This post is brought to you in partnership with MyDestination and written by Harriet Chubb.
Cape Town is the third largest city in South Africa. With its vibrant, colorful and adventure-filled atmosphere, it’s easy to see how many people’s travels to Cape Town turn from a few whirlwind days into a couple of exploratory weeks.
A very easy city to fall in love with, it’s hard to know where to start; but we recommend just strolling through the many art galleries, perusing the indigenous craft work, enjoying a drink in as many quirky café’s as you can and then, come evening, sampling some of the best Cape Town restaurants.
A personal dining favourite is the ‘The Codfather,’ one of the first sushi restaurants opened in the city. Here, the chef’s help you decide what to eat based on your appetite and mood. For a more contemporary South African cuisine, try Beluga for a cosmopolitan seafood vibe.
It would be impossible to talk about Cape Town and not mention the revered elephant in the city – Table Mountain. Surrounded by the magical flora and fauna of the national park, it is the city’s stunning backdrop. Hike the world-class trail from Cape Point to the City Bowl.
Like the beach? Head down to Camps Bay where the alarmingly beautiful and glamorous people play. There is also Clifton, packed with glitzy clientele and beaches worth visiting – even if yachting isn’t your thing. The water may have a definite Atlantic chill, but there are always the stalwart surfers riding the waves. Keen to surf? Be sure to invest in surf instruction; with the fickle weather, the surf can often be quite high and rough for beginners.
For shoppers, paradise can be found at the various markets the city has to offer. They truly encapsulate the sociable, fun, colourful atmosphere of the culture. The Greenmarket Square has an excellent flea market open daily and sells jewellery, antiques, clothes and souvenirs to suit all shoppers’ needs. The indoor craft market on the Victoria & Albert waterfront is well worth a stop too for anything authentically handmade.
Cape Town Hotels are in abundance; from the myriad guesthouses lining the beaches to the stylish boutique city hotels, it is always best to book anywhere in advance, especially in peak season. Try Hemingway House, a guesthouse masquerading as a hotel, it has a pool in the courtyard which is surrounded by the four sumptuous bedrooms. If travelling with a group, book all four rooms on property for a delightful feeling of seclusion from other tourists at a minimal price. For the more luxury, upmarket traveller – stay in the relatively new Cape Town Resort, with undeniably attentive staff and restaurants such as Nobu and Maze attracting the excited residents, you can’t fail to be impressed by this hotel.
For more information and tips on Cape Town, visit Mydestination.com/capetown
