Cape Town Location Guide

Cape Town, the Mother City

In 2009, we came to study in Cape Town and fell in love with the city, the landscape, the local cuisine, and each other. Having spent the past decade traveling back and forth to this very special place, we’ve curated a list of what we would consider to be the absolute can’t-miss spots around town (and outside).

General Tips and Tibits

• While Bo Kaap is walkable during the day, we recommend using Uber for longer distances and in the evening after dark. It’s the safest way to get around the city if you haven’t rented a car. We do not recommend local taxis.
• Rented a car? There are guys within the city who help you park your car and “watch” it while you’re away. They’re totally fine—it’s normal to tip them 10 or 20 rand.
• Don’t leave anything in your car, anywhere in Cape Town—not even a charging cable. Crime is petty and not usually dangerous, but it’s good to be smart and aware.
• Tipping in restaurants is similar to Europe (10%).
• Skip eating in Camps Bay except at Melissa’s Mantra Café. The area is overpriced and not up to the city’s foodie standards. Trust us.
• If it’s windy in Cape Town, the only beach worth going to is Clifton 4th.
• Cape Town runs on Africa time, so don’t expect things to always (or ever) go on time or as planned!
• Be kind to our neighborhood. It’s rich with history and full of love. Treat those in and around it with respect. That said, as with any city, keep your distance from dodgy individuals.
• Looking for a co-working space? Visit Tiny Empire in the CBD. It’s beautiful, and the coffee around the corner is fantastic.
• Planning on cooking? Nude Foods is great for organic products, Fish4Africa for local fish, and Frankie Fenner Meat Merchants for locally sourced meats. For fresh produce, head to the markets below. Woolworths on Kloof is a convenient stop, while Spar is more affordable.

Cape Town Musts‍

• Wander the colorful streets of Bo Kaap (an Instagrammer’s paradise).
• Hike up Table Mountain rather than taking the cable car.
• If you’re there on a full moon, hike up Lion’s Head at dusk, bring snacks/wine for the top, and a flashlight for the way down.
• Visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Walk the Treetop Walkway or attend the summer concert series—bring a picnic and wine! Take an Uber, and buy tickets online: webtickets.co.za‍
• Experience First Thursdays if you’re in the city on the 1st Thursday of the month. Galleries stay open late, drinks flow, and the city comes alive.
• Explore Woodstock for street art and artisan gin at Woodstock Gin Company.
• Spend the day at Llandudno Beach, where the locals go.
• Drive up Chapman’s Peak, bring a picnic, and soak in the views.

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Cafes

Each of these cafes offers outstanding, artisan coffee:

• ‍TRUTH Coffee: Named the world’s best coffee shop by the Daily Telegraph.‍
• Haas Coffee Collective: Gourmet coffee in a hip CBD space.‍
• Espresso Lab: Located in the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock—coffee chemistry at its finest.‍
• Rosetta Roastery: Artisan coffee at Woodstock Exchange.‍
• Orchard on Long: For fresh juices in the mornings.

Breakfast / Brunch

• ‍Clarke’s: Our #1! Try the Hash Eggs. A hipster hotspot.‍
• Jason’s Bakery: Comfort food done right—gets busy!‍
• Dapper: For classic car enthusiasts and delicious breakfasts.‍
• Melissa’s Mantra Café: Iconic with ocean views.‍
• The Strangers Club: Cozy and hidden in Greenpoint.‍
• Harvest Café: Overlooking Bo Kaap’s colorful houses.‍
• Hemelhuijs: A crowd favorite for beautiful breakfasts.‍
• Skinny Legs: Healthy bites in De Waterkant.‍
• Loading Bay: Great for exploring De Waterkant.‍
• Kleinsky’s Delicatessen: Sea Point’s New York Deli.‍
• Nurish’d: Smoothie bowls and healthy eats.

Lunch

• ‍Ocean Jewels: Affordable, fresh seafood in Woodstock.‍
• The General Store: Minimalist lunch spot on Bree.‍
• The Kitchen: Love-filled salads in Woodstock.‍
• 1890 House Sushi: Best price/quality sushi in Cape Town.‍
• El Burro Taqueria: Colorful tacos with Californian approval.

Sundowners

• ‍Yours Truly: Hipster paradise with a rooftop vibe.‍
• Tjing Tjing: Asian-inspired rooftop bar.‍
• Chinchilla: Beachy rooftop café/bar in Camps Bay.‍
• Bungalow: Posh, but the views are worth it.‍
• Grand Daddy Hotel: A hidden gem.

Beaches

• ‍Llandudno Beach: Local favorite, quiet and scenic.‍
• Clifton 4th Beach: Best for windy days.‍
• Camps Bay: More touristy, with restaurants and bars.
• ‍Muizenberg Beach: Iconic colorful huts and beginner-friendly surfing.

Markets

• ‍Neighbourgoods Market (Woodstock): Great for food and shopping.‍
• Oranjezicht Farmers Market: For fresh produce and good vibes.‍
• Bay Harbour Market (Hout Bay): Best for Friday nights with live music.

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Cape Town Day Trips & Surroundings‍

• ‍Chapman’s Peak Drive: Stunning coastal views and perfect for picnics.‍
• Simon’s Town & Penguin Beach: Visit penguins at Boulders Beach or explore nearby beaches.‍
• Kirstenbosch & Constantia: Hike the Treetop Walkway and enjoy winelands dining.‍
• Stellenbosch Winelands: Enjoy wine tastings, picnics, and farm-to-table dining.‍
• Cederberg Mountains: Hiking, camping, and breathtaking scenery.

Let me know if you’d like me to organize or enhance any specific part further!

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