Cape Town is one of my favorite travel destinations and I was lucky enough to explore the city and its surroundings for ten days. We went in March, which we found to be perfect. The city was definitely not what I expected, even though I’d heard a lot about it. Every part of it blew me away, from beautiful landscapes and wildlife, incredible food and tons of things to do. It’s a great destination for couples, families and even solo travellers (with a few precautions, of course).

Most people tend to spend a week in Cape Town, so I’ve written out a 5-day itinerary to give you some ideas on activities and places to eat. You can move them around as you wish, but make sure you consider the time it might take to get from point A to point B. Also, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out and I’ll do my best to answer you.

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Getting Around & Practical Tips

Before we dive in to the actual itinerary, here is some practical information that you might need about Cape Town, its currency, as well as local etiquette to keep in mind and how to get around.

Transport 

Uber is widely used and reliable in Cape Town. It is also very cheap. We had a great time chatting with our Uber drivers who ended up teaching us more about Cape Town than anyone else. You can also walk to certain places but you might miss out of things to do that are slightly out of the city. Also, remember to be careful walking around, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas with people around you if you do decide to walk. Renting a car is a also an option if you’re planning day trips to wine country or a safari lodge.

When to Go

The best time to visit is between October and April for warm, dry weather. December and January are peak months, so expect more crowds. We went in March which was perfect because the weather was great but there weren’t as many people.

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but a little bit of cash is good to have just in case.

Safety

Like any big city, be alert. Stick to tourist-friendly areas and avoid walking at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings. To keep your mind at ease, it’s also a good idea to keep expensive jewellery and handbags at home. Most of the crimes against tourists in Cape Town are surrounding theft. You can read more about my experience in my Is Cape Town Safe For Tourists? article.

Local Etiquette

Tipping is customary—10% to 15% in restaurants. A friendly greeting goes a long way.

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Day 1: City Introduction, Market and Sunset

Morning: Explore the V&A Waterfront

A great way to start your Cape Town trip is to visit the V&A Waterfront. It’s a bustling harbor-side area with lots of shops, public art, restaurant choices and even sometimes live music. It’s a great way for new visitors to experience the vibe of the city. There are multiple breakfast choices such as Vovo Telo for artisan pastries or Jason Bakery. Take a walk along the promenade past the Cape Wheel, and pause at Nobel Square to view statues of South African Nobel Peace Prize laureates. History lovers will also love a visit to the Zeitz MOCAA which is an impressive museum dedicated to contemporary African art.

Midday: Oranjezicht City Farm Market

After the waterfront, walk or call an Uber for a short ride to Oranjezicht City Farm Market. Just make sure to check the opening times first because they can vary season to season. The market is community-driven and open-air with handmade goods, local produce and delicious street food. There are plenty of seating options available too. To know more about the market and to see photos and videos, read my review of the Oranjezicht City Farm Market.

Overall, it’s a great way to relax, discover new things and artists and try out some great local food. As I said in my blog post, I had some of the best lobster I’ve ever had here, and also enjoyed fresh coconut milk. There are also lots of vegan and vegetarian options available.

Evening: Sunset at Signal Hill or Camps Bay

Wrap up the day with a drive to Signal Hill for sunset views over the city and ocean. If you’re in the mood for sand between your toes, head to Camps Bay instead. The beach is flanked by palm trees, and nearby restaurants offer cocktails and seafood with a view. Just don’t forget a jacket because it can get quite breezy. At Camps Bay, we had the most amazing time in a bar/restaurant called Chinchilla. The cocktails were great and the food was good too. What made this place fabulous was the breathtaking views, comfy seating and incredible service. Our server was hilarious and made us laugh the whole evening. He even invited us to a Karaoke bar afterwards.

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Day 2: Penguins at Boulders Beach and Spa Time

Morning: Penguins at Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach is always best to discover in the morning, as early as possible. That’s the only way you’ll have the beach and calm to yourself, especially during peak season. It takes about 45 minutes in the car, and we got an Uber that was perfect. Here, you can walk beside African penguins in a protected environment. A raised boardwalk allows you to view the colony without disturbing the birds, and a small beach area lets you paddle among the boulders. It’s suitable for kids and adults alike. Entry is about R170 and the beach is part of Table Mountain National Park.

In my article about seeing penguins at Boulders Beach, I tell you exactly what to do to see the penguins up close and even swim with them. Make sure you give that a read to get the most out of your experience there. We didn’t even have to pay because we found hundreds of penguins on a public beach next to the touristic area.

Afternoon: Relax at K Beauty Spa

After a morning with the penguins, you’re probably now in the mood to relax. Cape Town takes its service seriously, and spas are not exception to that. We tried out the K Beauty Spa and were absolutely blown away. They offer massages, facials and full packages and the prices are more than reasonable. The staff are attentive, and the treatment rooms are serene. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially for weekend slots.

Evening: Dinner at Madame Taitou

After a long day, you’ll want a warm, filling dinner. One great option for that is Madame Taitou on Long Street. Luckily, we were very close to the restaurant so we walked there and it only took a few minutes. This hidden gem is decorated like a jungle with quirky antiques and greenery. The menu offers African-inspired fusion cuisine with generous portions and warm service. It’s a unique, cozy spot to round off your first day in Cape Town.

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Day 3: Nature & Wine in Constantia

Morning: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Begin the day at Kirstenbosch, one of the world’s most renowned botanical gardens, located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a peaceful retreat filled with indigenous plants and walking trails. Be sure to explore the Boomslang Canopy Walkway, a bridge that curves through the treetops with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Arrive early to beat the heat and crowds. There is a lot to see here, so you can spend a few hours discovering. Then, grab lunch at a nearby restaurant.

Afternoon and Evening: Wine Tasting at Constantia Glen

From Kirstenbosch, it’s a short drive to Constantia Glen, a gorgeous wine estate with panoramic views. Again, we took an Uber and the drive was only about ten minutes. Known for its elegant Sauvignon Blancs and Bordeaux-style blends, this estate offers wine tasting flights and small platters of charcuterie, cheese, and steak.

We stayed here to a few hours, tasting the wines and having dinner. Booking ahead is advised, especially in peak season. The setting is tranquil and upscale without being pretentious—a fantastic experience for couples or groups of friends. If you go here, please trust me and get the steak!

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Day 4: Safari Adventure at Aquila Private Game Reserve

If you want a taste of safari without venturing far, spend a day at Aquila Private Game Reserve, about two hours away. They offer half-day and full-day trips with breakfast, a game drive, and buffet lunch. It’s a family-friendly setup where you can spot the Big Five. The guides are knowledgeable, and the lodge has facilities like a pool, spa, and souvenir shop.

We actually stayed here for a night, as you can read in my Aquila Private Game Reserve article. It was definitely worth it, but I understand that not everyone might have the time to stay for so long.

Tips

• Bring layers; it’s cold in the early morning.
• Bring your swimsuit because Aquila has the most beautiful pool.
• Sunscreen and a hat are essential, especially in the warmer months.
• Don’t forget your camera—this is your chance to see lions, elephants, and rhinos up close.

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Day 5: Table Mountain Hike & Bo-Kaap

Morning: Table Mountain Cable Car or Hike

Table Mountain is Cape Town’s crown jewel. You can hike via Platteklip Gorge if you’re feeling energetic, or take the rotating cable car for panoramic views with minimal effort. At the top, enjoy walking trails and a café with snacks and drinks. Weather can change rapidly, so check the website before you go.

Afternoon: Explore Bo-Kaap

Next, head to Bo-Kaap, famous for its colorful houses and Cape Malay heritage. Join a walking tour to learn about the community’s rich history and culture. Cooking classes are a great way to engage further—learn to make samosas or traditional Cape Malay curry. Even just strolling the streets here is memorable. We didn’t have the best experience here, as you can read here. But, it was a one-off and I know plenty of people who loved it here.

An alternative is a coastal walk along Sea Point Promenade, a flat stretch ideal for families, joggers, and cyclists. There are playgrounds for children, gelato stands, and stunning views of the Atlantic. If you prefer shopping or a relaxed lunch, return to the V&A Waterfront, where you can take a scenic harbor cruise or visit the Two Oceans Aquarium, which is great for kids.

Evening: Music or Local Cuisine

Cap off your trip with dinner at The Piano Bar, where live jazz and a solid wine list offer a classy yet cozy vibe. Or try Marco’s African Place for an authentic and hearty South African meal in a vibrant setting.

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