With its rugged peaks, Atlantic beaches and delicious food, Cape Town is a firm favourite among i-escapers. We’ve asked insiders in the know for their top tips for exploring this beautiful city.
Enjoy the view
“Watching the sunrise from Signal Hill is one of the best ways to start the day in Cape Town. There’s nothing like seeing the twinkling lights of the city fade away as the sun comes up over the mountains, coffee in hand.”
Taryn, More Quarters and Cape Cadogan
“I’d highly recommend hiking up Table Mountain (or Lion’s Head) for unbelievable panoramic views across the city and surrounding peaks. Head there as soon as you see the weather is clear – otherwise the top might be covered by a ‘tablecloth’ of cloud for days on end.”
Ben, i-escape Rates Manager
Wine and dine
“Sandile’s on the upper level of Cape Town train station is one of the city’s most unique dining experiences. Sandile himself has no formal chef training, but he cooks up a storm in a big metal shipping container. All the recipes have been passed down to him by his elders, and you can expect true African cuisine.”
Cobus, Cape View Clifton
“Don’t miss the opportunity to eat super fresh, innovative Japanese food at Kyoto Garden Sushi in the Gardens district.”
Elize, Ebb Tide
“Whenever I stay near trendy Kloof Street I always pencil in at least one trip to Arnolds, which does a huge and healthy(ish) breakfast for under a fiver (the exchange rate is particularly favourable to UK visitors at the moment). It’s a hub of activity and great for people watching.”
Ben, i-escape Rates Manager
“Vibrant Bree Street has become the city’s hippest strip, with all manner of exciting bars and eateries. Our favourite pit stops include speakeasy-style cocktail emporium The Orphanage and Mother’s Ruin Gin Bar for extraordinary Fynbos infusions.”
Nikki, i-escape co-founder
Shop, shop, shop
“NAP Living in the Cape Quarter is bursting with unique locally made items, from clothes and accessories to stunning furniture. Indulgent finds include olive-oil hand cream, driftwood mirrors, comfy linen sofas, glass light balls, and beautiful jewellery made from silver, leather and pewter. Expect anything that falls into the category of ‘feel good’!”
Cobus, Cape View Clifton
“Woodstock, a short cab ride from the city centre, is a once-gritty suburb that’s become a hub for Cape Town’s art and design scene. Its derelict warehouses are now contemporary galleries (we love the Goodman Gallery, which showcases some of the biggest names in South African Art), while Salt Circle Arcade, the Woodstock Foundry, the Woodstock Exchange and the Old Biscuit Mill all have clusters of boutiques. Don’t miss the organic chocolate bars at Honest Chocolate and the gorgeous homewares and beauty products at sister stores Indigenous and Kingdom.”
Nikki, i-escape co-founder
“I love Kloof Street for its vintage clothes shops and record stores (there’s even a small cinema complex called Labia!). It’s easy to while away a few hours just browsing and stopping for coffee. On my last trip I stayed at excellent-value An African Villa, which is just a stone’s throw from the action.”
Ben, i-escape Rates Manager
Get on your bike
“Hire bikes from the Camps Bay strip and cycle to Hout Bay, stopping for a coffee from the Detour coffee truck that’s parked next to the sea between 7am and 11am.”
Elize, Ebb Tide
Watch wildlife over lunch
“I love heading south to Kalk Bay to potter around the antique, art and book stores and to have lunch in one of the many great fish restaurants; you can spot whales from their terraces from late July to mid-October. If you have time, combine it with a visit to Boulders Beach, where you can swim with wild penguins.”
Ben, i-escape Rates Manager
Hit the beach
“Our manager Dirk loves Beta Beach in Bakoven. It has azure blue waters against a stunning backdrop of the 12 Apostles and Lion’s Head. It’s also away from the crowds and perfect for sun-worshipers.”
Taryn, More Quarters and Cape Cadogan
“Llandudno Beach is undoubtedly one of the city’s most picturesque beaches, with plenty of sheltered spots by the boulders where you can settle in. Depending on the waves, it’s also one of the top surfing spots – if you can brave the cold water!”
Cobus, Cape View Clifton
“Muizenberg Beach is a popular spot with surfers. The beautiful sand is flat and wide (so great for kids) and it’s lined with colourful changing booths. In winter (May to July), you might spot a whale, too!”
Taryn, More Quarters and Cape Cadogan
For more, see our full Cape Town guide and our fantastic places to stay >>