Things to do in Cape Town
Discover the best attractions and experiences Cape Town has to offer
Historic Monuments
Cape Town is a city where colonial history meets Cape heritage. Explore these sites that tell the region's past.
Robben Island
Famous former prison island where Nelson Mandela was held; take a ferry and guided tour to learn its history.
Castle of Good Hope
South Africa’s oldest colonial fortress with museums, grand courtyards, and city views.
District Six Museum
Moving exhibitions tell the story of forced removals and community memory in Cape Town.
Museums
Cape Town's museums span art, natural history, and local culture.
Iziko South African National Gallery
Major art collection featuring South African and international works across centuries.
Iziko South African Museum
Natural history displays, including fossils, fauna, and local biodiversity.
Zeitz MOCAA
Africa’s leading contemporary art museum housed in a converted grain silo at the V&A Waterfront.
South African Jewish Museum
Exhibits chronicling Jewish communities in South Africa and their cultural contributions.
Religious Monuments
The city’s religious landmarks reflect its diverse communities and colonial history.
St. George's Cathedral
Majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in the heart of Cape Town, a landmark of Anglican heritage.
Ohel Leah Synagogue
Historic Sephardic synagogue in Sea Point, serving Cape Town’s Jewish community.
St. Mary's Cathedral
Roman Catholic cathedral with elegant architecture and city views.
National & Theme Parks
Nature is just outside the urban core, with parks, reserves, and spectacular coastal scenery.
Table Mountain National Park
Protects the iconic Table Mountain and coastline, with scenic hikes and viewpoints.
Cape Point Nature Reserve
Dramatic promontory at the tip of the Cape Peninsula with rugged coastline and wildlife.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
World-renowned botanical garden at the foothills of Table Mountain.
Neighborhoods
Each neighborhood has its own flavor, architecture, and stories.
Bo-Kaap
Colorful, historic Malay quarter known for its cobbled streets and spice-scented air.
Camps Bay
Sun-kissed beachfront suburb with palm-lined promenade and sunset views.
De Waterkant
Vibrant, LGBTQ-friendly district with cafés, harbour views, and energy.
Woodstock
Creative hub with markets, street art, and industrial-chic vibes.
Free Things to Do
Some of the best views and experiences in Cape Town are free to enjoy.
Lions Head Hike
Sweeping views of Cape Town and Table Bay from a relatively accessible summit.
Table Mountain via Platteklip Gorge
Direct, challenging ascent offering dramatic city panoramas.
Sea Point Promenade
Long waterfront walk perfect for sunset strolls and people-watching.
Company's Garden
City center park with shady trees, fountains, and space to relax.
Gastronomy
Taste the city’s flavors from lively markets to stylish eateries.
V&A Food Market
Eclectic stalls offer global bites and local treats by the waterfront.
Neighbourgoods Market (Old Biscuit Mill)
Weekend market blending food, crafts, and live tunes in Woodstock.
Oranjezicht City Farm Market
Farm-to-table market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and coffee.
Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Cape Town’s bars, clubs, and lounges come alive.
Long Street
Historic bar and club strip known for live music, cocktails and late-night energy.
The House of Machines
Industrial-chic venue with cocktails, coffee, and occasional live sets.
Shimmy Beach Club
Stylish waterfront venue offering sunset drinks, dining and dancing.
Entertainment
Catch a show, film, or performance at these venues.
Two Oceans Aquarium
Family-friendly marine life exhibits at the V&A Waterfront.
Artscape Theatre Centre
Large performing arts venue hosting theatre, dance and music.
The Labia Theatre
Independent cinema known for locally produced films and foreign titles.
Sports
Cape Town’s outdoor spaces and stadiums host world-class sport and recreation.
Newlands Cricket Ground
Historic cricket stadium set against the mountains, hosting internationals.
Cape Town Stadium
Modern multipurpose stadium in Green Point for football and rugby.
Muizenberg Beach
Beginner-friendly waves at Muizenberg Beach with colorful huts.
Off the Track
Discover lesser-known gems that go beyond the usual attractions.
Penguin viewing at Boulders Beach
Colonial-era penguin colony set on a sheltered cove near Simon’s Town.
Chapman's Peak Drive
Scenic mountain road with dramatic ocean vistas and lookout points.
Silvermine Nature Reserve
Quiet nature reserve offering scenic hikes, reservoirs and wildflowers.