Cape Town is the second-most populous city in South Africa and the legislative capital of the country. It is located in the Western Cape province on the country’s southwestern coast and is known for its natural beauty, with the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop. The city has a diverse population and a rich history and is a popular tourist destination. There are plenty of places to go in Cape Town if you planning to visit the beautiful city.
Cape Town takes delight in displaying its natural beauty, which is nestled seductively between mountains and the sea. The city’s long, blond beaches are some of the greatest in South Africa, and the city’s famed Table Mountain, which rises above it, offers the ideal plateau for vistas that stretch to the shimmering Atlantic and beckon from its slopes with botanical gardens. Arguably the city of Cape Town won’t disappoint you.
To get the best out of your visit to Cape Town, Mrpocu.com has put together a list of the best places to go in Cape Town. From some of the popular places to beautiful recreational places. Start scrolling as you are planning your trip to Cape town.
Places To Go In Cape Town
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens is a botanical garden located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. It was established in 1913 to preserve the country’s unique flora and has since become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The gardens cover an area of 528 hectares and are home to over 7,000 species of plants, many of which are indigenous to South Africa.
One of the standout features of Kirstenbosch is the Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway, a 130-meter-long steel and timber structure that provides visitors with a unique perspective on the gardens from above. The walkway is suspended between the trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the city.
Other highlights of Kirstenbosch include the Protea Garden, which showcases a variety of South Africa’s national flowers, and the Dell, a peaceful and secluded area of the gardens with a small pond and a variety of indigenous trees. The gardens also host regular events, including concerts in the summer months, and offer guided tours for visitors interested in learning more about the plants and the history of the gardens. Overall, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination for nature lovers visiting Cape Town.
Clifton and Camps Bay Beaches
Clifton and Camps Bay are two of the most popular beaches in Cape Town, South Africa. Located on the Atlantic Coast, these two beaches are known for their stunning natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere.
Clifton is made up of four separate beaches, each with its own unique character. The first beach, known as Clifton 1st, is the smallest and most sheltered, making it a popular spot for families. The other three beaches, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, are slightly larger and more exposed to the elements and are popular with surfers and sunbathers. All four beaches are surrounded by large cliffs, which provide natural windbreaks and create a sense of seclusion.
Camps Bay, on the other hand, is a long, wide stretch of sandy beach that is popular with locals and tourists alike. Located just a few kilometres south of Clifton, Camps Bay is known for its lively atmosphere, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and cafes lining the beachfront. The beach itself is clean and well-maintained and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other water sports. Clifton and Camps Bay are two of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Cape Town and are well worth a visit for anyone spending time in the city.
Table Mountain
Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cape Town, South Africa. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. The mountain is approximately 3,500 feet tall and is home to a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.
One of the most popular ways to experience Table Mountain is to take the cable car to the top. The cable car has a rotating floor, which allows passengers to get a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape as they ascend. At the top of the mountain, there are several walking trails that offer panoramic views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains.
In addition to its natural beauty, Table Mountain is also an important cultural and historical site. The mountain has a long history of human habitation and was home to the indigenous San and Khoi peoples for thousands of years. Today, it is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and tourists. Table Mountain is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Cape Town.
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a popular tourist destination located in Cape Town, South Africa. It is named after Queen Victoria and her second son, Alfred, and is located on the Atlantic coast in the heart of the city.
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a mixed-use development that includes a variety of shops, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues. It is also home to the Two Oceans Aquarium, which features a variety of marine life from the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, and the Cape Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel that provides panoramic views of the city.
One of the standout features of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is its location. The development is built on the edge of the harbour and offers stunning views of Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the city skyline. It is also a popular spot for boat trips, with several companies offering cruises around the harbour and along the coast.
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a must-visit destination for anyone spending time in Cape Town. It is a vibrant and lively area that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, entertainment, or just soaking up the atmosphere.
Signal Hill And The Noon Gun
Signal Hill is a small hill located in Cape Town. It is situated in the city centre, just to the north of Table Mountain, and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area. The hill is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy the views, go hiking and watch the sunset.
One of the most notable features of Signal Hill is the Noon Gun, which has been fired every day at noon since 1806. The gun is a national heritage site and is one of the oldest cannons in South Africa. It is fired every day by a team of gunners from the South African Navy and can be heard all over the city. The tradition of firing the Noon Gun dates back to the early 19th century when it was used to signal the arrival of ships in the harbour and to set the time for the city’s clocks. Today, the Noon Gun is a popular tourist attraction and a unique piece of Cape Town’s history.
In addition to the Noon Gun, Signal Hill is also home to a variety of other attractions, including a number of walking trails, a lookout point, and a radio mast that is used for transmitting signals. Signal Hill is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Cape Town. It is one of the best historical places to go in Cape Town.
Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach is a small sheltered beach located in the beautiful city of Cape Town. It is known for its large granite boulders, which provide natural windbreaks and create a sense of seclusion. The beach is located in the Simon’s Town area, about 45 minutes south of the city centre, and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics.
One of the standout features of Boulders Beach is its resident population of African penguins. The penguins have made the beach their home, and can often be seen swimming in the shallow waters or basking in the sun on the rocks. The penguins are a protected species, and the beach is home to a research and rehabilitation centre that works to conserve the birds and their habitat.
Boulders Beach is also known for its clear, clean water, and its white sandy beach. It is a popular spot for swimming and has a number of facilities, including showers, toilets, and a small shop. The beach is also surrounded by a number of walking trails, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding area. Boulders Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone spending time in Cape Town. It is a beautiful and secluded beach that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in swimming, birdwatching, or just soaking up the sun.
Robben Island
Robben Island is a small island located off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa. It is best known as the site of a former maximum-security prison, where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were held during the apartheid era. Today, the island is a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a powerful symbol of South Africa’s struggle for freedom and democracy.
Visitors to Robben Island can take a ferry from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town, and spend a full day exploring the island. The tour includes a visit to the prison, where visitors can learn about the conditions faced by the prisoners and hear firsthand accounts from former inmates. The tour also includes visits to other historical sites on the island, including a leper colony, a military base, and a lighthouse.
In addition to its historical significance, Robben Island is also home to a number of natural attractions, including a variety of bird and animal species, and a number of walking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding area. Robben Island is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in South Africa’s history and culture. It is a powerful and moving reminder of the country’s past, and a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
Chapman’s Peak
Chapman’s Peak is a mountain on the western coast of Cape Town. It is a popular tourist attraction, known for its breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding mountains. The mountain is named after John Chapman, a British explorer who mapped the area in the late 17th century.
One of the most popular ways to experience Chapman’s Peak is by driving along Chapman’s Peak Drive, a 9km long road that winds along the mountain’s edge, offering stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. The road was originally built in the early 20th century but has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years to make it safer and more enjoyable for visitors.
In addition to driving along Chapman’s Peak Drive, there are also several hiking trails in the area that offer more intimate experiences with the mountain’s natural beauty. These trails range from easy walks along the shoreline to more challenging hikes that take you to the top of the mountain. Chapman’s Peak is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Cape Town. Whether you choose to drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive or take a hike through the mountain’s trails, you will be treated to some of the most beautiful views in all of South Africa.
Kalk Bay
Kalk Bay is a small fishing village located on the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula, just outside of Cape Town, South Africa. It is known for its picturesque harbour, which is home to a vibrant community of fishing boats, seafood restaurants, and artisanal shops.
One of the main attractions in Kalk Bay is the Kalk Bay Harbour, where you can watch the local fishermen bring in their daily catch and buy fresh seafood directly from the boats. The harbour is also home to a number of seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy delicious dishes made with the freshest ingredients.
Kalk Bay is also home to a number of artisanal shops and galleries, where you can find unique handmade crafts and artwork created by local artists. The village is also home to the Kalk Bay Theatre, which hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year. Kalk Bay is a charming and picturesque destination that offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Cape Town. Whether you’re interested in trying some of the freshest seafood in the region or simply want to wander through the charming streets and shops, Kalk Bay is a must-see destination.
Muizenberg
Muizenberg is a suburb of Cape Town, South Africa, located on the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula. It is known for its long stretch of white sandy beach, which is popular for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
One of the main attractions in Muizenberg is Surfer’s Corner, a popular spot for surfers and beachgoers. The beach here is known for its consistent waves, making it a great place to learn how to surf or practice your skills. There are also a number of surf schools and rental shops in the area, where you can rent equipment and take lessons. The suburb is arguably one of the best places to go in Cape Town for a beach experience.
Muizenberg is home to a number of other beaches, including the popular Muizenberg Beach and the quieter St. James Beach. The suburb is also home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Muizenberg Pavilion, a beautifully restored Edwardian building that now houses a small museum and cultural centre. Muizenberg is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a laid-back beach atmosphere and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in surfing, swimming, or just soaking up the sun, Muizenberg is the place to be.
Franschhoek Wine Tram
Without taking a wine tour, no trip to Cape Town would be complete. One of the most picturesque locations surrounding Cape Town is the Franschhoek Wine Valley, and the double-decker Franschhoek Wine Tram offers the most breathtaking views of the area. You’ll get to see and taste the best of the best with visits to numerous magnificent wine vineyards.
After taking in the landscape and wine, get a bite to eat at La Petite Ferme or Marigold Restaurant. A highlight for anyone curious about the region’s history is the Huguenot Museum.
Cape Point
Cape Point is a rocky headland located at the southeastern tip of the Cape Peninsula in South Africa. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning views, rugged coastline, and rich history. One of the main attractions at Cape Point is the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, which covers an area of over 7,700 hectares and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including baboons, ostriches, and over 250 species of birds. The reserve is also home to a number of hiking trails, where visitors can explore the stunning landscape and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.
Cape Point is home to the Cape Point Lighthouse, which was built in 1859 and is one of the most iconic landmarks in South Africa. The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, and visitors can take a tour to learn more about its history and operation. Cape Point is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Cape Town. Whether you’re interested in exploring the beautiful nature reserve, taking a hike along the rugged coastline, or simply soaking up the stunning views, Cape Point has something for everyone.
Bo-Kaap
The vibrantly coloured homes of the Bo-Kaap are only a short stroll from Cape Town’s central business district and are undoubtedly a must-see for visitors. Try a Bo-Kaap Cooking Tour to learn how to cook roti, Cape Malay curry, and samosas if you enjoy food (and who doesn’t?).
At Rose Corner Cafe, you can also have delicious sweet koeksisters, which are similar to doughnuts but are spice-infused and topped with syrup and desiccated coconut. Visit Bo-Op to peruse local designers’ clothing, then stop by Bo-Kaap Bazaar for fantastic presents and souvenirs.
Castle Of Good Hope
Castle of Good Hope is one of the top tourist destinations in Cape Town, occupying a secluded area of Table Mountain National Park and captivating visitors with its captivating past and lovely views. Its beautiful coastline, clear waters, and beaches form a picture-perfect landscape for visitors because of its location near the southwest tip of Africa.
The Flying Dutchman Funicular, which carries visitors 238 miles above the ocean, makes this location one of the top tourist destinations for thrill-seekers who come here to experience the underwater thrills. You can also stroll down its lighthouse, which offers the most fantastical views on the show. Once you’ve had your fill of beach time and water sports, stop into the Two Oceans Restaurant for a quick bite. It is one of the best places to go in Cape Town if you are looking to learn more about SA history.
The Heart Of Cape Town Museum
You will be guided to the Heart of Cape Town Museum, the site of the first human heart transplant ever, by the steady beat of your own heart. You can’t help but hear an electrocardiogram (ECG) beeping in the background as you explore the museum that houses actual historical events in the field of medicine. The late South African Professor Christiaan Barnard, who won the life of Louis Washkansky, the first patient to receive a second human heart, on the operating table in 1967, is one of many international cardiologists who competed to be the first to perform this groundbreaking surgery. Dr Christiaan Barnard is represented by a life-size silicone figure of himself wearing his own suit and sitting at his original desk in his flawlessly restored office.
A detailed account of Denise Darvall’s day-to-day activities is used to pay tribute to the heart donor and give the transplanted organ of life a personality. On exhibit are the actual hearts of the donor and recipient. Groote Schuur Hospital, a world-renowned teaching and training centre run by the Western Cape Provincial Health Department, has conducted over 500 heart transplants since the first one. Modelled mannequins in the original operation rooms, which took more than five years to find the precise furniture and equipment, have taken the places of the original medical staff and are displayed there in their original operating state.
In the museum’s various display areas, such as the Introduction Room, Accident Room, and Animal Lab, milestones are on display (research). This almost R4 million museum honours all those involved in this medical innovation that was developed in the centre of Mother City. Documentaries are screened in the auditorium, and organ donation registration is available.
The District Six Museum
The rich fabric of a struggling but dynamic community was torn to pieces when the apartheid government descended on District Six in Cape Town in 1965, violently evicting its residents, and designating the area a “whites-only” zone. Over 60 000 people were uprooted from their residences, places of employment, community centres, and social networks and transported to the desolate Cape Flats, some distance away.
The diversified and thriving subcultures of Sophiatown in Johannesburg and District Six in Cape Town both offered similar concerns to the apartheid administration, which sought to impose “separate development” for various ethnic communities. Sophiatown was completely destroyed in 1957 to make room for the Triomf “white area” (meaning “triumph” in Afrikaans). The District Six Museum Foundation was created in 1989 in an effort to preserve the memory of District Six and to build a memorial to the thousands of people who were forcibly transferred throughout the nation during apartheid. The District Six Museum was established in 1994.
The museum was established as a means of promoting social justice, as a place for introspection and reflection, and as a venue for contesting the exaggerations and half-truths that served as the foundation for the history of Cape Town and South Africa.
Lion’s Head
Table Mountain and Signal Hill surround Lion’s Head, which was given its name by the first Dutch explorers who came in the 1600s and thought the two mountains together resembled a lion crouching. Lion’s Head rises 669 meters above sea level at its highest point. It is a well-liked peak for hiking and climbing, and both tourists and residents of the Western Cape frequent it.
The trails are manageable, but there are a few places that call for basic fitness and mental focus. However, the effort is well worth the delicious reward because Lion’s Head provides such stunning all-around views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Seaboard, and Table Bay. Only when there are high gusts or a cloud cover over the mountain should a climb not be attempted.
The climb begins with a moderate ascent before levelling out. Although longer, a contour path is a simpler and more level. To ascend up the sheer rock faces along the shortcut, there are a number of ladders and chains. Although these are controllable and securely fastened, they are not as simple to overcome in the dark. Therefore, it is suggested that people who are unsure of themselves choose the contour path. The practice of hundreds of hikers from all over the world ascending Lion’s Head at a full moon has grown in popularity. While the sun sets and the city below comes to life with lights, they enjoy their picnic baskets at the top as they watch.
Two Oceans Aquarium
The lovely underwater nature reserve, located at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, is known as the Two Oceans Aquarium because the vast Indian and Atlantic Oceans almost exactly meet here at the southern tip of the continent. It has over 3000 living sea animals on display, including sharks, fish, turtles, and penguins.
Especially if you have kids, the Two Oceans Aquarium is without a doubt one of the city’s most thrilling attractions (there is a wonderful child play area in the basement set right up against the seal display where children and seals have fun alongside one another). The appeal is increased with child-height window chairs and a “touch pool” where children may touch and feel kelp, shells, and anemones. Arguably, the Aquarium is one of the best Places To Go In Cape Town with kids.
The Sappi River Meander, which depicts a typical Western Cape River’s journey from its mouth back along the freshwater reed bed, to its source upstream; the Kelp Forest Exhibit, which is a perennial favourite with everyone; and the I&J Predator exhibit, which includes ragged-tooth sharks, a variety of rays, loggerhead turtles, and other predatory fish, are other features that are comparable to the Atlantic Ocean.
Cape Wheel
The Cape Wheel, an observation wheel that continues to astound tourists who are touring the Mother City of Cape Town, is reminiscent of the enormous London Eye in the UK. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, home to hundreds of stores, eateries, and shops selling arts and crafts, continues to be one of South Africa’s top tourist destinations.
The Cape Wheel is now a recognizable feature of the Waterfront and the best location to take in panoramic views of Table Mountain, Signal Hill, the Bo-Kaap, and the opulent functioning harbour. The cabins rise 40 meters above the ground at their greatest point. The 30 cabins are transparent but entirely contained, giving their occupants a 360-degree panorama of Cape Town’s splendour. In reality, the views stretch all the way to Robben Island, which is a few kilometres from the coast, as well as the highlands of Paarl.
To provide the utmost comfort, the cabins are air-conditioned. In order to allow for four revolutions, the ride lasts 12 to 14 minutes. Visitors who are confined to wheelchairs may stay in one of two cabins. There are several photo opportunities available from the Cape Wheel cabins, and serious photographers may be sure to get breathtaking photographs against picturesque backgrounds.
Old Biscuit Mill
The Old Biscuit Mill, which is open every day of the week and is situated in the centre of Woodstock, Cape Town’s hipster-friendly college district, is most active on weekends when the Neighbourgoods Market takes place. At the Old Biscuit Mill, some of South Africa’s most innovative artists and designers may be found working together and sharing their enthusiasm for everything from food and art to apparel and handmade crafts.
Numerous unique eateries, food stands, studio spaces, and designer shops can be found on the premises. The parking lots are taken over by the Neighbourgoods Market every Saturday and Sunday beginning at 9 am. It has a bustling market atmosphere with regional designers and craftspeople exhibiting their wares. There are numerous food and beverage sellers as well. The Old Biscuit Mill hosts celebrations all year long. The Mill is one of the best Places To Go In Cape Town.