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Cape Town

Size

2,446 km²

Founded

1652

Best time to visit

September to March (Summer)

Be embraced by the Mother City

Cape Town is one of South Africa’s must-see destinations, frequently named as one of the best cities in the world. Under the gaze of the iconic Table Mountain, visitors are spoilt for choice with the cosmopolitan cuisine, diverse cultural experiences and array of exciting activities. Cape Town is the ideal starting or finishing point for your safari or beach holiday in South Africa.

Small group hiking and admiring views over Cape Town from the mountain, South Africa.

Cape Town’s abundant attractions

As a whole, South Africa is commonly referred to as ‘A world in one country’. And nowhere is this notion better exemplified than in Cape Town.

By its very nature, it would seem the Mother City was always destined to attract visitors into her welcoming embrace.

Even from a distance, Cape Town promises adventure. Rising above the cool waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the unmistakable silhouette of Table Mountain suggests a place of adventure, panoramic landscapes and enduring memories.

Cape Town’s beaches and natural attractions

Below, the city is ringed by white, sandy beaches and waters rich in marine life. Here, you can soak up the sun’s rays in the company of fun-loving locals and a smattering of international celebrities.

A short drive from the city centre takes you to Boulders Beach, home to a charming colony of penguins – one of the most unique wildlife encounters in Cape Town, South Africa.

If you love the outdoors, you’ll love exploring Cape Town’s many trails, whether on foot, on a bike or on horseback. Table Mountain National Park is a great place to start.

Within just minutes of leaving the city centre, you can immerse yourself in the rhythms of nature amid an astonishing diversity of fauna and flora.

Endless list of things to do in Cape Town

A key ingredient in Cape Town’s appeal is its people. Rightfully proud of their home, the locals are eager to share their way of life and the past that shaped their present.

As such, you’ll find an abundance of attractions that celebrate the city’s diverse multinational influences.

Whether your interests are historical, cultural or traditional, there are districts, museums, galleries, live performances, and Cape Town tour packages that herald the city’s multicultural identity.

Cape Town’s restaurants and nightlife

To fuel your experience, Cape Town is renowned for its cuisine. No matter what your taste or budget, you will find it in the Mother City.

Unsurprisingly, seafood is commonplace, whether as street food or served in many of Cape Town’s amazing restaurants.

In keeping with the city’s cosmopolitan environment, popular dishes are widely available, often with a local twist. To wash it all down, there are bars, coffee shops and nightclubs aplenty.

On the continent, Cape Town’s nightlife is legendary.

A brief history of Cape Town

Long before Cape Town became a city, the area was home to the Khoekhoe and San peoples, whose presence and culture shaped the region for thousands of years.

In 1652, Dutch settlers arrived to establish a resupply station for passing ships, marking the beginning of colonial expansion.

Over time, Cape Town grew into South Africa’s first city and, under British colonial rule, became a key port and the country’s legislative capital.

It also played a pivotal role in the anti-apartheid movement, a legacy that lives on in its diverse and dynamic communities.

Today, Cape Town reflects a rich tapestry of histories, cultures, and resilience.

Where to stay in Cape Town

In keeping with all this variety, accommodation options in Cape Town cater to all tastes and budgets.

From camping to ultra-luxurious private villas, and from social hostels to secluded retreats, there’s a place for everyone to rest their heads after a fun-filled day in this vibrant city.

Accessible Table Mountain

Rising over 1000 metres above the city, you can summit on foot or by cable car.

An icon of a leaf.

A unique floral kingdom

The endemic fynbos flora has earned the city UNESCO World Heritage Site Status.

Award-winning city

Cape Town is regularly nominated for Best City, Best Cuisine and Best Beach awards.

A small group and their guide stopped on the trail towards Lions Head summit in the background.

Cape Town has some great hikes to suit all fitness levels, Lion's Head being one of the most popular, with beautiful views over the ocean and the city.

African penguins on the beach at Boulders Beach, Cape Town, South Africa.

Head down to Boulders Beach and observe the African penguins.

Colorful houses in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, Cape Town, South Africa.

The colourful houses of Bo-Kaap reflect Cape Town’s rich cultural heritage.

View over Cape Town city center skyline, South Africa.

Cape Town is a vibrant city, and a city tour is a great way to explore it.

Coastal view towards Lion's Head and Table Mountain from Chapman's Peak Drive, Cape Town.

Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the country’s most scenic coastal routes.

WHEN TO GO

Best time to visit Cape Town

When to visit Cape Town depends in part on what your interests are, although it is popular throughout the year.

The peak tourism season runs from late November to early March, coinciding with the summer months, and is ideal for time outdoors and on the beach.

To avoid the crowds, visit during the spring months of September and October when blooming flowers and mild weather predominate.

If you plan to go whale-watching, you’ll see plenty of these ocean giants between June and November.

Autumn (fall), over April and May, offers the calm weather and rich light sought after by photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Icon of a sun

Dry Season

November to March

Ideal for beach and outdoor activities

Icon of a raning cloud.

Rainy Season

May to August

Best for surfing, cultural experiences and whale-watching (from June to November)

Experience Cape Town

Cape Town coastline with Twelve Apostles mountains, beach town, and ocean waves.
Blyde River Canyon, South Africa: scenic view.
Large herd of elephants at a waterhole in Addo Elephant National Park, with two swimming in the foreground.
A rental car stopped on a road in Kruger National Park on our best South Africa self-drive itinerary as an elephant crosses.
Aerial view of a long straight road between mounatins and the ocean, part of the Garden Route.
Why to go

For a taste of Africa in familiar surroundings

Multi-award-winning Cape Town offers visitors a taste of Africa, all while being surrounded by the comfortably familiar.

The city’s world-class tourism facilities have been refined over time to exceed the expectations of the most world-weary traveller.

Accessible from across the globe, the city’s diverse cultural heritage means all visitors are always welcome. And, like any good host, the city comfortably accommodates all manner of interests, tastes and backgrounds.

Whether you are interested in nature, sport, arts, history, culture, cuisine, architecture or simply want to get away from it all, Cape Town has got you covered.

Camps Bay beach with the Twelve Apostles mountain range, Cape Town, South Africa.
“South Africa is a dream destination – different landscapes (mountains, savanna, white beaches, turquoise water, boulders, dunes, forests…) a great diversity of animals (from penguins to cheetahs and meerkats), friendly and open-minded locals and as city highlight the wonderful Cape Town. One highlight followed the other and three weeks just flew by.”
Alexandra Keppeler and family | South Africa Experience Guest
Aerial view of Noordhoek's white sandy beach, Cape Town, South Africa.
Beach walks & Watersports

Long sandy beaches like Noordhoek are perfect for walking and ocean activities.

Small group hiking towards Lion's Head, Cape Town, South Africa.
Walking Tours

Explore Cape Town on foot along scenic trails such as Lion’s Head.

Cape Town city lights at night, South Africa.
Restaurants and Nightlife

Cape Town offers a vibrant dining scene and lively nightlife.

A wine estate in Cape Dutch architecture nea Cape Town.
Explore the surrounding area

From Winelands to whale watching, you can explore the region on day trips.

Things to do

Childlike in the Mother City

With so much to see, do, taste and explore, visiting Cape Town feels a bit like being a kid in a candy store. With nature around every corner, it is ideal for families and lovers of the outdoors.

Culturally, the city is a proud patron of historical landmarks, tantalising cuisine, arts and entertainment.

  • Beach and watersports
  • Walking tours
  • Restaurants and nightlife
  • Wine-tasting in the winelands
Friends walking through a vineyard during a wine tasting in Stellenbosch, South Africa.
Excellent Local Wines

Cape Town is surrounded by renowned wine estates producing some of South Africa’s finest wines.

Chef plating a gourmet dish with wine at Ellerman House, Cape Town.
Vegan and Vegetarian Menus

Many restaurants offer creative plant-based dishes alongside their traditional menus.

Incredible Variety of Offerings

From casual eateries to refined dining, the city offers something for every taste.

Restaurants & Bars in Cape Town

Foodie Capital of the World

Cape Town ranks in the top 5 destinations worldwide for its delectable dining, earning it the nickname “Foodie Capital of the World”.

Restaurants in Cape Town offer everything from fine dining to casual street food, influenced by Cape Malay, European and African cuisine.

Complementing this, bars ranging from casual to upmarket boost Cape Town’s vibrant nightlife.

  • Excellent local wines
  • Vegan and vegetarian-friendly menus
  • Affordable prices
  • Incredible variety of offerings

Where to stay in Cape Town

Waterfront restaurant terrace with view of Table Mountain and harbour boats at the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town.

Victoria & Alfred Hotel

Candlelit dinner setting at Twelve Apostles Hotel with ocean views at dusk and champagne service.

The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa

Historic Ellerman House mansion with pool terrace and palm trees at golden hour, Cape Town.

Ellerman House

Lunch set up in the shade of a tree in the exterior patio of Bayflowers guesthouse, close by the pool.

Bayflowers Guesthouse

Pink building facade at Mount Nelson Hotel with garden entrance.

Mount Nelson Hotel

Cape Grace Hotel exterior with tiered swimming pools and sun loungers, Cape Town waterfront.

Cape Grace

legant hotel lobby lounge with circular bar and Table Mountain views at One&Only Cape Town.

One and Only Cape Town

Cozy red-walled restaurant dining room with wooden tables and chairs in Cape Town.

Rouge En Rose

Ocean View House building sitting on the foot of the Twelve Apostles in Cape Town.

Ocean View House

Aerial view of The Bay Hotel with pool and palm trees beneath the Twelve Apostles mountain range, Camps Bay, Cape Town.

The Bay Hotel

A double bed at Rosedene Guesthouse in Cape Town

Rosedene Guest House

Locations and distances

Direct flights to Cape Town International Airport are available from hubs in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East and North America. Additionally, regular flights are serviced from several national airports.

By road, Cape Town is roughly 1,400 kilometres (15.5 hours) from Johannesburg and nearly 800 km (8.5 hours) from Port Elizabeth. The national road network is modern and in good condition.

Luxury train options are available from Pretoria.

Two African elephants standing in a dry, grassy savanna on a South African safari.
Young woman in South Africa Experience uniform, smiling outdoors
Viewpoint high above Blyde River Canyon, South Africa.

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