Cape Town is Africa's most beautiful city, a statement few who've visited would argue. Table Mountain rises dramatically behind a glittering waterfront, penguins waddle on pristine beaches, and world-class wine estates sprawl across surrounding valleys. It's a city of contrasts:from the vibrant Bo-Kaap to the haunting history of Robben Island, from fine dining to bustling markets. For safari travelers, Cape Town is the perfect before or after destination, offering experiences found nowhere else on the continent.
Things to Do in Cape Town
Table Mountain
Natural landmarkIconic flat-topped mountain with cable car or hiking trails. Stunning views of the city and coastline.
Duration: ~3 hours
Robben Island
Historical siteUNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Tours led by former prisoners.
Duration: ~4 hours
Boulders Beach Penguins
WildlifeColony of African penguins that you can observe up close from boardwalks.
Duration: ~2 hours
Cape Point
Natural landmarkDramatic cliffs at the tip of the Cape Peninsula. Combine with Chapman's Peak drive.
Duration: ~5 hours
Cape Town Neighborhoods
Where to stay and explore
V&A Waterfront
Very safeTouristy, upscale, lively
Cape Town's premier shopping and entertainment district, set against a working harbor with Table Mountain views.
Price level: $$$
Camps Bay
SafeGlamorous, beachy, scenic
Trendy beach suburb with palm-lined promenade, sunset cocktails, and Atlantic Ocean views.
Price level: $$$$
Bo-Kaap
Generally safe during dayCultural, photogenic, authentic
Historic Cape Malay neighborhood with colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and rich cultural heritage.
Price level: $$
Gardens & City Bowl
Good, exercise caution at nightCentral, convenient, local
Central neighborhood at the foot of Table Mountain, mix of residential and boutique hotels.
Price level: $$-$$$
Food & Restaurants
Cape Town's food scene rivals any world city. Fresh seafood, Cape Malay cuisine, award-winning restaurants, and a thriving wine culture.
Must-Try Dishes
Bobotie
Cape Malay curried mince bake with egg topping
Bunny Chow
Curry served in a hollowed bread loaf
Braai
South African BBQ, a cultural institution
Top Restaurants
The Test Kitchen
$$$$Contemporary • Woodstock
Ranked among world's best restaurants
La Colombe
$$$$Fine dining • Constantia
Innovative tasting menus with views
Cape Town Nightlife
From sundowner spots to clubs, Cape Town has a vibrant nightlife. Long Street is the backpacker hub, Camps Bay for glamour, Sea Point for local vibe.
Best areas: Long Street, Camps Bay, V&A Waterfront, Bree Street
Kloof Street House
Bar/RestaurantGardens
Victorian house turned trendy bar with garden setting
Grand Africa Cafe & Beach
Beach clubV&A Waterfront
Sundowners with Atlantic views
Shopping in Cape Town
From the V&A Waterfront mall to quirky boutiques in Woodstock, Cape Town offers diverse shopping experiences.
Malls
- V&A Waterfront (Waterfront)
- Canal Walk (Century City)
Markets
- Old Biscuit Mill - Weekend market
- Greenmarket Square - Daily market
What to Buy
Safety in Cape Town
Cape Town has crime issues, but tourist areas are generally safe. Be street-smart, don't flash valuables, and avoid isolated areas at night.
Safe Areas
- ✓ V&A Waterfront
- ✓ Camps Bay
- ✓ Constantia wine area
- ✓ Tourist attractions
Avoid
- ✗ Unguided township visits
- ✗ Isolated areas at night
- ✗ Certain central areas after dark
Safety Tips
- • Use Uber rather than hailing taxis
- • Don't walk alone at night
- • Keep valuables out of sight
- • Lock car doors while driving
Getting Around Cape Town
Uber/Bolt
RecommendedSafest option for tourists, widely available and affordable.
Most trips $5-20
Rental Car
RecommendedBest for exploring beyond the city. Essential for wine country and Cape Point.
$30-60/day
MyCiti Bus
Limited routes but covers main tourist areas.
$1-3 per trip
Cape Town Weather
Mediterranean
| Month | High | Low | Rain | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| december | 26°C | 16°C | 15mm | Summer, dry, beach weather |
| january | 27°C | 16°C | 12mm | Peak summer |
| february | 27°C | 16°C | 10mm | Warm, dry |
| march | 25°C | 15°C | 18mm | Autumn begins |
| april | 22°C | 13°C | 48mm | Autumn |
| may | 19°C | 11°C | 79mm | Rainy season starts |
| june | 17°C | 9°C | 93mm | Winter, wettest month |
| july | 17°C | 8°C | 100mm | Cold, wet |
| august | 17°C | 9°C | 77mm | Late winter |
| september | 19°C | 10°C | 45mm | Spring begins, whale season |
| october | 21°C | 12°C | 31mm | Spring |
| november | 24°C | 13°C | 20mm | Warming up |
How Many Days in Cape Town?
3
Minimum
5
Recommended
7
Ideal