Things to Do in Cape Town

Cape Town is the second largest city in South Africa, as well as the legislative capital of the country. It is Africa’s southernmost city , located close to the famous Cape Winelands.

Here is a list of some of the most popular things to do in Cape Town.

Hike to the top of Table Mountain

Table Mountain is Cape Town’s famous icon. There are 350 paths to the summit so there surely is at least some you can try and match your fitness level. Make sure to wear proper walking shoes and bring lots of water. The top can be reached in about 6 hours. It is advisable to walk with someone experienced who knows the route well.

Visit the South African Museum

The South African Museum houses more than 1.5 million specimens of scientific importance, from ancient fossils to fish caught this month. You can also see old stone tools, traditional clothing, alongside with the latest T-shirts printed several weeks ago. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday.

Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium

The Aquarium , located at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront houses over 3,000 living animals which live off the coast of South Africa. Make sure not to miss the daily feeding of the fishes at 3:30 p.m. The Aquarium is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The entrance fee is ZAR 94 (about US$12.10) for an adult, ZAR 72 (about US$9.25) for a child (14-17 years old) and ZAR 45 (about US$5.80) for a child (4-13 years old) if you purchase the tickets online.

Visit the Castle of Good Hope

It is the country’s oldest surviving building. It comprises displays of historical military paraphernalia, as well as an art collection. It is possible to tour the castle from Monday until Saturday. The entrance fee is ZAR 25 (about US$3.20).

See the birds at the World Of Birds

The World of Birds is the largest bird park in Africa and is home to over 3,000 birds and small animals. You can get a very close view of their life; watch them feed, sing and incubate eggs. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The entrance fee is ZAR 70 (about US$9) for an adult and ZAR 40 (about US$5.15) for a child.

Wine tasting at Durbanville Hills

Mix the tasting of exclusive wines with stunning views of Table Bay, Robben Island and Cape Town and Table Mountain in the background. There are twice-daily guided tours offered by the cellar staff. The cellar is open daily.

Learn the history at Robben Island

The island is located off the coast of South Africa and was used during the apartheid to house political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela. There are tours available several times a day. Some tours are run by former prisoners and they offer a unique insight into what happened there. The tour – including the ferry ride – takes 3.5 hours and costs ZAR 220 (about US$28.30).

Visit the Planetarium

There are only two planetaria in South Africa. The Planetarium in Cape Town is housed in the South African Museum building. There are shows for absolutely anyone who comes to see the stars. Inside the auditorium, they recreate the sky, so regardless of the weather outside you are able to see everything. There are show from Monday to Friday at 2 p.m. There’s a Thursday evening show at 8 p.m. During the weekend (Saturday and Sunday) there are three shows at: 12 p.m. , 1 p.m and 2:30 p.m.

Hike to the top of the Lion’s Head

The hike to the top of Lion’s Head takes about 3 hours and it’s quite challenging. But the view from the top is amazing and worth the climb. Pack a picnic basket to refill your energy when you get there. Don’t forget to bring enough water and wear appropriate shoes for hiking.

Walk hand in hand on the Sea Point Promenade

Both locals and tourists enjoy spending time on the Sea Point Promenade. Weather you walk, jog or just stroll hand in hand with your loved one, you’ll find this a romantic and relaxing place to be. The promenade runs from Bantry Bay to Mouille Point. Come here in the early morning or at sunset to watch the spectacle of the sun.

Spend Sunday morning at the Green Point Flea Market

In the car park outside the Green Point stadium, there is a flea market taking place each Sunday morning. It’s an interesting experience and you might even find stuff you want to bring back home.

Soak up the sun and relax at the Boulders Beach

Pack a picnic basket and get to the Boulders Beach. Swim in the warm water and you might have some penguins as beach neighbors.

Spend a relaxing day at the Llandudno Beach

Rent a car and drive to the Llandudno Beach, located about 18 km from the center of the city. The drive to the beach offers lovely panoramic views. It is one of the secluded beaches in the area and definitely a place you must visit while in Cape Town.

Photo credits: Table Mountain , Castle of Good , Robben Island , Lion’s Head , Boulders Beach