Welcome to Cape Town, South Africa’s coastal gem and a top destination for tourists seeking adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. With a mix of nature, culture, and history, this itinerary is perfect for families who want to create lasting memories in Cape Town. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town and V & A Waterfront
- Arrive in Cape Town and check into your accommodation. Some of our favourite places to stay are the Boulders Beach Hotel, Big Blue Backpackers, Blue Peter Hotel and Anna Beulah Farm.
- Head to the Victoria and Albert Waterfront, a popular spot that has plenty of shops, restaurants, and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
- Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium, located conveniently at the Waterfront and home to a wide variety of marine life. We absolutely love the kelp forest, so don’t miss that. Another special experience is the penguin encounter, where you come face to face with northern rockhopper penguins. The aquarium is open all year round from 09:30 -18:00.
Day 2: Table Mountain
- Take the cableway up Table Mountain, and enjoy the stunning views of Cape Town and the surrounding area. Check the website first to see if the weather is going to stay clear, then book your cableway tickets online.
- Spend some time exploring the mountain and taking in the scenery.
- Either take a picnic lunch with you or buy food at the top.
Day 3: Robben Island
- Take a ferry across to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for many years.
- Go on a guided tour of the prison and learn about South Africa’s history and struggle against apartheid. There are different tours depending on what you need.
Day 4: Peninsula Train Ride and Boulders Beach
- Enjoy a scenic train ride along the peninsula to Simon’s Town.
- The trip can also be done by car, which means that you can stop at various towns along the way. In 2018, Kalk Bay was listed as one of The 12 Coolest Neighbourhoods Around The World by Forbes magazine. We love visiting this little fishing village with its cobbled streets, bric-a-brac shops, art galleries, and antique stores. Have lunch at Kalky’s and enjoy the best fish and chips in town!
- Pop into the Naval Museum in Simon’s Town, and be sure to visit Just Nuisance’s statue overlooking the harbour. Another must on your to-do list is a visit to the Warrior Toy Museum and Shop. Two model railroads will keep you enthralled, not to mention the car collection on display.
- Visit Boulders Beach, which is known for its colony of African penguins. Take a dip in the ocean and swim with the penguins.
Day 5: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
- Visit the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, which is one of the most beautiful gardens in Africa. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the lawns, hike up Skeleton Gorge, and explore the many trails in the gardens.
- Live concerts are a regular feature in the summer months and have become popular with the locals.
Day 6: Castle of Good Hope and City Centre
- Visit the Castle of Good Hope, which is the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa.
- Explore the city centre and learn about Cape Town’s history and architecture.
- Include these places: The Company’s Garden, situated in Queen Victoria Street in the CBD, the oldest garden in South Africa and where the Dutch East India Company planted their fruit and vegetables to replenish the passing ships’ supplies; the Iziko South African Museum, packed with fossils and other collections; Nelson Mandela Legacy Museum in Darling Street; the District Six Museum in Buitenkant Street.
Day 7: Chapman’s Peak Drive
- This stunning stretch of road on the Atlantic Coast between Hout Bay and Noordhoek in the Cape Peninsula is one of the most breathtaking marine drives in the world. Locally known as “Chappies,” this drive is an absolute must-see for anyone who is passionate about the unparalleled scenery of Cape Town. As you wind your way along the coast, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the ocean and rugged cliffs, with waves crashing below you and mountains rising up in the distance.
- Keep driving along the peninsula until you reach Cape Point. Take a hike to the top of Cape Point and enjoy the stunning views.
Day 8: Departure
- Do some last-minute shopping before you leave.
- Depending on your flight time, you may have some time to explore Cape Town a bit more before departing.
This itinerary should give you a good mix of sightseeing, nature, and culture while still allowing some time for relaxation and exploring on your own. If you have time and would like to lengthen your holiday by a day or two, why don’t you visit some of the wine farms near Stellenbosch or Franschhoek? Enjoy your trip to Cape Town!
