Things to Do in Cape Town: A Complete Guide to the Best Experiences

Boulders Beach

Cape Town is one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse cities, offering everything from stunning beaches and scenic hikes to cultural experiences and world-class markets. Whether you want to shop at the V&A Waterfront, explore historic Bo-Kaap, swim in crystal-clear waters, or visit the famous Boulders Beach penguins, there’s something for every traveller.

Here’s Roote’s guide to the best things to do in Cape Town, including must-visit landmarks, outdoor activities, and some of the city’s best markets.

1️⃣ Visit the V&A Waterfront – Shopping, Dining & Culture

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a hub of activity, offering boutique shopping, incredible restaurants, and cultural experiences, all set against a backdrop of Table Mountain and the working harbour. It’s one of the safest and most walkable areas in Cape Town, making it a great starting point for your trip.

Don’t Miss:

• The Watershed – A stylish indoor market with over 150 local designers and artisans, selling handmade jewellery, home décor, leather goods, and unique souvenirs.

• The Two Oceans Aquarium – A great stop for families, featuring sharks, penguins, and interactive exhibits.

• Boat Trips & Robben Island Tours – Take a harbour cruise or visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

Roote's Tip: The V&A is perfect for a relaxed afternoon of shopping, dining, and sightseeing, with plenty of places to sit and take in the views.

2️⃣ Swim in Cape Town’s Most Sheltered & Scenic Spots

Cape Town’s beaches are stunning, but they can get windy and have strong currents—so knowing where to swim is important. Here are the best and most sheltered beaches for a refreshing dip.

Best Swimming Spots in Cape Town:

1. Camps Bay Tidal Pool – A calm, sheltered tidal pool next to the famous Camps Bay Beach, perfect for a morning swim.

2. Clifton’s Four Beaches (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th) – These beaches are protected from the wind and offer some of the clearest, bluest waters in Cape Town.

3. Beta Beach (Bakoven) – A hidden, peaceful cove just past Camps Bay with rock pools and stunning views.

4. St James Tidal Pool – Located on the False Bay side, this pool is surrounded by colourful beach huts and is warmer than Atlantic-facing beaches.

Heads up: The Atlantic Ocean is cold year-round (12–16°C), so be prepared for an icy but refreshing swim!

3️⃣ See the Penguins at Boulders Beach

One of Cape Town’s most famous attractions, Boulders Beach is home to a thriving colony of African penguins, and it’s one of the only places in the world where you can see them up close in their natural habitat.

How to Visit Boulders Beach:

• Location: About 45 minutes from Cape Town (drive or Uber).

• Entrance Fee (2025 Prices): R190 (£8) for international visitors / R60 (£2.50) for South Africans.

• Two Entrance Options:

  1️⃣ Main boardwalk area – Offers the best photo opportunities of the penguins.

  2️⃣ Beach entrance – Allows you to swim and relax alongside the penguins (less crowded but no direct interaction).

Roote's Tip: You can also see penguins for free by walking along the Willis Walk pathway, where penguins rest in the bushes beside the trail.

4️⃣ Take a Walking Tour & Cookery Class in Bo-Kaap

Bo-Kaap is Cape Town’s most colourful and culturally rich neighbourhood, famous for its brightly painted houses and Cape Malay heritage. It’s a must-visit for history lovers and foodies alike.

Things to Do in Bo-Kaap:

• Self-Guided Walking Tour – Stroll through Wale Street, home to the iconic rainbow-coloured houses and historic mosques.

• VoiceMap Walking Tour – A GPS-based self-guided tour, narrated by a local, giving you insights into Bo-Kaap’s history and traditions.

• Cape Malay Cooking Class – Learn to make authentic Cape Malay dishes like samoosas, rotis, and bobotie in a local’s home.

Roote's Tip: 

5️⃣ Visit Cape Town’s Best Markets

If you love street food, local crafts, and live music, Cape Town’s markets are a must-visit.

Oranjezicht City Farm Market (Best for Gourmet Food)

• A weekend farmers’ market near the V&A Waterfront, selling organic fruit & veg, fresh pastries, and artisanal cheeses.

• Perfect for: A relaxed brunch and fresh produce shopping.

  
  

Neighbourgoods Market (Old Biscuit Mill – Best for Atmosphere)

• A Saturday-only market in Woodstock, known for incredible street food, craft beer, and a buzzing vibe.

• Perfect for: Foodies who want a lively, social experience.

  
  

Hout Bay Market (Best for Live Music & Souvenirs)

• A weekend market set in a former fish factory, featuring art, home décor, and great seafood stalls.

• Perfect for: A relaxed evening out with food, drinks, and live entertainment.

  
  

Roote's Tip: If you’re visiting Hout Bay Market, take a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak for breathtaking ocean views.

6️⃣ Walk or Jog Along the Sea Point Promenade

If you love being outdoors, the Sea Point Promenade is the perfect place to walk, jog, or cycle along the oceanfront. This scenic coastal walkway stretches from Mouille Point to Bantry Bay, offering breathtaking Atlantic views and plenty of public art, cafés, and green spaces along the way.

✔ Great for Morning Runs – The promenade is flat and well-maintained, making it a favourite for runners and cyclists.

✔ Sunset Strolls – One of the best places to watch the sun set over the ocean.

✔ Outdoor Gym & Play Areas – There are free outdoor workout stations, as well as playgrounds for kids.

7️⃣ Go Up Table Mountain – Cape Town’s Most Iconic Viewpoint

No trip to Cape Town is complete without visiting Table Mountain. Whether you take the cable car or hike to the top, the views from 1,086 metres above sea level are absolutely breathtaking.

Ways to Experience Table Mountain:

Table Mountain Cableway – The easiest way to the top, with rotating gondolas offering 360° views.

Hike Up – The Platteklip Gorge trail is the most direct route (2–3 hours).

Sunset & Sunrise Views – The light is best early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and sunsets are unforgettable from the top.

📌 Final Thoughts: The Best of Cape Town in One Trip

From swimming in hidden beaches to exploring colourful Bo-Kaap, visiting local markets, and seeing penguins at Boulders Beach, Cape Town is packed with unforgettable experiences.