Top 10 Cape Town Experiences

Cape Town is an incredible city with all kinds of experiences on offer. Whether you’re into fine dining, being pampered at spas, getting up close and personal with nature, or thrill-seeking adventures, the Mother City has it all. We’ve compiled a list of Cape Town’s top 10 experiences.

1. Dining experiences

Cape Town offers many unique dining experiences. For the freshest fish and chips, visit Mariner’s Wharf in Hout Bay. Watch cheeky seagulls while you enjoy your meal next to the harbour and browse for souvenirs afterwards. The Salty Sea Dog in Simon’s Town is also renowned for their fish and chips. Grab a take-away and stroll along the dock while enjoying the views across False Bay.

For something posher, get dressed up for traditional British high tea at the Mount Nelson Hotel. Enjoy the live pianist and lush gardens while you’re there. Bistro Sixteen82 at Steenberg Wine Estate offers fine-dining tapas and world-class wines.

2. City cool

There’s no doubt that the Mother City is a pretty interesting place. But did you know that its intrigue isn’t limited to above ground? To experience a different side of Cape Town, grab your torch and take tour of the massive network of underground canals and rivers, some of which date back to 1652.

If you’re not too keen on being underground, why not explore the street art in Woodstock? A local artist will share their knowledge of the street art, murals and galleries during a walking tour of the neighbourhood.

3. Ocean experiences

The ocean in Cape Town is just as awesome as the city itself. Simon’s Town is known for its colony of African Penguins. A fantastic way to experience these cute birds is by kayaking among them. If you’re lucky you’ll see other sea life too.

Below the surface is just as magical as above. Grab your goggles and snorkel through Cape Town’s incredible kelp forests. You’ll see fish and other creatures weaving through the kelp as it sways in the water.

4. Hiking epics

Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Cape Town and hiking trails are in abundance in and around the city.

Arguably one of the most special hikes one can do in the area is the Cape Camino Trail, a long-distance pilgrimage. You’ll need to plan for this, as a typical Cape Camino experience takes more than a month to complete. Local communities will host you as you experience sacred spaces, history and the natural environment.

For those looking for an adrenaline-filled day trip, why not try kloofing (canyoning) at Crystal Pools near Gordon’s Bay. You’ll find yourself jumping into rock pools and abseiling down a waterfall.

5. Wine tasting

Forming part of the Cape Winelands, Cape Town is known for its wine tasting experiences. Take the Wine Tram to some of the country’s most notable wine estates. You’ll be able to enjoy the views, enjoy the food, taste incredible local wines, and learn more about the area’s history. The best part is you don’t have to drive or worry about directions!

For a one-stop wine experience in Cape Town, visit the Cape Point Vineyards. Have a picnic on the terraced lawns while sipping away at your wine.

6. Spa experiences

If you’re looking for some pampering, then Cape Town is the place to be! The Mother City has world-class spas, with an abundance of treatments to choose from. At the Heavenly Spa on the 19th Floor at The Westin Hotel, you can marvel at stunning vistas over the city while relaxing.

Find another fabulous spa experience in Cape Town at the Cayenne Spa at Perpperclub Hotel. This tranquil spa proudly uses South African products and offers sweeping views of Table Mountain.

7. Live music

Cape Town has a hot and happening live music scene and it’s worth experiencing this side of the city while you’re there. The Piano Bar in De Waterkant has live music every day of the week, with solo artists, bands and DJs playing funk, soul and blues. Join locals in supporting homegrown talent at Café Roux in Shortmarket Street. This intimate live venue hosts musicians from several genres including folk, rock, and Afro Soul.

If rock ‘n roll is what you’re after then pay Aces ‘n Spades a visit. On Fridays, local bands take to the stage and on Wednesdays you get to join in on the fun during karaoke.

8. Township tours

Cape Town is surrounded by large informal settlements, called townships. The majority of the city’s residents live in these townships and there are tours that make it easy for you to visit these communities.

Local tour guides can show you around the Imizamo Yethu township on the slopes of Hout Bay. While you’re there, have a drink at a tavern and eat some amagwinya – deep fried dough served with savoury mince or jam. For a different experience and meatier meal, visit Nomzamo Butchery in Langa Township.

9. Beer time

Newlands Brewery is the country’s oldest commercial brewery, dating back to 1820. The brewery is still operational, brewing nine famous local brands. Join a tour of the brewery to learn more about modern-day brewing methods. The tour ends with a beer tasting a few pints in the brewery’s historic pub.

If the tour leaves you hungry for more, then there are plenty of craft beer breweries in and around the city that you can visit for a drink and meal.

10. Abseil adventure

Get your blood pumping and adrenaline flowing while enjoying the city from up high. Several adventure tour operators offer abseiling down the side of Table Mountain, weather permitting. Feel the rush as you abseil down at least 100 meters of this world-famous mountain.

For thrill seekers that can’t get enough of these exciting adventures, why not try tandem paragliding off of Lion’s Head?

No matter what type of person you are, there’s bound to be a Cape Town experience that’s just down your alley!