Cape Town Guide: 10 Best Things to Do & Insider Tips

Planning your trip to South Africa? Then these Cape Town must-do activities definitely belong on your bucket list. We lived in South Africa for six weeks and did plenty of exploring. In this guide, we’ll take you through the absolute highlights and share our Cape Town insider tips off the beaten path.

Whether you’re looking for that classic postcard view or want to discover genuine Cape Town hidden gems away from the crowds, we’ll lead you to the best sights in Cape Town and show you which highlights await you in the surrounding areas. From hiking Table Mountain to visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach, we’ve got it all covered.

Table Mountain: The Best View Over Cape Town

No trip to South Africa is truly complete without a visit to Table Mountain. It’s not just the city’s most famous landmark; it offers one of the most spectacular views in the entire world. During our 6 weeks in South Africa, we admired the mountain from almost every possible angle, and we can tell you one thing for sure: the journey to the top is just as breathtaking as the summit itself.

Hiking vs. Cable Car: Best Way Up Table Mountain?

You have the choice between pure adventure or a relaxed panoramic ride to reach the summit of Table Mountain:

Table Mountain Cable Car

The Table Mountain Cableway brings you to the top in just a few minutes for about 22 €. The floor rotates, so everyone gets a 360-degree view regardless of where you stand.

Waiting Times: During peak season, wait times of up to 2 hours are not uncommon.
Fast Track Tickets: If you don’t want to spend half your day in line, you can book Fast Track tickets (round trip approx. €55) online or on-site. This saves time and nerves, but daily capacity is limited, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

Table Mountain Hiking Trails

For those who prefer to stay active, there are several hiking routes up Table Mountain. For us, this is by far the most beautiful way to experience the mountain:

Good to know: The weather on the mountain can change within minutes! Always check the forecast and bring layers.
The India Venster Trail: A true adventure! But be warned: this trail is extremely demanding, requires a head for heights, and involves some light rock scrambling. It’s definitely not a casual stroll, but it rewards you with solitude and epic views.
Safety first: For a good overview of all official trails and essential safety rules, check out Friends of Table Mountain and the Safety guidelines before you head out.

Coming Soon: We will soon publish an in-depth Cape Town hiking guide with detailed route descriptions, personal experiences, and trail maps. We’ll link it right here!

Penguins in Cape Town: Best Spots & Insider Tips

When thinking of South Africa, penguins immediately come to mind. Of course, Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is the most famous spot for them, but to be honest: we weren’t that impressed with the experience there. Due to the crowds on the wooden boardwalk and the high entrance fee, it feels more like a zoo than the wilderness. Additionally, many people don’t respect the minimum distance of 3 meters just to get the perfect photo, even though these animals are an endangered species. If you still want to see the classic spot, here are our tips:

Timing: Go first thing in the morning or before noon to beat the crowds.
Tip: Don’t (just) go to the boardwalk. Visit the beach section right next to it (Foxy Beach). It’s often a bit more relaxed, or use the beach entrance.

Insider Tip Away from Boulders Beach

During our 6 weeks in South Africa, we found a much nicer alternative in the area: Stony Point near Betty’s Bay. It’s about 1.5 hours from Cape Town (approx. 45 minutes further than Simon’s Town), but it’s much better:

Advantages: It’s much more spacious, significantly less touristy, and the scenery feels much more natural.
Price: Entry is only about 2 € per person, a fraction of what you pay at Boulders Beach.
Other Alternatives: Other insider tips for seeing penguins away from the masses are said to be Windmill Beach (right next to Boulders Beach) and Lambert’s Bay.

Lion’s Head: The Ultimate Sunset Hike in Cape Town

If you ask us for the absolute best panorama spot for your South Africa adventure, Lion’s Head is at the very top of the list. The 360-degree view over Cape Town, Table Mountain, and the deep blue Atlantic Ocean is truly one of a kind. Especially at sunset, the panorama is nothing short of breathtaking, making it one of the most iconic things to do in Cape Town.

Since there’s a lot to keep in mind when hiking Lion’s Head, we are currently working on a comprehensive Cape Town hiking guide where we’ll share all the details. In the meantime, here is the essential info for your planning:

Parking: Directly along Signal Hill Road
The Trail: The left trail is easier and offers more shade; the right trail is steeper and sunnier but generally quieter
Guide or Solo: If you have a basic level of fitness, you can easily hike Lion’s Head on your own
Insider Tip: Bring a headlamp for the descent (an absolute game changer!), plenty of water, and some snacks to enjoy at the top

Franschhoek Wine Tram: Tips for Your Day in the Winelands

If you love wine, Franschhoek is an absolute must-see. The town itself is stunning, carries a very exclusive vibe, and is undoubtedly a highlight among the South African winelands. Franschhoek is located about an hour’s drive from Cape Town. While it’s possible to visit as a day trip, we recommend staying for at least one night to fully soak in the atmosphere.

How to Plan Your Wine Tour

The Franschhoek Wine Tram operates on a hop-on hop-off basis with several different “lines,” each visiting a unique selection of estates. Depending on the stop, you’ll be traveling by either a tram or a tram-bus. It’s super flexible: you hop off, explore the estate, enjoy a wine tasting (usually around 4 €), and then hop back on.

We chose the Navy Line, starting our journey at 10:45 AM. Our route took us to Boschendal, Vrede en Lust, and Bartinney, the latter being our favorite of the day:

Tickets: You can buy tickets online for about 18 € per person. We definitely recommend booking in advance, as the popular lines sell out quickly.
The start: Make sure to arrive at the Franschhoek Ticket Office at least 15 minutes early to collect your physical tickets. From there, a shuttle often takes you to the Groot Drakenstein terminal (though you can check in directly there if you specify it during booking).
How it works: Generally, you’ll have 1 hour at each winery before the tram or bus picks you up again. If you’re planning a picnic or a formal dinner at one of the estates, you need to book those in advance!

Good to Know: Tips Before Booking the Wine Tram

Let’s be real: As amazing as the Franschhoek Wine Tram is, you need to understand how it works to make sure your day doesn’t turn into a stressful rush. We’re currently working on a full guide to the Franschhoek Wine Tram, but here are the key insights we totally underestimated before we went:

It’s Not a Simple Loop: The lines are surprisingly complex. Often, you’ll have to head back to the main terminal to switch to a bus that takes you to the remaining estates.
Speed-Tasting vs. Relaxation: One hour per winery is extremely tight for a proper tasting. If you decide to stay longer at one spot, you’ll naturally manage fewer stops overall. Our advice: Pick your absolute favorites before you start!
Mind the Distance: The tram/bus stops aren’t always right at the tasting rooms. Be prepared for short shuttle rides or a bit of walking to get to where the wine is actually served.
Uber is Your Backup: If you miss a connection or just want to stay at one place longer, you can always call an Uber. Just keep in mind that you’ll be paying for that on top of your tram ticket.

Chapman’s Peak Drive: Tips for the Best Coastal Road

One of the most breathtaking roads we’ve ever driven, and a total insider tip for sunset, is Chapman’s Peak Drive. Stretching just 9 kilometers, the road winds directly along the cliffs. The views, especially during the golden hour, are stunning, and we found ourselves pulling over at almost every viewpoint to soak it all in.

Toll Road: There is a fee to drive this route (currently around 3 € per car). You can easily pay by cash or card at the toll station.
Stop & Enjoy: There are numerous laybys and photo spots along the way. Pick your favorites and enjoy the view over the Atlantic.
Check the Weather: For safety reasons, the road may close during high winds or heavy rain. Tip: check the official website shortly before you head out.
Timing is Everything: To see the coast in its best light, plan your drive for sunset.

Muizenberg: Surfer-Vibe, Beach Huts & Food-Highlights

If you’re looking for that classic Cape Town postcard shot, you can’t miss Muizenberg. Located at False Bay (about a 30-minute drive from Cape Town), this town is world-famous for its vibrant, colorful beach huts. Having lived in Muizenberg for 6 weeks, we’re currently working on a detailed local guide, which we’ll link here soon. In the meantime, here are our top insider tips:

Surfing in Muizenberg: Muizenberg Beach is the hotspot for surf beginners. There are plenty of surf schools, and you can rent a board for around 10 € per day. Wetsuits are also available for rent or purchase.
The Beach: On weekends and sunny days, it gets incredibly crowded. Honest advice: Avoid the weekends if you can. If you’re just looking to sunbathe, there are more beautiful, secluded spots in the area.
Eating Out: Food here is significantly cheaper than in the city center. There are lots of cool cafés where you can e.g. enjoy a relaxed and affordable breakfast.
Our Highlight: If you’re around on a Thursday or Friday, you have to visit the Blue Bird Garage. This food market in an old warehouse has an amazing vibe, great street food, and is a total favorite among locals.

The Rock: Sunset with Best View Over Cape Town

If you’re looking for the ultimate way to end your day, you have to head to The Rock in Bantry Bay. It’s not an official park, but rather a cluster of boulders at the end of a dead-end street (Ocean View Drive/Paarlman Road) that offers the perfect view over Cape Town, especially during sunset .

For us, it’s easily one of the best free things to do in Cape Town. Looking for more? Since we spent almost every evening at a different spot during our 6-week stay, we are currently working on a comparison of the best viewpoints, which we’ll link here soon.

Timing: On weekends, try to arrive at least an hour before sunset (around 6:00 PM) to snag a good spot on the rocks.
Pro Tip: Bring a pizza or pack some snacks, as there are no kiosks or cafés nearby.
Layer Up: Definitely bring a sweater or jacket! As soon as the sun dips below the horizon, it gets very windy and chilly up there.

Kalk Bay Guide: Watching Seals

This small fishing village on False Bay has a very unique, slightly alternative vibe. The absolute highlight? The seals! You’ll find them sunbathing in the harbor or right on the piers, patiently waiting for the fishermen to toss them some scraps.

Seal Watching: Just walk along the Kalk Bay Harbour wall. You’ll often find them lying right at your feet, but remember to keep your distance, as they are still wild animals.
Where to Eat: If you’re looking for an incredible meal, we highly recommend Salt on the Main Road. It’s a bit pricier than the fish shacks at the harbor, but the quality is outstanding.
Strolling & Shopping: The Main Road is packed with quirky antique shops, galleries, and cozy cafés. Important: Most shops close quite early (usually between 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM).
Is it worth it? Kalk Bay is fairly small. It’s definitely worth a stop if you’re already in the area (e.g., on your way to Cape Point). We wouldn’t recommend driving across town just for the village alone unless you have plenty of time to spare.

Cape Point Vineyards: Sunset Picnic & Wine in Noordhoek

If you follow Chapman’s Peak Drive south, you’ll end up right in Noordhoek. This is where you’ll find Cape Point Vineyards, one of the few estates that perfectly captures that relaxed coastal vibe. It’s a place to linger, ideally with a picnic blanket on the lawn:

Thursday Market: The ultimate after-work highlight! Every Thursday (approx. 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM), you’ll find street food, wine, and a fantastic local atmosphere.
Picnic & Events: You can book a picnic online or enjoy events like live music on the grass.
Sunset Views: The panorama is especially stunning during sunset, the perfect spot to end your day.

Cape Town Market Guide: Best Food & Design Markets

Cape Town without its markets? Unthinkable! Market culture is a massive part of the local lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for farm-fresh produce, local design, or incredible street food, the variety is endless. Here’s our go-to list of the best markets in Cape Town:

Oranjezicht City Farm Market: Perfect for organic veggies and a relaxed breakfast
When: Sat 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Sun 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM.
Pro Tip: The Wednesday Night Market (4:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Sept–April) is an absolute must
The Old Biscuit Mill (Neighbourhood Market): A total classic in Woodstock for foodies and design lovers
When: Sat 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sun 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Crucial: Get there early on Saturdays as it gets extremely crowded!
First Thursdays: Not a traditional market, but a must-see! On the first Thursday of every month, the city center comes alive with art gallery hops, pop-up events, bars, and parties.
Bay Harbour Market (Hout Bay): A vibrant, indoor market right by the harbor with live music. It’s said to be best on Friday evenings (until 9:00 PM), but we wouldn’t recommend making the trip specifically just for this market.