Cape Town is surrounded by beautiful scenes, gorgeous views, spectacular coffee and rich history. It’s home to a treasure trove of hidden attractions and things to do - it’s no surprise that visitors and locals are always spoilt for choice when heading out for a day of adventure.
To help you get the most out of what the Mother City has to offer, we've narrowed it down to some of our all-time favourites.
Check out what’s happening in Cape Town Today and this Weekend.
The Castle Of Good Hope
The Castle of Good Hope is a star fort built in Cape Town during the 17th century, following a land reclamation from the sea.
It is the oldest building in Cape Town and it stands as a bastion of our colonial past and beacon of our bright future.
Historical Castle tours and memorable horse-drawn carriage rides are available. Regular events at the Castle include the Cape Military Tattoo — a showcase of the South African National Defence Force musicians and performers.
- Entrance Fee:
- Adults - R30
- Kids - R15
- Operating Hours:
- Mon-Sun, 9:30am - 4pm
- Contact Number: 021 787 1260
- Address: Darling St & Buitenkant St, Foreshore
- More Info: Website
Robben Island
“To us on Robben Island, Table Mountain was a beacon of hope. It represented the mainland to which we knew we would one day return.” — Nelson Mandela
Robben Island was the place where former president Nelson Mandela was held for a portion of his 27-year prison sentence. This attraction draws many tourists and you can catch a ferry to the island, leaving from Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront. Once there, you can tour the island and prison which includes the cell in which Mandela was kept.
Tip: Visit their website for a virtual tour.
- Tours: Robben Island Ferry and Visitor Tour
- More info: Website
Table Mountain
Table Mountain is the iconic flat-topped mountain that forms a prominent landmark overlooking the city of Cape Town.
The mountain is home to an array of wildlife and sees thousands of visitors climb it’s cliff's every month.
Table Mountain is perhaps one of the most significant tourist attractions in South Africa; not only because of the magnificent views found at the top but also because of it’s unique placement in the middle of the bustling city of Cape Town.
There is a cableway that goes to and from the peak of the mountain, a popular choice for visitors who prefer not to test their endurance up the 1 085 m ascent.
Whether you’re a tourist or a local, visiting the Table Mountain National Park has got to be on your to-do list when visiting the Mother City. The park spans all the way from the iconic Table Mountain right across to cliffs at Cape Point.
Take a look at our full guide of things to do in the Table Mountain National Park here:
- Table Mountain National Park and Cable Car - Things to do, Prices, Hikes etc.
- Tours: Hop-on Hop-Off Cable Car and Red Bus Combo
- More Info: Website
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is acclaimed as one of the great botanic gardens of the world. The sheer grandeur of the gardens is unmatched in beauty.
It is set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain and is home to over 7000 species in cultivation.
Kirstenbosch was established in 1913 to promote, conserve and display the extraordinarily rich and diverse flora and fauna of southern Africa, and was the first botanic garden in the world to be devoted to a country’s indigenous flora.
If you have kids, take a stroll to see the sculpture exhibition - Extinction! Dinosaurs, and Cycads - in the cycad amphitheatre. Dotted among the cycads are life-sized anatomically correct sculptures of dinosaurs and a pterosaur!
Your kids can also enjoy a walk along the Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway - affectionately known as the Boomslang. This 130-metre steel-and-timber bridge snakes its way through and over the trees of the Arboretum, providing stunning views of the Garden and the Cape Flats.
- Entrance Fee:
- Adults - R65
- Kids - R15
- Kids under 6: Free
- Students (with valid student card): R35
- SA Senior Citizens: Free
- Operating Hours:
- Sep-Mar (Summer) Mon-Sun: 8am - 7pm
- Apr-Aug (Winter) Mon-Sun: 8am - 7pm
- Conservatory: Mon-Sun 9am - 5pm
- Contact Number: 021 799 8783
- Address: Rhodes Drive, Newlands
- More Info: Website
Kalk Bay
This quirky harbour town situated roughly 45mins from Cape Town offers a peaceful escape from the hustle of the city centre.
It is home to interesting people, quirky shops, bohemian boutiques and, of course, delicious coffee. It also offers some spectacular views of Southern Right Whales when they grace the shoreline in season.
While you’re there, look out for the traditional fishing vessels returning with catch of the day and join the “fish auction” for your own fish BBQ “ Hottentot, kabeljou, Red Roman” .
Kalk Bay is also a hub of outdoor action – from sea fishing to angling; one of the best reefs in Cape Town for surfers and the fascinating Kalk Bay caves for land and foot adventures. Catch the water taxi to Simon’s Town for a novel transport experience.
The Company’s Gardens
The Company’s Garden is an iconic landmark in the cityscape of Cape Town and a must-do when visiting the Mother City.
Lunch hour often sees the Garden’s tree-lined avenues, benches and lawns filled with locals and tourists alike seeking fresh air and the beautiful views of Table Mountain.
The Garden was established in 1652 by Dutch settlers in order to provide a service and provision station for the spice-trading sailing ships undertaking the long sea voyage to the east.
- More Info: The Company’s Garden
Museums and Art Galleries
Cape Town is a metropolitan city with interesting local museums and art galleries showcasing the Mother City’s history, diversity, and cultural heritage.
While many visitors come to Cape Town for its beaches and gastronomy, a visit would not be complete without a trip to at least one of its art galleries or museums.
Choosing the right one for you isn't always easy, which is why we created a comprehensive list of Cape Town’s best museums and art galleries.For our full guide to Cape Town’s art and museum scene, click on the link below:
Boulders Beach
Cape Town definitely has no shortage of beautiful beaches, but Boulders Beach in False Bay is home to a colony of African Penguins in all their waddling glory.
In fact, it’s the only place in the world where you can get close to African Penguins. Currently, the population of penguins is estimated between 2,000 and 3,000 birds.
If you’d like to learn more about these inhabitants, visit the Boulders Visitors Centre where expert guides will give you inside info to our own, unique penguins.
Not only is Boulders Beach a great place for penguins, it’s also a popular beach where kids can climb over the boulders, explore the rock pools, or swim in the cool, clear water. It’s also a great place for a leisurely day of tanning.
- Entrance Fee: R65
- Operating Hours:
- Summer: 8am - 6:30pm
- Winter: 8am - 5pm
- Tours: Cape Peninsula Penguin Colony Full Day Tour
- More Info: Website
Cape Town is a rich city with roots that date back hundreds of years. It is painted with history and it has handfuls of stories to tell anyone willing to listen.
Our vision at Vibescout is to provide the most relevant, current and comprehensive information.
If you feel we've missed something amazing or have any suggestions regarding our system, we would love to hear from you! Contact: info (at) vibescout.com