The Cape Town metropolitan area offers the visitor everything that he or she could possibly desire. There is everything here, from mountains to beaches, giant sand dunes, vineyards which offer some of the finest vintages on Earth, a complete cross section of life and far too much to list in just a few words.
The Cape Towns City Bowl is full of things to see and do - all within easy walking distance. The Castle of Good Hope, one of the oldest buildings in Cape Town, is situated just above the railway station.
At the southern tip of the Cape peninsula is the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve which stretches from Schuster's Bay in the West around forty kilometres of coastline to Smitswinkel Bay in the East. This 7750 hectare fynbos reserve has more species than the whole of the United Kingdom and these are chiefly heathers and proteas. Several species of buck are to be found here as well as baboons and zebra.
Few of the world's coastal cities have as famous a backdrop as Cape Town. Table Mountain looms over the city, its face changing hour by hour as the sun moves through the heavens shifting the shadows on the giant mountain. The mountain is situated in the Table Mountain National Park and this covers an area exceeding 2700 hectares, encompassing Signal Hill and Lion's Head. There are more than 500 ways of climbing to the summit of Table Mountain, but the easiest is by cable car, the lower station being situated on Tafelberg Road.
Some of the best scenery and flora can be found in Cape Town's Silvermine Nature Reserve which extends from the Muizenberg area to Noordhoek Peak in the East. There are several designated walks in the reserve and they offer some breathtaking views of False Bay. In the centre of False Bay is Seal Island, home to some 50000 seals, which are best seen during the summer months of the mating season. Simonstown on the west side of False Bay houses South Africa's main naval base.
The port of Cape Town is arguably the most famous of all African ports and is equipped for most ships. There is a large container port and two dry docks, the larger of which is more than 350 metres in length. Part of the old port has been renovated and turned into the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, a mixture of restaurants, pubs, up-market shops and even a craft market. The Two Oceans Aquarium has wonderful displays of sharks, penguins, and many more creatures found in the nearby waters, including a kelp forest. The Waterfront is a must for any visitor to Cape Town, and boat trips to Robben Island start from here. The city of Cape Town is served by a major International Airport, which is situated in the city's eastern suburbs.
If you're visiting Cape Town in summer, be sure to see the colourful faces of the Minstrel Carnival that takes place every January through the downtown streets.
There's also lots to see and do outside the City Bowl. Just around the corner towards the Southern Suburbs you'll find the spot which previously hosted the Rhodes Memorial, just above the University of Cape Town, which affords a magnificent view across most of Cape Town Metropole. A little further down the M3 road is the world class Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Newlands, which was once part of the Cecil Rhodes estate. Every Sunday throughout the summer the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts take place here in the main garden.
The Atlantic Coast offers a multitude of holiday resorts and beaches. Far to the North of the main city is Bloubergstrand, and from here you will enjoy the finest views of the city with Table Mountain as the backdrop and Robben Island in the foreground. Here you can watch dolphins playing the whole year round. On the peninsula to the south of the port are the suburbs of Granger Bay, Three Anchor Bay, Sea Point, Bantry Bay and Clifton Beach, Camps Bay, Llandudno and Hout Bay. Drive further south past Chapman's Peak to Kommetjie, a rustic village famous for its crayfish, and Scarborough, a village well-known for its indigenous gardens.
Cape Town is a large and cosmopolitan city with the world to offer to the visitor. The city is just the setting off point for the rest of the Fairest Cape From here the visitor can explore the Winelands and experience some of the finest wines in the world. Along the coast the N2 leads to the Garden Route and the Klein Karoo, and the N1 takes you through the vast open plains of the Great Karoo, a semi arid desert that was once covered with salt marshes.
Cape Town, often referred to as the "Mother City," is a vibrant and diverse destination in South Africa, offering a wide range of attractions and activities.
Here are 20 things to do or see in Cape Town:
1. Table Mountain: Take the cableway or hike up to the summit for panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Robben Island: Visit the historical site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years.
3. V&A Waterfront: Explore shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Two Oceans Aquarium in this bustling harbor area.
4. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: Stroll through one of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens, located at the eastern foot of Table Mountain.
5. Cape Point: Visit the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula and enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery.
6. Boulders Beach: See the famous colony of African penguins in Simon's Town.
7. Chapman's Peak Drive: Take a scenic drive along this famous coastal road offering breathtaking views.
8. Bo-Kaap: Wander through this colorful neighborhood known for its vibrant houses and rich cultural heritage.
9. District Six Museum: Learn about the history of District Six and the impact of apartheid on its residents.
10. Signal Hill and Lion's Head: Enjoy sunset views or hike up Lion's Head for a more adventurous experience.
11. Castle of Good Hope: Visit the oldest colonial building in South Africa, which now serves as a museum.
12. Greenmarket Square: Shop for African souvenirs and crafts at this bustling market.
13. Company’s Garden: Relax in this historic park, home to the South African Museum and the National Gallery.
14. Clifton Beaches: Spend a day at one of the four stunning beaches at Clifton, each with its unique charm.
15. Hout Bay: Explore this charming fishing village, enjoy seafood, and take a boat trip to Seal Island.
16. Groot Constantia: Visit South Africa’s oldest wine estate for a wine tasting and tour.
17. Zeitz MOCAA: Explore contemporary African art at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa.
18. Muizenberg Beach: Go surfing or simply enjoy the colorful beach huts and vibrant atmosphere.
19. Noon Gun: Witness the firing of the historical Noon Gun on Signal Hill, a daily tradition since 1806.
20. The Old Biscuit Mill: Visit this trendy market in Woodstock, known for its food stalls, shops, and vibrant atmosphere.
Cape Town's rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty make it a destination with something for everyone to enjoy.
B's Place provides self catering apartment accommodation in Welgemoed near Bellville, Cape Town. Welgemoed is a quiet and tranquil area in the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town. Accommodation comprises of a self catering apartment. Sleeps 2 adults sharing. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Cat's Eye Cottages provides tranquil self catering accommodation in the quiet suburb of Vredekloof near Brackenfell, Cape Town. Cat's Eye Cottages, comprises two luxurious air-conditioned self catering suites, Cat’s Eye Jewel and Cat’s Eye Gem. Located in …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Situated in Bloubergstrand village, in Cape Town, a stone's throw away from one of the most beautiful beaches on the South African coast line, you will find this holiday retreat. Ideal for the discerning traveler, Nick's Seaside Rest.... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Hidden Way provides self catering flatlet accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town. Hidden Way is situated in a quiet pan-handle with secure, covered off-street parking and a private patio. The flatlet is self-catering and has a separate fully-equipped kitc …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Established in 1996, Blue Mountain Guest House has a proud 26-year reputation of offering very comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation, at excellent rates, to thousands of satisfied business and leisure guests. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Excellent Guesthouse offers luxury, comfort, style and warmth at affordable prices. 14 double rooms with en-suites is tastefully furnished and equipped with hot and cold air conditioners, TV Satellite, coffee-making facilities, a safe and more... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Logan's Lodge offers self catering apartment accommodation in Gordons Bay, Cape Town. This well equipped self catering apartment has its own private entrance and offers 2 private bedrooms - 1 with queen-size bed and the other has 2 single beds. There is …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sandown Lodge is a charming 19th Century Georgian Guest House, centrally situated in picturesque surroundings in Rondebosch, Cape Town. Close to Newlands Cricket ground and the University of Cape Town which are within walking distance... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
La Cotte Inn provides comfortable and good value self catering accommodation in Oak Glen, Bellville, Cape Town. Oak Glen is a centrally situated suburb close to main routes to Cape Town, Paarl, Stellenbosch etc. La Cotte Inn provides peaceful... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Rondekuil Self Catering Cottages in the country, about 10 minutes drive from Durbanville and 25 minutes from the heart of Cape Town is positioned amongst rolling hills with breath-taking views of the Boland Mountain Ranges and Table Mountain. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
UPSTAIRS @ No. 42 is a real home from home with beautiful mountain views and conveniently appointed for a relaxing break. Drive into secure parking right at the entrance. Up the stairs you will find a lounge-dining-kitchen area - fully equipped with TV & …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Winelands Villa Guesthouse is located in the beautiful town of Somerset West, perfect for the discerning guest who values privacy, comfort and hospitality. We offer ten spacious luxury rooms, all with en suite bathrooms and 3 self catering units. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ramasibi Bed & Breakfast would like to offer you customer satisfaction in a home away from home where service is our focus. Ramasibi Bed & Breakfast consists of five bedrooms with four en-suites and the fifth room's bathroom has been fully equipped... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Thatchwood Cottage is situated in Pinelands which offers a self contained cottage with its own entrance and secure off street parking. There is a swimming pool and tranquil garden where guests can relax. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bel Ombre Cottages provide self catering cottage accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town. Bel Ombre Cottages are luxuriously furnished and fully equipped self catering cottages in the beautiful Constantia Valley, the ideal base from which to explore... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Boulders Beach Hotel is Boulders, Simon's Town is situated just 70 meters from the World Heritage Site of Boulders Beach renowned for it's breeding African Penguin Colony. This is one of the 'must see' recommendations for tourists visiting Cape Town. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Karrad Guest Lodge provides self catering accommodation in Hout Bay, Cape Town. One bedroom, two bedroom or a three bedroomed cottage at reasonable rates. Lovely pastoral setting with mountain views. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Our cozy, individually managed Inn "Somer Place B&B" is located at the foot of the Helderberg Nature Reserve in the quiet, safe neighborhood of Somerset West. All of our 5 spacious double rooms and also the large living room are equipped with... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Located on Blouberg's beautiful beachfront is Aandvari Ocean View, a modern and luxurious sea-facing studio apartment, perfectly suited to honeymoon accommodation, special getaways, up market business accommodation or for a fun seaside holiday... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.