Cape Town, South Africa: Where to Stay, Play, and Gourmet in the Mother City

After three visits – the most recent lasting six weeks – it’s safe to say there’s something special about Cape Town, South Africa. Of all the questions I get about what it’s like to be a travel writer, the most frequent is always, “What’s been your favorite place so far?”

Since my first visit in the fall of 2022, my answer has (almost) always been the same—Cape Town. Although plenty of folks in my travel tribe prefer Johannesburg over Cape Town, there’s something about the vibes of this coastal city that brings me joy on every visit. Maybe it’s the otherworldly sunsets that paint the sky hues of purple, pink, and orange. Or, having access to some of the freshest seafood or the endless things to do on any given day. The jazzy house vibes of Amapiano nearly everywhere you go certainly add to the city’s unique energy.

Each visit, I learn more about South African culture while enjoying a relaxed pace that feels out of reach at home. But if you’re wondering if a visit to South Africa is for you, I’ve got three words: Book. The. Trip.

Consider this guide a great place to start when crafting your itinerary and planning your visit. From must-try dining spots to unique local experiences, I’d bet money that Cape Town will make your “most memorable” list, too.

If you want to skip ahead to where to stay, play, and gourmet, here’s what this Cape Town travel guide covers:

• 4 Reasons to Fall In Love With Cape Town
• Best Places to Stay In Cape Town
• Top Things To Do: Your Cape Town Itinerary
• Top Restaurant Picks in Cape Town
• The Best Time to Visit Cape Town
• Is Cape Town, South Africa Safe?
• Is Cape Town Worth Visiting?

4 Reasons to Fall In Love With Cape Town

Airport Code: CPT | Time Zone: +6 hrs EST (Mar to Nov) // +7 hrs EST (Nov to Mar)

If I were to list all the reasons to fall in love with Cape Town, we’d be here all day. However, for those looking for a happy balance between luxury and budget-friendly, this short list is pretty persuasive.

The City, The Sea, and The Outdoors

One of the top reasons I love Cape Town so much is that it brings the best of many people’s favorite cities into one place. I’m not a major fan of Los Angeles, for example, but the weather is undeniably better than most American cities. I love the Blackness of Atlanta, but the city is officially full and I’m over it. 

While Cape Town has its own unique identity, I find comfort that it brings together aspects of other cities that I enjoy for one reason or another. One day you can be on the beach, and the next you can be on a safari. There are also several wine farm regions within a short drive and there’s always a cultural event, concert, or festival within reach.

There are so many opportunities to get out and explore Cape Town. If you’re visiting for an extended stay and working remotely, the best part is having most of the day to explore before your co-workers are online with the 7-hour time difference from the East Coast.

The Exchange Rate Is In Favor of USD

The distance with which the US dollar can go is pretty easy to see and feel upon arrival. Accommodations are typically reasonably priced throughout much of the year (except during the high season from December to February). The price of most meals feels like you’re back in the good old days of the early 2000s, and nightlife events don’t cost an arm and a leg to attend. 

For example, while writing the beginnings of this piece, I sat in a coffee shop where I ordered a fresh ginger shot and a cappuccino, priced at 25 Rand and 36 Rand respectively, or $1.34 and $1.94. Breakfast usually doesn’t cost more than $10; a typical lunch may be between $10 and $15 ($20 for a splurge); dinners can range from $15-20 and up (depending on how fancy you want to get). General admission for parties might only set you back $10 to $20. However, there are a ton of free things to get into, too.

When you want your travel budget to go further, Cape Town (and South Africa as a whole) is a strong contender for enjoying premium experiences without stressing over your spending.

Avo, Feta, and Other South African Favorites

For the foodies reading this, South Africa will give your waistline a run for its money – trust me. This melting-pot city has African, European, and Asian influences, and bit of everything on the culinary front. 

Of course, as a coastal city, the seafood is top-notch and not to be missed. If you’re into calamari, you’ll discover the most tender, buttery varieties as a staple starter at many restaurants. Kingklip, a delicious white fish similar to grouper, is another regular on menus that I order as much as I can when visiting. The prawns served in the area are unreal, and you’ll want to try them with peri-peri sauce at least once if you like spicy foods.

As for other food favorites, the best thing about Cape Town is that it offers a variety of international cuisines. While you can’t get everything – like American soul food – the city’s Italian, Indian, Japanese, and Braai (South African BBQ) restaurants make up for most of the food cravings from home. 

And I can’t forget about the feta – oh baby, the feta. Generally speaking, the produce in SA, as a whole, makes it easy to live a healthier lifestyle. But if there’s one recommendation you take with you on your travels: try South African feta cheese.

A Solid Black Expat Community

Finding people you can connect and explore with is a priority for some, and the growing Black expat community in Cape Town is a welcoming bunch. Having a soft place to land while being so far from home is important, and if/when crazy things happen, you’ll want people there to help you in real time. 

Tapping into the local expat community might land you at a house party or a fancy dinner. I’d also recommend connecting with people in the following Facebook groups:

• Black Expats N Capetown
• Nomadness Travel Tribe

Best Places to Stay In Cape Town

Cape Town has a large selection of hotels that range from very affordable to über luxury. While this isn’t a full list of places I would recommend, these properties are all highly rated. I’ve also factored in proximity to the airport and city, ease of dining, hotel decor, price, and on-site amenities. One of the best parts of these hotel stays is the 2 p.m. check-in time (except Table Bay), and they’re usually pretty flexible on late check-outs (unless it’s high season). Plus, they’re all 30 minutes or less from the airport – a short commute by taxi, private car, or Uber.

Neighbourgood Harrington

Neighbourgood is a brand that many nomads and regular travelers rave about the value of their stay for the price. With a nightly rate that hovers between $50-80, Neighbourgood Harrington is the budget-friendly option in Cape Town City Centre. These simple, modern spaces are fitting for an extended stay with free wifi, an outdoor pool, and continental breakfast (for a surcharge). The property offers several studio layouts up to a two-bedroom apartment. I haven’t stayed here (yet), but with the increasing cost of Airbnbs in the city, it’ll be one of the first places I consider on my next personal trip.

The Rockefeller Hotel by NEWMARK

The Rockefeller Hotel by NEWMARK is another moderately affordable accommodation with perks that make this a worthwhile stay. Aside from the modern rooms, complimentary toiletries, and pillow menus, amenities include a coffee shop/cafe, dry cleaning/laundry services, a bar, three on-site restaurants, free in-room WiFi, and a 24-hour gym. The Rockefeller Hotel is best for solo trips or couples, as their rooms typically accommodate two people.

The Capital 15 on Orange Hotel & Spa

I had the pleasure of staying at this relaxing property on my second Cape Town visit during a trip with South African Tourism. The Capital 15 on Orange is in a great location, within walking distance of Long Street, and close enough to the action without being directly in it. Aside from the well-styled rooms, there’s an outdoor pool, a coffee shop/cafe, an onsite spa, a bar, and a gym. Although the hotel doesn’t have a formal restaurant, you can add breakfast to your stay for ZAR 295 for adults (about $16) and ZAR 125 for children (around $6.85). You can also order in using Uber Eats and arrange to meet the courier downstairs or in the reception area.

Pro tip: If you can, treat yourself to the Executive Studio Suite, Mountain View. The views are worth the upgrade and you’ll have plenty of space to enjoy yourself during your visit (as you should).

The Table Bay Hotel

This hotel pick is all about proximity to the V&A Waterfront. The Table Bay Hotel is a stay that comes up regularly for trusted accommodations in Cape Town. About 20 minutes from the airport, this property is a 5-star luxury hotel that includes daily cooked-to-order breakfast. There are 3 on-site restaurants, an on-site spa, two bars, and a health club. The hotel also makes it easy to settle into Cape Town with airport shuttle transportation, tour/ticket assistance, and an outdoor pool. When you want to splurge a bit and be near some of the city’s best dining, shopping, and tourist attractions, The Table Bay Hotel is an unforgettable stay.

President Hotel

When visiting CPT, staying along the coast is a must for at least a few days. President Hotel is a 4-star stay in the picturesque Sea Point neighborhood for a hotel pick near the ocean. Reminiscent of a Miami art deco space, this modern hotel has all the makings of a sunny seaside retreat. The starting nightly rate typically hovers around $200-300 for a standard room, while apartment-style layouts average $400+ per night. However, for a short stay to experience this side of the city, a few days is worth it.

There’s no bad view at President, with mountain views on one side and ocean views on the other. Amenities on the property include an outdoor pool (and separate children’s pool), a poolside bar, a spa, and bike rentals for a day on the Sea Point promenade. President Hotel also offers several options for on-site dining, including salads, pizza, pasta, stir-fries, and more.  Optional add-ons include airport shuttle service, a buffet breakfast, and even babysitting for parents.

Top Things To Do: Your Cape Town, South Africa Itinerary

Ride the Cable Car to the Top of Table Mountain

Visiting Cape Town and not seeing Table Mountain is like visiting New York and not seeing the Statue of Liberty or the Empire State Building. While you can view the massive mountain from nearly any point in the city (and well beyond), the best views are at the top. A short ride up the official Table Mountain Aerial Cableway puts visitors more than 3,000 feet about the city below. At the top, take in expansive views on both sides of the mountain. There’s also a restaurant, bar, and gift shop for souvenirs.

Cost: Adults – R430 Round-trip ($23.50), R280 One way ($15.30); ages 4-17 – R215 Round-trip ($11.75), R150 One way ($8.19)

Getting There: The fastest way to get to Table Moutain is by taking a rideshare (Uber), although you’ll have to call one each way. Instead, make a day of it and explore the city via the Hop On Hop Off Bus tours. The red line route stops at the main entrance, and you can purchase your cable car tickets at the City Sightseeing bus office.

Take a Wine Tasting Tour to Explore South Africa’s World-Famous Winelands

Speaking of the Hop On Hop Off Bus tours, the company also makes visiting the wine regions simple with wine tour route options. However, if time allows, take a private tour to personalize your day of wine tastings or consider an overnight stay or multi-day excursion. 

South Africa’s wine scene is one of the best in the world, and Cape Town is the nation’s largest wine-producing region. Whether you consume or not, the six primary wine regions surrounding Cape Town are a dream. Each region offers unique experiences, rolling landscapes, wine farms, accommodations, and dining worth exploring.

My top 3 wine region picks near Cape Town

Stellenbosch: Located 31 miles east of Cape Town, Stellenbosch represents more than 200 wine and grape producers in the region. Some of the most popular estates are Waterford Estate (loved!), Bellevue Wine Estate, and Delaire Graff Estate.  

Franschhoek: One of the top-visited wine regions, Franschhoek refers to its region as “the valley of dreams.” Forty-five wineries make up the 300-year-old town but a day of winery-hopping is made easy with the Franschhoek Wine Tram. With 5 tram lines hosting 7-9 different wineries, there are plenty of views, tastings, and wine farm offerings in the area. My personal favorite Franschhoek wine estates include Dieu Donné, Klein Goederust, and La Bri.

Constantia: The country’s oldest wine region (and only 20 minutes from Cape Town), Constantia is mostly residential but is home to South Africa’s first wine farm – Groot Constantia. The Constantia Valley wine route has 10 world-class wine farms, including top picks Beau Constantia, Klein Constantia, and the pioneer Groot Constantia.

Cost: Varies depending on transportation arrangements and interests. Tastings at each wine farm can range from R25-R250 ($1.50-$14.21). Private tours typically start around $45-50 per person (with a group minimum) and scale up from there.

Wine Tour Tip: Depending on the time of year, it’s best to make reservations if you’re heading to a wine region without a guide. This is especially important if your plans involve having lunch at one of the properties. Popular estates can get packed during high season, leaving standing room only. For a wine tour host recommendation, consider Sips with Soul w/ Tuanni Price.

Shop Some Of South Africa’s Best Fashion Designers and Retailers

Cape Town’s indie designers deserve to take all my money with how ornate and well-crafted the garbs are made. I rave about the city’s shopping primarily because shopping in the U.S. feels boring. And, for girls of a certain size in any area of their body – at times – deflating. Cape Town’s style compels the wandering creative in me. It’s elevated yet relaxed in a way you only find in beach towns. There are a few areas worth visiting for good fashion finds, but I also want to highlight one designer I absolutely love (and encourage you to support, too!).

The most popular shopping district sits in the V&A Waterfront. A central point with much to do, the V&A has 500 shops, 100 places to dine, family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and so much more. If you’re serious about shopping, there’s also the Canal Walk Shopping Centre. It’s about a 20-30-minute drive outside of the city, but when something’s out of stock at the V&A, there’s usually one available here. Located in Century City, Canal Walk is one of several ways to experience Cape Town’s smart city.

You can’t experience SA fashion, and not be inspired to add some life to your wardrobe. This is especially true for the designs of the South African fashion brand, IMPRINT (@imprint_za on IG). The creator Mzukisi Mbane is one of the most stylish, creative, and aesthetically-vibey people you’ll ever meet. I had the chance to connect with him at Dakar Fashion Week in 2023–not knowing he was thee–and he was as kind as he is creative. Plus, IMPRINT’s collections are always ethereal and unlike anything you’ve seen.

Cost: Free to window shop; prices may vary 

Getting There: The easiest way to get to the V&A or Canal Walk is by car or Uber. Both locations offer free Wi-Fi if you opt out of an international data plan. To support/shop IMPRINT, visit imprintza.com.

Aquila Safari

When your itinerary is tight but you want a safari, I highly recommend a half-day tour at Aquila Safari. A two-hour drive from Cape Town, you can coordinate with the company directly for a local pick-up and drop-off with safari and buffet lunch included. 

Aquila is more of a wildlife park than an open range but most of the big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and African buffalo) are usually there. The buffet brunch and welcome drinks were right on time after the drive I mostly slept on. Our safari driver was super knowledgeable and guided us through the game reserve like a true professional. We ended the day with poolside cocktails at the on-site hotel before returning to Cape Town just before sunset.

Cost: Price varies by safari time, ranging between R995 ($56) and R1690 ($96) for half-day tours. The full-day tour rate is R2195, or around $125. Transportation is also available for an additional fee.

Getting There: Aquila Safari has directions on its website to help guide self-drivers. Otherwise, the safari representative will share instructions for what to expect for pick-up and drop-off.

Kick Back at The Neighbourgoods Market on the Weekend

When trying to find your way in CPT, The Neighbourgoods Market is always a solid pick on Saturdays and Sundays. Shop the crafts of local artisans and designers, catch a vibe from a local DJ, and enjoy a cocktail. Inside, it’ll be hard to decide where to eat, with food vendors serving everything from plant-based eats to BBQ meats. You can easily spend a couple of hours here – the weekly festivities happen rain or shine starting at 9 a.m.

Cost: Free to attend (Food, drinks, and crafts sold separately)

Getting There: The Neighbourgoods Market is held weekly at The Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock. Uber is the best way to go since parking is very limited.

Experience the Best Day Party at Rand’s

This recommendation is only for those ready to immerse themselves in the South African social vibes of Cape Town’s culture. The outdoor braai lounge Rand’s is a local favorite for an unexplainably fun day party that goes well into the night. Located in the middle of the Khayelitsha township, Rand’s is an indoor-outdoor facility that will forever change your outlook on Sunday Funday.

Rand’s owners (and brothers) Mfundo and Mshayi Mbeki have created a special place where the DJs are dedicated, the dancers are grooving, the grill stays fired up, and the energy is never dull. DJs play a bit of everything but Amapiano – South Africa’s treasure genre – is the main vibe that you’re bound to join in on. The menu features local dishes like lamb stew, oxtails, chakalaka, and pap. Grilled platters are the highlight for groups – with selections of tender steak, lamb chops, wings, and other grilled meats available. Daytime arrival is recommended as the venue gets filled quickly. It’s a litty good time, unlike anything you’ve experienced anywhere else.

Cost: In true lounge fashion, this depends on where you sit. General admissions pricing isn’t available online but should be fairly reasonable (less than $25). For groups, I would recommend a section for guaranteed seating and service. VVIP packages start at R4500 ($255.71 total, not per person), which goes toward a food and beverage tab (so worth it!). 

Getting There: If you’re not going with someone local, your safest bet is connecting with a local driver and confirming pick-up/drop-off times. Alternatively, you can also commute via Uber, however, options might be limited departing from Rand’s depending on what time you leave. The location is still inside a township and, while I’m never one for stroking safety concerns, it’s always wise to air on the side of caution. Being stranded in rural places abroad is never fun (#BeenThere).

Top Restaurants to Visit in Cape Town (My Fave 6!)

Save these restaurant recommendations for your Cape Town stay and I promise you won’t be disappointed. As a proud foodie, these dining picks were some of my go-to spots during my six-week visit. I’m only sharing the places that I can (and do) have on my list to revisit when I’m in town.

Egghead Diner

Start your morning at Egghead Diner, with amazing views of Table Mountain if you can get terrace or window seating. The all-day menu has breakfast and lunch items alongside coffees, teas, milkshakes, cocktails, and fresh juices. Located on Kloof Street in The Gardens, Egghead is great for meetups, reading a book, or mini-coworking sessions. Their signature egg rolls are what they’re most known for–various takes on breakfast sliders served on a warm brioche bun.

Favorite Dishes: The Egg Head (An “egg roll” with streaky bacon, fried egg, cheddar, and chipotle aioli on a brioche bun) with a café latte.

Mojo Market

Mojo Market is the place to go when you’re undecided or you have a few people with different tastebud preferences. The food hall-style venue houses 30 food vendors. The international variety includes Italian, BBQ, fresh oysters, Indian, Asian, salads, sandwiches, sushi, fresh juices, South African signature dishes, ramen, desserts, and more.

Only one block from the coastline in Sea Point, Mojo Market is a great place to pop into day or night. Throughout the week, the market hosts events with live music, games, and DJs. Several bars are available to indulge in your beverage of choice. You can also watch sporting events on TVs throughout the space while satisfying your hunger at one or a few restaurants. (Nojudgement here!)

Favorite Dishes: The fresh juices and smoothies at ESO Juice Co. are great for travel recovery. Try The Mussel Monger for fresh mussels and oysters. Monty’s Spitbraai & Catering is where to go to taste how South Africa prepares meat. For dessert, Dinky’s makes fresh mini-donuts to order that I’m still dreaming about.

Therapy

There isn’t a single thing on the menu that I haven’t enjoyed during my many visits to Therapy. The Black-owned restaurant is in the Gardens neighborhood, with food, drinks, and an ambiance that is quintessential Cape Town. The laid-back atmosphere has a moody vibe that pairs well with the sonic blend of Amapiano and R&B sounds. 

Therapy serves breakfast and brunch from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., while the lunch and dinner menu is offered well into the evening. You can’t go wrong with anything you order. It’s one of the places I can trust for a good meal even when I’m trying something new.

Favorite Dishes: I’m a girl who swoons over perfectly crafted bolognese, and Therapy’s rendition is one of the best. For small plates, the garlic bread is heavenly and the buttermilk chicken thighs are insanely delicious (although I’d recommend asking for the sauce on the side).

Tang

When I first discovered Tang in Johannesburg, I fell in love. When they opened a new location in 2023 at the V&A Waterfront, I couldn’t wait to try it out. Thankfully, it was as delicious as I remembered. Inspired by Japanese and Chinese traditions, the luxury Asian restaurant and bar’s staff and service show why small details matter.

Favorite Dishes: Tang is another dining spot that I have yet to discover something I don’t like. As for must-try dishes, go for the ribs as a starter and sushi is a given (if you eat it). You can nibble on a few small plates, but their main dishes deserve a try, too.

Souk

Souk is my lounge pick that can be as chill or lit as you like. Located in the CBD, this aesthetically gorgeous restaurant was a regular go-to within walking distance of my Airbnb last December. I would recommend this spot for happy hour, dinner, or a late-night kickback. The atmosphere is elevated but not pretentious – a norm for South African culture. Souk’s menu is tapas-based; plus, the full bar and DJs make this outing a sure bet that never misses.

Favorite Dishes: Almost everything, honestly. Top highlights: Crumbed calamari, bang bang prawns, ginger-fried chicken thighs.

Nobu

This dining recommendation is a bit of a splurge, but you deserve it. Dining at the world-famous Nobu is an experience worth having, and Cape Town’s location is no exception. Nobu is a must in Cape Town for its elevated cuisine and dining experience. It’s also much more affordable than having the same experience in the States. For example, my meal – a starter, a main, and two cocktails – came to less than $100, including the gratuity. By comparison, that same order would be at least twice as much in the U.S., if not more. So, my recommendation is to treat yourself to this fine dining experience.

Located inside the One & Only Hotel, you’ll want to make reservations. The menu features Nobu favorites including the multi-course Omakase tasting menu.

Favorite Dishes: I’m still dreaming about the Chilean seabass and the side of truffle rice I had during dinner. The miso soup was also great as an opening act.

When is the Best Time to Visit Cape Town?

Between November and March.

Having visited the country in November, December, January, and May, I can say with confidence that there isn’t a bad time to visit if you’re up for any weather. However, if you prefer warmer days, December to February is your best bet. These three months are considered South Africa’s summer, and even then you’re likely to have cool nights. Personally, I’d recommend arriving in November if you can swing it, as travel costs are much lower than in December. With the official start of summer and the holiday season come increased pricing across flights, hotels, and Airbnbs – sometimes double or triple the rate of other seasons.

Temperatures begin dropping again around March (SA’s fall) and by June, the country is ushering in winter. Temperatures can get pretty chilly despite misconceptions based on its location on the African continent. There are, after all, penguins that call this part of the world home. If you happen to travel during South Africa’s colder months, your biggest culprit is the wind, which can turn otherwise crisp days into a sick-and-shut-in feeling on vacation. Pack layers, a coat, and a few scarves – they always come in hand in Cape Town.

Is Cape Town, South Africa Safe?

One of the areas of concern in travel that I always like to address is the factor of safety. As a woman who often travels alone, even when I’m meeting up with others, safety is often top of mind. Generally, Cape Town is a safe city that doesn’t require going too far out of your way to travel securely. That said, after an incident during my latest visit, it would be inauthentic to not share the reality of what can happen if you’re not paying attention.

To provide context, South Africa is one of the most economically unequal countries in the world. While there is unimaginable wealth, there is also a real presence of poverty that stems largely from the legacy of colonialism and Apartheid policies. As a result, you may experience people asking for money or food. Navigate these situations as you choose, but operating in compassion costs us nothing. Don’t feel pressured to help if that’s not on your heart, but understand that as a non-South African, you may attract the attention of people on the street.

On a similar note, petty theft is a real problem in South Africa. While I’d heard stories from others about phones or laptops going missing, it wasn’t until December 2023 that I realized just how easily (and quickly) it could be me too. The Cliff’s Notes version of the story is that I was at a pop-up holiday party in the city with a few other digital nomads who decided to leave shortly after we arrived. I stayed a little longer and within 15 minutes, my phone was no longer in my crossbody bag. It happens to the best of us. Unfortunately, several people I’ve talked to since have a “that happened to me, too” story.

My life lesson shouldn’t deter you, though. They’re committing similar petty crimes in certain parts of Europe, and a phone swipe can happen anywhere. I would, however, recommend keeping your most valuable possessions in secure bags and safes (when available). Most people are going about their day, but, as with anywhere, you have to be mindful of your surroundings. I’ll know better next time and, hopefully, my L can help you be prepared to visit this beautiful city leaving with only the best memories.

Is Cape Town Worth Visiting?

I’ve spent a little time in Johannesburg and Durban but found myself in Cape Town three times in two years. As someone who has plenty left on her bucket list to get to, that says a lot. No city is perfect but the entertainment, cuisine, and people I’ve met along the way keep me coming back.

Do I wish Cape Town were more diverse? Absolutely. I get why Black travelers love going to Johannesburg, and equally felt those vibes. But there’s something about the lifestyle in Cape Town that just makes sense. It’s hard to articulate in words but the proximity to water and mountains, having access to fresh, healthy food and seafood, and the relaxed nature of the day-to-day was good for my well-being.

It is as much a destination that offers touristy attractions as it offers traditions, culture, live music, and food and wine. Cape Town’s access to the sea, mountains, wine farms, and safaris make it the perfect landing pad for exploring one of the most magnificent countries in the world. Without a doubt, Cape Town is one of those places I’d return time and again while encouraging as many people I know to experience it at least once.

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