Places to Visit & Things to Do in Cape Town
Known for stunning vistas, local delicacies and a diverse heritage scene – Cape Town might be the oldest city in South Africa, but it is nevertheless a modern cosmopolitan hub. From the coast to the mountains, there’s plenty to discover.
Sights & Attractions in Cape Town
It's hard to miss Table Mountain as it looms dramatically above Cape Town. For picturesque views across Cape Town, take advantage of the varied ascends available of this iconic sight. The Platteklip Gorge hike is ideal for those who want a straightforward walk, or try the India Venster trail if you’re a more seasoned hiker. Of course, the cable car to the top is the major attraction, offering 360-degree views as it takes you over 1,000 metres above Cape Town to the summit. If you’re geographically minded, dedicate time to visiting the mountainous Cape Peninsula. Take in stops at Kalk Bay for its harbour-side foods, Boulders Bay for the penguins, Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, and maybe even an ocean drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive.
Art & Culture in Cape Town
Cape Town’s multicultural history offers a myriad of art and design. Start at the Zeit Museum of Contemporary Art Africa and take time to look up at the museum’s striking building that was once a waterside grain silo from the 1820s. Nearby, in the Woodstock district, take in exhibitions at WHATIFTHEWORLD, Stevenson Gallery, and Goodman Gallery. As you wander between the galleries, look around at the frequent murals across the neighbourhood which transform the area into an open-air gallery. Back in the city centre, WORLDART, the Association for Visual Arts, and Gallery MOMO exhibit the works of new artists and the latest contemporary pieces. Shows, musicals and performances can be seen at Artscape and the Baxter Theatre Centre, while the Cape Town Opera presents regular performances throughout the year at the Artscape Theatre and Opera House.
Shopping in Cape Town
The biggest shopping location in Cape Town is along the V&A Waterfront, covering everything from designer stores including Louis Vuitton and Gucci to high-street brands. But, as a former World Design Capital, it comes as no surprise that much of the fashion offerings in the city lie beyond the shopping centre. Stay on the waterfront and you’ll find the Watershed, a craft and design space that hosts over 150 creators, offering art, clothing, jewellery and food with a local flair. Stop by Mungo & Jemima for women’s clothing from South African designers, or Missibaba in Woodstock for handmade luxury leather goods with innovative designs. While KLûK CGDT, the award-winning fashion house, can be found near the city centre and releases new clothing collections three times a year.
Food & Drink in Cape Town
With Winelands nearby, it’s not surprising that some of the best restaurants in the country choose Cape Town as their base. Visit La Colombe on the Silvermist Estate for its multi-award-winning French cuisine, or try the Azure Restaurant at the 12 Apostles Hotel, which aims to centre local culinary delicacies. Cape Town also boasts a vibrant market culture. The Neighbourgoods Market in Woodstock has street food, local producers and designers. While the Oranjezicht City Farm Market by the beach caters for all diets and hosts a selection of lifestyle stalls too. In recent years, the number of coffee roasters in Cape Town has risen dramatically – Truth, Rosetta Roastery, Tribe, Deluxe and Origin are all local favourites.
Unique to Cape Town
The stunning geography of Cape Town is what makes this city stand out. Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to breathtaking views of the city from vantage points Lion’s Head, Signal Hill and Table Mountain. Other unique attractions include the Cape Floral Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Here, you’ll find Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, which regularly holds summer concerts and art exhibitions and is a perfect picnic setting. Beach lovers should try the oceanfronts at Clifton, Llandudno, Noordhoek and Muizenberg, while the tidal pools and playgrounds at Sea Point, as well as its beaches and walking routes.
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