Cape Town holidays

How to reach Cape Town

Flight time: Flights to Cape Town from the UK typically take just over 11 hours. Direct flights are available from London. From other UK airports, and as cheaper alternatives from London, you'll usually connect through hubs in Europe or the Middle East, or via Johannesburg.

Transfer time: Cape Town International Airport is about 30 to 50 minutes by taxi or app-based services from the city centre, depending on your exact destination and the traffic. Some hotels can arrange a pickup service, so ask about this when booking.

Price: A taxi from the airport costs R300–R600 (£13–£26), depending on the distance and traffic.

Best time to visit Cape Town

This area on the southern coast of South Africa sees warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time for holidays to Cape Town depends on what you’re hoping to do.

November to February is the peak summer season with temperatures of around 25°C to 30°C, plentiful sunshine and low – although unpredictable – rainfall. The highest temperatures coincide with the annual holidays in December and January, when some places shut down. Prices are high and popular places can get busy, so you might need to book hotels in advance.

March to May is the autumn shoulder season – a great time to visit, with mild daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. The number of visitors starts to thin out, and accommodation prices are a bit lower. You can still expect plenty of sunshine, making it a great time for exploring the Winelands and hiking Table Mountain.

June to August is winter, with temperatures dropping to between 11°C and 18°C. Rain is common and the days are shorter, but it’s a fantastic time to visit if you want to avoid crowds, benefit from lower-priced accommodation and enjoy whale-watching along the coast.

September to October brings the spring bloom and mild weather, and is another of the best times for Cape Town holidays. Temperatures climb back to around 15°C to 23°C, and there are fewer tourists than summer, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s gardens and nature reserves.

Practical Information

• Spoken languages: South Africa has 11 official languages, with English being one, and it's widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Afrikaans and Xhosa are also common in Cape Town, and picking up a few phrases can be appreciated by locals.

• Local habits and customs: South Africans are generally friendly and welcoming, but respect for local customs is appreciated. Tipping around 10 percent in restaurants is standard, and petrol attendants and car guards also appreciate small tips.

• Currency: The South African Rand (R) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit or debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. It’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and tips.

• Getting around: Cape Town has a reliable public transport system, including the MyCiti bus network, Metrorail trains and City Sightseeing bus routes. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are also available and convenient for getting around, but car hire is recommended if you plan to explore beyond the city.

• Electricity and plug types: South Africa's electricity is 220/230V and uses Type M plugs, so you’ll need an adaptor if you’re coming from the UK.

• Time zone: South Africa is 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful and most visited cities in Africa. Whether you're here for the scenic views, rich history or outdoor adventures, it is an exciting destination for every type of traveller.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Table Mountain: The most iconic view of Cape Town comes from the top of Table Mountain, accessible by the famous rotating cable car or a tough hike. The views stretch over the city, across the peninsula and out to the Atlantic Ocean.

• Lion’s Head: For a slightly less strenuous climb, Lion’s Head offers a fantastic vantage point. It's particularly popular for sunset hikes, giving sweeping views over the Atlantic and the city bowl.

The best districts

• V&A Waterfront: A bustling hub for shopping, dining and entertainment, the V&A Waterfront is a must-visit. It offers great views of the harbour and Table Mountain, with a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings.

• Bo-Kaap: Known for its brightly painted houses and cobbled streets, Bo-Kaap is the historic heart of Cape Town’s Malay community. Wander around to take in the colourful facades and visit the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn about the area’s history.

• Long Street: Famous for its vibrant nightlife, Long Street is lined with backpackers' hostels and hotels, bars, restaurants and quirky shops. It’s the go-to area if you want to experience Cape Town’s lively social scene.

Historic monuments

• Robben Island: A short boat trip from the V&A Waterfront, Robben Island is one of Cape Town’s most famous historic sites. Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years imprisoned on the island, and today it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours are led by former political prisoners, providing a personal insight into the island’s history.

• Castle of Good Hope: This 17th-century fortress is the oldest official building in South Africa. Once the centre of political and military life in the Cape, it’s now a museum that offers insight into Cape Town’s colonial past.

Activities for families in Cape Town

Cape Town is an exciting destination for families, offering plenty of activities to keep kids entertained while also being fun for adults.

• Boulders Beach: A must for families, Boulders Beach is home to a colony of African penguins. The sheltered beach is perfect for a swim, and you can watch these adorable creatures up close from the boardwalk.

• Parks and gardens: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is one of the best botanical gardens in the world; it’s perfect for families, with expansive lawns, stunning plant life and the Tree Canopy Walkway, which provides a fun aerial view. Company’s Garden is another green oasis in the heart of the city that offers a peaceful spot for a stroll.

Free things to do in Cape Town

Cape Town may be known for its luxury holidays, but there are plenty of things you can enjoy without spending a penny.

• Free events: Cape Town’s outdoor lifestyle means there are many free events throughout the year, from open-air concerts at Kirstenbosch in the summer to festivals like the Cape Town Carnival in March. There’s always something happening in the city’s public spaces.

• Beaches: Cape Town’s beaches are free to access. You’ll find a range of different types, from family-friendly swimming beaches like Clifton and Camps Bay to more rugged spots like Noordhoek, for those wanting a bit more solitude.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Table Mountain is the crown jewel of Cape Town’s hiking trails, and its towering presence beckons visitors to explore its numerous routes. Whether you choose the challenging ascent up Platteklip Gorge or the more moderate Pipe Track, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the city and ocean.

• Paragliding: For thrill-seekers, paragliding off Signal Hill or Lion’s Head offers unforgettable aerial views of Cape Town’s natural beauty. Gliding over the Atlantic Ocean and the city’s iconic coastline is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Watersports: Cape Town’s beaches aren’t just for sunbathing. The city’s Atlantic and Indian Ocean coastlines offer some of the best surfing in South Africa. Muizenberg Beach is particularly good for beginners, with plenty of surf schools offering lessons. If you prefer something calmer, paddleboarding is also popular along quieter stretches of the coastline.

Local dishes in Cape Town

Influenced by its multicultural history, Cape Town’s food is a fusion of flavours from Africa, Europe and Asia. Here are some typical dishes and drinks you won’t want to miss.

Some typical dishes

• Braai: More than just a barbecue, a South African braai is a social event that's very much part of the national identity. Traditionally seen on the grill are huge steaks, lamb and sausages, with ostrich and venison also becoming popular. Side dishes include vegetables cooked in the embers or chakalaka.

• Bobotie: A fragrant Cape Malay dish made from spiced minced meat, baked with apricots and almonds, with a creamy egg topping. Often served with yellow rice and sambals, it’s a delicious combination of sweet and savoury.

• Chakalaka and Pap: Chakalaka is a spicy vegetable relish, often served alongside pap, a traditional maize porridge. Together, they’re a staple in South African households and an excellent accompaniment to braais.

Meat dishes

• Boerewors: A spiced “farmer’s sausage” grilled on the braai, Boerewors is a favourite at South African barbecues. It’s usually served with pap and gravy or a simple tomato relish.

• Biltong: A popular snack, Biltong is dried, cured meat (usually beef or game), spiced and sun-dried. It’s similar to beef jerky but with a distinctly South African flavour.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Cape Malay Curry: This fragrant curry, often made with fish or seafood, is mildly spiced and slightly sweet, and is a Cape Town classic.

• Kerrievis: Typically served at Easter, Kerrievis, also known as Cape Malay Pickled Fish, features white fish that's marinated in a tangy blend of vinegar, onions and spices. It’s eaten cold and is both sweet and sour.

Local drinks

• Wine: South Africa is one of the world's great winemakers, and close to Cape Town, places like the Winelands offer picturesque vineyards and world-class wine tastings. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are the most famous spots, with rolling hills, excellent dining and charming old-world architecture.

• Rooibos tea: A caffeine-free herbal tea made from the fynbos plant, rooibos is quintessentially South African. It has a slightly sweet, earthy flavour and is often enjoyed with milk or honey.