4:30 – 8:30 p.m. (closed in winter)

15. Head to the Beach

When visiting a city by the ocean, heading to the beach is a no-brainer! 

There is something extra special about the beaches in Cape Town… Shh! Don’t tell anyone, but the chilly temperatures of the Atlantic Ocean scare away beach-loving tourists. 

This means the spectacular beaches here are rarely too crowded. And if you’re brave, you can still go for a dip!

Camps Bay Beach and the Clifton Beaches are my go-tos when it comes to posting up in the sand. Each of the Clifton beaches are small stretches of sandy beach separated by giant boulders. You can walk between them, but you may need to get your toes wet!

Camps Bay Beach may seem like your typical stretch of sandy beach complete with colorful umbrellas. That is until you turn your back to the ocean… Take in the majesty of the 12 Apostles, a range of mountain peaks that stretch down the coastline, behind you. 

Insider Tip: Pack a picnic and stay for the sunset. Call ahead to order pizza from Col’Cocchio across the street, which will be hand-delivered to your spot in the sand.

There are lots of other Cape Town beaches to discover if you don’t mind a bit of a drive. Here are a few notable beaches to check out:

• Llandudno Beach: Popular among locals and families
• Sandy Bay: Cape Town’s nude beach
• Sunset Beach: Catch the sunset from across the bay in Blouberg with Table Mountain as a backdrop

16. Visit the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood & museum

You’ll probably recognize photographs of Bo-Kaap with its hilly streets lined with brightly colored houses.

Walking up and down the streets of the small neighborhood feels like you’ve stepped into a movie set. The vivid colors can’t help but make you smile and snap pictures. 

Every home in this neighborhood is considered a historical landmark and their care is a serious matter for the local Cape Malay residents that still call Bo-Kaap home.

The neighborhood is also home to the Bo-Kaap Museum. This is a great place to check out if you want to learn more about the birthplace of the Afrikaans language and the fascinating cultural crossroads that still resides among the cobblestone streets.

17. Free walking tour

I find that the best way to get your bearings in a new city is to Google the best free walking tour options and get out in the streets. 

Luckily for you I’ve tested out the tours offered by Free Walking Tours Cape Town and can vouch they are not only informative, but quite interesting. 

There is no need to make a reservation beforehand, just show up at the meeting point and look for the guides with green umbrellas. 

As with most “free” walking tours, the programs are run entirely on tips. At the end of the tour you’ll be asked to make a tip/donation of whatever you can afford. I’d recommend tipping R200-400 per person, depending on how much you got out of the tour.

18. Stroll the oceanside Sea Point Promenade

Beginning at the Sea Point public pool and winding its way down the coast is a promenade popular with joggers, bikers and dog-walkers alike. Stroll down the walkway, breathing the fresh ocean air and people-watch as you go. 

If you’re lucky, you might catch some of the paragliders swooping overhead before landing in the grassy park next to the walking path.

There are also bicycles and electric scooters you can rent if you feel the need for speed.

19. Go paragliding off Signal Hill

A popular activity for adrenaline junkies is paragliding off Signal Hill and out over the Atlantic Ocean. 

Don’t worry if you’ve never done it before! Your guide will be right behind you in a tandem paraglide and will make sure you land safely in the park below, near the shore.

20. See an outdoor movie

With Cape Town summers boasting such great weather, why not take your movie night outdoors and view a flick under the stars? 

The Galileo is a pop-up outdoor theater offering events each week during the summer months. They offer showings Thursday through Sunday (and some Wednesdays) in various locations throughout the city.

Check their events calendar for movie locations and ticket information. 

The best part? You can purchase different tiers of tickets, some of which include a blanket and folding seat so you will be more comfortable than simply sitting on the ground!

21. Take a sunset cruise

One of the best views of Table Mountain is undoubtedly from the water, and there’s no better way to experience it than on a sunset cruise. You’ll sail along Cape Town’s coastline, soaking in panoramic views of the city, mountains, and sea as the sun dips below the horizon.

Sunset cruises depart from the V&A Waterfront, with a variety of options ranging from lively party boats to more relaxed catamaran cruises. Most include a complimentary drink and a chance to spot marine life like dolphins and seals.

You can pre-book online or simply visit the stands at the Waterfront marina to book a spot on the day. Prices typically start around R350 (~$20 USD) per person.

Tip: To keep the party going after the cruise, head over to Ferrymans Tavern for a pint and some more live music.

22. Head to a rooftop bar for sundowners

With all these epic sunset viewing spots, you may not want to spend the occasion at a place as basic as a rooftop bar. 

But if you do find yourself in the mood for a sundowner (it’s what the locals call sunset cocktails!), head to one of Cape Town’s many rooftop bars. 

Best rooftop bars in Cape Town for sundowners: 

• Chinchilla Rooftop Bar in Camps Bay
• Gigi Rooftop Bar in CBD
• The Silo Rooftop at the V&A Waterfront
• Radisson RED Rooftop at the V&A Waterfront
• Hugo Social Club in Sea Point

23. Try the tasting menu at a world-class restaurant

South Africa has no shortage of world-class restaurants and Cape Town is home to some of the best restaurants in the country. Here are a few of our recommendations for top notch places to eat in Cape Town.

• Reverie Social Table: 5 courses, 1 table, and a bunch of soon-to-be-friends. This is how dining works at this exquisite, local-run establishment in the Observatory neighborhood. Chef/Owner Julia Hattingh focuses on sustainable, hyper-seasonal, local ingredients and partners with local wine farms to pair with her ever changing menu. 
  • This has consistently been my favorite dining experience in Cape Town that I keep returning to year after year and I could not recommend it more highly!
• Chef’s Warehouse: Renowned Chef Liam Tomlin, opened a series of restaurants, co-owned with other masterful chefs. They serve a set menu of fine dining global tapas for two. His buzzed-about restaurants have locations in downtown Cape Town, Constantia, Hout Bay, and Franschhoek.
  • Each location features a different menu with fresh local ingredients, incredible views and a vegan menu option. 
• FYN: An African-Japanese fusion restaurant that made the list of the Best Restaurants in the World for multiple years and counting. This downtown urban eatery boasts a condensed five-course kaiseki–style dining experience with incredible wine pairings. 
• La Colombe: Contemporary French cuisine with an Asian influence is what you can expect to find at one of Cape Town’s most beloved and awarded restaurants. Located in the Constantia wine region, you can also expect exquisite pairings here. 

For more of our favorite restaurants in Cape Town, check out the where to eat section of our Cape Town guide. 

24. Take a food tour or cooking class

While you’re in Cape Town, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to create and indulge in authentic African cuisine, the heart and soul of the continent’s diverse culture. 

Cape Town Food Tour

Visit Cape Town’s best hidden African restaurants and kitchens on this African food and storytelling tour, a meaningful and impactful travel experience in the Mother City.

As your taste buds take a tantalizing journey through South, East, and West Africa, you’ll learn about how food holds communities together during difficult economic and social conditions.

What you need to know:

• Hours: 3 hours
• Price: $56 USD
• Location 

What guests are saying

“An amazingly authentic experience. The food was delicious, plentiful and varied. Our host shared from his own experiences and it was a real privilege to visit several hand picked locations. We would never have found them ourselves. Highly recommend. The best SA activity so far. Thank you so much for an awesome evening and the most wonderful experience.” – Lois (April 2023)

Authentic African Cooking Experience

On this Authentic Cooking Experience, you’ll cook traditional recipes passed down by generations, as hosts Florence teaches you about the history of the ingredients, recipes, and techniques used. 

What you need to know:

• Hours: 2.5 hours
• Price: $50 USD
• Location 

What guests are saying

“It was a wonderful experience! We really enjoyed ourselves. Florence and her husband were really accommodating, very friendly, open minded. What we liked very much was the fact that they taught us a lot about African history and where the foods derrived from 🙂 the food was fantastic.” – Elvira (March 2023)

Cape Malay Cooking Class

Alternatively, Cape Malay is a unique culture to the western Cape that’s much different than other traditional South African dishes.

During this Cape Malay Cooking Class, you’ll cook a 3-course meal in the historic Bo-Kaap neighborhood using fresh spices and authentic ingredients.

What you need to know:

• Hours: 2 hours
• Price: $40.40 USD
• Location 

What guests are saying

“We had a wonderful afternoon. The family welcomed us in despite arriving very early! We thoroughly enjoyed learning to cook Cape Malay Cuisine, and also learnt the history of the Bo Kaap area and Cape Town. The food was delicious- we sat and ate together at the dining room table after cooking 3 dishes. Would thoroughly recommend. Thank you Jasmina and family.” – GetYourGuide Traveler (February 2022)

25. Take your afternoon tea like a royal

The lavish ritual that dates back to the Victorian era has made a resurgence in Cape Town with plenty of permutations of the age-old tradition. The following are the best spots to go for high tea in Cape Town. 

Keep in mind, a reservation is usually required at least 24 hours in advance for preparation. And don’t forget to come hungry! Even though it’s called high tea there is usually an indulgent spread of small bites and desserts. 

• The Granary Cafe at the Silo Hotel: They offer a “Royal Tea Experience” that would make the royals in London jealous. With an incredible spread of pastries and small “tea” bites from the pastry chef, they can cater to any dietary needs (including sugar-free!).
• Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel: Take your afternoon tea in the outdoor conservatory, the gardens or in the bright tea lounge. Live piano music sets the scene while you feast on sumptuous cakes, pastries and sandwiches. 
• 12 Apostles: Taking your high tea at the 12 Apostles means you’ll have a backdrop of beautifully manicured gardens and mountainscape in the distance. Your tea comes with a variety of sweet and savory treats. There is a vegan high tea menu for dairy-free diners and The Leopard Bar is also pet friendly for those who want to bring along their furry friend.

26. Check out the surf (or just the surfers) at Muizenberg Beach

If you came to the Cape Peninsula to surf, then chances are you’re heading to Muizenberg Beach at some point. Just a short drive from Cape Town, this is where all of the best surfers like to catch waves. 

Don’t worry if you’re not into surfing though, there is plenty of people-watching to be done from the sand. 

This is also where you’ll find the colorful beach huts you see in photos all over Instagram. So bring your camera and get ready to have a photo sess!

Surfing around Cape Town

While Muizenberg is probably the most popular, other beaches such as Lluandudno, Big Bay, and Dungeons make for good surf spots as well. 

If you’re new to surfing and want to give it a try, there are plenty of shops that offer lessons at Muizenberg. You can also sign up for surf lessons from locals on Airbnb Experiences.  

Alternative idea: If the waves are too intimidating for you, perhaps a stand up paddle board tour of the V&A Waterfront is more your speed.  

27. Discover the Cape Peninsula

Rent a car and drive down the picturesque Cape Peninsula for the day, soaking up the craggy mountains, turquoise waters, and white sand beaches (some that feature waddling penguins!).

Along with natural beauty, there are a number of small towns you don’t want to miss:

• Kalk Bay – a must stop is the Cape to Cuba restaurant with live music Sundays
• Fish Hoek – hike to the top of Elsie’s Peak for amazing views
• Simon’s Town – Minari Korean Kitchen has the best Korean dim sum, also home to Boulders Beach (#11)

The Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point (see #10) are along this route, and they’re two staple locations along the peninsula!

28. Check out the District Six Museum

District Six is a former residential area of Cape Town that was destroyed by the Apartheid Nationalist Government in the 1970’s after forcefully removing over 60,000 of its residents. 

The memorial museum celebrates the once lively multi-racial neighborhood and its former inhabitants.  

Insider Tip: Just a block down the street from the museum is one of Cape Town’s best kept secrets. Charly’s Bakery is an institution in the Mother City, but very few tourists seem to venture there. One step inside and you’ll understand why this place is beloved by all who visit. 

29. Jazzy brunch at Kloof Street House

The magnificent Kloof Street House is a dining staple when visiting Cape Town. Settle in for brunch in the Victorian house-turned-restaurant while you enjoy live jazz music every first Sunday of the month from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. 

Reservations are required to get a table during this time. Ask for a seat in the gardens if you want to view the jazz band.  

And if you can’t make it for brunch, Kloof Street House is open daily from 10 a.m. all the way into the late night when it turns into a trendy cocktail lounge that shuts down at 2 a.m. 

30. Experience “First Thursday” on Bree Street

On the first Thursday of every month, Cape Town celebrates a sort of sudo-holiday of arts and culture—and let’s be honest, partying. 

On First Thursday as it’s known, dozens of art galleries along Bree Street in the Cape Town city center open their doors with special events (and oftentimes cash bars) to showcase new talents each month. 

There is no official schedule or structured tour and it’s completely free to pop in and out of the galleries at your leisure. The celebrations start in the afternoon and continue well into the wee-hours of the evening. 

As the night wears on and skies turn to dark, the crowds get a bit more rowdy, music fills the streets and you’ll find it near-impossible to find a table at any of the eateries in the area without a reservation. 

Insider Tip: I’ve found a good starting point is at the youngbloodafrica gallery. The party has already begun by 5 p.m. and the cash bar is flowing. Live music artists will get set up by 6, and the crowds get thick. But by then you can make your way down Bree Street and check out some other stops along your way.

31. Head to a secret speakeasy bar

It’s well known that Cape Town has a lively nightlife, so it’s no wonder there are a handful of prohibition-inspired establishments popping up around the city. 

If you’re into mixology or just like a good ol’ fashioned cocktail, here are a few hidden gems and popular spots worth checking out.

• The Art of Duplicity: We cannot give you the location of this true speakeasy as you’ll need to figure that one out on your own. What we can tell you is that it’s found at the back of a storefront, tucked away in a renovated 1894 Victorian warehouse. You’ll have to make a booking to find out the rest. 
• The Gin Bar: You’ll have to walk through Honest Chocolate Cafe (another good recommendation!) to enter this “secret” gin bar. With “more gins than you can shake a stick at” this place is the go-to spot for gin lovers in Cape Town. But don’t worry, they have beer and wine as well. 
• The Drinkery: A cute little bar that is somewhat hidden (as in not very well marked) upstairs in Heritage Square on Shortmarket Street. The intimate setting includes plush couches, a small terrace and a bar with only 4 stools. 
• Botany: Located in the Newlands Quarter, tucked away behind the courtyards of Patina and Mykonos, this cozy cocktail lounge is still somewhat of a hidden gem and a great place to have an aperitif before heading to dinner at one of the nearby restaurants. 

32 Browse the Zeitz Contemporary Art Museum

The Zeitz MOCAA (Museum of Contemporary Art Africa) is an awe-inspiring transformation of a series of grain silos into a massive art museum. Even its windows and staircases are works of art.

The museum hosts collections from artists from all over the continent and provides an easy half-day worth of sights and sounds. A must-see in Cape Town for those who love art museums!

Don’t forget to check out the Silo Hotel that sits atop the museum. At over $1,000 a night, you may have to settle for viewing the hotel’s signature diamond-shaped windows (that provide 180° panoramic views) from the outside. But it’s still worth a look!

Insider Tip: You may not feel like dropping a grand for a night in a hotel room, but you can still experience the magic that is the Silo Hotel. Make reservations for brunch or high tea at the Granary Cafe, or head up to their rooftop for a sundowner.

33. Learn about conservation at the Two Oceans Aquarium 

The award-winning Two Oceans Aquarium gives you a glimpse into the underwater diversity of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans with over 8,000 different species on display. 

For over 25 years, Two Oceans has developed world-class conservation practices through their own non-profit organization and education programs. 

Most recently, the aquarium was also recognized as a PADI Dive Resort as they offer a handful of diving options and courses inside their exhibits.

Feeling adventurous? Try scuba diving in the kelp forests

The kelp forests inside the aquarium are a haven for both experienced and beginner divers. Float among giant algae fronds, massive kelp resembling trees, and pristine wildlife. 

Good to know: Open-water or above with a logged dive within 6 months is required. Otherwise they offer refresher courses you can take before you dive, as well as PADI Discover Scuba Diving Course that will prepare beginners for this experience.

Snorkeling & marine life encounters in the ocean

This ecosystem is only one on the continent and recently voted one of the seven modern wonders of the world. There are several ways to get out in the ocean and encounter the unique marine life there.

• Seal Snorkeling Experience
• Great African Seaforest Snorkel Tour 
• Ocean Wildlife Boat Tour

34. Sea Point public swimming pool

If you’re not willing to brave the chilly Atlantic waters, you’re not entirely out of luck. The neighborhood of Sea Point has a giant public swimming pool that sits so close to the coast, you almost feel like you’re swimming in the ocean. 

Tip: try to avoid weekends as the place gets a bit crowded and go during the week instead. 

• Hours: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Entrance fee for non-South Africans: R36 (~$2 USD)

35. Take a kitesurfing lesson

While world-class surfers take to Hawaii for the best waves, the best kitesurfers flock to Cape Town for its prime, year-round kitesurfing conditions.

Even Red Bull King of the Air, the most prestigious kiteboarding competition in the world, is held right on the coast each summer.

But the waves aren’t only for the experts! There are plenty of local companies and rental shops that offer kitesurfing lessons for first-timers or beginners.

36. Take a scenic helicopter flight

If you’re looking for a real treat (and by that I mean splurge!), there are several companies that offer scenic helicopter tours of the Cape Peninsula. Imagine the photos you’d get while flying above the city with aerial views of Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope. 

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Cape Town Map: Our favorite spots!

Click on the map and enter your email to gain access to our custom Cape Town Map.

It’s filled with 50+ custom pins of everything on this list, plus our favorite eateries, day trips and more! We’d made personal notes for each pin and included many of our personal photos so you know exactly what to expect from each pinned location.

First timer’s guide to Cape Town

If this is your first time visiting the Mother City, you’ll want to read our First Timer’s guide which is packed with helpful information like how to get around and where to find the best eats. 

Ultimate Cape Town Travel Guide for First-Timer’s

Day trips from Cape Town

Situated perfectly between the mountains, winelands and the sea, Cape Town makes the perfect home base for adventuring around the Western Cape. 

There are plenty of opportunities for day-trips (or weekend getaways!) near Cape Town. We put together an entire guide to all of the very best day trips from Cape Town (packed with all sorts of tips!).

12 Best Day Trips from Cape Town, South Africa

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Plan your trip to South Africa

We have TONS of resources on travel in South Africa and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our South Africa Homepage for all the answers to your most popular questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Start by reading up on the best time to visit South Africa. 
• Plan your Garden Route road trip with our excellent guide. 
• Sneak a peak at the best wine farms in Stellenbosch and the Cape winelands to plan a day of tastings! 
• Read this before you book the Franschhoek Wine Tram—the best way to visit the Cape winelands!
• If you’re planning on visiting a game reserve, make sure you know what to wear on safari (+ what NOT to wear!).

Don’t miss your chance to grab our custom Cape Town map!

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We want to hear from you!

What are you most excited for on this list? Is there anything else you would add? Got any more questions about visiting Cape Town? We want to hear it all in the comments below. We try our best to respond to everyone, so comment away!