Gemma BLDCape Town is one of my favorite cities to visit with breathtaking landscapes, great food and lovely people. After spending ten days exploring Cape Town and it’s surroundings, I put together this list of 10 incredible things to do in Cape Town. If you have any other suggestions or questions, feel free to leave a comment.
1. Go on a Safari at Aquila Private Game Reserve
Aquila is a private game reserve located about two hours from Cape Town and offers a chance to see South Africa’s famous wildlife without flying to Kruger. It’s a popular choice for those short on time or looking for a comfortable, curated safari experience.
We were picked up by their transfer service and enjoyed a night in one of their stunning lodges (we could even see elephants from the window!). The game drives were thrilling — we saw zebras, lions, ostriches, and more. Plus, baboons added unexpected humor by stealing food and wine! You can read more about my experience here in my Aquila safari blog post.
2. Unwind at K Beauty Spa at the V&A Waterfront
Located at the vibrant V&A Waterfront, K Beauty Spa offers a serene escape from the city buzz. It’s a hidden gem that’s ideal for travelers in need of pampering before a long flight or after a packed itinerary.
On my last day in Cape Town, I treated myself to a morning at K Beauty Spa. From the full-body massage to the scalp treatment and facial, it was nearly three hours of bliss. The space is serene, the staff are incredibly attentive, and it’s the perfect way to end an active trip. I’ve rarely experienced a spa quite like this one!
3. Wine Tasting at Constantia Glen
Nestled in the historic Constantia wine region, Constantia Glen is known for its elegant wines and picturesque setting. It’s a smaller, more intimate wine estate compared to others in the area, making it perfect for a relaxed tasting.
We arrived in the late afternoon and had a gorgeous outdoor tasting with panoramic views of the vineyards. The 7-glass tasting (a mix of red and white wines) was generous and informative — they even explained the differences between South African and French wine. We paired our tasting with perfectly cooked steak.
4. See the Penguins at Boulders Beach
This beach near Simon’s Town is one of the few places in the world where you can see endangered African penguins up close in their natural habitat. The beach is part of a protected marine area, and it’s a hit with families and photographers alike.
We went during golden hour for fewer crowds and soft light for photos. If you walk past the paid boardwalk and head to the free beach, you can sometimes see penguins wandering freely — just be respectful and give them space.
For the best way to see penguins at Boulders Beach, read my guide!
5. Explore Oranjezicht City Farm Market
Set near Granger Bay, this weekend market is packed with locally sourced food, fresh produce, artisanal goods, and great coffee. It’s popular with both locals and tourists, and it’s a great place to start your weekend.
We visited this lovely market several times. I had fresh coconut water one day and the best lobster roll on another visit. The sweet treats were also amazing. It’s safe, clean, and everything is locally sourced.
6. Visit the Colorful Streets of Bo-Kaap (with Caution)
Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town’s most historic neighborhoods, famous for its brightly painted houses and cobblestone streets. It’s rich in culture and history, with strong ties to the Cape Malay community.
While it looked beautiful and full of character, our visit was unfortunately overshadowed by a scary encounter with a group of teens. We left quickly and I’d recommend going with a guide or in a group.
7. Take a Day Trip to Table Mountain
One of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Table Mountain towers over Cape Town and offers some of the most spectacular views in South Africa. You can hike to the top or take the cableway.
The panoramic views at the top are breathtaking. Time your visit carefully — aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and strong sun.
8. Relax at the Beach — Try Clifton or Camps Bay
Cape Town’s Atlantic coastline is stunning, and its beaches are among the most beautiful in the world. Clifton has smaller, quieter coves while Camps Bay is known for its lively promenade and mountain backdrop.
The water is cold year-round, but the vibe is unmatched. Grab a cocktail from a nearby bar, kick off your shoes, and enjoy. We really enjoyed the Chinchilla bar and restaurant.
9. Stroll Through Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is one of the most renowned botanical gardens in the world. It features thousands of plant species native to South Africa, and it’s a peaceful escape into nature.
We visited before heading to Constantia Glen, and it was the perfect peaceful morning. You can wander along raised canopy walkways, see native plants, and even catch open-air concerts during certain months.
10. Experience Cape Town’s Food Scene
Cape Town’s culinary reputation is growing fast. From fresh seafood to Cape Malay cuisine, fine dining to food trucks, you can eat incredibly well here — and often for less than you’d expect.
We ate well throughout — the key is balancing local dishes with upscale spots like Constantia Glen or seaside fish eateries. If you love food, Cape Town will not disappoint.
