Exploring the Heart of Cape Town: City Bowl

Discover Cape Town's City Bowl: A vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty nestled between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean.

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City Bowl, the vibrant heart of Cape Town, is a must-visit destination for any tourist. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the stunning Atlantic Ocean, this urban neighbourhood offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. The area is known for its bustling streets, historic landmarks, and a variety of entertainment options that cater to all tastes. One of the standout features of City Bowl is its rich history. Visitors can explore the Company's Garden, a lush green space established in the 1650s, or visit the Iziko South African Museum to learn about the region's cultural heritage. The neighbourhood is also home to the colourful Bo-Kaap area, famous for its brightly painted houses and cobblestone streets, offering a glimpse into Cape Town's multicultural past. For those who love shopping and dining, City Bowl won't disappoint. Long Street is a popular spot, lined with eclectic shops, bars, and restaurants. Here, you can find everything from local crafts to gourmet cuisine. The area also hosts a variety of markets, such as the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill, where you can sample local delicacies and pick up unique souvenirs. Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Table Mountain, where you can hike or take a cable car ride to the summit for breathtaking views of the city and ocean. The V&A Waterfront, another nearby attraction, offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, along with stunning harbour views. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a foodie, City Bowl has something to offer every traveller.

Local tips in City Bowl

Visit the Company's Garden early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk.
Wear comfortable shoes as the area is best explored on foot.
Check the weather forecast before planning a hike up Table Mountain.
Try local food at the Neighbourgoods Market for an authentic culinary experience.
Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Long Street.

File:Table Mountain Cape Town South Africa 19Mar2018 SkySat.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Lion's Head Cape Town.jpeg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Company's Garden Cape Town.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Castle of Good Hope Entrance (1682).jpg - Wikipedia

File:Bo-Kaap Cape Town South Africa.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Cape Town Harbour , V&A Waterfront. View from the Clock Tower.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:District Six Museum, Cape Town 2018 25.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Greenmarket square1.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Signal Hill Sunset 001.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Cape Town City Hall (16513659039).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Castle of Good Hope

Explore the Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town's oldest structure, and immerse yourself in its rich military history and stunning architecture.

Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum

Explore the rich heritage of the Cape Malay community at the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum, a vibrant cultural hub in Cape Town's historic district.

Nobel Square

Explore Nobel Square in Cape Town, a powerful tribute to the legacy of Nobel Peace Prize laureates amid stunning waterfront views.

Church Square

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Cape Town at Church Square, a must-visit landmark in the city's heart.

Jetty 1, V & A Waterfront

Jetty 1 at V & A Waterfront: Discover Cape Town's maritime history and enjoy breathtaking views at this iconic historical landmark.

We Are Still Here Memorial

Explore the We Are Still Here Memorial in Cape Town, a powerful historical landmark that reflects the city's resilience and rich cultural heritage.

Cape Town Breakwater

Explore the historic Cape Town Breakwater at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views.

Time Ball Tower

Discover Cape Town's maritime history at the Time Ball Tower, a historic landmark offering stunning waterfront views and rich heritage.

The Original Shoreline

Explore The Original Shoreline in Cape Town, a historical landmark embodying the city's rich heritage and stunning coastal views.

Collier Jetty

Explore the historical significance and stunning vistas of Collier Jetty, a captivating landmark at Cape Town's vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

Unmissable attractions to see

Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum

Explore the vibrant history and culture of the Cape Malay community at the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum in Cape Town, a unique tourist attraction.

District Six Museum

Explore the District Six Museum in Cape Town, where history meets resilience, and stories of a vibrant community come to life.

Iziko Slave Lodge

Discover the profound history of slavery in South Africa at the Iziko Slave Lodge, a museum dedicated to honoring the lives and stories of the enslaved.

Church Square

Explore Church Square: A vibrant historical landmark in Cape Town, showcasing rich culture, stunning architecture, and local life.

Iziko Old Town House Museum

Explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning art collections at the Iziko Old Town House Museum in Cape Town.

Essential places to dine

Kloof Street House

Discover Kloof Street House: A delightful restaurant in Cape Town offering exquisite South African cuisine in a charming atmosphere.

Addis in Cape Ethiopian Restaurant

Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Addis in Cape - where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Cape Town.

Ethiopian Madam Taitou

Discover the rich flavors of Ethiopia at Madam Taitou in Cape Town City Centre – where every meal tells a story.

COPA Restaurant

Experience exquisite dining at COPA Restaurant in Cape Town City Centre—where local flavors meet international cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.

Haiku Cape Town CBD (Closed temporarily for renovations until Summer)

Experience the best of Asian fusion cuisine at Haiku in Cape Town CBD - where every dish tells a story.

South China Dim Sum Bar

Experience authentic dim sum in Cape Town's vibrant City Centre at South China Dim Sum Bar – where flavor meets tradition.

The Poke Co.

Discover fresh and flavorful Asian-inspired dishes at The Poke Co., Cape Town's premier health food destination offering poke bowls and more.

Grub & Vine

Discover the flavors of Cape Town at Grub & Vine – where seasonal ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.

Eighty-Ate Restaurant

Experience the vibrant flavors of South Africa at Eighty-Ate Restaurant in Cape Town City Centre - where every meal is a celebration.

Aleppo Cuisine

Discover authentic Syrian flavors at Aleppo Cuisine in Cape Town – a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking unique culinary experiences.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Lifestyle On Kloof

Explore Lifestyle On Kloof, a vibrant shopping mall in Cape Town's Gardens district, offering unique shops, local cuisine, and cultural experiences.

WAZA Japan Store

Discover authentic Japanese products and delicacies at WAZA Japan Store in Cape Town's vibrant CBD. A unique cultural experience awaits.

Baraka Gifts and Decor

Explore Baraka Gifts and Decor for unique South African treasures in the heart of Cape Town's vibrant Cape Quarter.

Bo-Kaap Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the colorful Bo-Kaap Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace offering unique crafts, delicious local cuisine, and an authentic cultural experience.

Fabricate

Explore Fabricate in Cape Town for unique, locally crafted gifts that capture the spirit of South Africa.

MERRY POP INS

Discover stylish and comfortable baby clothing at Merry Pop Ins in the heart of Cape Town's vibrant City Centre.

Purr

Discover stylish women's fashion at Purr, a chic clothing boutique in Cape Town's vibrant Gardens district, offering a unique blend of local and international designs.

Cultish

Explore Cultish, a unique boutique in Cape Town offering eclectic finds that celebrate local culture and creativity.

AFRICAN QUEEN ART AND CRAFT.

Explore the vibrant culture of South Africa at African Queen Art and Craft, where unique handcrafted treasures await every traveler.

Pan African Market

Dive into the colorful world of the Pan African Market in Cape Town, a vibrant hub of culture, art, and authentic African cuisine.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

BEERHOUSE on Long

Discover the essence of Cape Town's nightlife at BEERHOUSE on Long, where craft beers and delightful cuisine create an unforgettable experience.

Yours Truly

Experience Cape Town's vibrant nightlife at Yours Truly, where craft cocktails and delicious bites come together in a lively atmosphere.

The Gin Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Gin Bar in Cape Town, where exceptional gin selections and cocktails await every visitor.

The Station on Bree

Discover the vibrant flavors and innovative cocktails at The Station on Bree, a culinary gem in the heart of Cape Town's bustling scene.

Marvel Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cape Town at Marvel Bar, where cocktails, music, and good vibes come together for an unforgettable evening.

Abantu Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Abantu Bar in Cape Town City Centre, where cocktails, music, and culture collide for an unforgettable night.

Cafe Mojito Long Street, Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors of South African cuisine at Café Mojito, a lively restaurant and cocktail bar in the heart of Cape Town.

The Drinkery

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cape Town at The Drinkery, where crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.

Leo's Wine Bar

Discover Leo's Wine Bar: A cozy haven for wine lovers in the heart of Cape Town, offering exquisite wines and delightful small plates.

Julep Bar

Experience the lively spirit of Cape Town at Julep Bar, where exquisite cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for unwinding in the city.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to City Bowl

Discover City Bowl with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloMolo
  [moh-loh]
- GoodbyeHamba kahle
  [ham-bah kah-leh]
- YesEwe
  [eh-weh]
- NoCha
  [chah]
- Please/You're welcomeNceda
  [ncheh-dah]
- Thank youNgiyabonga
  [nee-yah-bohn-gah]
- Excuse me/SorryUxolo
  [oo-koh-loh]
- How are you?Unjani?
  [oon-jah-nee]
- Fine. And you?Njalo. Wena?
  [njah-loh. way-nah]
- Do you speak English?Ukhuluma isingesi?
  [oo-khoo-loo-mah ee-sing-gheh-see]
- I don't understandAndazi
  [ahn-dah-zee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNdicela ukubona iimenyu, nceda
  [uhn-dee-cheh-lah oo-koo-boh-nah ee-mehn-yoo, ncheh-dah]
- I don't eat meatAndithi nyama
  [ahn-dee-thee nyah-mah]
- Cheers!Ooyee!
  [oo-yeh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseNdicela ukulipa, nceda
  [uhn-dee-cheh-lah oo-koo-lee-pah, ncheh-dah]
- Help!Nceda!
  [ncheh-dah]
- Go away!Hamba!
  [ham-bah]
- Call the Police!Dlala amapolisa!
  [dlah-lah ah-mah-poh-lee-sah]
- Call a doctor!Dlala idaktari!
  [dlah-lah ee-dahk-tah-ree]
- I'm lostNdizilibele
  [n-dee-zee-lee-beh-leh]
- I'm illNdiphilile
  [n-dee-pee-lee-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Ndicela ukuthenga...
  [uhn-dee-cheh-lah oo-koo-ten-gah]
- I'm just lookingNdifuna ukubuka kuphela
  [n-dee-foo-nah oo-koo-boo-kah koo-peh-lah]
- How much is it?Izinga elingakanani kuyo?
  [ee-zing-gah eh-lee-ngah-kah-nah-nee koo-yoh]
- That's too expensiveKuyadala kakhulu
  [koo-yah-dah-lah kah-khoo-loo]
- Can you lower the price?Uyakwenza inani eliphezulu?
  [oo-yah-kwehn-zah ee-nah-nee eh-lee-pheh-zoo-loo]
- What time is it?Yintoni ixesha?
  [yin-toh-nee ee-gheh-shah]
- It's one o'clockLizwe elilodwa
  [lee-zweh eh-lee-lohd-wah]
- Half past (10)Ngentshisekile
  [ngehn-tshee-seh-kee-leh]
- MorningEkuseni
  [eh-koo-seh-nee]
- AfternoonEmva kwentsuku
  [ehm-vah kwehn-tsoo-koo]
- EveningEsihlanu
  [eh-see-hlah-noo]
- YesterdayIzolo
  [ee-zoh-loh]
- TodayNamhlanje
  [nahm-hlahn-jeh]
- TomorrowKusasa
  [koo-sah-sah]
- 1Kunye
  [koo-nyeh]
- 2Kubili
  [koo-bee-lee]
- 3Kuthathu
  [koo-tah-too]
- 4Kune
  [koo-neh]
- 5Kunye ne ntlanu
  [koo-nyeh neh ntlah-noo]
- 6Kunye ne sithandathu
  [koo-nyeh neh see-tahn-dah-too]
- 7Kunye ne sikhombisa
  [koo-nyeh neh see-khohm-bee-sah]
- 8Kunye ne sisithupha
  [koo-nyeh neh see-see-too-pah]
- 9Kunye ne sesikhombisa
  [koo-nyeh neh see-see-khohm-bee-sah]
- 10Kunye ne sesithupha
  [koo-nyeh neh see-see-too-pah]
- Where's a/the...?Lapha kuphi...?
  [lah-pah koo-pee]
- What's the address?Yiyo yoncedo?
  [yee-yoh yohn-cheh-doh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Uyakundinika (emephu)?
  [oo-yah-koon-dee-nee-kah]
- When's the next (bus)?Kusapho ntoni?
  [koo-sah-poh n-toh-nee]
- A ticket (to ....)Itikiti (kwi ....)
  [ee-tee-kee-tee]

History of City Bowl

The City Bowl area has been inhabited for thousands of years, originally by the Khoikhoi and San people. These indigenous groups relied on the natural resources of the region, particularly the abundant wildlife and vegetation. Their rock art, found in nearby caves, serves as a testament to their rich cultural heritage and connection to the land.
In 1652, the Dutch East India Company established a refreshment station at the Cape of Good Hope, leading to the founding of Cape Town. The City Bowl became the heart of this settlement, with the construction of the Castle of Good Hope between 1666 and 1679, marking the beginning of European colonial influence in the area.
In the 1830s, the Great Trek saw Dutch settlers moving away from the Cape Colony, leading to significant changes in land ownership and use. The indigenous populations faced increasing dispossession as European settlers established farms and towns throughout the region, profoundly affecting the demographics and culture of the City Bowl.
During the apartheid era, the City Bowl was a focal point for anti-apartheid movements. The area saw significant protests and uprisings, with notable figures such as Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu playing pivotal roles in the struggle for equality. The District Six area, located within the City Bowl, was forcibly cleared of its residents in the 1970s, a stark representation of the apartheid government's policies.
Since the end of apartheid in 1994, the City Bowl has undergone significant transformation. Efforts to revitalize the area have led to the restoration of historic buildings, the emergence of a vibrant arts scene, and the establishment of numerous cultural festivals. The City Bowl today reflects a blend of its colonial past and a renewed focus on inclusivity and diversity.

City Bowl Essentials

City Bowl is centrally located in Cape Town, making it easily accessible from various neighbourhoods. From the V&A Waterfront, you can take a short taxi ride or use the MyCiTi bus service, which operates frequently. If you're coming from the airport, the MyCiTi Airport Shuttle provides a direct connection to the City Bowl, taking approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available throughout Cape Town.
City Bowl is pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within walking distance. The MyCiTi bus network is efficient and covers key areas, including Camps Bay and Hout Bay, while the Metrorail train service connects to other parts of Cape Town. Bicycles can be rented from various shops, and cycling along the Sea Point Promenade is popular. For short distances, local taxis and ride-sharing services are convenient options.
City Bowl is generally safe for tourists; however, standard precautions are recommended. Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in less populated areas like the Bo-Kaap. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded places such as markets and tourist attractions, so keep belongings secure. Areas like some parts of the Gardens may experience higher crime rates—remain vigilant and avoid displaying valuables.
In case of emergency, dial 10111 for police assistance or 112 for general emergencies. The nearest hospitals include Groote Schuur Hospital and Mediclinic Cape Town. It is advisable to carry a copy of your travel insurance and any medical prescriptions. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and good walking shoes. Avoid overly revealing outfits, especially in religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do give way to elderly passengers and be mindful of your belongings. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'hello' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine at established restaurants. Don't accept food from strangers to avoid potential issues.
To experience City Bowl like a local, explore the vibrant markets such as the Oranjezicht City Farm Market on weekends for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Join a walking tour to learn about the area's rich history and culture, particularly in the Bo-Kaap district. For a unique perspective, hike up Lion's Head for stunning views at sunrise or sunset. Engage with local artists and performers, especially in the Company’s Garden, to enrich your visit.

Exploring the Heart of Cape Town: City Bowl

Local tips in City Bowl