Cape Town Tourist Attractions

Cape Town Attractions

The Best Tourist Attractions In Cape Town: Discover All That This City Has To Offer

Cape Town (known locally as the "Mother City") offers a wide array of attractions for international and local visitors to explore. From art and culture to outdoor adventures, spectacular vineyards, and incredible restaurants, there is always something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the most iconic attractions is the majestic Table Mountain and the Table Mountain National Park Located just southwest of the city centre, this famous mountain landmark offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, Table Bay, Signal Hill, Lions Head and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. Visitors can either take a cable car up to the summit or hike up one of the multiple trails leading to the top (1086 metres above sea level).

The V&A Waterfront (Victoria and Alfred Waterfront) is another popular attraction in Cape Town with excellent ocean views. This vibrant marina offers guests plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options through its many stores, restaurants, and attractions. Home to the Two Oceans Aquarium which showcases over 3000 species of aquatic life from both the Atlantic and Indian oceans, the Two Oceans Aquarium is a must-visit for families.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is another must-see attraction in Cape Town. Here you can explore over 528 acres of lush gardens, admire sculptures, and spot excellent birdlife. From the Botanical Gardens, multiple trails lead to the top of Table Mountain for those looking for a little exercise.

If you are looking for a dose of culture, then Cape Town is home to several world-class art galleries such as the South African National Gallery, Iziko South African Museum, the Bo Kaap Museum and the Michaelis Collection through to Norval Foundation in Constantia.

Finally, no trip would be complete without taking in some of the region's natural beauty. Head out on a boat tour for a chance to spot whales and dolphins, visit Robben Island and Bo Kaap or plan a day trip to one of the many towns located nearby, the Western Cape Winelands or even the stunning Cape Point Nature Reserve.

With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that Cape Town is one of the most beloved cities in Southern Africa and always in the top ten destinations to visit World wide.

Ensure that your travel plans include some of these thrilling attractions for an unforgettable experience, we will always be there to help and guide you through the choices available.

Cape Town's boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites; namely, Robben Island, Table Mountain National Park, and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens.

NOTE: The attractions listed below are of the paid variety, i.e. there is an entrance fee or a toll when visiting. Attractions in Cape Town that are on the free side of life can be found on our "Discover Cape Town" Page.

Explore The Best Of Cape Town: Tourist Attractions, Sightseeing And More!

  • Table Mountain

    Table Mountain, that old flat-topped landmark that dominates the city of Cape Town from all angles, is without question cities most photographed feature.

    A few interesting facts; she is +- 600 million years old, she offers up 2200 species of plants, and she sits 1086 metres above sea level.

  • Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

    Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, just a 10-minute drive from the city, was the first Botanic Garden in the World to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

    On offer are perfectly manicured lawns, 7000 plant species and pathways that take one on a journey through a floral kingdom like no other.

  • Cape Point Nature Reserve

    Cape Point South Africa is a must-visit destination, whether you self-drive here or are part of a tour, this is one destination (other than Table Mountain) you just cannot miss out on.

    The reserve is home to over 250 species of bird, 1100 plant species, 26 shipwrecks and the Flying Dutchman funicular.

    At the far south end of the Cape Peninsula, the cape of good hope awaits all that visit.

  • Chapman's Peak Drive

    Chapman's Peak Drive is one of the most iconic drives anywhere in Africa; this 9km is all about scenery with the Atlantic Ocean below, Hout Bay in the distance and Table Mountain National Park above.

    It is not uncommon to spot whales and dolphins from the vantage points as well as some amazing sunsets.

  • Boulders Beach Penguins

    Boulders Beach near the coastal town of Simon's Town is one of the very few spots on the planet where one can get up close and personal with Penguins.

    So close, in fact, that one does not need a good camera with a big lens, we have in the past used just a simple cell phone camera to photograph these little beasties!

  • Two Oceans Aquarium

    Two Oceans Aquarium, located within the V&A Waterfront, is one of the better destinations for families or those adults interested in all things fishy.

    The Aquarium offers 88 aquatic species with over 3000 sea creatures from both the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, all within 7 distinct exhibits.

    Should one visit the Victoria Alfred Waterfront, one has to pop in and visit the Aquarium.

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Cape Town Travel Topics

  • Constantia Valley Wine Route

    The Constantia Valley Wine Route is a stunning destination for wine lovers in South Africa. It offers an array of estates, each with its own special selection of wines and unique experiences to enjoy.

    From the upgraded wine-tasting venue at Uitkyk Estate to Klein Constantia's "Beyond Restaurant", there are plenty of opportunities to sample some excellent local vintages. For those looking for something special, Groot Constantia is home to Cape Ruby port and Eagles Nest has partnered with the Western Cape Raptor Research Programme.

  • Muizenberg Beach Cape Town

    Muizenberg Beach in Cape Town, South Africa, is a beautiful seaside town that has experienced both decline and resurgence.

    From the late 19th century until the 1960s, it was one of the most popular resort areas in South Africa.

    In recent years, however, Muizenberg has undergone a transformation as law-abiding citizens have reclaimed the area and invested heavily in its revitalization.

  • Climbing Table Mountain

    Table Mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cape Town, and with the Aerial Cableway closed for a few weeks, now is the perfect time to explore its many paths.

    A hike up Skeleton Gorge provides an opportunity to experience nature's beauty while gathering breathtaking views along the way.

    With record numbers of visitors coming to Cape Town due to its designation as World Design Capital 2014, and inclusion as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, it is no wonder why this city has been gaining so much attention.

  • Design in Cape Town

    Cape Town is experiencing an exciting wave of investment, community involvement and physical regeneration due to its designation as the World Design Capital 2014.

    This has been evident in the seaside suburb of Muizenberg, where dead corners and buildings have been transformed into vibrant areas full of life.

    The murals, sculptures and shops that are popping up all over town are a testament to the power of good design and art in revitalising this once down-at-heel resort.

  • Kirstenbosch, Boomslang Tree Canopy Walkway

    Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful and diverse gardens in Cape Town. With its sprawling 1,300 acres of land, Kirstenbosch offers a journey of the senses with its vibrant flowers, lush greenery and an array of birdlife.

    For those looking for a unique experience, take on the Boomslang Tree Canopy Walkway - an elevated walkway that provides stunning views across the gardens.

  • Cape Town Sightseeing Bus

    Explore the stunning city of Cape Town in a budget-friendly and time-efficient way - The City Sightseer Bus.

    This double-decker 'topless' red bus offers travellers several routes to take in all the attractions, including Blue Route from the City to Hout Bay, Red Route for Table Mountain Cable Car and Purple Route through Constantia Vineyards.

    With the guided tour commentated in 15 different languages, this is a great day out for both kids and adults alike!

  • Shark Cage Diving Cape Town

    Experience the majesty of one of nature's most magnificent creatures with shark cage diving in Cape Town. With "Shark Diving", you can get up close and personal with great white sharks as they swim around the boat looking for bait.

    Whether you want to dive yourself or just observe from the deck, this thrilling activity offers a unique opportunity to appreciate these powerful animals in their natural habitat.

    You will also learn more about how humans are affecting their environment and why conservation efforts are essential for protecting them.

  • 10 best things about Cape Town

    Cape Town, South Africa is a vibrant and beautiful city that offers something for everyone.

    From its stunning beaches to its majestic Table Mountain, from its world-famous Constantia vineyards to the stunning Kirstenbosch Garden, Robben Island and a great number of 5-star restaurants on offer - Cape Town truly is an unforgettable destination.

    Here are 10 of the best things about this incredible city that make it such a fantastic place to visit or live in.