Known as the Mother City in South Africa, Cape Town is famous for its dramatic views, beautiful white beaches and, of course, the iconic Table Mountain. The city’s neighborhoods each have their own unique character and charm, giving travelers the opportunity to explore the distinctive local culture for themselves. Moreover, while it is possible to get a taste of several neighborhoods during one vacation, you may find it more rewarding to focus on visiting just a couple during your stay. No matter your interests—be it history, food, beach life or art—Cape Town has an area that’s perfect for your visit.
V&A Waterfront
Best area for first-time visitors
The V&A Waterfront is Cape Town’s vibrant tourist center, its lively atmosphere drawing travelers to its many attractions. Here, you can marvel at marine life at the Two Oceans Aquarium, discover contemporary African art at the Zeitz MOCAA or simply enjoy the view while sipping a cocktail. With numerous shops and restaurants, this waterfront neighborhood is ideal for shoppers and foodies. There are many international brands and luxury hotels in the area, making it a good place to base yourself as it’s close to the city’s main attractions.
Bo-Kaap
Best neighborhood for local culture
The picturesque neighborhood of Bo-Kaap, with its brightly colored houses, is known for its complex, multicultural history. Once called the Malay Quarter, the district was home to people from a mix of Malaysian, African, Indian and Sri Lankan heritage. Today, this area enchants visitors with its history, vivid colors and harmonious blend of cultures. Spend an afternoon strolling along the cobblestone streets of Bo-Kaap, with the scent of aromatic spices from nearby eateries filling the air.
Visit the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum, which showcases the area’s heritage, or the District Six Museum, which details the forced relocation of a huge part of the community under apartheid rule. Bo-Kaap is a wonderful place to do a traditional Cape Malay cooking class, many of which include a tour of the area. If you choose to visit independently, please be sensitive to the residents when taking photos of the neighborhood.
Camps Bay
Best place for ocean views
If you’re after a sophisticated beach break, head to Camps Bay. The water is cold, but you can always sunbathe on the white sand. The views of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles are also stunning, especially at sunset. Just a road back from the beach, you’ll find a strip of cafes and restaurants. Enjoy dinner and drinks with a view at local favorites. If you’re looking to stay near the beach without the busyness of the Waterfront, choose one of the boutique hotels in the area.
Woodstock
Best neighborhood for art lovers
The up-and-coming neighborhood of Woodstock has transformed from a once-industrial area into a creative hub for artists, designers, and food enthusiasts. You can almost feel the creative energy as you walk through the area, popping into art galleries as you pass by. Wander through and sample freshly brewed coffee and artisanal food at the local markets, then explore the numerous creative businesses. There are a handful of hotels in the area, offering a trendy, artsy experience for travelers.
Kalk Bay
Best place for a local experience
This charming fishing village is a bit of a drive from the city center, but it is well worth the journey. Take the longer route around the coast and over Chapman’s Peak for magnificent sea and mountain views. Once you get to Kalk Bay, enjoy a stroll past the small shops, art galleries, and the surprisingly busy harbor, where fishing boats deliver their daily catch. Then, stop for a seafood lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes on the main road.
There are some beautiful guesthouses near the village, many with lovely views of the bay, making it a good place to stay if you don’t mind being somewhat distant from many of Cape Town’s major sites.
Constantia
Best area for wine and food
If you don’t have time to visit the Cape Winelands, head to Constantia instead. This tranquil suburb is renowned for its wineries, including Groot Constantia, South Africa’s oldest wine estate. The wine farms are close together, making it easy to taste several wines in an afternoon. They also have stunning views and elegant restaurants—the perfect spot for lunch.
As well as the wineries, there are several excellent places to eat and drink in the area. To fully explore the Constantia Wine Route, stay in one of the area’s guesthouses or boutique hotels.
Muizenberg
Best place for a beach break
Muizenberg is a laid-back coastal neighborhood, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and vibrant surf culture. The Blue Flag beach provides the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, and the water is much warmer than at the Atlantic beaches on the other side of the peninsula. Photographers will love the wide, sandy Muizenberg Beach, an Instagram classic thanks to its iconic, colorful beach huts that add a touch of whimsy to the picturesque scene.
The lively Muizenberg Flea Market, eclectic eateries, and friendly residents give this thriving seaside community a lot of charm. There’s also a wide range of accommodations to choose from, making it inviting for all types of travelers. However, be aware that you will have to drive to the major attractions, and the area is best for a summer visit.
This article was first published April 22, 2023 and updated December 6, 2023.
