For an added adventure, hop aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram, a convenient hop-on-hop-off experience connecting several select farms. Don’t miss nearby Stellenbosch and Paarl, where spectacular scenery, fantastic restaurants, unique experiences, and exceptional wines await.
Why Cape Town Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List
Iconic Landscapes, Stunning Coastlines & Exceptional Dining
Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl)
South Africa’s Finest Wine Heartland
Introduction
The Cape Winelands is one of the world’s premier wine destinations — a region defined by rolling vineyards, dramatic mountains, historic estates, fine dining, and meticulously crafted wines. Just an hour from Cape Town, the Winelands blend European heritage with African landscapes, creating a setting that feels simultaneously elegant and wild. The region’s winemaking tradition stretches back more than 350 years, producing globally celebrated varietals such as Chenin Blanc, Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, and world-class blends. This is a place where travelers can sip wine in sun-drenched courtyards, dine at award-winning restaurants, stroll through oak-lined university towns, and explore some of the most scenic valley landscapes in South Africa.
The Winelands excel not just because of wine, but because of the experience — slow mornings among vineyards, mountain-framed sunsets, horse trails through farmlands, and art installations scattered across estates. The architecture itself tells a story, with Cape Dutch manor houses, restored farm homes, and sleek modern estates coexisting in harmony. Luxury boutique hotels and vineyard lodges add depth to the atmosphere, making the region a favorite for honeymooners, culinary travelers, and wine connoisseurs.
STELLENBOSCH
Heritage, Vineyards & Academic Culture
Stellenbosch is a blend of history, sophistication, and innovation — the oldest town in the Winelands and one of the most influential wine-producing areas in the Southern Hemisphere. Its oak-lined streets, university culture, and artistic heritage give it a vibrant yet timeless character. The surrounding vineyards stretch across rolling hills and valleys framed by dramatic mountain ridges, creating a landscape that is both peaceful and cinematic.
Stellenbosch is home to hundreds of wine estates, from historic farms dating back centuries to modern, minimalist wineries pushing the boundaries of terroir-based winemaking. The town also features a strong culinary scene with farm-to-table restaurants, bistros, wine pairings, and artisan chocolate studios. It is a perfect base for travelers wanting to experience a rich blend of wine, culture, and South African heritage.
FRANSCHHOEK
French Huguenot Valley of Gourmet Excellence
Franschhoek is the culinary capital of South Africa — an intimate valley where French heritage, mountain scenery, and luxury hospitality combine to create an atmosphere of refined indulgence. The landscape is breathtaking: vineyards running up steep mountain slopes, eucalyptus-lined roads, and a compact village filled with galleries, cafes, boutique shops, and Michelin-level restaurants.
The famous Franschhoek Wine Tram connects visitors to dozens of estates through a nostalgic open-air rail experience, making wine touring effortless and scenic. The valley is also home to some of Africa’s most acclaimed restaurants, where chefs work closely with local farms, vineyards, and artisanal producers. The blend of gourmet food, fine wine, and dramatic scenery makes Franschhoek one of the most romantic destinations in Southern Africa.
PAARL
Granite Peaks, History & Iconic Estates
Paarl is known for its impressive granite domes, historic wine estates, and warm Mediterranean climate. It is one of South Africa’s oldest wine-producing towns and home to some of the country’s most iconic wine brands. Paarl’s vineyards benefit from diverse soils and microclimates, producing bold reds, elegant whites, and exceptional Cap Classique sparkling wines.
The town is rich in heritage, with beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture, tree-lined streets, and the Taal Monument — a symbolic site celebrating the history of Afrikaans. Beyond wine, Paarl offers scenic hiking trails, animal sanctuaries, and family-friendly estates with spacious lawns, play areas, and relaxed outdoor tasting venues.
Best For:
- Wine & culinary travel
- Honeymoons
- Luxury escapes
- Photography & landscapes
- Food enthusiasts
- Relaxed, high-end weekends
Top Places to Visit in Cape Town
Cape Town
Africa’s Most Beautiful Coastal City
Introduction
Cape Town is one of the world’s most breathtaking cities — a dramatic meeting point of mountains, ocean, culture, and modern sophistication. Towering above it all is Table Mountain, the granite sentinel that shapes the city’s skyline and creates stunning natural vantage points over the Atlantic and False Bay coastlines. From the V&A Waterfront to the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, Cape Town blends creativity, history, and nature in a way no other city in Africa can match. It is both cosmopolitan and wild, offering everything from award-winning restaurants to rugged cliffside trails, penguin colonies, and windswept beaches.
What makes Cape Town extraordinary is its range of experiences. In a single day, you can hike Lion’s Head at sunrise, sip premium wines in Constantia by midday, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Atlantic, and dine at a top-tier restaurant in the evening. It is a city designed for discovery: street art tours, township cultural experiences, the historic Robben Island prison, surfing in Muizenberg, paragliding from Signal Hill, luxury shopping, and scenic drives along Chapman’s Peak. The city caters to every type of traveler — adventurers, food lovers, photographers, beach enthusiasts, and history seekers.
The Spirit of Cape Town
Cape Town is defined by its energy — youthful, creative, and diverse. Markets like the Old Biscuit Mill, Oranjezicht City Farm Market, and Greenmarket Square illustrate the city’s vibrant artisan culture. The culinary scene is among the best in the Southern Hemisphere, blending African flavors with global techniques. Beyond the city, nature lovers can explore kelp forests, marine reserves, botanical gardens, and rugged nature reserves along the peninsula. The ocean itself defines the rhythm of Cape Town life, with whale watching, shark cage diving, kayaking with dolphins, and sunset cruises all part of the experience.
Best For:
- Culture & history
- Beaches & scenic photography
- Adventure & hiking
- Marine excursions
- Wine & gastronomy lovers
- Luxury city stays
Cape Town is often described as magical—and for good reason. It’s a destination where you can experience multiple worlds in a single day. Within a short drive, you can relax on pristine beaches, admire the majesty of Table Mountain, explore charming winelands, or indulge in the Cape’s vibrant culinary scene.
The Mother City offers endless ways to explore. While there are many guided tours available, most travellers enjoy discovering Cape Town at their own pace. Wander through lively African craft markets, visit the colourful neighbourhood of Bo-Kaap, relax on the city’s top beaches, or enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the V&A Waterfront with its restaurants, shops, and luxury hotels.
Another reason Cape Town is so traveller-friendly is language—although South Africa has 11 official languages, English is widely spoken, making navigation easy for solo explorers, couples, groups, and families alike.
As with any travel destination, being aware of your surroundings is important. Cape Town is considered safe and popular among tourists, but it’s always wise to get guidance from your Africa Travel Expert or review safety tips before your trip.
Top Reasons to Visit Cape Town
Discover Table Mountain: One of the World’s 7 Natural Wonders
When is the Best Time to go to Cape Town?
Gazing Up at Table Mountain on the Way to the Cable Car | Safari Continents Travel
Visitors to Cape Town quickly understand why Table Mountain is called Hoerikwaggo, or “Mountain in the Sea,” by the Khoisan people. This sprawling, iconic flat-topped mountain dominates the city skyline, instantly recognisable from afar. Beyond its striking beauty, Table Mountain is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 8,200 plant species, 1,470 floral species, and a variety of wildlife, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
Rising 1,085 metres above sea level, Table Mountain can be explored via the famous cable car, or for the more adventurous, by hiking one of several paths to the summit. At the top, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views—glance down at the coastline and its pristine beaches, admire surrounding peaks like Lion’s Head, and take in the vibrant city bowl below.
Cape Town Travel Advice
Explore the World-Class Winelands
Unwind in the World-Famous Cape Winelands
No Cape Town holiday is complete without a visit to the stunning Cape Winelands. From the historic vineyards of Constantia to the sprawling estates of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, there’s plenty to explore. Begin your journey in Constantia, winding through the mountains and visiting world-renowned estates such as Buitenverwachting, Groot Constantia, Constantia Uitsig, Constantia Glen, Beau Constantia, and Eagle’s Nest. For a more intimate experience with excellent bubbly, stop by High Constantia Wine Cellar.
Cape Town Holiday Packages: Top Tours & Safaris
3. Cape Town: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Wine and Culinary Delights | Ellerman House
Cape Town isn’t just a vibrant city—it’s a food lover’s paradise. From world-class fine dining to charming local eateries, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Dine overlooking the harbour at the renowned V&A Waterfront, explore the trendy restaurants along Kloof Street, or enjoy a leisurely lunch on Bree Street. Your Africa Travel Expert can guide you to the best spots tailored to your tastes—Cape Town rarely disappoints.
Just an hour from the city lies Franschhoek, South Africa’s culinary capital and its own French-inspired corner. Home to some of the country’s top restaurants, including one ranked among the world’s top 100, Franschhoek is a must-visit for any food and wine enthusiast.
4. Cape Town Holidays: Exceptional Value for Money
Swim with the Local Penguins at Boulders Beach | Safari Continents Travel
Cape Town offers a wealth of experiences, making it a truly all-in-one destination. Its beaches are a major draw—from the iconic Camps Bay and Clifton Beaches to Llandudno, and even the chance to swim alongside penguins at Boulders Beach. Beyond its stunning coastline, the city boasts majestic mountains, world-class dining, rich cultural experiences, renowned winelands, and easy access to other enticing destinations. For those planning a self-drive along the Garden Route, Cape Town is the perfect starting point.
Thanks to a generally favorable exchange rate, Cape Town is highly affordable for international travellers and serves as an excellent base for multi-destination trips. When planning your stay, consider the location carefully—how close do you want to be to the city centre, and which experiences are must-dos? Also, think about the timing of your visit: do you prefer the bustling summer months or the quieter, slightly cooler spring season?
5 . Unforgettable Day Trips and Cultural Tours
Explore the Colourful Streets of Bo-Kaap | Safari Continents Travel
For those fascinated by South Africa’s rich cultural history, a visit to Bo-Kaap with its brightly coloured houses is a must. Complement your experience with a trip to the District Six Museum, and for a deeper dive into the nation’s past, take a ferry to Robben Island, the former prison that held iconic leaders like Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu.
For memorable day trips, venture to Cape Point Nature Reserve at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, or explore the spectacular Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, home to the famous ‘Boomslang’ treetop walkway—perfect for families and picnics. A little further along the coast lies Hermanus, South Africa’s whale-watching capital, where migrating southern right whales can be seen from August to October.
A Cape Town Holiday Pairs Perfectly With:
Many Cape Town holiday packages combine the vibrant Mother City with other unforgettable destinations in Africa. Thanks to its major international airport, connecting from Cape Town to other iconic African locations is simple and convenient. Some of our favourite combination destinations include:
Kruger National Park
Exploring Kruger National Park | Lions Sands River Lodge
Renowned worldwide for its safari experiences, Kruger National Park boasts the greatest diversity of wildlife in South Africa, including the iconic Big 5. Whether you choose national parks or private reserves, you can relax and enjoy expertly guided game drives and, where available, walking safaris.
Perfect for couples, honeymooners, groups, and families alike, Kruger and its surrounding concessions offer a wide range of accommodations—from luxury modern lodges to traditional camps, exclusive-use villas, and budget-friendly options—ensuring every traveller finds their ideal safari experience.
Garden Route
Storms River Suspension Bridge | Safari Continents Travel
The Garden Route technically stretches from Mossel Bay to Storms River, though many travellers begin their self-drive adventure in Cape Town. Hit the road and make sure to stop at Peregrine Farm Stall, a must-visit road trip staple.
Journey through Mossel Bay and Wilderness before reaching Knysna, where the stunning lagoon and Goukamma Nature Reserve await. Insider tip: this area is home to some of South Africa’s top golf courses. From there, continue to Tsitsikamma and Storms River, where the Bloukrans Bungy—one of the world’s highest bridge bungy jumps—offers an unforgettable thrill.
Beyond the Garden Route lies the Eastern Cape, renowned for its malaria-free safaris. Speak to your Africa Safari Expert to plan the perfect continuation of your adventure.
Victoria Falls: A Natural Wonder Awaits
Guided Tour of Victoria Falls | Victoria Falls River Lodge
In recent years, reaching the iconic Victoria Falls from Cape Town has become easier, making it an ideal combination destination. With a flight time of under three hours, visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is more convenient than ever. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or The Smoke That Thunders, Victoria Falls is not only the largest uninterrupted sheet of falling water in the world but also one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
The falls straddle the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, both top wildlife destinations, and all three locations offer exceptional accommodations and unforgettable experiences.
Ready to Plan Your Cape Town Holiday?
Speak to one of our Africa Safari Experts to start planning the ultimate Cape Town adventure. Whether you’re visiting as a single destination or combining it with other African highlights, your holiday can be tailor-made to your preferences.
What Travellers Loved Most About Cape Town
Beaches
Cultural interactions
Food and wine
Bird watching
Explore These Cape Town Travel Resources
Safari Continents Travel
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