Top tips for spending 72 hours in Cape Town
Cape Town has been crowned the Best Long-Haul City Break in the latest Which? magazine rankings, securing the top spot with five stars for food and drink, value for money, and shopping. The accolades don’t stop there, as Cape Town was also recently voted Best City in the World at the Telegraph Travel Awards, and Best City in Africa at the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and fantastic weather, it’s the ultimate destination for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences – all at surprisingly affordable prices. The team at South African Tourism has compiled expert recommendations on how to make the most of 72 hours in Cape Town, plus top tips for exploring further afield….
DO
Must-visit attractions for travellers include the spectacular Table Mountain, where you can either take the cableway or hike to the top for breathtaking views. Robben Island is a moving historical experience, known as being the site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Meanwhile, V&A Waterfront is a lively hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. For thrill-seekers, sidecar tours offer a unique way to see the city, while those looking for a peaceful afternoon can rent a pedal boat at the V&A Waterfront. Hikers will love the Pipe Track, a scenic route with stunning coastal views.
EAT
Savour the best of Cape Town’s food scene. Tuck into fresh seafood at the city’s picturesque harbours, or browse local markets – including Oranjezicht City Farm Market – for local produce that you can try and buy. If you’re after a vibrant atmosphere, The Bay Harbour Market is a hotspot for food, crafts and unique experiences.
DRINK
Whatever your tipple, Cape Town delivers! From craft beer and gin distilleries serving local blends, to world-beating red and white wine, there is something for everyone to sample. The biggest surprise, though, is the price – you might be pleasantly surprised to sip on some excellent local wine from just £2.50 a glass. The Durbanville Wine Safari offers day trips that combine delicious food and wine experiences with opportunities for adventure and exploring the area’s rich history. Chinchilla Rooftop Cocktail Bar & Lounge – with breathtaking beachfront views, expertly crafted cocktails and captivating live performances – should also be on your radar.
STAY
Surrounded by greenery, yet in a central location with easy access to Cape Town’s attractions, The Dorp Hotel offers stylish, boutique accommodation at a great price and the best views in the city. For a more luxurious experience, The Atlantic Gold offers sea views in a more tranquil, secluded location. For a truly indulgent stay, The O’Two Boutique Hotel offers a high-end escape on the sea front, only a short walk to the city centre. Meanwhile, just 30 minutes from the bustling heart of the city, Steenberg Wine Farm’s luxurious 5-star Hotel & Spa offers guests access to the estate’s championship golf course, a sublime selection of award-winning restaurants and a world-class spa, all set on immaculate grounds with spectacular vistas of the vineyards and mountains beyond.
RELAX
Relaxing by the sea should be high on your agenda, as beach lovers are spoiled for choice in Cape Town! With four different areas, Clifton Beaches can satisfy the fussiest of sunseekers (the fourth beach boasts Blue Flag status), while Camps Bay, just a bit further along the coast, provides great views of the dramatic peaks of the Twelve Apostles.
EXPLORE
While Cape Town is a big draw for visitors to South Africa, many of the country’s outstanding experiences can be found beyond the city. For wine lovers, the Elgin wine region offers exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, or travel Route 62, the world’s longest wine route, enjoying spectacular landscapes, with plenty of charming small towns to break up the journey. The West Coast offers up pristine beaches, rich marine life at Langebaan Lagoon, and beautiful indigenous wildflower displays, while the scenic Cederberg Mountains – perfect for hiking – are an absolute must for lovers of the great outdoors.
