Cape Town is an action-packed, diverse and multicultural city that has a lot to offer. There is not only a great deal of out-door activities to do such as hiking, surfing, kitesurfing, paragliding, etc. but there is also a huge appreciation for the food and wine culture.
Where to stay?
- 91 Loop Hostel: This is a boutique hostel, located in the center of Cape Town. This place is a great low-cost option if you are looking to meet new people and experience the city’s nightlife.
- The Cellars-Hohenort: This sophisticated hotel is located close to the Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, away from all the agitation of the city center but with great access to Cape Town's main attractions and its surroundings.
Where to dine?
Cape Town offers many different culinary experiences, from fine dining to small Cafés as well as divers burger joints.
- IYO Burgers: If you are looking to have a different kind of burger experience, this is the place to go. They offer locally sourced, grass-fed and organic “inside out” burgers. This means that their burger patties are filled with various delicious gourmet ingredients such as artisanal cheeses and other delicacies.
- La Colombe: A more formal place is this fine-dining restaurant located at the Silvermist Wine Estate. Ranked 76th in the Top 100 Restaurants in the World, a must-go if you enjoy extraordinary culinary experiences.
What to visit?
Let’s not talk about the touristic places that will be on the first pages of every guide but rather about the hidden gems of Cape Town.
- The Constantia Valley Wine Route: If you are interested in wine, I strongly recommend these 8 wine farms. All of them offer tastings to the public and some even have well-established restaurants. The Constantia Valley is only a 20-minute drive away from the city center and offers a more private alternative to the commercial Stellenbosch that is flooded with tourist busses.
- Llandudno: Relax on this private and beautiful beach. Known as the local’s favorite, Llandudno faces the Atlantic ocean and is a great spot for advanced surfers or just to relax with friends and family.
- Hout Bay Market: Cape Town offers many markets. One of my favorites is the Hout Bay Market because it offers live music and delicious homemade treats prepared with creativity and lots of love.
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What festivals/events to go to?
- Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts: In the middle of the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, you will be able to watch great local and international bands perform on stage. It is recommended to arrive early, not only to get a great spot but also to enjoy a picnic with your friends until the band starts performing.
- First Thursdays: Every first Thursday of a new month the art galleries and other cultural attractions in the so-called city bowl stay open late for people to have a look and enjoy a drink. This specific night is not only about experiencing art and culture but also about exploring the city by foot.
- Tuning the Vine: This event takes place every Wednesday following “First Thursdays”. It is a great opportunity to taste wine from several farms around Cape Town and South Africa in general. If you are interested in wine, this is a wonderful way to experience the different locations in the city center and to discover your favorite wine farm.
Where to have breakfast or brunch?
Capetonians love to go out for breakfast or brunch on any day of the week. Below you can find my two favorite places to have breakfast at:
- Truth Coffee: Recently listed as first in an article on the world’s best coffee shops by The Telegraph, Truth Coffee offers a unique experience. The restaurant is “steampunk” themed and has great food and coffee of course. What I think makes Truth Coffee special is their indoor design and the way the waiters dress accordingly to the theme.
- Four & Twenty: Located in a quiet area of Cape Town, this small and cozy Café offers generous portions that not only taste delicious but also look amazing.
Where to go out?
Most of the trendy places and bars are located on Long Sreet, Bree Street and Kloof Street. Here are some of my favorites:
- The Orphanage Cocktail Emporium: The Orphanage is a fancy option to enjoy a unique and tasty cocktail in a young atmosphere inspired by Cape Town’s hipsters scene.
- Beerhouse: A good place to start your evening at, with a buzzing and friendly atmosphere and a big range of craft beers to choose from.
- Café Caprice: This is your Sunday afternoons hangout. It is on the Camps Bay strip where you will be able to watch the rich & the famous in their daily life as well as incredible sunsets all year round.
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