Cape Town has something for everyone. I’ve been planning trips to Africa for more than 20 years, and every time I’m in this city, I still discover something new and exciting. I’m always impressed by its walkability, the passion and creativity, and the warm welcomes from locals. Looking to dig a bit deeper into this buzzy, inviting scene? Here’s what I’d recommend for a perfect trip to Cape Town.
What to Do
The best way to fall in love with this beautiful city is to explore it by foot, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents that make each neighborhood unique. One particularly vibrant area is the colorful Bo-Kaap, where you can strolling along historic streets to intimate art galleries such as Anthony De Klerk’s Art du Cap, and unique stores like the legendary Atlas Trading Company. This centuries-old spice shop is an aromatic wonderland, offering everything from finely ground cinnamon and pitted dates to baobab fruit powder, a variety of rice and flour, and an extensive selection of seeds and spices.
At the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, step into the sculpted halls of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, a museum carved into a 19th-century grain silo using hand-held grinders. Local artist Talita Swarts is a walking encyclopedia of the African diaspora; guests can take a VIP tour with her through everything from the building’s architecture—the shape of the main atrium was built to mimic a single corn kernel—to individual exhibition pieces.
While exploring the waterfront, don’t miss the WaterShed and Alfred Gallery Mall, which showcase artisan crafts, jewelry, textiles, and more. A few of my favorite boutiques are Windy’s World, aloveSupreme, and Avoova, known for its exquisite pieces crafted from discarded ostrich shells. If gemstones are on your radar, Avoova’s owner is also a leading expert in tanzanite.
One of the best ways to learn about the history of a city is by interacting with the locals, such as the charismatic Christo Brand, a former prison guard turned lifelong friend of Nelson Mandela.
Where to Eat
Courtesy of Seven Colors Eatery
Stop at Seven Colors Eatery, a woman-owned restaurant that serves vibrant, flavorful platters—or if you’re in the mood for something sweeter, try Charly’s Bakery in District Six or nearby Rapt, where you can make your own chocolate bars and try some liquid nitrogen ice cream. For a boost of energy to continue exploring, Rapt is conveniently located across the street from its sister company, Truth Coffee Roasting, which also serves slow-fermented breads, breakfast and brunch, and specialty cocktails.
For an evening splurge, the theatrical restaurant Marble never disappoints. Dishes from tomahawk steaks to juicy prawns sizzle and char over a large open flame, with cuts sourced from top South Africa and U.S. vendors. Insider tip: ask if the cellar has any Mosi wines for a local pairing. Mosi’s owner, sommelier Joseph Dhafana, fled to South Africa from Zimbabwe, had his first taste of wine at 29 years old, and became a winemaker soon after.
Where to Stay
Mark Williams/Mount Nelson Hotel, A Belmond Hotel
Staying at Mount Nelson is like going to your grandmother’s house—if your grandmother was exceptionally chic, loved the color pink, and had invited John Lennon over to meditate in her garden. Having high tea at this extravagant hotel is a must: guests can enjoy a dizzyingly robust selection of teas, along with classic bites like scones paired with clotted cream, jam, and cheese.
Travelers have long loved the One&Only Cape Town for its waterfront location, two private islands, and Nobu restaurant. But there’s plenty of new aspects to enjoy. Take the recently renovated ROOI, the hotel’s grillroom with dramatic dining chairs replicating Ankole-Watusi cattle horns, or the new mural by local illustrator Elise Wessels, or the fresh design of the spa, whose moody deep blues and constellation motifs are enchantingly relaxing.
For wine lovers, Ellerman House, which has a wine list including over 10,000 South African wines, is the perfect stay. With just 13 bedrooms overlooking Bantry Bay, the hotel stands as an intimate ode to art and viticulture. For a real treat, ask to go inside the champagne cellar to explore their rare and special vintages of Dom Pérignon.
Emily Baldwin is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa trips. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Baldwin by contacting her at [email protected].
