Whether it’s sipping delectable wines, surfing the high waves on a deserted beach or touring the many cultural attractions and landmarks, Cape Town has plenty to keep you entertained day and night. Take your pick from holiday homes throughout the city and live like a true local.
Cape Town offers it all to visitors: sun, surf, beaches, mountains and a vibrant city to explore. From a city with a troubled past, Cape Town has emerged as a leader in African culture and politics and welcomes visitors the world over to partake of the myriad of activities the city offers.
Located in the southwest corner of South Africa, near the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Town is the most southern city in Africa. It is also the capital city of Western Cape Province and the legislative home of the country’s Parliament. A world-class cosmopolitan city, Cape Town offers guests the chance to enjoy fine dining, try the country’s renowned wines, shop in elegant boutiques, or explore the natural beauty all around.
Exploring the outdoors
In a sun-filled climate, it is only natural to want to be outside. Whether that means sunbathing on the pristine white sand beaches of the peninsula south of the city, mountain biking on trails, exploring local parks and preserves, or heading up to Table Mountain (take the cable car for a fantastic view!), there’s no shortage of things to do.
Book a day trip and go on a picture-taking safari of the majestic African wildlife; there are game preserves only an hour’s drive from Cape Town. Be sure to make reservations early though, as tours can fill up quickly.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, take the 110-mile trip to Gansbaii, to dive with the sharks. South Africa is home to one-quarter of the world’s shark species, including the Great White Shark. Shark-cage diving is a big business in Gansbaii, and outfitters will safely send you in a cage to come face to face with one of the ocean’s largest predators.
For an experience less on fright factor and more on ‘awww’ factor, take a trip to the Boulders African Penguin Colony. Home to about 3,000 penguins, a meander along the boardwalk watching the penguins waddle and play is a sure joy for the whole family.
Another popular day trip is the hour-long drive to the far side of Table Mountain to visit the wine region, where South Africa’s premier wine estates have their home. Go on a tour, visit the vineyards, and enjoy a fine meal at one of the many restaurants located within the wineries.
Take a history tour
Cape Town has a rich, yet often troubled history. Go to Robben Island, stand in Nelson Mandela’s old cell and ponder the change one man can have on the world. The District Six Museum shows the effects of the country’s Apartheid system, which ended in 1990. Other museums can be found along Government Avenue, also called Museum Mile. The National Gallery is located there, along with the Izikio Museum and Planetarium, and the Izikio Slave Lodge.
Splurge on some shopping
Cape Town’s markets and shops are said to the best in the country and filled with mementos and crafts ranging from the fun and tasteful to the bizarre and funky. Wise tourists always leave room when they pack, knowing their bags will be heavier on the return trip with gifts for family and friends, and treasured souvenirs for themselves. Be prepared to negotiate at open air markets, though; the sticker price is just the opening bid and those who look, or sound like tourists will be quoted higher prices. It’s all part of the game and should be done in good spirits, with the vacationer getting a good deal and the seller a fair price.
What to eat and drink
Cape Town offers an exciting and exotic menu for the adventurous palate; cuisine from all over Africa can be found in the city’s restaurants. Chefs mix spices and flavors from the European colonial days, along with Muslim and tribal influences, creating a dynamic eating experience. Food served at hot spots for tourists is likely to be more expensive and not as authentic, so head into the areas where the locals eat for the best food at the best prices and at the end of the day take some time to check out one of Cape Towns unforgettable dinner theaters or a show aaa
Cape Town is renowned for its wines, and visitors are sure to find a wine to tempt their palate. Lovers of South African wine are encouraged to buy while there, as it is more affordable, and found with greater availability than back at home. The local wineries and shops have an excellent selection; pick up a bottle to take on a picnic at the beach!
Where to stay
There is no limit to places to stay in Cape Town, and there is something for every budget. Do you want an ocean view, or to be closer to the historic district? A fancy hotel or one of the quiet apartment rentals tucked away from the rush? Let World Escape help you plan your perfect home away from home as you explore Cape Town! Start planning your trip today!
Cape Town Rental Apartments
Staying in the heart of the city close to amenities and entertainment can make your visit truly unforgettable. Whether you travel solo, with your family or with a large group of friends, our vacation rentals offer can accommodate any group, taste, and budget.
From the trendy, stylish neighborhoods in the City Bowl District to serene suburbs on the leafy outskirts of town, our collection of Cape Town holiday apartments offers you a wide choice of unique, attractive and comfortable accommodations.
Stay in contemporary waterfront apartments, within walking distance from the beach and water sports facilities or live in luxurious, renovated period houses in the inner-city districts, nearby cultural attractions and local entertainment.
Cape Town Accommodation and Attractions
Fantastic beaches, botanical gardens, nature reserves, sports stadia, open-air concerts and numerous museums make Cape Town a truly eclectic and cosmopolitan destination that appeals to independent travelers, families with children and young people alike.
The city is packed with amusements for both young and old. Take your family and kids to the Two Oceans Aquarium for a chance to see the penguins, seals, and sharks that inhabit the ocean waters surrounding the country or learn about the rich history of South Africa at the oldest building in town, the Castle of Good Hope.
Explore the numerous shops, restaurants and bars of the buzzing Alfred and Victoria waterfront with your friends or pack together and tour the Winelands for a chance to sip delectable wines and sample gourmet food.
Experience the numerous natural attractions surrounding the city. Take the cable car for bird’s eye views or hike the scenic trails of Table Mountain. Tan on secluded beaches, surf and swim in the ocean or visit the Cape Floral Region in spring when the fields are filled with a blanket of wildflowers. Cape Town has something for everyone.
Several major airlines have announced several extra weekly flights to Cape Town which means a lot more visitors. Will you be one of them?.
The city has as diverse accommodations as it has attractions. You can choose from a huge range of vacation properties for all size groups and budgets. Choosing a holiday apartment for your family or a cozy vacation rental for yourself one can enjoy the best of Cape Town living and save money on hotel rooms.
