Get to know coastal Cape Town, the Mother City

Colorful and diverse, there’s really no shortage of what to see in Cape Town, especially along its stunning coastline. Picturesque neighborhoods invite you to wander and explore, while the iconic Table Mountain tempts you to get active. Beaches encircle the city, perfect for lounging under the sun, while the rolling waves beckon surfers and ocean lovers alike.

Cultural attractions owe their fascination to the eventful history of the city, and the food scene is varied and exciting, borrowing from all corners of the globe to create a unique and appealing dining experience. Basking in an impressive location, with plenty of accessible natural attractions nearby, visitors to Cape Town can easily combine urban pursuits with some time spent enjoying the natural surroundings. This brilliant mixture of activities could keep you happy for weeks, but you can see a lot of the highlights over a busy three or four days. Here’s our lowdown on what to see in Cape Town.

Explore Cape Town’s highlights

Food

Cape Town’s varied history and mix of influences has left its mark on the cuisine of the city, lending the food an exoticism and diversity which keeps you on your toes. No visit to South Africa would be complete without sampling the iconic braai, a cooking-over-coals concept that knocks a British BBQ out of the park. You can cook your own at one of the many public grills, or join in the party at one of many Braai joints in the city.

The Backyard Grill at Sea Point is a laid back and delicious introduction to the finer points of the Braai, while Mzoli’s in Gugulethu is the fun yet unrefined plastic-tables-and-live-music experience. For an entirely different experience, head to the pastel pretty Bo-Kaap neighborhood to sample the best of Cape Malay cooking. There are many eateries specializing in this lightly spiced, Asian influenced fare. Biesmiellah is one of the veteran restaurants of this historic neighborhood  founded by slaves from Southeast Asia.

If you are in the mood for an informal lunch, head for The Neighbourgoods Market, housed in the airy confines of the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, where a clutch of around 100 stalls sell fine produce to take away and meals to eat in – grab a space at one of the communal tables.

Adventure

Cape Town is bursting with activities designed to satisfy every level of adventure seeker. You’ll find everything from relaxed outdoor experiences to heart-pounding, adrenaline-fueled thrills. With Table Mountain and its neighboring peaks as a dramatic backdrop, you can explore a well-marked network of hiking, trail running, and mountain biking routes that wind through rocky outcrops, vineyards, and forests. For safety, it’s best to go in a group or join a guided hike, one great option is hiking up Platteklip Gorge and taking the cableway back down.

If you’re after even more adventure, take it up a notch with extreme sports, abseil off Table Mountain, dive into the Indian or Atlantic Ocean with a free diving or scuba course, or surf the powerful waves of the Atlantic Seaboard or the warmer, more mellow swells of the Indian Ocean. On the Indian Ocean side, you’ll also find kayaking with penguins, deep sea fishing, and marine safaris. For thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, these experiences are just part of what to see in Cape Town.

Read more: Exploring South Africa’s Garden Route

Culture

Wandering around the historic waterfront gives you a taste of the commerce that helped build Cape Town. It’s still a working port, and the preserved historic buildings offer a glimpse into the past. At the same time, the area features modern facilities, with excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

To get a broader perspective of Cape Town, consider taking a guided bike tour through the townships. Originally developed during apartheid as residential areas for Black South Africans, these communities have a complex history. Tours are designed to provide context about their origins and offer insight into the vibrant culture and daily life of the people who live there.

For a deeper understanding of the Bo-Kaap neighborhood and its Cape Malay heritage, a visit to the Bo-Kaap Museum is a must. This part of the city was settled by freed slaves from Southeast Asia, who brought with them their Muslim faith, distinctive cuisine, and colorful architecture. As you stroll along the cobbled streets lined with bright houses, you’ll hear the call to prayer from local mosques, an integral part of the area’s identity.

Be sure to take a trip to Robben Island, one of South Africa’s most significant historical landmarks. It’s where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for many years for his anti-apartheid activism. Tours, often led by former political prisoners, provide powerful insights into South Africa’s struggle for democracy and the resilience of its people.

Entertainment

Sandwiched between the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic, Cape Town is full of stunning beaches, definitely part of what to see in Cape Town. The False Bay beaches offer more sheltered swimming, warmer water, and even a chance to spot penguins at Boulders Beach. On the Atlantic side, the surf is stronger and the vibe more energetic. Camps Bay is the go-to spot for cocktails and people-watching, with top bars and restaurants like the renowned Café Caprice right on the promenade.

Just a short drive from the city, South Africa’s iconic winelands await. These scenic landscapes are dotted with traditional Cape Dutch architecture and world-class wineries, perfect for a day of wine tasting paired with gourmet food. One of the best (and oldest) is Steenberg, a must-visit for wine lovers.

Cape Town’s nightlife is legendary. Whether you’re into laid-back bars or upscale dining, there’s something to suit every mood. Long Street is the place for a youthful party vibe, with lively pubs like Beerhouse. If you’re after something more intimate and stylish, Kloof Street and Bree Street offer great alternatives. Don’t miss Mother’s Ruin Gin Bar on Bree Street or Asoka on Kloof Street. For something truly special, Cape Town is home to underground speakeasy-style cocktail bars like the Art of Duplicity, where you only receive the address after making a reservation. Whatever your nightlife preferences, the city has you covered.

Shopping

If you’re wondering what to see in Cape Town when it comes to shopping, you’ll be pleased to know that the answer is: plenty! Cape Town is a mecca for shopaholics, offering everything from street markets to boutique village shops and huge malls offering world-class international brands. Cape Town is a city with an entrepreneurial spirit and collection of creative souls designing amazing clothes, accessories, jewelry and knick-knacks. The VA Waterfront is the best choice for your all-in-one shopping experience. The main mall is where you’ll discover most of the international brands, alongside high-end South African stores. Dotted across the yacht basin is an array of restaurants, curio shops and stylish bespoke souvenirs. 

Further afield, you’ll find a wealth of delis and craft shops at most wine farms and Cape Town’s major landmarks. Coastal areas like Simon’s Town, Kalk Bay, Camps Bay, and Hout Bay offer a variety of knick-knacks to browse. When purchasing curios, consider supporting local artists and stores, as much of the profit is reinvested into community and conservation initiatives. A few signature Capetonian items to buy include beaded accessories, artwork, ostrich leather goods, colorful patterned Shweshwe textiles, and a variety of penguin- and whale-themed toys and clothing.

Read more: A guide to South Africa’s cities from Johannesburg to Cape Town

Make it happen

It’s impossible not to fall in love with Cape Town, the Mother City where vibrant cultures blend and the ocean embraces the majestic mountains. Wondering what to see in Cape Town? There’s no better time to discover it for yourself. Get in touch today and start planning your unforgettable South African adventure!