Why go to Cape Town
Cape Town sits beneath a flat-topped mountain at the edge of Africa. Penguins on the beach, world-class wine an hour away and dramatic coastal drives make it one of the world's most beautiful cities.
Best time to visit Cape Town
October to April is warm and dry, ideal for beaches and wine. December and January are busiest. June to August is winter, with rain and wind but green landscapes, while whale watching peaks from roughly June to November along the coast.
Top things to see
Table Mountain
Cable car or hike; check the weather first.
Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope
Cliffs at the end of the peninsula.
Boulders Beach
African penguins at Simon's Town.
Robben Island
Where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned; tours by ferry.
Kirstenbosch Garden
Botanical garden with a treetop walkway.
Bo-Kaap
Brightly painted houses and Cape Malay heritage.
Things to do in Cape Town
- Drive Chapman's Peak
- Taste wine in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
- Climb Lion's Head for sunrise or full moon
- Shark-cage dive or whale watch in Hermanus
- Surf at Muizenberg
Local experiences
- Try a Cape Malay cooking class in Bo-Kaap
- Join a guided township tour that supports local businesses
- Eat at the Neighbourgoods Market on a Saturday
- Braai (barbecue) with friends
Where to eat in Cape Town
Dishes to try: bobotie, Cape Malay curry, braai, bunny chow, malva pudding, Chenin Blanc.
Kloof Street HouseBistro
Victorian house with a magical garden.
The Pot Luck ClubSmall plates
Chef Luke Dale Roberts' celebrated sharing-plates restaurant.
MzansiAfrican
Home-cooked buffet and music in Langa.
Where to stay in Cape Town
Belmond Mount Nelson HotelLuxury
The pink grande dame in gardens.
Ellerman HouseLuxury
Cliffside villa in Bantry Bay.
The Silo HotelLuxury
Above the Zeitz MOCAA museum.
Best areas to stay
V&A Waterfront
Convenient and secure.
City Bowl
Restaurants and mountain access.
Camps Bay
Beach life and sunsets.
Sea Point
Promenade and good value.
5 days in Cape Town
Day 1: Table Mountain and Bo-Kaap
Day 2: The Cape Peninsula
Day 3: The Winelands
Day 4: History and gardens
Day 5: Coast day
See the full day-by-day itinerary
Festivals and events
Tweede Nuwe Jaar2 January
The minstrel carnival through the city centre.
Cape Town Cycle TourMarch
The world's largest timed cycle race.
Whale seasonJune to November
Southern right whales along the coast, especially at Hermanus.
Getting around
Ride-hailing is the easiest way around. Renting a car is great for peninsula and winelands trips. The MyCiTi bus covers parts of the city and airport.
Practical information
- Plug types
- C, M, N (guide)
- Voltage
- 230 V
- Emergency
- 10111 (police), 10177 (ambulance), 112 (from mobiles)
- Tap water
- Safe to drink
Tipping: 10–15% in restaurants; small tips for car guards. See our tipping guide.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; check your government's travel advice and the destination's official immigration site before booking.
How much does it cost?
Approximate US dollar figures covering accommodation, food, local transport and sights; flights excluded.
Good to know
- Don't hike alone and start early
- Avoid walking alone after dark in quiet areas
- The Table Mountain cable car closes in high wind
- Water is precious: be mindful of use
Cape Town travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit Cape Town?
The best months are usually Oct–Mar. October to April is warm and dry, ideal for beaches and wine. December and January are busiest. June to August is winter, with rain and wind but green landscapes, while whale watching peaks from roughly June to November along the coast.
How many days do you need in Cape Town?
Plan on 5 days to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
What currency is used in Cape Town?
The local currency is the South African rand (ZAR). Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
How much does a trip to Cape Town cost per day?
Roughly US$60 per person per day on a budget, US$160 mid-range and US$600 or more for luxury, excluding flights. Prices vary by season.
What food should I try in Cape Town?
Local favourites include bobotie, Cape Malay curry, braai, bunny chow, malva pudding, Chenin Blanc.
What plug adapter do I need for Cape Town?
Cape Town uses plug type C, M, N at 230 V. Check whether your devices support this voltage.
Restaurants, hotels and prices change. Confirm opening times and book popular places ahead. Last reviewed October 2026.
More in Africa
Marrakech
Morocco · best Mar–May, Oct–NovSouks, riads and the Atlas Mountains on the horizon.
Paris
France · best Apr–Jun, Sep–OctBoulevards, bakeries and the best people-watching on earth.
London
United Kingdom · best Apr–SepFree museums, royal parks and a food scene drawn from the whole world.