The Ultimate Cape Town Travel Guide.

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Are you planning a Cape Town holiday? Great news! As you may know, Cape Town used to be my home for many years, and I still spend a good part of the year here. 

While I love sharing my favorite things to do, restaurants, and hotels with you (you can find detailed posts below), I also share my Cape Town travel guide with you that covers the basics: practical tips on how to get here and how to get around the city, advice on weather, money matters, and of course, safety.

And countless little tips that you might not even think to ask, but will make a huge difference for your holiday in Cape Town.

YOUR CAPE TOWN TRAVEL GUIDE

ABOUT CAPE TOWN 

Alongside Pretoria and Bloemfontein, Cape Town is one of South Africa’s three capitals and is lovingly called Mother City by South Africans.

South Africa has 11 official languages, with English, isiXhosa, and Afrikaans being predominant in Cape Town. Cape Town is also a melting pot of religions, so you will find that in different communities, different holidays are being observed. 

Important holidays for everyone include Heritage Day on September 24th, also called Braai Day (braai = South African BBQ and way of life), and Day of Reconciliation on December 16th. Elections are also a national holiday and are usually held on a Wednesday, so people don’t leave the city for a long weekend. 

While Johannesburg is a true metropolis, innovative and business-oriented, Cape Town doesn’t mind taking the more relaxed back seat. After all, there are waves to catch, sunsets to see, and mountains to hike – so much more important than who drives the fanciest car.

Cape Town’s history is rich and fascinating (read more about it here), and visitors will find some of the most important sights of South Africa here, the most impressive being Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Other historic places you shouldn’t miss are the District Six Museum, Castle of Good Hope (don’t expect something like Versailles, though!), and Company Gardens.

While not an off-the-beaten-path tip, I recommend a trip with the hop-on-hop-off bus that takes you to some of the historic sights in one go, as well as to Cape Point and Boulders Beach (that’s the one with the penguins). A perfect way to do all your sightseeing in one go, or to get an overview of the city and inspiration for what you may want to explore further.

Alternatively, there are many walking tours on offer that focus on certain parts of town or history. 

HOW TO GET TO CAPE TOWN

Many international airlines fly directly to Cape Town, both from the US and from Europe. That said, a lot of flights to Cape Town, especially when it is not high season, will take you via Johannesburg. Not a biggie, however, connections are often tight and you will need to go through customs (yes, that includes getting and rechecking your luggage!) – I have seen a lot of people miss their connecting flight which adds so much hassle and travel time to the trip. 

So if you have to come via Johannesburg, make sure your connection leaves you plenty of time and pack a pair of spare undies into your hand luggage just in case. 

If you can, I recommend that you search for a direct flight or have your layover anywhere other than Johannesburg. And yes, that may include Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul when coming from Europe and London, Amsterdam, or Paris when coming from the States. 

ARRIVAL AT CAPE TOWN AIRPORT & IMMIGRATION

Cape Town has one international airport (CPT), which is approximately 20 km from the city center. A second one in the Winelands is currently being built. 

Many nationalities will get a free tourist visa on arrival for 90 days, but do check with your embassy beforehand! Do you need proof of a return flight or onward travel? Yes, you do as you do in most countries, for that matter. Chances are you won’t be asked, but just know that technically you are required to have a ticket, and these days many airlines will ask for proof before check-in. 

Children traveling to South Africa will need a passport as well as an international birth certificate, either the original or a notarized copy.

Also, double-check that the date written on the passport stamp you get upon arrival in South Africa is correct – I once had an issue when I left the country because the immigration agent had written down the wrong date, even though I was well within my 90 days.

If you plan to stay longer, you can request an extension at Home Affairs, which needs to be applied for within 30 days of arrival. However, as I am currently going through the process, I can tell you that this can be tricky, and there is no guarantee you will actually get your extension on time. 

After immigration, you will get your luggage, go through customs, and get to the arrival hall – easy enough! While Cape Town airport isn’t huge, there are a few stores, ATMs, and a money exchange. Arrivals are on the ground floor and departures on the top floor, so it is very hard to get lost at Cape Town airport.

The MyCITI bus A01 used to run from the airport to the Civic Centre station. However, it is currently suspended. So to get from Cape Town airport to town, you have a few other options:

RENTAL CAR

Most car rental companies in Cape Town have an outlet at the airport, and if you are planning on getting a rental car, I would suggest you pick it up and drop it off right here. Counters are inside the arrival hall, and they will give you directions on where to pick up your car. 

The drive to town is pretty straightforward (quite literally), and while you are driving on one of the big highways, the N2, this is an easy introduction if you are new to driving on the left.

UBER

I will say more about taxis vs. Uber below, but my preferred way of getting to Cape Town from the airport is via Uber. There is free wifi at the airport, and you can schedule your ride once you are in the arrival hall. Depending on what you need, you can book a regular Uber, XL, or Black, which is a fancier car. A ride to the city center will cost you approximately ZAR 300-400 ($18-24). 

Uber will pick you up on the ground floor of the parkade P1: once you get to the main airport hall, walk through the glass doors on your right to get outside. Walk for about 50m and follow the signs to the parking inside on the left. Once you see the ticket machines, turn right again. You will see elevators on your right and a staircase in front of the parking bays. This is the pick-up corner for Uber.

Welcome Pickups

My favorite way to get from the airport to Cape Town (or most cities, for that matter) is Welcome Pickups. You book a transfer with them before you arrive, and will have a driver waiting for you as soon as you land. 

You will get the driver’s WhatsApp number prior to, and they will also monitor your flight for any delays. You also don’t have to worry about cash, as your transfer is paid for before with a credit card or PayPal. In Cape Town, a Welcome Pickups transfer from the airport to Sea Point or the city center is about $30 – just a little more than an Uber and so much more convenient. 

• Book a Welcome Pickups in Cape Town

Is the N2 safe? 

Many people are concerned about taking the N2, the most direct highway to town, as it passes by a few Cape Town townships (low-income areas). Unfortunately, the area has become a point of contention, and a literal wall is being considered to keep drivers on the N2 safe. What is happening with the people living in these townships is not considered to the same extent, one of the many Cape Town paradoxes. 

However, for now, I would recommend not driving yourself if you arrive after dark. Book a Welcome Pickup or ask your hotel for a transfer. 

GETTING AROUND CAPE TOWN

My preferred way of getting around Cape Town is driving (or taking a helicopter lol), and many international car rental companies have a branch at Cape Town airport as well as in town. You will need an international license – when in doubt, check for any special requirements with your rental company. 

I recommend taking out comprehensive insurance as well as a tire and windscreen waver. Be careful: Cape Town sidewalks are notoriously high and have scratched many rims.

On the road, you will see a few old VW Beetles with a sign that says ‘rent a cheapie’. If you are looking for a cheap car rental in Cape Town, they are alright, but as per usual, you get what you pay for, so don’t expect power steering or AC.

PETROL & PARKING IN CAPE TOWN

There are quite a few parking garages in various malls, and plenty of public parking that you will need to pay for. Unlike a lot of other cities, Cape Town doesn’t have parking meters but parking attendants. You can estimate how long you want to park, and they will charge you accordingly and put a receipt on your window. If you overstay, you will need to pay them the difference upon your return. 

Areas where you need to pay are clearly marked with a blue sign and the times you need to pay for parking. In other areas or after hours, you will often see car guards in reflective vests around. They can help you get in and out of a parking spot and are generally there to guard your car, though it really depends on the person on whether they are doing that. You are not obliged to pay them, however, if someone helps you with your parking, I think it is the courteous thing to do (and not to mention that this is how they make their living), and I will tip them 5-20 ZAR depending on how long I was in a spot.

When you need to fill up your car, note that South Africa (still) has petrol attendants. I find that it is a weird concept for many visitors, as is the fact that a lot of families have a cleaning lady or housekeeper. However, here it is a job like any other and not a bad one at all, as they work on a fixed salary and also get tips. 

Just tell them how much you want to fill up and if you want oil/water/tires checked. They will also wash your screens. Depending on the amount I pay and the time they spend with my car, I tip 10 – 25 ZAR.

Taxis & Uber

Unfortunately, drinking and driving is all too common in South Africa. In order to enjoy your wine and get home safely, I recommend Uber (or Bolt) and prefer it to regular taxis any day. You have the choice between different cars (from regular to fancy) as well as bigger vehicles if you travel in a group. 

While Uber isn’t perfect, I much prefer it to the regular taxis, as you have some kind of accountability and the option for feedback if anything goes wrong. I also find that the cars are in much better condition than regular taxis, though they might not always be up to my German standards.

Uber has implemented a new system where the driver may ask you for a code generated by the app, which you have to give to the driver to make sure you get the right car. Even if that isn’t the case, compare the license plate and check that your driver is, in fact, your driver. 

PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN CAPE TOWN 

If you prefer public transport, I have bad news: Cape Town is not known for its public transport. Most people get around with taxi buses (white minivans with drivers usually shouting loudly which direction they are going), but those are often overcrowded and quite mad. If you want a local experience, go for it, though I don’t recommend it – safety first. 

The MyCiti bus is a better alternative and has many routes connecting the City Bowl to the various suburbs. However, you first have to buy and charge a card at a station kiosk or an authorized retailer.

Unfortunately, Cape Town is not really a walking city either. While more and more bike lanes have popped up in the last couple of years, there are a few areas where strolling is safe and fun. Those areas include the V&A Waterfront, the Sea Point Promenade, and the Greenpoint Urban Park. 

I wouldn’t advise walking around in areas like Long Street and Woodstock, or really any parts of town, after dark.

WEATHER & BEST TIME TO GO TO CAPE TOWN

A wise saying goes like this: at the airport, you can immediately recognize who is a local and who is a foreigner. When it is in the 70s °F, all foreigners will sigh in delight and take their jerseys off, while Capetonians will declare it too cold and put a jersey on.

When you are planning a Cape Town holiday, take into consideration that the summer months start in November and last until March, whereas June, July, and August are winter months and the rainy season.

What I like about Cape Town summer is that the days are hot and the evenings are cool – so always bring a jacket! Keep in mind that Cape Town gets extremely busy from mid-December to mid-January due to school holidays and many national and international visitors. This means lots of traffic in the tourist areas and on the beaches, and crowds – do not attempt to go eat without a reservation.

Even the winter months, while rainy at times and cold-ish (expect about 50-60 °F), can have stunning sunny days that allow for outside sundowners and ask for sunscreen.

Read more: Winter in Cape Town

Regardless of the time of the year, Table Mountain dominates the weather when it comes to wind and is not to be underestimated. A special bother is the Cape Doctor, a southeasterly wind that blows from spring to late summer and messes up plans for Table Mountain visits (if the wind is too strong, the Cable Car won’t go and makes hiking too dangerous), beach afternoons, and outdoor dinners. 

When you check the weather forecast, make sure to check for wind as well!

If you ask me, the perfect time to visit Cape Town is late February and early March. The crowds have subsided by then, as has the wind (or at least it should have in theory), and the days are still deliciously warm. The oceans and most pools are as warm as it gets at this time after a hot summer, and there seems to be a certain appreciation for those last summer days that is tangible around town.

MONEY

Currency is the South African Rand (ZAR) – you can find an up-to-date currency exchange here. As with most of my travels, I prefer my credit card to draw money from the ATM over exchanging money, but that is an entirely personal preference. I don’t recommend traveler’s cheques as those can be difficult to exchange. 

Most restaurants and shops accept credit cards however cash comes in handy for tips, smaller stores, and at markets.  In fact, Cape Town seems to be becoming a cashless society – there are plenty of small businesses that only take cards these days. 

Unfortunately, I have known quite a few cases of credit card fraud in Cape Town. One of my number one Cape Town travel tips: make sure to use bank ATMs when drawing money and request the card machine to be brought to the table when you use a credit card to pay at a restaurant.

A word on prices: Chances are, if you come for a Cape Town holiday and exchange your USD, Euro, or GBP for South African Rand, you will be very happy. Cape Town will seem very affordable, sometimes even cheap. And while this might be true, just be mindful of your privilege. There is a huge economic gap in South African society. Cape Town prices have gone up just like anywhere else in the world, and many locals, even those considered well-off, can barely afford rent. 

Just keep that in mind when you are raving about your oh so cheap matcha latte on the promenade. You can enjoy it without having to label the entire country cheap – for locals, it isn’t.

Read more: The hindsight guide to travel safety.

HOW TO GET A SIM CARD IN SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa has finally caught up when it comes to internet and wifi, at least when it comes to the bigger cities. 

Still, I will always want a local SIM card so I can use mobile data on the go. Compared to South East Asia, getting a SIM card is neither as easy nor as simple. 

Once you leave customs at the airport, you will find a Vodacom counter on the right where you can buy a tourist SIM card. Alternatively, you can go to a Cell C or Vodacom store – remember to bring your passport. If you need a top-up, you can just get it at most convenience stores and supermarkets, and use the navigation on your phone to buy a data bundle. 

If that sounds like too much work, I recommend just getting an Airalo eSIM. Especially if you are staying less than a month, it is a lot less hassle, and the prices are pretty competitive. 

Also, you can already get your eSIM before you leave for your holiday and start surfing as soon as you land.

• Buy an Airalo eSIM and get 12% off with code MBE or by using this link 

MEDICAL & VACCINES

You can find excellent medical care in Cape Town, and pharmacies are well-equipped. You will find a small pharmacy section at most drugstores like Clicks and Dis-Chem. When staying in town, I recommend heading to the MediClinic if you have an emergency. Whether you are traveling long-term or just come for a holiday, obviously, a good travel health insurance is a must!

You should always check with a health professional or doctor regarding vaccines; however, in addition to routine vaccines, I have the following: Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Rabies. I got my rabies shot when I first traveled to Borneo – they are usually a good idea if you are traveling to remote areas and are planning to have some sort of animal encounters.

If you are staying in Cape Town and the surrounding areas, you do not need malaria prevention; however, if you are going on safari or traveling elsewhere in the country, check with your doctor before. And while there is no yellow fever in South Africa, you will need proof of vaccination if you are coming from a country with a yellow fever risk.

SAFETY

When it comes to South Africa, one has to address the elephant in the room and talk about safety. It’s a tricky topic because while I would always recommend people to come to visit (otherwise, why would I write a Cape Town travel guide like this?!), to say that I have always felt safe would be a lie. 

I wish it were different, but during my years in Cape Town, I had my car stolen, my flat broken into, and witnessed a few smash-and-grabs. I am not telling you this to scare you, but the gap between rich and poor is a steep one here, and with poverty comes desperation. 

To be honest, I get a bit irritated when I read other Cape Town travel guides that brush off the issue of safety. I love this city dearly, but I am not blind to the issues here when it comes to safety, and Cape Town isn’t just like any other capital. So I’d rather you’d be safe than sorry! 

CAPE TOWN TRAVEL TIPS FOR SAFETY

• Capetonians are quite used to their electric fences, barred windows, and signs for security companies on most homes, but visitors are usually shocked at first. But if anything, all these things should make you feel safer. If you are renting an Airbnb or staying at a private home, make sure you have the number of the police handy (10111) as well as that of the security company the home uses. In case of emergency, call the security company first!
• If you have a rental car, avoid driving outside of town at night. Do not leave anything in sight in your car. Not even your stinky yoga mat or your old sneakers. People will break into your car for stuff that you may deem worthless.
• If you don’t have your own car or need to get around at night, don’t hail a cab on the roadside, but rather use Uber. Share your ride (a function of the app) with someone at your destination.
• Just like anywhere else, you should leave flashy jewelry and electronics at home. Keep your handbag close to your body, under the seat in the car while driving, and between your feet at a restaurant. If you are ever in a situation where someone is threatening you, do hand over your valuables – there is no reason to risk your life for material things.
• Do not leave your things unattended on the beach, and don’t hike alone. Make sure to have your phone on you in case of emergency, but don’t flash it – if you have, rather take an old phone on your Cape Town holiday than your fancy iPhone.
• I don’t like the notion that townships are just areas of crime and violence because they aren’t. Many of them are regular neighborhoods where people go about their daily lives and businesses. And there are quite a few tourist hotspots to be found in townships these days. Still, I would recommend either going with a guide or being very sure where you are going. And I definitely wouldn’t recommend driving around townships alone at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings and don’t walk around at night, even in seemingly busy and popular areas like Long Street.
• And just like anywhere else – trust your gut!

WHAT TO EAT IN CAPE TOWN

I am always surprised that not more people know about the amazing food South Africa has to offer. Yes, the wine is fabulous, and you could drink your way through your Cape Town holiday; however, the food is also next level. Amazing meats, great fish and seafood, and different types of cuisines make for a really lekker holiday.

The one thing you will not find all that much of in Cape Town is street food, at least not if you are used to something like Bangkok or Singapore. However, there is a myriad of restaurants and cafes for all budgets. Find my favorite restaurants in Cape Town below, but to be honest, if you avoid touristy areas like Camps Bay, you cannot have a bad meal in this city.

Read more: A Foodie’s Guide to the best Restaurants in Cape Town

If you are interested in trying a more authentic South African food, I recommend these food tours:

If you need a quick snack, many Engen garages have a Woolworth’s shop attached with some good sandwich and snack options. Chains like Kauai are great for fresh wraps and smoothies.

P.S.: Just like anywhere else in the world, plastic pollution is a huge issue in Cape Town, and the city is still behind when it comes to things like reusable coffee cups, paper straws, and supermarket packaging. A big plus though: you don’t have to buy water in plastic bottles as Cape Town tap water is of great quality and you can drink it as is!

CAPE TOWN WATER & ELECTRICITY

Water can be scarce in South Africa. Don’t be surprised when you see locals using water conservatively, i.e., most family homes still adhere to the rule of ‘if it’s yellow let it mellow, if it’s brown flush it down’ when it comes to flushing the toilet. The same goes for running long baths or brushing your teeth under the tap and using the dishwasher to water the garden.

Another issue is frequent power cuts. Let’s just say that Eskom, South Africa’s power supply, isn’t the greatest, and to counterbalance faulty infrastructure and high demand, they implement so-called load-shedding, which means power cuts on a schedule. 

This may or may not affect your Cape Town trip greatly, as many restaurants, hotels, and sights have generators (and of course, hospitals!). That said, we have had no loadshedding in 2026 so far!

THINGS TO DO & SEE IN CAPE TOWN

While I hopefully answered most of your pressing questions in this Cape Town travel guide, you can now move your attention to the fun part: how to fill your days during the ultimate Cape Town holidays!

Click below for some of my favorite Cape Town activities:

• 50 FUN THINGS TO DO IN CAPE TOWN.
• THE BEST WINE FARMS IN CONSTANTIA, CAPE TOWN.
• 13 SPAS FOR THE BEST MASSAGE IN CAPE TOWN & BEYOND.
• HOW TO VISIT TO THE PENGUIN BEACH IN CAPE TOWN.
• THE BEST BEACHES IN CAPE TOWN.

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