Cape Town: A full Guide to South Africa’s Mother City

Cape Town, known as the “Mother City,” is a breathtaking destination where nature, adventure, and culture blend seamlessly. From the iconic Table Mountain to the stunning beaches and world-class vineyards, Cape Town offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, foodie, or history buff, this guide will help you make the most of your trip. As one of our absolute favorite cities in the world, it’s a place we can return to again and again. To help you plan your journey beyond the city, explore our South Africa guide and see how to combine your Cape Town adventure with a safari or road trip using our South Africa itinerary guide.

How to get to Cape Town

✈️ By plane: The easiest way to reach Cape Town is by flying into Cape Town International Airport (CPT), which serves both international and domestic flights. Many major airlines operate direct flights from cities like London, Amsterdam, Dubai, and New York. From the airport, you can reach the city center via Uber, taxis, or rental cars, or book a private shuttle service directly to your accommodation in Cape Town.

🚗 By car: If you’re traveling from another part of South Africa, driving to Cape Town can be an adventure. The N1 highway connects Cape Town to Johannesburg, while the N2 highway leads from Port Elizabeth along the scenic Garden Route. Rent a car through Sunny Cars for an all-inclusive rental service.

🚌 Public Buses: Public buses are available in South Africa, with Greyhound and Intercape the most reliable companies. They offer an affordable way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and attractions. You can book most buses through 12GO, a reliable online transportation platform. Alternatively, especially if you are travelling by yourself, Baz bus is a great option. It is a hop-on hop-off bus along the Garden route, starting in Cape Town.

Safety in Cape Town – Our Tips

Cape Town is a vibrant city with a lot to offer, and while it’s important to take basic safety precautions, we’ve personally never felt unsafe here. Like many major cities, some neighborhoods are safer than others. Areas such as the V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay, and Green Point are known for being more secure, offering both locals and visitors a welcoming environment. However, being mindful of your surroundings and taking extra care, especially in certain areas, will ensure you have a pleasant and safe experience. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind during your visit.

🔍 Check local advice for areas to avoid.
🚖 Take an Uber, even for short distances, especially at night, for added safety.
🌃 Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night.
🚶‍♂️ Avoid walking alone in less frequented spots.
🔒 Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, particularly in crowded areas.
🚗 Always lock car doors and keep windows up, especially in traffic.
⚠️ Be cautious of pickpockets and scams.
👀 Trust your instincts and stay aware of your surroundings.

Your Guide to Cape Town

Visit the Old Biscuit Mill

During the weekend, the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock is a must-visit for food lovers and craft enthusiasts. Enjoy gourmet treats, artisanal products, and a vibrant atmosphere. Woodstock is a lovely area and we felt really safe there. There is lots of street art in this neighbourhood and there are several walking tours available. We enjoyed some food at the Old Biscuit Mill and had some different beers at the Woodstock Brewery just a short walk away.

Explore the Colorful Bo-Kaap

The Bo-Kaap neighborhood is famous for its brightly colored houses and rich Cape Malay heritage. Join a walking tour or explore the area yourself where you can wander through its cobblestone streets, visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, and try traditional Cape Malay dishes such as Bobotie and Koeksisters. Our favorite restaurant is located at the top of Bo-Kaap, with stunning views of Table Mountain and a great Cape Malay inspired menu, Bo-Kaap Kombuis is a must visit during your stay in Cape Town. You can also join a Malay cooking class, so you can create the delicious dishes at home as well.

Take a Cable Car or Hike Up Table Mountain

No visit to Cape Town is complete without seeing Table Mountain, one of the New7Wonders of Nature. You can either hike up via one of several trails or take the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway for stunning panoramic views of the city and coastline. The line to the cableway can be long, so make sure to visit first thing in the morning. For extra safety, consider joining a guided hike up Table Mountain.

Tip: Visit Table Mountain on the first good day you have while in Cape Town. Table Mountain is only accessible (at least by cableway) during good weather. Weather in Cape Town is very unpredictable, so make sure to do this at your first possibility. When we were there, it was open only half of the days.

Enjoy City Views from Above

For breathtaking aerial views, go paragliding from Signal Hill or Lion’s Head or take a helicopter tour over the coastline and mountains.

Paragliding is the more cost-effective way of the two, where you will start at either Signal Hill or Lion’s Head, depending on the weather conditions. A flight will take anywhere from 7 to 20 minutes, offering stunning aerial views of the city. This will always be a tandem paragliding flight with experienced tandem pilots.

Next level is a helicopter flight, with several routes available. The most popular option is the Two Oceans Tour, which takes you from the V&A Waterfront towards Hout Bay and all the way around Table Mountain. We decided to do this flight, and it did not disappoint—though we must say that the back of Table Mountain is not as spectacular as the front. If we would do it again, we would go for the 12-minute tour instead.

Sunrise or sunset at Signal Hill or Lion’s Head

Signal Hill is one of the best spots in the city to watch the sunrise and/or sunset, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain. Bring a picnic and enjoy the breathtaking scenery as the sun dips below the horizon.

Make sure to think about your travels beforehand, Signal Hill gets busy during sunset and a lot of people will try to get transportation at the same time so it might take a while to get a driver to take you back. Make good arrangements with a driver beforehand or take your own transportation up the hill.

For those seeking a more challenging yet rewarding hike, Lion’s Head offers breathtaking 360-degree views, especially at sunrise and sunset. While the trail is popular, safety is important as some hikers have experienced robberies along the route. To stay secure, avoid hiking alone in the dark, keep valuables hidden, and consider joining a guided hike for a safer and more enriching experience.

Visit Robben Island

A visit to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, offers a deep insight into South Africa’s history. Tours depart from the V&A Waterfront and are guided by former political prisoners, making it an emotional and educational experience. You can buy your tickets upfront through the official website and especially during high season, tickets tend to go fast. This trip is weather-dependent so always check the forecast on the day of your trip. The organizer will either let you know per mail, or at the V&A Waterfront.

Have Drinks at the V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront is not just a shopping and dining hub but also a great place to relax with drinks while overlooking the harbor. Prices are generally higher, but the views are worth it. Keep an eye out at the water to spot some seals swimming in the harbor or sunbathing along the waterfront. You can also take a sunset cruise and a helicopter tour from here.

Enjoy Cape Town’s Beaches

Cape Town is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world:

• Clifton Beaches – Perfect for sunbathing and relaxing.
• Camps Bay – A trendy beach with cafes and bars overlooking the ocean.
• Beaches on the east side of the peninsula – These include Noordhoek Beach, known for its vast stretch of white sand and great surfing conditions, Kommetjie Beach, a favorite among local surfers, and Scarborough Beach, a quieter spot perfect for a relaxing escape from the city crowds. – Less crowded and surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Experience Cold Water Diving in Kelp Forests

For adventurous travelers, Cape Town also offers cold water diving in its stunning kelp forests, where you can explore a unique underwater ecosystem filled with marine life, including seals, fish, and even the occasional shark.

Visit the Cape Peninsula and the Cape Point Vineyards

Explore the Cape of Good Hope, where dramatic cliffs meet the ocean, and visit Boulders Beach to see the famous African penguins. Stop by Hout Bay for a seal-watching tour and drive along the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive. There is so much to do that we wrote a separate article with all you need to know about the Cape Peninsula!

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to spend the afternoon, head to Cape Point Vineyards. Just a short drive south of Chapman’s Peak, this winery is pure bliss. You can sip on their wines, grab a few bottles to take home, and stick around for dinner with views that will seriously blow you away.

Take a Winery Tour to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

Just a short drive from Cape Town, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are world-renowned for their picturesque vineyards and award-winning wines. Spend a day touring the Cape Winelands, tasting fine wines, and indulging in gourmet food. You can easily do this as a self-drive, but it is of course nicer to do an organised tour and to not have a discussion about a designated driver. The Franschhoek wine tram is the most iconic trip of all. Make sure to book it online!

Visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world, Kirstenbosch is a must-visit for nature lovers. Nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain, it boasts a diverse collection of South Africa’s unique flora. Stroll through its lush gardens, enjoy a picnic, or walk along the Boomslang Canopy Walkway for breathtaking views over the treetops. During summer, you can also attend one of the famous Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts, where live music performances take place in a stunning outdoor setting. Book your tickets through the official Kirstenbosch website for the best prices.

Start the Garden Route with a Trip to Hermanus

Cape Town is the gateway to the Garden Route, a scenic stretch of coastline known for its dramatic landscapes. Make a stop in Hermanus, one of the best places in the world for whale watching during the migration season. There are lots of boats, but our experience was best on this relatively small group boat tour. We were lucky to spot both southern right and humpback whales on our trip, as well as dolphins and seals.

Where to eat in Cape Town

Cape Town is heaven for foodies. There are so many good restaurants, and hardly any will really disappoint you. We’ve tried tons of different food, and these were the ones that truly stood out:

Bo Kaap Kombuis – Our favorite restaurant, offering a fantastic view and authentic Cape Malay food, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting a taste of local flavor.

Biesmiellah – This family-run spot serves authentic Cape Malay dishes – the perfect place to experience true local flavor.
Black Sheep – A trendy spot in the heart of the city, known for its creative dishes and relaxed atmosphere.
Old Biscuit Mill (on the weekend) – A bustling market with a variety of food stalls, offering everything from artisanal coffee to fresh, local produce and gourmet street food.
The Potluck Club – Located at the top of the Biscuit Mill, it offers small plates with an amazing mix of flavors and a great vibe.
Cape Point Vineyards – Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, burgers, or something more refined, this vineyard offers a diverse menu paired with stunning views over the vineyards and ocean.

Where to stay in Cape Town

Cape Town caters to all types of travelers. The V&A Waterfront offers luxury and convenience with beautiful views of Table Mountain, while the trendy Camps Bay is ideal for those looking for a lively atmosphere. For backpackers, Long Street is a famous hub with affordable hostels and vibrant nightlife. Alternatively, the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood offers a more local and cultural experience, with easy access to Cape Town’s main attractions.

For a lively, social atmosphere, Never at Home offers two locations—one on Kloof Street and the other in Green Point. Perfect for backpackers, it combines affordability with a fun, communal vibe. Double rooms start at €50 a night, while dorms start at €35 a night.

Brenwin Guest House is a charming option in Green Point, just a short walk from the V&A Waterfront. Its central location and welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for guests seeking comfort and convenience. Double rooms start at €85 a night.

For a touch of luxury, POD Camps Bay provides a boutique hotel experience with spectacular views and sophisticated design, perfect for those looking to relax in style. However, rooms are expensive, starting at €250 a night. If you’re looking for something more affordable, Sea Castle Hotel is a great option, starting at €180 a night. Keep in mind that Camps Bay is a sought-after and upscale area, so expect higher prices.