A WHIRLWIND THREE-DAY VISIT TO THE CAPE – TOP THINGS TO DO AND SEE
As South Africa’s second largest and most cosmopolitan city, Cape Town offers its fortunate visitors a seemingly unlimited array of sights and activities. Full of natural beauty and far-stretching urban landscapes, many would say it is impossible to capture every aspect of the city and its surrounding areas during a short, three-day stay.
We have however put together the ideal three day itinerary which can serve as your guide to fitting in the best of what the Mother City has to offer:
Day 1
COFFEE OR LUNCH ON BREE
On your first day in Cape Town, why not take advantage of Pepperclub Hotel & Spa’s central location by exploring trendy Bree Street and grabbing a coffee to start the day, or a quick lunch at one of the many trendy cafés that are within walking distance. For a decadent all-day treat, head over to Jason’s Bakery (185 Bree Street) and try their famous bacon-wrapped peanut butter croissant, drizzled with maple syrup. Alternatively, Café Frank (160 Bree Street) may appeal to the more health-conscious traveller, offering a variety of healthy, gourmet dishes such as their beetroot, pear, feta, mint and sunflower seed salad.
Alternatively, explore these top 5 coffee roasters in and around Cape Town.
TABLE MOUNTAIN
Arguably one of the city’s most iconic destinations, Table Mountain is an absolute must on any Cape Town visitors’ itinerary. Due to weather dependency, we strongly suggest ticking this activity off the list on the first day of decent weather conditions as Cape Town is known for its rapid change of “four seasons in a day” weather conditions.
Regardless of your preference for exploring this New 7 th Wonder of Nature – be it on foot, by air or cable car – there is an option for almost every liking. If you opt to use the cable car, tickets can be purchased online or at the lower cableway station on Tafelberg Road. But remember that during peak holiday season, queues can be lengthy, and you will need to set aside enough time for your visit. If you are more adventurous and prefer to hike up to the top, read our recent article, Discover Table Mountain – New 7 th Wonder of Nature, which includes information on some of the suggested walking routes for the Table Mountain National Park.
DINNER AT THE V&A WATERFRONT
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront has become one of the most visited destinations in South Africa – and for good reason. It’s a buzzing harbour surrounded by an entertainment area, world-class restaurants, shops and bars. Fit some holiday shopping in before picking out a restaurant to dine at along the harbour’s edge. Pepperclub Hotel & Spa offers its guests free shuttle services to the V&A Waterfront daily, so be sure to enquire with our concierge desk for the shuttle transfer times.
Day 2
THE TWO OCEANS AQUARIUM
Cape Town’s aquarium is conveniently located at the V & A Waterfront. Housing over 3 000 marine animals, including sharks, turtles and penguins, the Two Oceans Aquarium is one of the finest in the world – and a great family outing. There are also educational programmes available at certain times of the year as well as shark tank diving experiences for the brave!
HOP ON, HOP OFF RED CITY SIGHTSEEING BUS
Surely one of the best ways to experience and view top attractions within the Cape Peninsula with limited time, the open-top double decker Red City Sightseeing Hop on, Hop off bus leaves daily from the kiosk outside the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V & A Waterfront. Buses run regularly and offer informative audio commentary about Cape Town’s major attractions in 15 languages, with a special audio channel just for children. Buy one ticket and hop on and off at any of the exciting stops, including Table Mountain if you didn’t manage to get to it on your first day, Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, and various museums around the City. Your ticket is valid all day, so you can take your time to explore your favourite attractions.
SUNDOWNERS IN CAMPS BAY
Camps Bay is renowned for its white sandy beach and promenade lined with shops and restaurants. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sunset on the beach or have a drink and dinner at any of the many cafés dotted along the beachfront strip. Pepperclub Hotel & Spa also offers a complimentary daily shuttle services to and from the Camps Bay beachfront which eliminates the hassle of trying to find a parking bay.
Day 3
KIRSTENBOSCH GARDENS
Open daily from 8am to 6pm, the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens is world-renowned for its spectacular scenery, indigenous flora and themed gardens, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Table Mountain. Set some time aside for a relaxing walk through the garden with lunch or tea at the restaurant or tea garden, or bring your own picnic for some quiet family time on the lawns.
CONSTANTIA WINE ROUTE
The oldest wine-growing area in South Africa, the Constantia Wine Valley offers visitors a unique blend of the finest wines in a setting of unsurpassed beauty and heritage. Groot Constantia Estate, the oldest wine producing farm in the country, is a great place to start. If you’re looking to explore the region, other top-notch estates in the area include Buitenverwachting, Constantia Glen and Eagles Nest.
Buitenverwachting is also famed for its elegant restaurant, so this is a great spot to stop for lunch.
DINNER AT MAMA AFRICA
On your last night, take a stroll down vibrant Long Street and soak up the electric city atmosphere. If you’re looking to sample some local cuisine, we suggest Mama Africa (178 Long Street). Offering lively marimba music, traditional flavours and friendly staff, Mama Africa is a firm favourite among locals and tourists alike.
Alternatively, when you need a taste of home – explore these cultural food options in Cape Town.
Looking to plan a more tailored itinerary to suit your personal tastes and preferences? Our Concierge desk is on hand 24-hours a day to provide assistance and help you experience Cape Town in the best way possible.