Cape Town, South Africa Travel Guide

Discover Cape Town – a stunning blend of natural wonders, rich history, and vibrant culture, nestled between mountains and ocean in the heart of South Africa.

Cape Town, a vibrant city nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Known as the 'Mother City,' Cape Town is the oldest city in South Africa and boasts a fascinating history that dates back to the arrival of the Dutch settlers in the 17th century. Visitors can explore the bustling V&A Waterfront, a hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment, or take a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views. The city's diverse neighborhoods, from the colorful Bo-Kaap to the trendy streets of Woodstock, offer a taste of Cape Town's multicultural fabric. Nature enthusiasts will be enchanted by Cape Town's stunning landscapes, including the famous Cape Point, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet, and the picturesque Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. For those seeking adventure, the nearby Winelands provide world-class wine tasting experiences, while the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay offer a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cape Town.

Visit Table Mountain early in the morning to avoid long queues and enjoy clear views.
Use the MyCiTi bus service for convenient and affordable transport around the city.
Explore the V&A Waterfront on foot to fully experience its lively atmosphere.
Book wine tasting tours in advance to secure a spot at popular vineyards.
Wear comfortable shoes when exploring the city’s many hiking trails.
Check the local weather forecast as Cape Town’s weather can be unpredictable.
Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn about the history of the Cape Malay community.

Neighbourhoods in Cape Town

V&A Waterfront

Hout Bay

Camps Bay

Constantia

City Bowl

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Cape Town

Explore Cape Town: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Cape Town

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Explore the stunning Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town, a botanical delight showcasing the beauty of South Africa's indigenous flora.

4.8

Boulders Beach

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Boulders Beach, home to a charming colony of African penguins and stunning coastal scenery.

4.6

Table Mountain National Park

Discover the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Table Mountain National Park, a stunning national park in Cape Town, South Africa, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

4.7

Two Oceans Aquarium

Explore the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town, where the vibrant marine life of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans awaits your discovery.

4.6

Best landmarks in Cape Town

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V&A Waterfront

Experience the vibrant culture, shopping, and breathtaking views at the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town's premier destination for tourists.

4.6

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, a premier destination for nature lovers and tourists in Cape Town.

4.8

Table Mountain National Park

Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse ecosystems of Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town, South Africa – a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

4.8

Two Oceans Aquarium

Discover the breathtaking beauty of marine life at the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge in a spectacular showcase.

4.6

Best restaurants in Cape Town

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Kloof Street House

Discover Kloof Street House: A charming restaurant in Cape Town offering delicious cuisine amidst eclectic decor.

4.5

On the Rocks Restaurant

Experience culinary delights at On the Rocks Restaurant in Bloubergstrand - where breathtaking views meet exceptional dining.

4.3

GOLD Restaurant

Discover authentic African flavors and vibrant cultural performances at GOLD Restaurant in Cape Town.

4.6

Simon's Restaurant

Discover Simon's Restaurant at Groot Constantia: where exquisite South African cuisine meets stunning vineyard views.

4.4

Best bars in Cape Town

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Tiger's Milk Camps Bay

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and unique flavors at Tiger's Milk Camps Bay, a perfect dining spot with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

4.4

La Parada Constantia Nek

Experience the vibrant flavors of Cape Town at La Parada Constantia Nek, a premier tapas restaurant nestled in the heart of Hout Bay.

4.2

Hard Rock Cafe

Discover the energetic vibe of Hard Rock Cafe in Cape Town, where delicious American cuisine meets rock 'n' roll memorabilia in a stunning beachside setting.

4.3

Yours Truly

Discover Yours Truly in Cape Town's Schotsche Kloof - a vibrant bar offering a mix of local charm, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Cape Town

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Café Caprice

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at Café Caprice, a must-visit restaurant and cocktail bar in Camps Bay, Cape Town.

4.3

Ayepyep Lifestyle Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cape Town at Ayepyep Lifestyle Lounge, where stylish ambiance meets unforgettable music and cocktails.

4.5

Saint Champagne Bar & Lounge - Nightclub

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Cape Town at Saint Champagne Bar & Lounge, where elegance meets entertainment in a chic setting.

4.1

Havana Nights

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cape Town at Havana Nights, where live music, cocktails, and dancing come together for an unforgettable evening.

4.3

Best shops in Cape Town

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V&A Waterfront

Discover the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town - a shopping, dining, and cultural hotspot with stunning views and endless activities.

4.6

Canal Walk Shopping Centre

Experience the ultimate shopping adventure at Canal Walk Shopping Centre, Cape Town's premier retail and entertainment destination.

4.5

Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre

Explore Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre, the ultimate shopping destination in Cape Town, featuring diverse stores, dining options, and stunning waterfront views.

4.5

Cavendish Square

Discover Cavendish Square, a vibrant shopping mall in Claremont, Cape Town, featuring a wide array of shops, dining, and entertainment options.

4.4

Explore Cape Town on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Cape Town, mapped for you.

Cape Town Essentials

Cape Town is served by Cape Town International Airport (CPT), one of the busiest airports in Africa. Direct flights are available from major cities worldwide, including London, New York, Dubai, and several European and African cities. From the airport, you can reach the city center via taxi, rideshare, or shuttle services. The MyCiTi bus service also offers a convenient and affordable Airport-to-City route.
Cape Town offers various transportation options. The MyCiTi bus service is an efficient way to navigate the city, with routes covering major attractions and neighborhoods. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are widely available. For more scenic travel, consider renting a car to explore the Cape Peninsula and the surrounding wine regions. The Metrorail service connects Cape Town with nearby towns, but caution is advised due to safety concerns.
The official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are widely available, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and dedicated exchange bureaus.
While Cape Town is generally safe for tourists, some areas have higher crime rates, particularly for petty theft and muggings. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in areas like the Central Business District (CBD) after dark, and townships unless guided by a local. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit and populated areas.
In case of emergency, dial 10111 for police, 10177 for ambulance services, and 112 from any mobile phone. Private hospitals like Netcare and Mediclinic offer excellent medical services. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably but avoid overly flashy or revealing clothing. Layering is advisable due to changing weather conditions. Religion: Do respect all religious sites and dress modestly when visiting them. Public Transport: Do use the MyCiTi bus system for safe and reliable transport. Don't use the train system after dark. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like biltong, bobotie, and Cape Malay curry. Don't drink tap water; bottled water is recommended.
To experience Cape Town like a local, visit the Old Biscuit Mill on Saturdays for local crafts and gourmet food. Take a stroll along the Sea Point Promenade for stunning ocean views. Venture to lesser-known wine estates in the Constantia Valley for a more intimate wine-tasting experience. Don't miss the vibrant street art in Woodstock and the local markets in Hout Bay and Greenmarket Square.

When is the best time to visit Cape Town?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Cape Town

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Cape Town. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMolo
  [moh-loh]
- GoodbyeTotsiens
  [toh-tseens]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNee
  [nee]
- Please/You're welcomeAsseblief
  [ah-suh-bleef]
- Thank youDankie
  [dahn-kee]
- Excuse me/SorryVerskoon my
  [fehr-skoon may]
- How are you?Hoe gaan dit met jou?
  [ho gahn deet met yoh]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En jy?
  [khoot en yay]
- Do you speak English?Praat jy Engels?
  [praht yay eng-uhls]
- I don't understandEk verstaan nie
  [ayk fehr-stahn nee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEk wil asseblief die spyskaart sien
  [ayk vil ah-suh-bleef dee spays-kahrt seen]
- I don't eat meatEk eet nie vleis nie
  [ayk eet nee flays nee]
- Cheers!Gesondheid!
  [ghuh-sunt-hayt]
- I would like to pay, pleaseEk wil asseblief betaal
  [ayk vil ah-suh-bleef buh-tahl]
- Help!Hulp!
  [huhlp]
- Go away!Gaan weg!
  [kahn vehk]
- Call the Police!Bel die Polisie!
  [bail dee poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Bel 'n dokter!
  [bail en dohk-tehr]
- I'm lostEk is verlore
  [ayk is fehr-loh-ruh]
- I'm illEk is siek
  [ayk is seek]
- I'd like to buy...Ek wil ... koop
  [ayk vil ... kohp]
- I'm just lookingEk kyk net
  [ayk kuhyk neht]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kos dit?
  [ho-veel kohs deet]
- That's too expensiveDit is te duur
  [deet is teh dyoor]
- Can you lower the price?Kan jy die prys verlaag?
  [kahn yay dee preys fuh-laahg]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is dit?
  [ho lah-t deet]
- It's one o'clockDit is een uur
  [deet is ayn oohr]
- Half past (10)Half tien
  [hahlf teen]
- MorningOggend
  [oh-ghund]
- AfternoonMiddag
  [mid-ahkh]
- EveningAand
  [ahnt]
- YesterdayGister
  [ghih-stuhr]
- TodayVandag
  [fuhn-dahk]
- TomorrowMôre
  [moh-ruh]
- 1Een
  [ayn]
- 2Twee
  [twee]
- 3Drie
  [dree]
- 4Vier
  [feer]
- 5Vyf
  [fayf]
- 6Ses
  [sehs]
- 7Sewe
  [seh-weh]
- 8Agt
  [ahgt]
- 9Nege
  [neh-ghuh]
- 10Tien
  [teen]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is 'n/die...?
  [vahr is en/dee]
- What's the address?Wat is die adres?
  [vah-t is dee ah-drehs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan jy my wys (op die kaart)?
  [kahn yay may vays (ohp dee kahrt)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is die volgende (bus)?
  [vahn-neer is dee fuhl-khend-uh (buhs)]
- A ticket (to ....)'n Kaartjie (na ....)
  [en kahrt-chee (nah)]

History of Cape Town

Cape Town was founded in 1652 by Jan van Riebeeck, a Dutch sailor and colonial administrator, as a supply station for the Dutch East India Company. This marked the beginning of European settlement in South Africa, and the establishment of Cape Town as a crucial point for trade routes to the East.
In 1795, the British seized control of Cape Town to prevent it from falling into the hands of the French, who were allied with the Dutch at the time. This marked the beginning of British influence in the region. The British officially took over the Cape Colony in 1806 after the Battle of Blaauwberg.
The establishment of the Cape Colony led to the unfortunate institution of slavery, which was a significant part of Cape Town’s early economy. Slaves were brought from other parts of Africa, Madagascar, and the East Indies to work in agriculture and domestic service. Slavery was abolished in the Cape Colony in 1834, following the Slavery Abolition Act passed by the British Parliament.
During the 1830s and 1840s, the Great Trek occurred as Dutch-speaking settlers, known as the Voortrekkers, moved inland to escape British rule in Cape Town. This migration significantly influenced the demographic and geopolitical landscape of South Africa, leading to the establishment of several Boer republics.
The discovery of diamonds in 1867 and gold in 1886 in other parts of South Africa brought wealth and development to Cape Town. The city became a key port for exporting these valuable resources, and its economy flourished as a result.
The apartheid era, beginning in 1948, had a profound impact on Cape Town, as it did on the rest of South Africa. The city was heavily segregated, with non-white residents being forcibly removed from their homes and relocated to townships such as Langa, Gugulethu, and Khayelitsha. This period was marked by widespread human rights abuses and significant resistance movements.
Robben Island, located just off the coast of Cape Town, is famous for being the site where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were incarcerated for many years during the apartheid era. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the struggle for freedom and democracy in South Africa.
The end of apartheid in the early 1990s brought significant change to Cape Town. In 1994, Nelson Mandela was elected as the first black President of South Africa, and Cape Town hosted parts of the historic inauguration. The city has since made strides towards reconciliation and development, becoming a vibrant and multicultural metropolis.
Today, Cape Town is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse cultural heritage, and historical significance. It is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors with its iconic Table Mountain, picturesque beaches, and rich history. The city continues to evolve, reflecting the dynamic and resilient spirit of its people.