The main places you have to see in Cape Town

The main places you have to see in Cape Town

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Set between the majestic Table Mountain and the sea, Cape Town is one of the world's most beautiful cities. The Mother City truly has it all - luxurious properties, world-class restaurants, stunning architecture, golden beaches, and rich history at every corner. There's a reason it regularly tops travel lists; the city is packed with places to visit. Whether you're a resident or tourist, here are some of the unmissable attractions worth exploring. 

V&A Waterfront

The iconic V&A Waterfront is a mixed-use neighbourhood situated in the heart of Cape Town's harbour. This attraction offers so much to do. Get a panoramic view of Cape Town on the Cape Wheel or take a cruise around the harbour. The V&A Waterfront boasts world-class restaurants and artisanal food from the V&A Food Market. If you're a history or art buff, a visit to the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, Nobel Square, or Cape Town Diamond Museum will be sure to please. 

Two Oceans Aquarium

When the Two Oceans Aquarium opened in 1995, it sparked a love affair with marine life that continues today. The aquarium allows you to get up close and personal with 8 000 creatures and over 200 species including the African penguin, Knysna seahorse, puff adder shy shark, and spotted gully shark. You can even touch some of the strange creatures and plant life. Tranquil and cool, Two Oceans Aquarium provides a welcome escape from the bustle and hustle of life, while providing insight into the wonders of nature. 

Table Mountain

Officially named a New 7 Wonders of Nature site, Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain overlooking Cape Town and Table Bay. It attracts millions of visitors for scenic views, cable car rides, hiking, flora and fauna sightings, and more. In terms of costs, there are morning and afternoon prices for adults and children to ride the cable car. Discounted prices are available for students and senior citizens. If you're a South African resident, you can even get a free ticket on your birthday month.

Signal Hill and Lion's Head

Lion's Head is a stunning mountain in Cape Town, neighboured by Signal Hill. Together Lion's Head and Signal Hill create the appearance of a lion in the crouching position. Visiting these sites are regarded as a 'mane' event for all true Capetonians. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to get to the top of Lion's Head - and it's worth it. The sites are popular for hiking, picnicking, sundowners, and a chance to simply enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city, Table Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. 

Robben Island

Robben Island was used to isolate political prisoners since the end of the 17th century. It is best known as the place where anti-Apartheid activist, Nelson Mandela, served 18 years of his imprisonment. Today, Robben Island is a World Heritage Site, museum, and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The ferry trip, departing from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront, takes about 30 minutes. And, at only R400 for adults (R210 for children), it's well worth the price. 

Bo-Kaap

With its colourful Cape Dutch and Cape Georgian houses, the Bo-Kaap area is one of the most Instagrammable parts of Cape Town. Beyond the looks, it is a historic residential area offering insights into the Islamic Cape Malay culture and history. Take a trip to the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn about the area's heritage. You can also savour Cape Malay cuisine flavoured with fruits and spices at nearby restaurants.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is an important protected area supporting natural forest and fynbos, and a wide variety of indigenous birds, animals, reptiles, frogs and invertebrates. It will quickly become your favourite place with its beautiful setting against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Here you can hike scenic trails, walk among the treetops on the Centenary Treetop Canopy Walkway, picnic, take a guided tour, visit the nursery and garden centre, or sip a steaming cup at the tea garden. The entry fee is just R80 for local adults and even more affordable for children, seniors, and students. 

With so much to do in Cape Town, the city is alive with adventure, culture, arts, and more. There are few places that can match its appeal. With Seeff's property professionals, you can make it your home. View our Cape Town properties for sale or properties to let, and contact us today. 

Image accreditations:

Two Oceans Aquarium by Discott | Wikipedia | CC BY-SA 4.0 | bit.ly/3EZPtNa

Author: Seeff