Cape Town, beyond the postcard

Within a short drive of Table Mountain, the Atlantic and the harbour, very different worlds sit side by side: multicultural neighbourhoods, historic sites and a modern city that is continually changing.

Bo-Kaap’s pastel-coloured houses, cobbled streets and Cape Malay culture make it one of the city’s defining neighbourhoods. Take a food walk or try Cape Malay dishes such as curries and samoosas.

Every day at noon, the famous cannon fires on Signal Hill. This historic time signal makes for a short, memorable stop with views over the City Bowl, harbour and Table Bay.

The V&A Waterfront brings together harbour views, restaurants and boutiques, and is the departure point for the ferry to Robben Island. It is an easy place to spend a relaxed afternoon and watch the sun set behind Table Mountain.

District Six Museum, Robben Island and the statue of Jan van Riebeeck represent different chapters of the city’s past. To get to know Cape Town, take time to understand its colonial history and apartheid, not only its landmarks.

Cape Town is not a place to tick off. Choose a few priorities and leave room to wander between them. A good rhythm combines the City Bowl and Bo-Kaap, a day around Table Mountain, time at the Waterfront and a separate excursion to the Cape Peninsula.

Three to four full days is a useful minimum. This leaves time for coffee, ocean views and the stories behind the sights. Do not try to squeeze Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula into a single day.

Check the Noon Gun schedule and local opening hours before you go. Conditions on Table Mountain can change with the weather, so confirm access on the day.

At night, use official taxis or a reputable ride-hailing service. Cape Town also makes a natural part of a longer journey through the Winelands, along the Garden Route or into a safari region.