Best Things to do in Cape Town

President Hotel

Key Takeaways

• Cape Town brings together mountains, beaches, world-class food, culture and wildlife, all within easy reach of one another.
• From Table Mountain and Robben Island to Boulders Beach and the Cape Winelands, many of South Africa's most iconic experiences can be explored in a single trip.
• Bantry Bay and the Atlantic Seaboard offer an ideal base, with easy access to beaches, hiking trails, restaurants and the city's leading attractions.
• Whether you're travelling as a couple, with family or in search of adventure, Cape Town offers experiences to suit every season and style of travel.
• This guide brings together the city's highlights, practical local tips and inspiration to help you make the most of your stay.

Why Cape Town Belongs on Every Traveller's List

Few destinations bring together such a remarkable variety of experiences as Cape Town. Within the space of a single day, you can watch the sun rise over Table Mountain, wander through colourful neighbourhoods steeped in history, swim in the Atlantic Ocean, enjoy a world-class lunch overlooking the vineyards, and end the evening with fresh seafood as the sun sets behind the Twelve Apostles.

It's this diversity that makes Cape Town one of the world's most rewarding destinations to explore. The best things to do in Cape Town are not limited to a single attraction or neighbourhood. Instead, the city asks visitors to move between landscapes, cultures and experiences, each revealing a different side of the Mother City.

Nature sits at the heart of everyday life here. Beaches, mountain trails and nature reserves are part of the city itself, while its creative energy can be found in galleries, markets, restaurants and independent boutiques. Alongside its natural beauty, Cape Town is home to a rich and complex history that continues to shape its identity today.

For many visitors, the Atlantic Seaboard offers the ideal place to stay. Located between the city centre and Camps Bay, Bantry Bay, Cape Town, provides easy access to many of the city's most celebrated attractions while offering a quieter pace and uninterrupted ocean views. Whether it's your first visit or your fifth, it's a location that makes exploring effortless.

This guide highlights Cape Town's must-see landmarks alongside local favourites, from mountain hikes and beaches to cultural attractions, food experiences and memorable day trips.

The Best Outdoor Activities in Cape Town

Cape Town is an outdoor city in every sense. The mountains are part of the skyline, the ocean shapes daily life, and some of the country's most spectacular landscapes lie within an hour of the city centre. Whether you're looking for gentle coastal walks or high-adrenaline adventures, there is no shortage of memorable outdoor activities in Cape Town.

Hike Table Mountain

No visit is complete without experiencing Table Mountain. Rising more than 1,000 metres above the city, the flat-topped mountain offers panoramic views across the Atlantic Seaboard, the city bowl and the Cape Peninsula.

While many visitors choose the cableway for its convenience, hiking to the summit offers a deeper appreciation of the mountain's unique fynbos landscape and dramatic scenery. Early morning hikes are particularly rewarding, with cooler temperatures, quieter trails and golden light across the city.

Some of the most popular routes include:

• Platteklip Gorge – The most direct route to the summit. Steep but straightforward, making it popular with first-time hikers.
• India Venster – A more challenging trail with sections of scrambling and spectacular views throughout the ascent.
• Skeleton Gorge – Beginning in Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, this route passes through indigenous forest before emerging onto the mountain plateau.
• Kasteelspoort – A quieter route from the Camps Bay side of the mountain, known for sweeping views of the Twelve Apostles.
• Visitors short on time can combine a hike in one direction with a return trip on the cableway, enjoying the best of both experiences.

Wander Along the Sea Point Promenade

Just a two-minute walk from The President Hotel, the Sea Point Promenade is one of Cape Town's most loved public spaces. Stretching along the Atlantic coastline, it offers uninterrupted ocean views, fresh sea air and an easy way to experience the city's outdoor lifestyle.

The promenade is at its best in the early morning, when runners, walkers and cyclists set out as the sun rises over Lion's Head. Evenings bring a different rhythm, with locals and visitors gathering to stroll along the shoreline, pause on the benches overlooking the ocean or simply watch the sky shift through shades of gold and pink as the sun sets over the Atlantic.

Along the route, you'll find public art, outdoor exercise areas, cafés and tidal pools, creating plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the surroundings. Whether you're fitting in a morning jog before breakfast, taking a leisurely walk after dinner or simply looking for one of Cape Town's finest sunset spots, the Sea Point Promenade offers a quintessential local experience just moments from your room.

Explore the Cape of Good Hope

A drive to the Cape of Good Hope remains one of South Africa's great day trips. The journey itself is part of the experience, particularly when travelling via the dramatic curves of Chapman's Peak Drive before continuing through Noordhoek and Simon's Town.

Located within the Cape of Good Hope section of Table Mountain National Park, the reserve offers rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean views and abundant wildlife. Baboons, ostriches, eland and bontebok are regularly spotted throughout the park, while seasonal wildflowers transform the landscape during spring.

Visitors can choose between scenic viewpoints, walking trails and quieter beaches, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring the reserve at a relaxed pace.

Visit Boulders Beach and the African Penguins

Just a short drive from the Cape of Good Hope lies one of Cape Town's most recognisable attractions. Boulders Beach is home to a thriving colony of endangered African penguins, offering visitors the rare opportunity to observe these remarkable birds in their natural habitat.

Elevated wooden boardwalks provide excellent viewing without disturbing the colony, while a protected beach nearby allows visitors to swim alongside the resident penguins. Entry fees apply, and booking a combined visit with the Cape of Good Hope makes for an easy and rewarding full-day excursion.

Families, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts consistently rank Boulders Beach among their favourite experiences in Cape Town.

Learn more about The President Hotel’s Partnership with SANCCOB

Paraglide, Surf, and Explore the Ocean

Cape Town's coastline offers far more than beautiful beaches. Adventure seekers can take to the skies with a tandem paragliding flight from Signal Hill or Lion's Head, soaring above the Atlantic coastline with uninterrupted views stretching from Camps Bay to Robben Island.

For those drawn to the water, Muizenberg's gentle waves have made it one of South Africa's most popular places to learn to surf. Experienced instructors, consistent conditions and colourful beachfront architecture create a welcoming environment for beginners.

Sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and seasonal ocean safaris provide further opportunities to experience the city's marine environment from a different perspective.

Read more about The President Hotel’s partnership with local kayaking operators who are pioneering ocean education.

Cape Town's Best Cultural and Heritage Experiences

While Cape Town is celebrated for its landscapes, its cultural and historical significance is equally compelling. Exploring the city's museums, neighbourhoods and heritage sites offers valuable insight into South Africa's past while celebrating the creativity that continues to shape its future.

Robben Island

Few places hold greater historical significance than Robben Island, the UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison.

Tours depart from the V&A Waterfront and include a ferry crossing followed by a guided visit led by former political prisoners. Their personal accounts offer an experience that is both deeply moving and profoundly educational. Allow approximately four hours for the full visit and book tickets well in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons.

Bo-Kaap and Cape Malay Heritage

With its brightly coloured homes and cobbled streets, Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town's most photographed neighbourhoods. Beyond its striking appearance lies a rich history rooted in Cape Malay culture and centuries of community tradition.

Visitors can explore the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum, learn about the area's heritage and discover the distinctive flavours that have shaped Cape Malay cuisine. Located just a short drive from Bantry Bay and Sea Point, Bo-Kaap offers an easy addition to any city itinerary.

Zeitz MOCAA and Cape Town's Art Scene

Cape Town has established itself as one of Africa's leading contemporary art destinations. At the centre of this creative landscape is Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA), housed within the striking former grain silos of the V&A Waterfront.

As the largest museum dedicated to contemporary African art, its exhibitions showcase artists from across the continent while offering visitors a deeper understanding of Africa's evolving creative landscape.

Those visiting on the first Thursday of the month can also experience First Thursdays, when galleries, studios and cultural spaces across the city remain open into the evening, creating a lively celebration of Cape Town's creative community.

The Best Beaches in Cape Town

Cape Town's coastline is as diverse as the city itself. Along the Atlantic Seaboard, sheltered coves, broad stretches of white sand and rocky tidal pools each offer a different experience. Whether you're looking for an early morning swim, a family beach day or a place to watch the sun disappear into the ocean, there's a beach to match every mood.

Staying along the Atlantic Seaboard also means spending less time in traffic and more time outdoors. From Bantry Bay, some of the city's best beaches are just minutes away.

Saunders’ Rock

Just below The President Hotel lies one of Cape Town's best-kept secrets. Saunders’ Rock is a small cove that remains a favourite among locals, particularly for early morning swims and sunset gatherings.

Rather than long stretches of sand, you'll find granite boulders, natural tidal pools and uninterrupted views across the Atlantic Ocean. It's an ideal spot to escape the crowds, enjoy a quiet picnic or simply pause to watch the waves roll in. For visitors staying in Bantry Bay, it's one of the easiest ways to experience Cape Town like a local.

In recent years, Saunders' Rock has also become a favourite gathering place for Cape Town's cold-water swimming community. Each morning, locals make their way to the tidal pool for an invigorating plunge before the day begins. While the Atlantic remains brisk throughout the year, many swimmers return for the sense of calm, connection and accomplishment that comes with a cold-water dip. Whether you're a seasoned open-water swimmer or simply curious to experience one of the city's daily rituals, the tidal pool offers a memorable way to immerse yourself in Cape Town's coastal lifestyle.

Camps Bay and Clifton

With palm-lined promenades, white sand and the dramatic backdrop of the Twelve Apostles, Camps Bay is one of Cape Town's most recognisable beaches.

The atmosphere is lively throughout the day, with cafés, restaurants and cocktail bars overlooking the beachfront. While the Atlantic Ocean remains refreshingly cool year-round, the beach is ideal for sunbathing, people watching and sunset strolls. Families will also find plenty of nearby dining options, making it an easy destination to spend an entire afternoon.

Clifton

A short drive from Bantry Bay, Clifton's four sheltered beaches each have their own personality.

First and Second Beach attract a mix of locals and visitors, while Third Beach is popular with younger beachgoers. Fourth Beach, the largest and most family-friendly, is recognised by its Blue Flag status and calmer conditions during the summer months.

Protected from the wind by towering granite boulders, Clifton offers some of Cape Town's clearest water and most picturesque coastal scenery. Arriving early is recommended during peak season, as parking can be limited.

Food, Wine, and Markets in Cape Town

Cape Town's food scene reflects the diversity of the city itself. Local ingredients, global influences and a strong connection to nearby farms and vineyards have helped establish the city as one of the world's leading culinary destinations.

Whether you're enjoying a neighbourhood café, discovering local markets or spending the day in the Winelands, food is often at the heart of the experience.

Visitors staying at The President Hotel can begin the day at Botany Café, where seasonal menus, freshly baked pastries and locally roasted coffee provide a relaxed introduction to Cape Town's café culture before heading out to explore.

Explore dining options at The President Hotel

Cape Winelands — Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Constantia

A visit to the Cape Winelands is one of the defining experiences of any trip to Cape Town.

Less than an hour from the city, Constantia offers the closest vineyards, with historic estates and cool-climate wines surrounded by mountain scenery.

Further inland, Stellenbosch combines centuries-old oak-lined streets with renowned wine estates producing some of South Africa's finest Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Chenin Blanc. Independent galleries, cafés and boutique shops make the town worth exploring beyond the tasting rooms.

For those seeking a slower pace, Franschhoek pairs award-winning wineries with exceptional restaurants and French heritage, creating one of the country's most celebrated food and wine destinations. Whether enjoyed as a half-day excursion or a leisurely full-day tour, the Winelands reward every visit.

The Old Biscuit Mill and Cape Town's Markets

Cape Town's markets offer an opportunity to experience the city through its makers, growers and independent producers.

Every Saturday, the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock brings together artisan food producers, local designers and live music in a vibrant warehouse setting. It's one of the city's favourite weekend destinations for brunch and browsing.

Closer to the Atlantic Seaboard, the Oranjezicht City Farm Market at Granger Bay celebrates seasonal produce, small-batch food producers and local craftsmanship. Open on weekends, it's an excellent place to sample fresh pastries, locally made cheeses, handcrafted goods and South African wines while overlooking the harbour.

Best Things To Do in Cape Town for Specific Travellers

One of Cape Town's greatest strengths is its ability to appeal to every type of traveller. Whether you're visiting with young children, planning a romantic escape or travelling as an extended family, the city offers experiences that can be tailored to every itinerary.

Things To Do in Cape Town With Kids

Cape Town makes family travel remarkably easy. Children can meet African penguins at Boulders Beach, explore the underwater world at the Two Oceans Aquarium, ride the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway or spend an evening enjoying an open-air concert or film at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden during summer.

Looking for more inspiration? Explore our guide to family outings in Cape Town.

Things To Do in Cape Town for Couples

For couples, Cape Town offers no shortage of memorable experiences. Watch the sun set from Signal Hill, enjoy a wine tasting in Franschhoek, paraglide above the Atlantic coastline or book dinner overlooking Camps Bay as the sky turns pink over the ocean.

For those celebrating a special occasion, many of the city's finest experiences can be paired with a stay along the Atlantic Seaboard, where ocean views and easy access to the city's highlights create a relaxed base for exploring together.

Thursday Date Night Dinner at The President Hotel

Things To Do in Cape Town for Families

Cape Town is equally rewarding for multi-generational travel. Grandparents, parents and children can spend the morning visiting Boulders Beach, enjoy lunch at a local market before exploring the V&A Waterfront, or combine a scenic drive through the Cape Peninsula with a leisurely afternoon in the Winelands, where many estates offer expansive gardens and family-friendly activities.

The variety of experiences means every generation can enjoy the city at their own pace while still sharing memorable moments together.

Day Trips and Things To Do Near Cape Town

While Cape Town offers enough to fill weeks of exploration, some of the Western Cape's most memorable experiences lie just beyond the city limits. These destinations make rewarding day trips or natural extensions to a longer holiday.

The Garden Route

Stretching east from Cape Town, the Garden Route is one of the world's great coastal road trips. Beginning around Mossel Bay and continuing through Knysna, Wilderness and Plettenberg Bay, the route combines dramatic coastlines, indigenous forests and charming seaside towns.

Visitors with an extra three to seven days should consider extending their South African journey to experience this spectacular region.

Whale Watching in Hermanus

Around 90 minutes from Cape Town, Hermanus is internationally recognised as one of the world's finest land-based whale watching destinations.

Between June and December, Southern Right Whales arrive along the coastline to calve in the sheltered bays, often coming remarkably close to shore. Boat cruises and sea kayaking offer another perspective for visitors hoping to experience these gentle giants from the water.

Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai

Adventure travellers looking for an unforgettable experience can head to Gansbaai, approximately two hours from Cape Town.

The area has long been associated with shark cage diving and marine conservation, offering guided excursions led by experienced operators. While the experience is undeniably exhilarating, many tours also place strong emphasis on ocean education and the conservation of South Africa's marine ecosystems.

Seasonal Guide — The Best Time to Visit Cape Town

Cape Town is a true year-round destination. Every season brings something different, from long summer evenings by the ocean to spectacular whale watching and vibrant spring wildflowers. Choosing when to visit depends on the type of experience you're looking for.

Summer (November – February)

Summer is Cape Town at its most energetic. Warm, sunny days are perfect for beach hopping, hiking Table Mountain early in the morning, exploring the Atlantic Seaboard and dining outdoors well into the evening. This is also the season for open-air concerts at Kirstenbosch, cricket at Newlands and a lively calendar of festivals and events.

Autumn (March – May)

Many locals consider autumn the city's best-kept secret. The weather remains warm, the summer crowds begin to ease and the vineyards enter harvest season. It's an ideal time for Cape Winelands day trips, hiking and enjoying Cape Town's restaurants without the peak-season rush.

Winter (June – August)

Winter brings dramatic coastlines, cooler temperatures and some of the best whale watching in the world. It's the perfect season to explore museums, galleries and cosy restaurants before heading to Hermanus to watch Southern Right Whales along the coastline. Lower visitor numbers also make it an excellent time to experience Cape Town at a more relaxed pace.

Spring (September – October)

As temperatures begin to rise, the Western Cape comes alive with indigenous wildflowers. Whale watching continues along the coast, hiking conditions are excellent and longer days invite visitors back onto beaches, mountain trails and outdoor terraces. Spring offers an ideal balance of pleasant weather and quieter attractions.

Where to Stay for the Best Cape Town Experience

Choosing the right neighbourhood can shape your experience of Cape Town as much as the attractions themselves. While each area has its own character, the Atlantic Seaboard offers one of the most convenient and scenic bases from which to explore the city.

Located in Bantry Bay, The President Hotel sits between the city centre, Sea Point and Camps Bay, placing many of Cape Town's most iconic attractions within easy reach. Guests can walk to Saunders Rock Beach and the Sea Point Promenade, enjoy a short drive to Clifton and Camps Bay, or reach the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain in under twenty minutes.

After a day of exploring, returning to the slower pace of Bantry Bay offers a welcome contrast. Whether enjoying dinner overlooking the ocean, relaxing beside the pool or planning the next day's adventures with the concierge team, the hotel provides a comfortable base from which to experience Cape Town.

For travellers looking to combine location, comfort and easy access to the city's highlights, Bantry Bay remains one of Cape Town's most rewarding neighbourhoods to stay.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do in Cape Town

What are the best free things to do in Cape Town?

Some of Cape Town's most memorable experiences cost very little. Watch the sunset from Signal Hill, walk or cycle along the Sea Point Promenade, explore the city's galleries during First Thursdays, or hike one of the lower trails on Table Mountain. While Boulders Beach has an entrance fee, it remains one of the city's most affordable wildlife experiences.

What are the top things to do in Cape Town with kids?

Families will find plenty to enjoy, including the Two Oceans Aquarium, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, Boulders Beach's African penguins and the V&A Waterfront. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden also offers expansive lawns, walking trails and seasonal family events throughout the year.

How many days do you need in Cape Town?

Five days is enough to experience many of Cape Town's highlights, including Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula and the V&A Waterfront. To explore at a more relaxed pace and include the Cape Winelands or nearby day trips, allow seven to ten days.

What is the best time of year to visit Cape Town?

Cape Town offers something unique in every season. Visit between November and February for warm beach weather and outdoor events, or between June and August for whale watching, cosy dining experiences and fewer crowds. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and are ideal for sightseeing.

What are the best outdoor activities in Cape Town?

The city's outdoor experiences include hiking Table Mountain and Lion's Head, tandem paragliding from Signal Hill, surfing in Muizenberg, sea kayaking along the Atlantic coastline and exploring the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Whether you're seeking adventure or a leisurely day outdoors, Cape Town offers experiences for every level of activity.

Plan Your Cape Town Adventure with The President Hotel

Cape Town rewards curiosity. From mountain trails and white-sand beaches to world-renowned vineyards, vibrant neighbourhoods and remarkable wildlife, every day offers the opportunity to experience a different side of the city.

Located in Bantry Bay along the Atlantic Seaboard, The President Hotel provides an ideal base for exploring Cape Town at your own pace. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a family holiday or a longer stay, you'll find many of the city's most celebrated experiences just moments away.

Browse our accommodation, explore our latest offers and discover curated experiences designed to help you make the most of your time in Cape Town. We look forward to welcoming you to one of the world's most remarkable destinations.

Book your Cape Town stay at The President Hotel