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About this guide

Cape Town is an enriching destination city that marries history and adventure. As the legislative capital of South Africa and its second-largest metropolis, Cape Town has stunning vistas from the iconic Table Mountain to the azure shores of Table Bay. The adventure capital beckons travelers from around the world to book thrilling experiences, relax on pristine beaches, and indulge in cultural richness that extends far beyond its picturesque scenery.

Get Away: Getting To and Around Cape Town, South Africa

By Air 

The best way to reach Cape Town is by flying into Cape Town International Airport directly from major international hubs. Most major airlines offer non-stop flights to the airport, making it a convenient and time-efficient option for most travelers worldwide. 

By Car

Exploring Cape Town by renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to navigate the city and visit various attractions, including the Cape Peninsula and wine regions. Be mindful of traffic and parking, especially in the city center during peak traffic times.

By Public Transit

The MyCiTi Bus Rapid Transit system and Metrorail offer extensive coverage, connecting major attractions and suburbs. The "MyConnect" card gives easy access to buses and trains. Minibus taxis are also a common mode of transport around Cape Town.

Explore Cape Town, South Africa on Foot

Cape Town’s pedestrian-friendly areas, like the V&A Waterfront and Cape Town's historic center, should be experienced on foot when possible. The walkable areas in the city have so many scenic views, vibrant art, and shops to find.

Quick facts

South African Standard Time (SAST)

South African Rand (ZAR or R)

Afrikaans, Xhosa, and English

Good For

African Art, Culture, & History

Environmental Enthusiasts

Food and Wine Connoisseurs

Romantic Getaways

Keep in mind

Gourmet

Gourmet: Places to Eat In Cape Town, South Africa

Tapi Tapi

Tapi Tapi is more than just a place for ice cream, cocktails, or deli products—it celebrates African diversity. The menu includes Zimbabwe Mweya with rooibos and imphepho smoke, and vegan West African Thiakry with millet couscous. 

Pahari African Restaurant

The traditional Zimbabwean food at Pahari African Restaurant creates unique delicacies, like Matemba crispy baby fish and beef braai. They also offer an authentic African cooking class for a fully immersive cultural experience. 

Pang Specialty Coffee

Located inside a cool bicycle rental space, Pang Specialty Coffee is a local gem in Cape Town. The creative hub is a great place for digital nomads to work while enjoying innovative hot or iced coffee brews and classic pastries. 

Utopia Cape Town 

The multi-award-winning ultimate seafood restaurant Utopia Cape Town serves bistro-style Mediterranean-influenced dishes with fresh local ingredients. The menu variety includes an affordable 5-course tasting, and local wines complement the breathtaking views from the 15th floor.

Pitso’s Kitchen

From delectable kotas to sizzling braai platters, Pitso’s Kitchen at the V&A Waterfront serves South Africa's culinary heritage. Guests can enjoy traditional African dishes in indoor and outdoor seating areas. 

Mofire African Cuisine

The owners of Mofire African Cuisine created their signature Mofire soup inspired by their reality show experience in the Drakensberg Mountains. This love for South African foods expands in their menu including game meat, wild fruits, and organic vegetables. 

Play

Play: Things To Do In Cape Town, South Africa

7-Day Meet Me In Cape Town Tour 

For wine aficionados, this 7-day wine experience educates visitors about the city's history while savoring award-winning wines. Zuri Wine Tasting founder Tuanni Price created this to make the world of South African wine accessible to Black travelers. 

Lion's Head Sunrise & Sunset Hike

This sunrise and sunset hike has breathtaking vistas of Cape Town’s natural beauty like the Hottentots Holland Mountains. Expert guides provide safety headlamps, snacks, and a memorable photo-op in Table Mountain National Park.

The Cape Town Essentials Food Tour

A local guide sharing the city’s rich history and foodie culture on this essential food tour in Cape Town. Guests enjoy at least five food tastings and alcohol samplings in this small-group experience.

Shark Cage Diving and Viewing with Transport

This heart-pounding shark cage diving adventure in Cape Town is an up-close encounter with great white sharks near Dyer Island. An onboard marine biologist provides safety insights with organizers providing hotel pick-up, a complimentary breakfast, and diving gear. 

Aquila Game Reserve Wildlife Safari 

The Aquila Game Reserve Wildlife Safari in Cape Town is a guided tour with the "Big Five" game animals and Verreaux's eagle. With included transportation, lunch, and hotel pickup, this is an educational hassle-free adventure in the heart of Cape Town.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Nestled against Table Mountain, the world-renowned Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a stunning setting and dedication to biodiversity. This is a must-visit destination to see South Africa's rich plant life and the sustainable development of SANBI's vital work.

Cape Peninsula Tour & Good Hope

This all-inclusive peninsula tour in Cape Town is a guided hike to Good Hope with a hotel pickup and a delicious picnic lunch. For a budget-friendly adventure, visitors can book a Seal Island boat cruise and see the African penguin encounter at Boulders Beach. 

1-Hour Coastal Catamaran Cruise

Sailing from V&A Waterfront to the Green Point lighthouse and back, the Coastal Catamaran Cruise has stunning views of Cape Town and Table Mountain. With morning or afternoon departures, it's the ideal way to explore the coastline without having a lengthy time commitment. 

Kayak With Dolphins

For travelers dreaming of kayaking with dolphins, this excursion starts from the serene V&A Waterfront to the vibrant Atlantic Ocean. Visitors will see stunning local landmarks and end with a photo in the Table Mountain panorama.