Cape Town is one of the most scenic place in Africa.  Known as the quintessential melting pot: Cape Town is a city alive with creativity, colour, sounds and tastes. Many travelers who have visited South Africa have fallen in love with the city’s natural beauty, creative freedom and incredible spirit. When visiting this second most populous city in South Africa, be prepared for the unexpected; a surprising experience that you will never forget.

Here are the top 10 attractions you can’t miss when visiting Cape Town;

1. Table Mountain

Table Mountain is arguably the most iconic image of Cape Town. Standing at the top should top everyone’s list of ‘things to do before you die’. Take the leisurely route in the slowly revolving cable car, or alternately hike to the top. Either way you won’t regret it when you get to enjoy the sight of Cape Town and surrounds from the Table top!

2. V & A Waterfront

Situated at the Cape Town Harbour basin, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is the most popular venue in Cape Town. With a wide variety of shops, numerous restaurants and cafes, wine bars, sites of historical and cultural interest and local craft workshops, you’ll never have a dull moment here, day or night.

3. Wine Farms

From the farms of Constantia in the southern suburbs to the expansive estates of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franshoek, the Cape boasts some of the most beautiful wine farms in the world. And it’s a well known fact that they produce some of the finest wines in the world too! A visit to Cape Town is incomplete without at least one day spent on the wine route, sampling fine wines, learning about the history and methodology of winemaking from the experts, enjoying a sumptuous lunch along the way and coming back laden with some great purchases for the cellar back home.

4. Robben Island

Site of former president Nelson Mandela’s prison cell where he was confined for many years prior to his historical release, Robben Island has a very special atmosphere. Take a ferry from the Waterfront and learn from the guided tours about the other men who shared the Island with Madiba, and about the incredible man himself.

5. Cape Point

Who wouldn’t want to say they have stood at the tip of the great African continent? Once inside the reserve you can make your way to the main parking area and stroll up the wide paths to the top lookout point. From here the view is breathtaking – sheer cliffs drop to the crashing waves far below while azure waters spread out as far as the eye can see to a hazy horizon. On a clear day, you really can see forever! Enjoy lunch at the excellent restaurant or drive to one of the sheltered beaches for a picnic.

6. Boulder’s Beach Penguin Colony

Home of a colony of so-called ‘Jackass’ Penguins (so named for the donkey-like braying sound they make) Boulder’s Beach is situated just past Simon’s Town. Apart from great penguin viewing, the beach is picturesque and great for families with its sheltered bay.

7. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

These beautiful gardens at the foot of Table Mountain were established in 1913. The gardens only grow indigenous South African plants, and cover an area of 528 hectares. Picnic on the green lawns next to bubbling streams, or take advantage of a guided tour.

8. Top Stones Gemstone Factory and Scratch Patch

Visit one of the Top Stone Gemstone Factories at Glen Cairn or the Waterfront, for a sparkling and enchanting experience. At the Glen Cairn factory you can view the stones being washed polished and crafted into curios or jewelry. Trawl through the walk-in Scratch Patch ‘caves’ and select your own treasures to take home.

9. Two Oceans Aquarium

Located at the V&A Waterfront, this is South Africa’s largest aquarium. It has great exhibitions and a strong educational component. The shark feeding times are always popular with visitors who love to get a close up view of these awesome creatures without getting wet!

10. District Six Museum

Back in the 1960’s the apartheid government demolished the District Six neighborhoods, displacing the residents. Of all the museums to see in Cape Town, this memorial to the glory days and tragic history of District Six is one of the most interesting and colourful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cape Town

What are the big 6 attractions in Cape Town?

The big 6 attractions in Cape Town are Table Mountain, Robben Island, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Point, and the Constantia Winelands.

How many attractions are in Cape Town?

There are many attractions in Cape Town, but it's difficult to give an exact number as it depends on how you define "attraction".

What is Cape Town famous for?

Cape Town is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including Table Mountain, its rich history and culture, and its diverse and vibrant food and wine scene.

What is the most beautiful thing about Cape Town?

The most beautiful thing about Cape Town is subjective and varies from person to person. Some people may say it's the views from Table Mountain, while others may say it's the beaches or the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood.

What are three main types of attractions?

The three main types of attractions are natural attractions, cultural attractions, and man-made attractions.

What are the five 5 types of tourist attractions?

The five types of tourist attractions are historical, cultural, natural, recreational, and entertainment.

How can I spend 4 days in Cape Town?

You can spend 4 days in Cape Town by exploring the city's top attractions, such as Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, as well as visiting nearby areas like the Constantia Winelands and Cape Point. You can also enjoy the city's food and wine scene, go on a hike, or relax on the beach.

How many days are enough for Cape Town?

It depends on what you want to see and do in Cape Town, but most people would recommend spending at least 4-5 days in the city to fully experience its top attractions and nearby areas.

Is 3 days enough for Cape Town?

While 3 days may not be enough to see everything Cape Town has to offer, it's still possible to have a great experience in the city with careful planning and prioritization of top attractions.

What is the best month to visit Cape Town?

The best month to visit Cape Town is during the summer months of December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

What is the best area to stay in Cape Town?

The best area to stay in Cape Town depends on your preferences and budget. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and Camps Bay are popular tourist areas with many hotels and restaurants, while the city center has more affordable options and is close to many attractions.