22 September 2016
For the fourth year in a row, the Telegraph Travel Awards named Cape Town as the best city in the world. With pristine beaches, a glorious mountain and a lively city bustle, it isn’t hard to imagine why Cape Town is so well liked.
So, where do you start when visiting Cape Town? Here’s a guide to some of its top attractions.
Hop on the City Sightseeing red bus to see all the top tourist attractions in Cape Town
Recognised as the best way for tourists to visit iconic Table Mountain, the City Sightseeing bus is a perfect introduction for all Cape Town newbies. Stopping off at major attractions – including renowned museums, restaurants and activities – across the Peninsula, the City Sightseeing red bus is a fun activity for all ages and the best way to experience Cape Town if don’t know exactly where to go.
Cost: R90 for kids and R190 for adults, with a special discount if you buy online.
Travel tip: To skip queues at busy attractions such as the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, buy entry tickets through your City Sightseeing guide.
Visit the colourful Bo-Kaap for a foodie adventure
It is said the best way to learn about a culture is through its food, and the Bo-Kaap Cooking Tour offers exactly that opportunity. Spend two to three hours exploring the gorgeous cobbled roads and colourful buildings of the Bo-Kaap while learning all the secrets and stories of delicious Cape Malay cuisine.
Cost: R400 for a tour and three-course meal; R700 for a tour and two hour interactive cooking lesson.
Travel tip: You will have to book in advance for this popular tour as walk-ins can’t be catered for. How about going the extra mile by taking a free Citysightseeing Walking Tour?
Book here for the Bo-Kaap cooking tour
See an iconic view of Table Mountain behind the waves
Big Bay in Bloubergstrand offers some of the best waves in the Peninsula, along with some of the most iconic Cape Town views. Set right opposite Table Mountain, you will have to keep your focus on your board to avoid staring at the breathtaking view across the Atlantic. If you don’t have your own board or wetsuit, have no fear as there are multiple rental shops on the beachfront. Surf Big Bay also offers daily surfing lessons – just be sure to call in advance.
Cost: About R240 to R450 depending if you want to take a lesson first.
Travel tip: Don’t forget to bring an extra pair of dry clothes to keep you warm after having fun in the cold water!
Enjoy a relaxing City Sightseeing Harbour Tour
Stocking big-name brands from Louis Vuitton to Calvin Klein, as well as quaint local crafts and curios, the V&A Waterfront has something for everyone. Enjoy the beautiful portside V&A Waterfront mall, markets and its renowned restaurants (and don’t forget to look over the city from The Cape Wheel!).
Cost: There are shops and restaurants for every budget
Travel tip: Why not take a City Sightseeing Waterfront Harbour Cruise and enjoy the V&A Waterfront from a different angle?
Book your City Sightseeing Waterfront Harbour Cruise here
Take a stroll in the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world at Kirstenbosch
Regarded as one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world, the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a must-see experience for young and old. Take a walk above the treetops on the famed “Boomslang” walkway, while the Cycad Amphitheatre is always a crowd-pleaser.
Cost: R15 for kids and R60 for adults, with special student and pensioner discounts.
Travel tip: The beautiful garden, along with its ancient trees, is the perfect spot for a picnic, so don’t leave those sandwiches at home.
