Cape Town

Cape Town is a year-round destination – its magic shifts with the seasons – but when to go depends on what you want to do.

Summer (December to March) delivers blue skies and beach days, while spring (September to November) bursts with wildflowers. Winter (June to August) brings crisp air, lower prices, and the thrilling sight of whales dancing in the bay.

It’s busiest in summer, particularly in December and January when South Africans are on holiday and many international travellers seek the sun. It’s at its most alluring in February and March when it’s less crowded but still buzzing and sunny. This is a great time for outdoor pursuits and anything involving swimming and beaches.

In winter, known as the Green Season, cold fronts with heavy rain are the norm with crisp, clear days in between, ideal for sightseeing. It might not be beach weather, but it’s a great time to secure value-for-money discounts on everything from accommodation to restaurants. This is a great time if you’re coming for Cape Town’s food, art and museums.

Cape Town International Airport is situated just 20 minutes’ drive from the city centre, and offers direct air links to North America, Europe, Asia and regional destinations. Public buses link the airport to the city, while e-hailing and private taxis available are freely available at the terminal.

For something really special to start (or end) your trip, turn your airport transfer into a jaw-dropping helicopter flight. You can alight at the V&A Waterfront, Winelands and other points from the airport with Silvercross Helicopters.

Cape Town’s CBD, including the V&A, is compact, making walking and cycling around easy. But most of the key sights are further afield, and with limited reliable public transport hiring a car is your best bet. Hiring a car doesn’t have to be boring. Cape Cobra Hire has classic car rentals, specialising in open-top sports cars.

Reputable taxi companies and e-hailing services are safe and reliable, and better for short city trips. Drinking and driving is not tolerated, so consider a guided tour or chauffeur for exploring the Winelands.

Bike and Saddle, Southern Africa cycling specialists, offer guided cycling tours of Cape Town, and bike rental (with delivery at pre-agreed drop-off points).

Cape Town has plenty of top attractions and activities that don’t require an organised tour – and indeed are arguably better experienced independently. Take the cable car up Table Mountain, wander through Bo-Kaap’s vibrant streets, and drive the legendary Cape Peninsula route at your own pace. But for deep cultural insights, a guided township tour is an experience worth having (and a tour is a must).

Picturesque Camps Bay, Bantry Bay and Clifton are the city’s top addresses for upscale local life and glamorous beaches. If shopping, culture, restaurants or nightlife are your thing, then stay close to the V&A and Green Point, or in the ‘City Bowl’ (which includes trendy suburbs like Gardens and Higgovale).

If you’re coming for wine and scenery, considering basing yourself in beautiful Constantia, still close enough for jaunts into the city. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, while appealing to serious foodies and wine lovers, are both about an hour from the city.

The Victorian & Albert Waterfront – despite being tourist central – has many excellent restaurants, some with alfresco terraces on the water’s edge.

Bree Street in the city centre is a vibrant gourmet boulevard of wine bars, coffee shops and restaurants that’s best discovered on foot. The extensive coastline means there’s no shortage of sea-view eateries serving up fresh seafood. The winelands – Constantia and Stellenbosch – are peppered with outstanding restaurants serving exceptional food – in gorgeous al fresco settings inspired by Cape Dutch Architecture.

For vegetarians and vegans, Cape Town has embraced the plant-based revolution, with spots like Plant Café and Lekker Vegan serving up dishes so good, that even carnivores won’t miss the meat. Most restaurants offer vegan-friendly choices too.

Wander the length of Long, Bree and Kloof streets to discover an array of local fashion and design boutiques. There’s a thriving art scene in Woodstock, with galleries and design hubs like the Old Biscuit Mill.

In Kalk Bay, about 30 minutes from the city, you’ll find boho-chic antiques, vintage and collectable shops rubbing shoulders with art galleries such as Kalk Bay Modern.

Local shopping aficionados Blue By You offer personally escorted shopping to the best shops, galleries, jewellers and craftspeople.

What to buy

Skip the mass-produced trinkets and go for something local – handwoven baskets, colourful beadwork, a bottle (or three) of South African wine. Rooibos tea and handmade leather goods also make for perfect keepsakes and gifts to take home.

Is Cape Town safe?

Like any major city, Cape Town demands street smarts. Stick to well-lit areas at night, use Uber instead of walking alone, and keep an eye on your belongings. Stay in tourist-friendly neighbourhoods, and you’ll soak up the magic without the mishaps.

Do I need a visa to visit Cape Town?

For many, South Africa welcomes you with open arms and a free 90-day visa on arrival. But rules change, so check before you go – because there’s nothing worse than dreaming of Table Mountain only to be stopped at the border.

What should I pack?

Cape Town’s weather loves surprises. In summer, bring sunglasses, a swimsuit, and plenty of sunscreen. In winter, a cosy jacket for those misty mornings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must—this is a city made for wandering.

Do people in Cape Town speak English?

English is widely spoken, though you’ll hear Afrikaans and Xhosa woven into the rhythm of the city. A friendly “Molo” (hello in Xhosa) will earn you a warm smile.

Can I use credit cards in Cape Town?

Plastic is king in most places, with Visa and Mastercard accepted almost everywhere. But for market stalls, small cafes, or tipping, having a little cash on hand is always smart.

Are there ATMs in Cape Town?

Yes, ATMs are easy to find, especially in malls and tourist areas. Use those inside banks or shopping centres for added security—because no one wants their adventure interrupted by card troubles.

How expensive is Cape Town?

Compared to major Western cities, Cape Town is a dream. A gourmet meal costs a fraction of what you’d pay in Europe, and luxury experiences—sunset cruises, fine dining, even safari excursions—come with surprisingly reasonable price tags.