Top Ten Tuesdays – Things to Do in Cape Town

This week’s “Top Ten Tuesdays” post covers the South African city of Cape Town. Cape Town received lots of attention last year during the World Cup, and the tourism infrastructure is still in place allowing for easy transportation and lots of things to do, leaving you with endless options for entertainment. Here it is, enjoy!

Climb Table Mountain
From the base of Aftica’s most iconic mountain reams of visitors can be seen ascending by cable car – but for the authentic and much more rewarding experience throw on your hiking boots and climb it yourself – you hard work won’t be to waste! In just half a day’s trek you can enjoy the ever-changing views and earn the impressive vista of majestic Cape Town from the top. This is not to be missed.

Head to the winelands
Cape wine is enjoying a renaissance worldwide and the combination of great soil and bags of sunshine means that vineyards are not only productive but the landscape looks lush and inviting. Try the incredible wine tasting tours and order a picnic from Africa’s most impressive country estates.

Brave icy waters
The Atlantic Ocean is known for surf, sharks and temperatures that will make you shiver – but at least in the warm African winds will dry you off. The choice of beaches includes the four at Clifton, Camps Bay, Llandudno and Sandy Bay – several of which are Blue Flag rated.

Hang out in the Inner City
Cape Town’s heart is a vibrant cultural mix of African, European, Indian and even Portuguese influence. This is most evident in Cape Town restaurants where you can find pretty much any cuisine under the sun. Check out Long Street for the country’s coolest nightlife.

Hang out on the Sea Point Promenade and Biodiversity Garden
Start with a swim at the public pools, and a refreshing jog along the promenade which leads to the Biodiversity Garden via an incredible coastal path. The garden itself is a welcome new addition to this fantastic city – a beautifully landscaped and relaxing public space

Tour the peninsula
See cute penguins at Boulder’s Beach, visit ramshackle local villages and explore the impressive Cape Point. There are plenty of great walks and coves to discover and don’t forget the lighthouse at the end.

Visit the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill
The centre of Cape Town’s alternative scene – you’ll rub shoulders with hippies, students, artists and musicians while browsing the organic and locally sourced food stalls. The market is open on Saturdays from 9am to 2pm on Albert Road, Woodstock.

Spend a night out on the town
Cape Town caters for everyone – for a beachside beverage go to the bars of Camp’s Bay or really camp it up at Green Point’s vibrant gay scene. The city centre offers the most variety so when in doubt head to town and simply follow the crowds.

Take in an all-South African sundowner
Buy your favourite bottle and take it one of Cape Town’s most spectacular viewing points to catch the sunset. Options include Chapman’s Peak Drive, the rocks at Llandudno, the beaches at Clifton, Lion’s Head or Signal Hill.

Chow down in the townships
If you don’t know your way around visit the townships around Cape Town with a local tour company who know the locals as well as the best places to visit. The food, company and friendly atmosphere will ensure you’ll have a day not to be forgotten.

This post is by Leon Levy. Leon is a British writer specialising in travel, the environment and current affairs. He has a particular interest in the Middle East and South Asia. The content and photos of this post are not the property of BackpackingWorldwide.com but are used with permission.