The Best Things To Do in Cape Town
We spent a whole month in Cape Town, including time exploring the nearby winelands and the Garden Route, and honestly, it blew us away. Cape Town is incredible, from its dramatic scenery and great food to its relaxed, outdoorsy lifestyle, it’s a city that keeps you moving.
You’ll find an active, adventurous culture here, whether you’re hiking, surfing, or hopping between neighbourhoods filled with independent cafes and restaurants.
Coming from the UK, you also get a lot for your money, which makes it an especially good place to slow down and enjoy.
Below is our full guide to the best things to do in Cape Town. We highly reccomend renting a car for your trip, it will allow you to move about freely and explore other areas outside of the central city but if you can’t do that then Ubers are pretty reasonable.
Hike Lion's Head
Views of the Atlantic Seaboard from Lion’s Head
An absolute must when visiting Cape Town. Lion’s Head is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and the hike up is surprisingly manageable. It takes around 2–3 hours for the full round trip from the car park, and the views from the top are truly spectacular - in our opinion, even better than from Table Mountain.
We’ve put together a full guide with everything you need to know before you go — read it here.
Other good hikes in Cape Town that we did were Skeleton Gorge (Table Mountain) and Chapman’s Peak.
Summit Table Mountain
Table Mountain Cable Car and City Bowl
Cape Town’s most iconic landmark, Table Mountain, is the backdrop to almost everything you do in the city. Whether you’re on the beach, in town, or driving along the coast, it’s always there towering above with that unmistakable figure.
We highly recommend hiking up rather than taking the cable car both ways.
The Skeleton Gorge trail is our favourite route — it’s a much more interesting climb than Platteklip Gorge, with changing scenery, forest sections, and stunning views as you ascend. It takes around 3.5 hours to reach the summit, after which you can walk across to the cable car station and glide down. Platteklip Gorge, on the other hand, is steeper, busier, and essentially a long staircase up.
Be prepared for rapidly changing weather on the mountain, and if you’re planning to take the cable car up, expect long queues, especially later in the day.
Visit Robben Island
One of the most important experiences in Cape Town, Robben Island gives you a real insight into South Africa’s struggle for freedom. The tour covers the country’s civil rights movement, including the imprisonment of Nelson Mandela, and is both powerful and emotional. You’ll visit the former maximum-security prison, learn from guides who are often ex-prisoners themselves, and see the tiny cell where Mandela spent 18 years of his life.
Ferries depart from the V&A Waterfront, and the whole experience — including the ferry ride, island tour, and return — takes around three to four hours.
It’s worth booking early in your trip as sailings are sometimes cancelled due to bad weather.
Read our full Robben Island guide here for more details and tips on what to expect.
Visit the Penguins at Boulders Beach
Yes, there are penguins in South Africa! And seeing them up close is incredible. These African penguins naturally live along the southern coast, drawn by the cool waters of the Atlantic. Sadly, their population has declined over the years due to habitat loss and overfishing, so the colonies around Cape Town are now carefully protected.
The most popular place to spot them is Boulders Beach, around a 40-minute drive from the city centre. You can swim in the sheltered bay, and if you’re lucky, a few curious penguins might waddle past. For guaranteed sightings, head to the nearby boardwalk viewing platforms where you can see hundreds of them nesting and swimming. Note that there are separate tickets for the beach and for the official viewing area.
If you’d prefer a quieter experience, Betty’s Bay is a great alternative. It’s about a two-hour drive from Cape Town and much less touristy. The colony there is part of the Stony Point Nature Reserve, and it’s a brilliant stop if you’re also planning to visit Hermanus for whale watching.
Explore Chapman's Peak Drive
Often called Chappies by locals, Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most breathtaking coastal routes in the world. It winds along the mountainside just south of Hout Bay, connecting through to Noordhoek and towards Kalk Bay, with dramatic cliffs on one side and endless ocean views on the other.
The drive itself is worth it for the scenery alone, but it’s also the perfect way to reach some of the southern beaches, tidal pools, and seaside restaurants. You can continue all the way to Kalk Bay, stopping along the way for photos, a swim, or a bite to eat. Boulders Beach, home to the famous penguin colony, is down this way too, making it easy to combine the two.
If you’re feeling active, you can even cycle it. We rented bikes and rode from Cape Town to Kalk Bay, which was one of the highlights of our trip.
For an extra challenge, you can also hike to the summit of Chapman’s Peak itself. The trail offers panoramic views over Hout Bay and the city beyond, and it’s well worth doing if you have the time.
Swim in the Tidal Pools
Saunders’ Rock Tidal Pool
Cape Town’s coastline is dotted with beautiful tidal pools that make for the perfect dip on a hot day — or a quick cool down after a morning run. These pools are man-made basins built along the rocky shore, designed to let the ocean water flow in naturally while keeping out the bigger waves and marine life. They’ve become a beloved part of Cape Town’s beach culture, offering safe and scenic spots to swim while surrounded by stunning sea views.
Our favourites were Saunders’ Rock and Camps Bay, both along the Atlantic Seaboard. Saunders Rocks quickly became our regular spot — it’s relaxed, local, and has that perfect mix of calm water and crashing waves beyond the wall. Camps Bay’s pool is larger and framed by palm trees and mountain views, making it great for a swim followed by a beachside coffee or brunch.
Be warned though — the water is icy cold year-round! Even in summer, you’ll feel that first plunge, but it’s all part of the experience and the refreshment that comes with it.
Explore Bo-Kaap
Perched on the slopes of Signal Hill, Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town’s most vibrant and historic neighbourhoods. The brightly painted houses and cobbled streets are instantly recognisable, but there’s a deep story behind them.
Bo-Kaap was historically home to Cape Malays — descendants of enslaved people brought from Indonesia, Malaysia, and other parts of Africa during the 17th and 18th centuries. The vivid colours of the houses are said to have symbolised freedom and celebration when residents were finally allowed to own their homes.
Today, Bo-Kaap remains a proud and close-knit community that preserves its Muslim and Malay heritage through food, architecture, and faith. Take time to wander the streets respectfully, and if you can, join a local walking tour to learn more about its cultural significance.
For a true taste of the area, book a cooking class or meal at Faeeza’s Home Kitchen — it’s one of the best ways to experience authentic Cape Malay food in a warm, family setting. If you’d like to stay in the heart of it all, La Rose Bed and Breakfast is a lovely guesthouse with colourful interiors that perfectly reflect the spirit of Bo-Kaap.
Concerts at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
Set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. It’s home to thousands of plant species, most of them native to South Africa, and the grounds are impeccably maintained with winding trails, manicured lawns, and shaded picnic spots.
It’s also the starting point for our favourite Table Mountain hike — the Skeleton Gorge route — which begins right from the garden. Even if you’re not hiking, it’s a wonderful place to spend a relaxed afternoon surrounded by nature.
In summer, Kirstenbosch transforms into one of the city’s best outdoor venues with its Sunset Concerts. Locals and visitors gather on the grass with picnics and blankets to watch live music as the sun sets behind the mountain. You can bring your own food and drinks or pre-order a picnic bundle on site. We tried the ready-made one, but next time we’d grab sandwiches and snacks from Giovanni’s Deli in Green Point or even just from Woolworths.
Explore the Markets
Neighbourgoods Market (Old Biscuit Mill)
We love markets — the buzz, the mix of smells, and the chance to taste, browse, and pick up something a bit different. Cape Town’s market scene is brilliant for food lovers and creatives, offering everything from gourmet bites to handmade crafts. Here are the ones we visited and what we thought of each:
Oranjezicht City Farm Market – Very popular and quite upmarket, packed with fresh produce, food stalls, and stylish crowd energy. It’s lovely but gets busy, especially with European tourists.
Neighbourgoods Market (Old Biscuit Mill) – Our favourite. It feels a bit more local, with independent shops, great food, and a relaxed, lively atmosphere that’s perfect for spending a few hours.
Mojo Market (Sea Point) – We lived nearby and came here often. Great food options, live music (we saw some brilliant reggae bands), and big screens showing sports. Perfect for an easy meal or drink.
Bay Harbour Market – In Hout Bay, filled with stalls selling crafts, clothes, and art. Food is more limited, but nearby Fish on the Rocks does incredible Snoek and chips right by the sea.
Time Out Market Cape Town – Smartly set up like the other Time Out markets around the world, but very touristy. Worth a quick visit if you’re already at the Waterfront.
The Watershed (V&A Waterfront) – Some nice shops and stalls, but the area feels heavily geared towards tourists. Convenient if you’re meeting friends, waiting for the Robben Island ferry, or heading to COY for dinner.
Catch Sunset at Signal Hill
Signal Hill offers one of the best panoramic views in Cape Town. It’s a classic spot to watch the sun dip below the Atlantic, lighting up the city and ocean in gold and orange hues.
The main car park at the top gets very busy around sunset, and traffic can back up along the narrow road. We recommend parking earlier at the small car park on the left-hand side as you drive up (Appleton Scout Campsite on Google Maps). From here, you’ll get a quieter, more intimate view and can walk along a short path to the main viewpoint if you like.
Relax on the Beaches
Camp’s Bay Beach with the 12 Apostles in the background
Cape Town is an ideal winter escape for anyone coming from the northern hemisphere. The weather is warm, the skies are clear, and the beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world.
Most are kept in excellent condition, with turquoise water, soft white sand, and plenty of atmosphere. You’ll also notice the beach crowd is effortlessly stylish, it’s definitely a place to people-watch as much as to sunbathe.
Most beaches have people renting umbrellas for around 120 Rand (£5 | $7 | €6), you can get the price down if you pay with cash (most have card machines).
Clifton Beaches – A series of four small coves sheltered from the wind. Clifton 4th was our favourite, with soft sand, calm water, and a sociable yet relaxed atmosphere. Popular with Cape Town’s wealthy influencers.
Glen Beach – Tucked between Clifton and Camps Bay, Glen Beach is small and scenic, popular with surfers and locals who want to avoid the larger crowds.
Camps Bay – A long, wide stretch of sand with plenty of room to spread out. There are bars and restaurants just across the road and a lovely tidal pool at the southern end.
Bloubergstrand Beach – North of the city, famous for its postcard views of Table Mountain and a favourite spot for kite surfers.
Llandudno Beach – A stunning, secluded beach south of the city, surrounded by boulders and cliffs, perfect for a quiet afternoon.
Noordhoek Beach – A vast and peaceful stretch at the end of Chapman’s Peak Drive, ideal for walks and photos rather than swimming.
Hout Bay – A pretty beach framed by mountains and fishing boats, great for a stroll or a seafood lunch nearby.
Kalk Bay – A charming coastal town beach with a relaxed feel, best combined with exploring the cafes and antique shops in town.
Muizenberg Beach – Famous for its colourful beach huts and consistent surf, it’s the best place to learn to surf in Cape Town.
Boulders Beach – Home to the iconic African penguin colony, where you can swim alongside these charming locals in a protected bay.
Explore the City with a Food Tour
We love doing food tours whenever we travel. They’re the perfect way to get a real feel for a city — you get to taste local dishes, explore different neighbourhoods, and with a good guide, you’ll pick up brilliant insider tips and recommendations for the rest of your stay. We always try to do one early in a trip to help us understand the culture and food scene straight away.
In Cape Town, we joined the Eat Like a Local food tour around the City Bowl, and it was a fantastic experience. We sampled a wide range of cuisines that reflect the city’s rich mix of cultures, from Cape Malay to African and modern South African dishes.
Along the way, we stopped at several iconic city landmarks and learned more about Cape Town’s fascinating history.
It’s a great way to experience different flavours while also deepening your understanding of the city and its people.
Explore Langa With a Local
Langa is Cape Town’s oldest township, established in the 1920s during apartheid. Townships were areas where Black South Africans were forced to live under segregation laws, and today they remain vibrant, tight-knit communities that are full of history, creativity, and resilience.
Visiting a township with a local guide offers a much deeper, more meaningful experience than simply passing through. You’ll get to meet residents, learn about daily life, and see the community from their perspective. It’s important to choose tours that are led by locals and directly support the area, rather than “poverty tourism” tours that don’t contribute to the local economy.
We joined a food tour in Langa and it was incredible — one of the highlights of our time in Cape Town. We tried authentic African dishes, met inspiring people, and left with a far greater appreciation of the city’s cultural roots and diversity.
Experience a Tasting Menu
Belly of the Beast
Food in South Africa is excellent value compared with many other destinations, and Cape Town has an incredible fine dining scene. It’s one of the best cities in the world to enjoy a high-quality tasting menu without the hefty price tag you’d find elsewhere.
We don’t usually go for fine dining on our travels, but Cape Town is an exception — you really get your money’s worth here. Some of our favourite high-end restaurants include:
Belly of the Beast – A small, intimate restaurant offering a creative set menu that changes daily.
Pot Luck Club – Trendy and vibrant, with incredible small plates and views from the Old Biscuit Mill.
La Colombe – Consistently ranked among the world’s best, known for its refined, theatrical dining experience.
FYN – Japanese-inspired South African cuisine in a sleek, contemporary space.
Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo – Coastal fine dining with breathtaking sea views.
Salon – Luke Dale Roberts’ more experimental space for adventurous eaters.
Salsify at the Roundhouse – Elegant and seasonal dishes served in a historic building overlooking Camps Bay.
COY – A stylish waterfront spot offering modern, artful tasting menus in a relaxed yet polished setting.
Shop, Eat and Drink in Central Cape Town
Long Street, Bree Street and Kloof Street form the buzzing heart of Cape Town’s food, nightlife, and shopping scene.
This central area is where you’ll find some of the city’s best restaurants, cafés, bars, and independent boutiques, all within easy walking distance of each other.
Bree Street in particular has become known as the city’s culinary hub, filled with trendy eateries and wine bars, while Kloof Street has a more laid-back, neighbourhood feel with plenty of coffee shops and small restaurants. Long Street brings the energy, with its lively mix of bars, music venues, and vintage shops that stay open late into the night.
If you’re visiting on the first Thursday of the month, don’t miss First Thursdays — an evening when art galleries open late, restaurants spill onto the pavements, and the streets turn into a lively outdoor festival. It’s one of the best ways to experience Cape Town’s creative side and mingle with locals.
Bree Street is car free on Sundays from 10.00 to 17.00 as part of the Bree Street Sundays initiative, which turns the strip into a relaxed pedestrian zone with a street festival vibe.
Walk the Seapoint Promenade
The Sea Point Promenade is one of Cape Town’s most loved spots, stretching several kilometres along the Atlantic Seaboard from Mouille Point through Green Point to Sea Point. It’s where locals come to walk, run, cycle, or simply sit with a coffee and watch the waves crash against the sea wall.
The area has a lively, community feel — you’ll pass dog walkers, street vendors, and plenty of people enjoying the ocean views.
A couple of streets in-land from the promenade you will find cafés, bars, boutique shops and restaurants.
That’s why we highly reccomend making Seapoint or Greenpoint your base for your stay in Cape Town. Together, Green Point and Sea Point capture Cape Town’s easy-going coastal lifestyle — active, social, and filled with beautiful views.
Join a Local Run Club
Cape Town has an incredibly active culture — wherever you go, you’ll see people out walking, running, or cycling, especially along the coast. Joining a local run club is a great way to meet people and experience the city from a different perspective while keeping fit.
The Sea Point Promenade is the most popular running route, with ocean views, fresh air, and plenty of company at all times of day. There are also countless trails and park routes across the city if you prefer something more scenic or challenging.
Some popular local running clubs include:
Burnt Run Club
Running Late Club
Tuesday Trails
Hout Bay Leopards
Whether you’re training for a race or just looking to stay active on your trip, Cape Town is the perfect city to lace up and get moving.
Get Cycling
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Cape Town — you’ll cover plenty of ground, stay active, and enjoy some of the most scenic roads in the world. The coastal routes are especially beautiful, winding past beaches and mountain views with fresh sea air all the way.
Head out towards Kalk Bay or Hout Bay for a rewarding ride and stop for lunch at one of the seaside restaurants. If you’re up for a challenge, cycle Chapman’s Peak Drive — it’s one of the most stunning coastal roads anywhere, with dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views.
You can rent bikes from:
Cycling Friends in the City
Chapman’s Peak Cycles (Hout Bay)
East City Cycles (City Centre)
It’s an unforgettable way to experience Cape Town’s mix of sea, mountains, and vibrant neighbourhoods.
Take a Surf Lesson at Muizenberg Beach
A short drive from central Cape Town, Muizenberg Beach is the best place to learn to surf in the city. The waves here are gentle and consistent, making it ideal for beginners. It’s one of the most famous surf spots in South Africa, easily recognised by its colourful beach huts.
We did a lesson with Stoked Surf School, who picked us up from Camps Bay and took us to Muizenberg for a full morning session. The instructors were brilliant, and by the end we were all standing on our boards and catching waves.
You can also drive there yourself and spend the rest of the day hanging out on the beach, grabbing lunch, or exploring the local cafés and surf shops.
Visit Kalk Bay
Kalk Bay is one of Cape Town’s most charming seaside suburbs, set along the False Bay coastline. Once a traditional fishing village, it’s now a vibrant spot filled with independent shops, galleries, and excellent restaurants, while still keeping its laid-back, coastal charm.
You can cycle or drive here from the city, following a beautiful coastal route with ocean views the whole way. Once in Kalk Bay, spend some time exploring the small beach and tidal pool, perfect for a quick swim or a relaxing sunbathe.
Food is a big part of the appeal here, with plenty of cafés and seafood restaurants lining the harbour. The standout for us was Kalky’s, a local institution serving generous portions of Snoek and chips and perfectly grilled prawns — simple, fresh, and absolutely delicious.
Also check out Olympia cafe for a coffee and breakfast or Salt for a seafood lunch
Visit Hout Bay
Hout Bay
On the other side of Table Mountain, Hout Bay offers a quieter, more local feel while still being close to the city. We stayed here for a week and used it as a base to cycle and explore the Cape Peninsula, with easy access to scenic routes like Chapman’s Peak Drive.
The area has a beautiful beach, a working harbour, and a relaxed village atmosphere with great seafood restaurants and local markets. It’s a brilliant place to unwind, enjoy the slower pace, and still be within easy reach of everything Cape Town has to offer.
Grill Some Steak on the Braai
South Africans absolutely love a braai (and whatever you do, don’t call it a barbecue).
It’s more than just grilling food; it’s a social ritual and a core part of local culture. When we stayed in Mossel Bay, our Airbnb host had nine braais at home, which says it all.
If you’re staying in an Airbnb, there’s a good chance you’ll have one too. Meat in South Africa is incredibly affordable and high quality, so find a good butcher, grab a few steaks or boerewors sausages, and get your grill going.
Pop into Woolworths and get some braai salt for the meat and some side dishes, season the meat an hour before then grill it over some braai wood.
We found some butchers selling big rib-eye steaks for around £4!
You’ll have everything you need for the perfect South African evening — a cold drink, good company, and a sizzling braai as the sun goes down.
Fuel Up on Cape Town’s Coffee Scene
Cape Town has a thriving coffee scene, with countless independent cafés and roasteries dotted across the city. You’ll find everything from minimalist brew bars to cosy neighbourhood spots serving expertly made flat whites.
One place that truly stands out is Truth Coffee, often named among the best coffee shops in the world. Beyond its striking steampunk design, it’s the coffee itself — roasted and brewed with real expertise — that makes it unforgettable.
If you’re as coffee-obsessed as we are, check out our full guide to Cape Town’s best coffee shops for all our favourites and hidden gems around the city.
Catch a Cricket Match at Newlands
Newlands is often called the most beautiful cricket ground in the world and it’s easy to see why. With Table Mountain towering in the background, it’s a breathtaking place to spend an afternoon or evening, even if you’re not a huge cricket fan.
Evening matches are especially memorable as the sun sets behind the mountains and the lights come on. If you’re visiting during the season, try to catch an international match or an SA20 league game like we did — the energy is fantastic, with music, food stalls, and a lively local crowd.
Explore the V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is one of Cape Town’s most popular areas, set against a stunning backdrop of Table Mountain and the harbour. It’s filled with restaurants, shops, and attractions, all within a beautifully restored dockside setting.
We mainly explored it when visiting COY for dinner and before our Robben Island trip, but it’s worth a stroll even if you’re not there to shop. It’s undeniably touristy, yet the views, lively atmosphere, and easy access to the water make it a pleasant spot to wander, grab a drink, or enjoy a meal by the harbour.
Other Things to do in Cape Town
As you can see, the list goes on and on so below we have highlighted some of the other things Cape Town has to offer that we either didn’t do, or don’t know enough about to write about in more detail.
Stroll through Company’s Garden – A peaceful oasis in the city centre, home to shaded walkways, fountains, and friendly squirrels. It’s surrounded by key landmarks like the South African Museum and Parliament.
Explore the Street Art in Woodstock – Explore Cape Town’s creative side with colourful murals covering the streets and warehouses of Woodstock. You can wander on your own or join a guided art walk to learn about the artists and stories behind the work.
Take a Helicopter Tour of the City – For a truly unforgettable view, take a helicopter ride over the coastline. You’ll see Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and the beaches from an entirely new perspective.
Drive to the Cape of Good Hope – Take a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak to the southern tip of the peninsula, where dramatic cliffs meet the ocean. Keep an eye out for baboons, ostriches, and incredible coastal views.
Hike to the New Cape Point Lighthouse – From the main viewpoint, continue along the path to the newer lighthouse for quieter surroundings and even better views of the rugged coastline.
Visit District Six Museum – A moving museum documenting the forced removals of the apartheid era, offering an important insight into Cape Town’s recent history.
Visit Iziko Slave Lodge – Located near Company’s Garden, this museum explores the history of slavery in South Africa and its lasting cultural impact.
Atlantis Sand Dunes – A short drive north of the city, the white dunes are perfect for sandboarding or 4x4 adventures. The landscape is stunning, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Shop at Century City – A modern development just outside the city centre with shopping, dining, and the Intaka Island Nature Reserve — a wetland sanctuary that’s great for a peaceful walk or some shopping in the mall.
More from Cape Town
Cape Town has it all. Stunning beaches, incredible food, and endless outdoor adventures. We spent a month exploring the city and this guide brings together our favourite things to do, from sunset spots and food tours to running clubs, wine bars, and fine dining.