10 Places To Visit In Cape Town For A Happening Vacation

The capital of South Africa, Cape Town is a leading tourist destination in the world. Thanks to its deep-blue coastline kissing the white sands, bustling shopping scenario, and buzzing nightlife, this city will urge you to stay little longer than you intend to. Surely, you’ll have a hundred reasons to go here, but the listed places to visit in Cape Town are nothing less than a giant magnet, attracting tourists from globe across.

Not only will you get to have a glimpse of these attractions but will also get to know important tourist information regarding each of it! So, let’s go.

10 Places To Visit In Cape Town

Table Mountain – For the mesmerizing views
Boulders Beach – Frolic around with the penguins
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront – A happening hotspot
Kirstenbosch – For the flowery escape
Cape Point – For mesmerizing ocean views
Castle of Good Hope – Peek into the heritage
Bo-Kaap – Splash of colors
Clifton Beach – Long stretching coastline
Muizenberg Beach – A warmer, colorful beach
Robben Island – A quick escape

1. Table Mountain – For the mesmerizing views

Part of a national park of the same name, Table Mountain allows you a breathtaking view of Cape Town and surroundings. Reaching its top (1,086 meters) itself is an experience to cherish, as you will be stumbling upon picturesque vista. The best way to reach the pinnacle is through ingenuous cableway, which has revolving cabins so you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding.

Ideal for: Nature, views, and photography
Tips: Buy your ticket online from the official website to avoid any kind of inconvenience. Also, you may wish to plan your cable tour in the afternoons since there is low footfall.
What to do: You can also take one of the tree hiking trails that start at the upper Cable Station to explore the exotic wildlife in the dense jungles.

Must Read: 20 Reasons Every Couple Should Experience A Blissful Cape Town Honeymoon Now!

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

2. Boulders Beach – Frolic around with the penguins

This list of places to explore in Cape Town stays incomplete without mentioning the Boulders Beach, where you can swim and have a good beach time with more than 2000 African penguins. The other name of these penguins are ‘jackass’, since their chirps sound similar to bray of donkeys. This is an easily accessible attraction, even if you’re traveling with senior citizens as there’s a wheelchair accessible path as well.

Ideal for: Swimming, penguin interaction, and photography
Entry Fee: INR 170 for adults, INR 50 for kids
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Tips: Avoid the crowded season from November to March. Or you can consider coming early in the mornings or one hour before the closing time when you have higher chances of seeing more penguins.

3. Victoria and Alfred Waterfront – A happening hotspot

One of the most popular places to visit in Cape Town, Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is beautified by the views of the Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain, and Table Bay. This is a buzzing spot in the city, named after an English queen and her son since they donated the foundation stone in 1860 for the backwater.

When strolling around here, there is so much you can expect to stumble upon. The art galleries exhibit pieces that will leave you in utter awe. The local restaurants here serve some of Cape Town’s most delicious delicacies; come here at night and you’ll witness a buzzing nightlife. If you’re a shopaholic, this can be your haven. And if you’re eager to know about oceanic history then the aquarium and the ship museum are perfect places for you here. Also, look out for frequent live entertainment shows, often organized in the amphitheater of Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.

Ideal for: Shopping and nightlife
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
Tips: Nobu and Sevruga are two of the world-class restaurants at the harbor where you can enjoy fine dining. Casablanca Nightclub and Shimmy Beach Club are two of the places to enjoy the nightlife.

4. Kirstenbosch – For the flowery escape

Dating back to 1913, Kirstenbosch is a world-recognized botanical garden, focusing on South Africa’s native plants. The plants here are not only the ones which grow in the Cape area but indeed the whole South African region. With the view of Table Mountain in the backdrop, the botanical garden forms an interesting trail for the hikers, as they make their way to Table Mountain. There are nine botanical gardens in South Africa, and Kirstenbosch is the most popular one.

The bright colorful vista will sprinkle magic to your South African voyage, so it is advised you don’t forget your camera when coming over for a visit or hike.

Ideal for: Hiking and nature
Entry Fee: INR 315 for adults, INR 170 for children
Tips: If you don’t like walking or a senior citizen, you can also hire a shuttle for an additional fee of INR 300.

5. Cape Point – For mesmerizing ocean views

A site that will make you weak in the knees, Cape Point is among the major Cape Town attractions. Perched at the edge of Cape Peninsula, this place looks even more stunning with jutting boulders and of course the breathtaking ocean view. The Cape Point isn’t just about the views, there are about 250 bird species that call it home. Alongside an indulging bird watching experience, you can also spot zebras and baboons. The rich flora of the regions adds on to its scenic splendour as well.

If you’re someone who’s more into comfortable sightseeing, you can take the funicular heading to the lighthouse. Or else, you can always trek through the steep trail.

Ideal for: Views
Entry Fee: INR 250 for children, INR 500 for adults
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

6. Castle of Good Hope – Peek into the heritage

A pentagon-shaped colonial edifice, Castle of Good Hope is actually the oldest building to survive in South Africa. Built by the Dutch East India Company in 1666, it was used for replenishing ship supplies back in the era. However, today it has been converted into museums, namely Iziko Museums of Cape Town and Castle Military Museum. This is a perfect place to get an insight into Cape’s history and art.

Ideal for: History and art
Entry Fee: INR 500 for adults, INR 250 for kids
Opening Time: 9 AM – 5 PM
Tips: Cannon firing and Guided tours inside the castle begin around 10 in the morning with repeated tours every hour.

7. Bo-Kaap – Splash of colors

Also known as the Malay Quarter, Bo-Kaap is among the most colorful places to see in Cape Town. With its brightly-painted buildings and cobblestone streets, this place is a melting pot of cultures, though you’ll find more Muslim shrines around. Some of the buildings in this area date back to 18 century and the museum exhibits 19th-century furniture which were used in Cape Town houses during the period.

Bo-Kaap is often in the priority list of culture-vultures who love to walk around to feel the essence of a place.

Ideal for: History and culture
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Entry Fee: INR 100 for adults, INR 50 for kids
Tips: Check out the museum and Bo kaap food and craft market.

8. Clifton Beach – Long stretching coastline

The beach right out of our fantasies, Clifton Beach is located on the West Atlantic Region and is merely ten minutes away from the city centre. This isn’t just one beach, there actually are four beaches separated by granite boulders. The verdant shore, white sand and crystal clear water make it a picturesque escape, and one of the most sought-after places to visit in Cape Town South Africa!

Ideal for: Leisure

9. Muizenberg Beach – A warmer, colorful beach

Located in the suburbs of Cape, Muizenberg Beach is among major Cape Town tourist attractions and will steal your heart with not only its coastal beauty, but also the colorful huts on the shore. This is a warmer beach compared to Clifton, and thus must be a pick if you’re looking for swim or surf; in fact, Muizenberg Beach is from where the surfing culture began in the country.

Ideal for: Swimming, surfing, and other water activities
Tips: It is a dog-friendly beach. There is a strip of restaurants where you can enjoy coffee and fresh baked goods.

10. Robben Island – A quick escape

Serving as a military base, Robben Island is often listed as one of the best Cape Town tourist places. The island was where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, before he became South Africa’s president. Ferry services plying from V&A Waterfront make it easily accessible for tourists wanting a peek into the history of the country.

Ideal for: Swimming, surfing, and other water activities
Tip: The tour on the Robben Island including the ferry service takes about 3.5 hours.
Cost: INR 1800 for adults, INR 970 for kids under 12 years
Timings: The ferry leaves at 3 PM, 5 PM, and 7 PM.

Further Read: 15 Best Hotels In Cape Town: The Finest In Luxury, Views, And Sophistication

We’re sure, by now, you’re really looking forward to get going to South Africa and have a wonderful holiday experience in the land of rich wildlife and varied topography.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions about Places to Visit in Cape Town

Which are the best places to visit in Cape Town at night?

For a perfect nightlife experience in Cape Town, you can visit the following places - Mirage Catermaran, Mojo Market, Bree Street, Kloof Street, Loop Street, Long Street, Lion's Head, OBZ Cafe, Zeitz Mocca, Galileo Open Air Cinema, etc.

What are the top sightseeing places in Cape Town?

Table Mountain, Boulders Beach, Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Kirstenbosch, Cape Point, Castle of Good Hope, Bo-Kaap, Clifton Beach, Muizenberg Beach, Robben Island, etc. are the top sightseeing spots in Cape Town.

Is it safe to visit Cape Town during Covid?

Make sure that you have completed both doses of vaccinations and get yourself tested at least 48 hours before your departure. You need to follow all the travel guidelines mentioned by the authorities.

What is the best time to visit Cape Town in South Africa?

The ideal time to take a trip to Cape Town in South Africa is from January to April when the weather is warm and dry. It’s the perfect time to explore the town and engage in exciting outdoor activities.

What is Cape Town famous for?

Cape Town is famous for its beautiful harbour, Table Mountain, its natural setting with beaches on one side and hills on the other, and notable landmarks like Cape Point.

Do they speak English in Cape Town?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Cape Town. However, it is always advised to learn a few basic and common words in the language of the place you’re visiting.

Are there mosquitoes in Cape Town?

Yes, like any other region in South Africa, mosquitoes are common in Cape Town as well. However, you can easily stay safe from them by using adequate amounts of mosquito repellent to protect your skin, especially at night.

What food do they eat in Cape Town?

Some of the most famous dishes you can try in Cape Town include Calamari Gatsby, Bunny Chow, Bobotie, Beef Biltong, South African Braai, and even Sushi.

How much is a meal in Cape Town?

A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant in Cape Town may cost you somewhere between INR 2,000 to INR 3,400. Other than this, a pint of domestic beer will cost you around INR 240 to INR 380.

What can you buy in Cape Town?

Some of the best things to buy from the markets and bazaars of Cape Town include:
1. Zulu ceremonial spoons
2. Local leather backpacks
3. Wine
4. Africa-shaped pendant
5. Rooibos Tea
6. Kalahari salt
7. Pichulik earrings 8. Pink Lady gin

What is the coldest month in Cape Town?

June is considered to be the coldest month in Cape Town with an average temperature of about 13°C (55°F).