Cape Town highlights: top 10 most beautiful places + our tips

Cape Town is one of the most diverse cities in South Africa, with the iconic Table Mountain as a landmark and surrounded by two oceans. During your road trip through South Africa, you'll discover the most beautiful sights in Cape Town. In this blog, we'll guide you through the highlights you can't miss during your road trip in South Africa.

Table Mountain is the centerpiece of Cape Town. You can hike up the mountain or take the cable car. The cable car takes you to the top in five minutes, with the gondola gently rotating as you ascend. Once at the top, you’ll have a view over the city, the ocean, and the peninsula.

Try to go early in the morning. That way, you’ll have the least chance of encountering the 'tablecloth' – the clouds that drift over the mountain.

Tip: Make sure to bring a camera for photos of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Drive along Chapman's Peak Drive, a nine-kilometer coastal road between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. On one side, you'll see the ocean, and on the other, steep rock walls rise up.

Stop at various viewpoints along the way for photo opportunities. On a clear day, you might even spot dolphins or whales in the waves below. Plan your ride around sunset for a spectacular view as the sun dips into the ocean.

Stroll through the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, where each house is painted in a different bright color. From pink and green to canary yellow, the neighborhood tells the story of the Cape Malay community that lives here.

Visit the Bo-Kaap museum to learn more about the rich history. Wander through the steep streets and taste Cape Malay dishes at one of the local restaurants. This vibrant neighborhood is one of the most photogenic attractions in Cape Town.

If you love hiking, you have to go to Lion’s Head. In our opinion, this hike is one of the most beautiful routes in Cape Town. The path spirals upward, offering ever-changing views along the way. At some points, you'll use chains and ladders to climb further.

The hike takes about an hour and a half to reach the top. At sunrise, you'll see the light gradually spreading over the city. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes.

Do you have a fear of heights? Then this hike might be a bit challenging for you.

Kirstenbosch is located on the eastern slope of Table Mountain. In this botanical garden, you'll find various native plant species from South Africa, such as proteas and fynbos. Sunbirds fly between the flowers, and there’s a serene tranquility in the garden.

Walk along the Boomslang, a wooden bridge that winds through the trees. On the large lawn, you can have a picnic, and in the summer, open-air concerts are regularly held here.

Relax on the white sands of Camps Bay, which stretches at the foot of the Twelve Apostles. Stroll along the palm-lined promenade and choose one of the many restaurants and cafés for lunch or dinner.

Take a refreshing dip in the clear water or find a spot on the beach. At sunset, enjoy a cocktail on one of the cozy terraces overlooking the ocean.

Tip: For a stunning view of the bay and mountains, head to Maiden’s Cove.

Visit the colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach. You can get close to these amazing birds via a boardwalk. Also, try to spot rock hyraxes, also known as 'dassies.'

Explore the various small coves nestled between the large granite boulders. The sheltered beach with clear, calm waters is perfect for a swim among the penguins. We personally think the beach is the best spot to see the birds, but you'll likely see more penguins at the boardwalk. Of course, you can visit both. In our opinion, you shouldn't miss this stop during your road trip in South Africa.

Visit the vibrant Victoria & Alfred waterfront. Here you'll find a mix of shops, restaurants, and markets. Stroll past performances by street artists or take a short boat ride through the harbor.

Sample local dishes at the food market or take a ride on the Ferris wheel for a great view of the harbor and Table Mountain. In the evening, the area really comes alive as the restaurants and bars light up.

Tip: Visit this area during mealtime so you can have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants or in the markets.

For a truly special view, head to 'The Rock'. This hidden lookout point is at the foot of Lion's Head. It's a favorite spot among locals for watching the sunset or enjoying a peaceful picnic. You'll find many people here with a bottle of wine, a pizza, or a snack, soaking in the sunset.

Climb a bit higher for a panoramic view over Camps Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The sunset offers the best views, but it can get a bit busier during that time.

The surfing village of Muizenberg is located near Cape Town and is known for its colorful beach huts. It's perfect for beginner surfers due to the longer waves. You'll find plenty of surf schools here, and you can take a surf lesson yourself.

There are various restaurants and cafés where you can sit down for coffee or lunch. The surf schools often have seating as well. The village has a relaxed vibe and is a great stop for surf enthusiasts.

Fun fact: An orca couple has been swimming around this bay for years, keeping the great white sharks at bay.

Discover all these sights in Cape Town during your road trip in South Africa. The trips from South Africa Nomads start at a hotel in the cozy Sea Point neighborhood. The next night, you'll sleep on the roof of your own 4×4 Suzuki Jimny at a campsite in Cape Town. Of course, you can also extend your trip by staying a bit longer when you return to Cape Town. There's definitely plenty to experience in the city!