Get Exclusive Access to My Top 10 International Travel Tips - Subscribe Now!
Located on the southwestern tip of South Africa, Cape Town is a paradise for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty. From hiking to the top of Table Mountain to exploring the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, Cape Town offers a diverse range of experiences that are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the top 10 must-do activities in Cape Town, so you can make the most of your visit to this amazing destination.
Table of Contents
Cape Town's Claim to Fame
Cape Town is widely known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. Table Mountain is a prominent landmark that dominates the skyline, and is one of the most recognizable natural wonders on the planet.
Another claim to fame for Cape Town is its rich history, which can be seen in the colorful buildings and architecture throughout the city. Additionally, Cape Town is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, with crystal clear waters and soft white sands. This city has something for everyone!
Things to See and Do in Cape Town
While there is plenty to see and do in Cape Town, here are our recommended top 10!
1. Take a cable car up Table Mountain
A must-do activity in Cape Town is taking a cable car up Table Mountain. The ride takes about 5 minutes and offers stunning views of the city and surrounding areas.
Alternatively, you can choose to hike up Table Mountain. There are several trails you can choose from. I hiked up the India Venster trail, which was moderately difficult. There are easier options available for those who want a more leisurely hike.
I recommend taking the cable car down the mountain rather than hiking down.
2. Go wine tasting in the Cape Winelands
Wine lovers can’t miss the chance to visit the Cape Winelands, a picturesque area known for its vineyards and wine estates. Take a guided tour or drive yourself through the scenic routes, stopping at some of the best wine estates in the area. Sip on award-winning wines, savor delicious cheeses, and indulge in gourmet food.
Some of the most popular wine estates include Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, but there are many other hidden gems to discover.
3. See the colorful buildings at Bo-Kaap
Bo-Kaap is a neighborhood famous for its vivid and bright-colored buildings, which reflect the Cape Malay community’s rich history and culture. Take a stroll on the cobblestone lanes to soak up the area’s unique ambiance.
The Bo-Kaap Museum provides a glimpse into the district’s past and cultural heritage, while sampling the flavorful Cape Malay cuisine is a must-do. The region is well-known for its street art and serves as an excellent spot for taking photos.
4. Hike up Lions Head
For adventure seekers in Cape Town, hiking up Lion’s Head is the perfect activity. Although the trail is challenging, it provides spectacular views of the city and ocean. Reaching the peak requires using ladders and chains, and the hike takes two to three hours.
For a more thrilling experience, try hiking at sunrise or sunset. To ensure a comfortable hike, bring enough water, sunscreen, and suitable footwear. Due to the popularity of the trail, plan ahead and respect other hikers. There are also plenty of other hikes in Cape Town that you can check out!
5. See the penguins at Boulder Beach
For those who love animals, a trip to Boulder Beach is a must. The beach boasts an adorable colony of African penguins, offering visitors a chance to see them up close. This is the only place you can see African penguins on the African mainland, so you shouldn’t miss this opportunity! Explore the boardwalks that wind through the colony or lounge on the sand while observing the penguins playing in the water.
For foreigners, it costs 152 rand ($8 USD) for adults, and 76 rand ($4 USD) for children.
6. Visit Robben Island
Visiting Robben Island is a great activity for those interested in South African history. This island served as a political prison during apartheid, and Nelson Mandela spent 18 years of his 27-year imprisonment here. Take a guided tour of the island, including a visit to the prison where Mandela was held. You can also explore the island’s museum and learn about its rich history.
The boat ride to the island offers stunning views of Cape Town and the ocean. Note that tours are weather-dependent and can sell out quickly, so book in advance!
7. Check out the V&A Waterfront
For those seeking a fun and lively area in Cape Town, look no further than the V&A Waterfront. This bustling tourist hub features a diverse array of stores, restaurants, and sights. Take a leisurely walk along the harbor and witness ships and boats dock and depart or visit the Two Oceans Aquarium for an immersive experience with marine wildlife.
The V&A Waterfront also has a variety of entertainment options, such as live music and street performers. Make sure to explore the local markets for handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
8. Take a hop-on, hop-off bus tour
A hop on, hop off tour is a great way to explore Cape Town and its many attractions. Also known as The Red Bus, this tour allows you to visit top destinations at your own pace, with the flexibility to get off and back on the bus whenever you want. This is what I used to go to Table Mountain and some of the beaches, and I saved a ton of money by doing it this way. A ticket for one day costs 275 rand ($14 USD).
The buses run on a regular schedule, so you will never be waiting too long for one.
9. Go surfing in Camps Bay Beach
Camps Bay is known for its stunning beach and crystal-clear waters, making it a great spot for surfing in Cape Town. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are plenty of options for surfing lessons and equipment rentals. Windsurfing is also a very popular sport here.
After a long day of surfing, head to one of the nearby beachfront restaurants for a bite to eat and a cold drink. Just be sure to check the conditions before heading out, as the waves can get quite large and dangerous at times.
10. Relax on Clifton Beach
Clifton Beach is one of Cape Town’s most beautiful beaches and a perfect spot for relaxation. The beach is made up of four coves, each with its own unique atmosphere. Enjoy the soft white sand and clear blue water, or rent an umbrella and soak up the sun. The beach is popular for picnics and sundowners, so bring your favorite snacks and drinks and enjoy the view.
Note that the beach can get crowded during peak season, so arrive early to secure your spot. Keep in mind that swimming is not advised here, so enjoy the water from the shore!
Where to Stay in Cape Town
When visiting Cape Town, there are several neighborhoods that offer unique experiences for travelers. For a bustling and vibrant atmosphere, you can stay in the City Center of Cape Town. If you prefer to be near the beach, Camps Bay is a popular choice. For a more tranquil setting, consider staying in the suburbs of Constantia or Hout Bay.
Low Budget
If you’re on a tight budget, you can find hostels for as low as $10-15 USD/night by using apps like Hostelworld, Airbnb, or Dorms.com. I stayed in a dorm room for $12 USD/night in a hostel on Long Street in the City Center. Plan ahead and keep an eye out for deals.
Medium Budget
Prices for private rooms can vary depending on the neighborhood. Some hostels offer private rooms for $30-40/night, while others can charge $50+ per night. The cheapest private room I found on Long Street was in a hostel for $33 USD/night. Most hotels have rooms for around $60-70 USD/night.
High Budget
The higher-end hotels in Cape Town go for around 2,500 rand (about $130 USD) per night. For a more luxurious experience right on the ocean, consider staying at one of the high-end hotels, such as the O’Two Hotel, that can cost anywhere from $300+/night!
Check out the map below for available accommodations.
Tips for Visiting Cape Town
Before your trip to Cape Town, here are 5 tips to ensure your visit goes smoothly.
1. Don't hike alone
Cape Town has a ton of opportunities for hiking. Table Mountain is the most popular, and there are different paths you can choose. I chose the most difficult path, and I was very happy that I hiked with another person. It was very easy to get lost from the trail, and there were some parts of the hike where my friend and I had to help each other up. It’s never a good idea to hike alone, even for experienced hikers, because you never know what could happen.
2. Visit Long Street for nightlife
If you want to party in Cape Town, Long Street is the place to be. This famous street is centrally located in downtown, and is filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants. It is always buzzing with activity no matter what day of the week, but the weekends are the best time to visit. Just be careful at night, which brings us to our next tip…
3. Be cautious at night
When visiting Cape Town, it’s important to exercise caution, particularly at night. Although Cape Town is generally a safe city, there are some areas where crime can be an issue, especially after dark. It’s always a good idea to stay in well-lit areas with plenty of people around, and to avoid walking alone in unfamiliar places. Taking a taxi or ride-sharing service is a safer option when traveling at night, and if you do decide to go out after dark, it’s best to stick to areas that are known to be safe and popular with tourists.
4. Learn at least a few words in Xhosa
Xhosa is one of the 11 official languages in South Africa and is widely spoken in Cape Town. This language is known to be difficult because of the different click sounds. However, learning a few words in this language will go a long way. Locals will be impressed and show gratitude for you respecting their culture.
Molo (mo-lo) – Hello.
Ndiyabulela (n-dee-ya-boo-lay-luh) – Thank you.
5. Visit different neighborhoods
When visiting Cape Town, it’s important to explore different neighborhoods to fully experience the city’s diverse culture and lifestyle. Don’t just stick to the touristy areas like the Waterfront or Camps Bay, but also venture out to neighborhoods like Woodstock, Observatory, and Wynberg.
Woodstock is a hip and trendy area known for its street art and lively markets. Observatory, or “Obs,” is a student area with a vibrant nightlife and a laid-back atmosphere. Wynberg, with its historic buildings and diverse community, is a great destination for those interested in the city’s colonial past.
Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique perspective on Cape Town, so make sure to explore beyond the beaten path.
Great website Andy!
Lots of knowledge everywhere!
Thanks, Kevin! Glad you found it helpful.