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Landmarks to see in Cape Town to explore the city between nature and history

Cape Town progresses between sea and mountains with a pace that varies from neighborhood to neighborhood. As soon as you follow the Atlantic coast, the air becomes cooler, and then the city broadens towards the peaks where trails climb along rocky slopes. You then pass through older streets with colorful facades that catch the eye before reaching gardens stretching at the foot of Table Mountain. The recent history remains very present, and the traces of apartheid can still be felt when visiting the island where many political prisoners were held. Markets bring a lively, bustling atmosphere, much like the beaches where swimmers and marine animals mingle. This selection highlights places that define Cape Town’s spirit, allowing you to explore the city through its panoramas, neighborhoods, and heritage.

Bo-Kaap
Bo-Kaap

Cape Town, South Africa

Old neighborhood at the foot of Signal Hill where houses line up in a lively palette that changes with each street. It reveals a history connected to Cape's Muslim communities and architecture dating back to the 18th century. The quiet alleys provide nice views of the city.

Table Mountain
Table Mountain

Cape Town, South Africa

A flat summit over a thousand meters above sea level overlooking the Cape and shaping the city's profile. The trails climb through rocks and the fynbos vegetation while the cable car takes you to the plateau with a broad view of the ocean and the coastal neighborhoods.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Cape Town, South Africa

Large garden located at the foot of Table Mountain where native South African plants are collected. Visitors walk among greenhouses, shaded paths, and open spaces that display the country's botanical diversity.

Camps Bay
Camps Bay

Cape Town, South Africa

Beach lined with a lively promenade where cafes and restaurants follow one after the other with a view of the Atlantic. The light sand contrasts with the Twelve Apostles standing just behind, creating a typical Cape coastline scene.

Signal Hill
Signal Hill

Cape Town, South Africa

A 350-meter promontory overlooking the city and port. It was used for maritime signaling for a long time and remains known for its cannon that sounds every day at noon. The site is appreciated for its sunsets.

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Cape Town, South Africa

District located in the old Cape Town port where 19th-century warehouses have been converted into shops, restaurants, and cultural spaces. The area is popular for its quays, museums, and views of Table Mountain.

Robben Island
Robben Island

Cape Town, South Africa

Island off Cape Town where political prisoners were held during apartheid. Tours are often led by former inmates and provide an important account of the country’s recent history.

Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach

Cape Town, South Africa

Beach protected by granite blocks and known for its colony of African penguins. Boardwalks allow observation of the animals without disturbing them while enjoying a peaceful coastal landscape.

Cape of Good Hope
Cape of Good Hope

Cape Town, South Africa

A rocky point forming the southwestern tip of the African continent. The site is known for its cliffs, rugged coast, and views over False Bay.

Chapman's Peak Drive
Chapman's Peak Drive

Cape Town, South Africa

Scenic route following the cliff between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. It overlooks the ocean and has several stops to enjoy the cliffs and the sea.

Two Oceans Aquarium
Two Oceans Aquarium

Cape Town, South Africa

Space dedicated to species from the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The exhibit features fish, jellyfish, penguins, and sharks in a series of well-maintained tanks.

District Six Museum
District Six Museum

Cape Town, South Africa

Museum set in an old church dedicated to the forced evictions that characterized this neighborhood in the sixties. Testimonies, maps, and objects illustrate residents' lives before the district's destruction.

Zeitz MOCAA
Zeitz MOCAA

Cape Town, South Africa

African contemporary art museum housed in an old silo converted into a large exhibition space. The galleries showcase works from across the continent within an impressive interior design.

Woodstock
Woodstock

Cape Town, South Africa

District redesigned around its workshops, cafes, and colorful murals. Former industrial areas now host local artists and markets that attract many visitors.

Clifton Beach
Clifton Beach

Cape Town, South Africa

Four beaches separated by rocky formations where white sand contrasts with cool Atlantic waters. The site is appreciated for its sheltered setting.

Lion's Head
Lion's Head

Cape Town, South Africa

A 669-meter mountain overlooking the city with a circular trail leading to the summit. Hikers visit for views of the bay, Table Mountain, and the ocean.

Cape Wheel
Cape Wheel

Cape Town, South Africa

Wheel installed on the waterfront offering a wide view of the port, the city, and the surrounding peaks. The glass cabins allow observation of the landscape even in windy weather.

Cape Point Nature Reserve
Cape Point Nature Reserve

Cape Town, South Africa

Large protected area where rugged cliffs, fynbos vegetation, and secluded beaches come together. The historic lighthouse marks one of the most iconic points of the park.

Company's Garden
Company's Garden

Cape Town, South Africa

Historical park established in the 17th century with long tree-lined avenues and several cultural buildings. It features museums, statues, and a well-maintained rose garden.

Muizenberg Beach
Muizenberg Beach

Cape Town, South Africa

Large sandy beach with painted Victorian cottages. Its shallow waters make it popular among beginner surfers.

Hout Bay
Hout Bay

Cape Town, South Africa

Bay surrounded by mountains with an active fishing port. Seafood restaurants, the market, and the marina create a pleasant nautical atmosphere.

Castle of Good Hope
Castle of Good Hope

Cape Town, South Africa

17th-century fortress considered the oldest colonial building in the country. It now houses military collections and historical exhibitions.

The Old Biscuit Mill
The Old Biscuit Mill

Cape Town, South Africa

Place transformed into a lively market where producers, artisans, and restaurateurs gather every weekend. The stalls bring a warm atmosphere to the Woodstock district.

Diamond Museum
Diamond Museum

Cape Town, South Africa

Museum dedicated to South African mining history with replicas of famous diamonds, extraction tools, and information about the local industry.

Bloubergstrand Beach
Bloubergstrand Beach

Cape Town, South Africa

Expansive beach offering one of the best views of Table Mountain and Robben Island. Surfers enjoy its windy conditions.

Twelve Apostles
Twelve Apostles

Cape Town, South Africa

A chain of limestone peaks running along the Atlantic coast behind Camps Bay. The ridges are visible from the beach and contain several hiking trails.

Greenmarket Square
Greenmarket Square

Cape Town, South Africa

Historic city center square where an African craft market is held. It features textiles, sculptures, and traditional objects in a lively setting.

Heart of Cape Town Museum
Heart of Cape Town Museum

Cape Town, South Africa

Site detailing the first successful heart transplant in 1967. The rooms display instruments, medical archives, and reconstructions.

World of Birds
World of Birds

Cape Town, South Africa

A center that hosts many bird species as well as a few small mammals. Visitors walk through natural aviaries where the animals can be observed up close.

South African Museum
South African Museum

Cape Town, South Africa

The country's oldest museum. The collections include fossils, meteorites, and human cultures. The adjacent planetarium offers sessions focused on celestial observation.