Cape Town is a city draped in natural beauty and crackling with creativity. From dramatic landscapes and exceptional food and wine to vibrant neighbourhoods and a thriving design scene, a visit to Cape Town delivers a kaleidoscope of experiences that will leave you truly inspired.

With so much on offer, the travel experts at Golilo Travel — a bespoke agency based in Cape Town — share an insider’s guide to where to stay and what to see, sip, and savour in South Africa’s Mother City.

1. Check in to a design-forward hotel

Ellerman House at sunset, pool and garden views. Photo Credit: Ellerman House

The Royal Suite at The Silo Hotel. Photo Credit: The Royal Portfolio

Cape Town is home to a variety of superb hotels that blend warm hospitality with impeccable style. A stay at the world-renowned Ellerman House comes with panoramic ocean views, a living art gallery and attentive service. Alternatively, book into an architecturally striking luxury suite at The Silo Hotel or unwind at Dorp Hotel — an understated creative hideaway on the slopes of Signal Hill. For a room as bold and fashionably dressed as its creator, step into the Afro-modernist Thebe Magugu Suite at the Mount Nelson Hotel.

2. Browse the V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront with Table Mountain as a backdrop: Photo Credit: Courtesy of contributor

The V&A Waterfront is an iconic, sprawling marina filled with shops, restaurants, outdoor entertainment spaces, and a working harbour. For a little retail therapy, visit the Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre and discover local brands like AAFRICAA, Pichulik, and MaXhosa Africa. The precinct’s markets are worth seeking out, too. The Watershed showcases local craft while the bustling stalls at Oranjezicht City Farm Market are overflowing with fresh produce and artisanal fare. Arrive early to beat the crowds.

After filling your shopping bags, let your appetite lead you to Pier or The Waterside,where harbour views set the scene for elegant, ocean-inspired tasting menus.

3. Plan a beach day

Golden hour at Bakoven Beach, framed by the Twelve Apostles mountain range.Photo Credit: Courtesy of contributor

Clifton 4th Beach on a perfect summer’s day. Photo Credit: Courtesy of contributor

A 307-kilometre sun-kissed coastline means Cape Town is blessed with an array of scenic beaches — from glamorous hotspots to serene, secret coves. Venture beyond well-known Camps Bay for one of the nearby, more sheltered alternatives such as Glen Beach, Bakoven Beach, or the ultra-chic Clifton beaches (First to Fourth). Wherever you choose to lay your towel, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views, white sand, brisk but refreshing turquoise waters — and perhaps a granadilla ice lolly from a spirited vendor.

To enjoy the coast from a different perspective, consider a sunset yacht cruise.There’s nothing dreamier than setting sail with a glass of bubbly in hand and watching the rose-gold light fall across the Atlantic Seaboard.

4. Escape to Constantia’s vineyards

Rolling vineyards and mountain views in the Constantia Valley. Photo Credit: Courtesy of contributor

While many celebrated wine regions lie just beyond Cape Town, the Constantia Valley is tucked within the city itself.

A winding road leads you through the leafy suburb, past manicured gardens, horse paddocks, and rolling vineyards, to reveal a handful of idyllic wine estates. Sip the famed dessert wine, Vin de Constance, at Klein Constantia, picnic at Buitenverwachting or savour the mountain-framed views at Beau Constantia, Constantia Glen, and Steenberg. You can also opt to pair your glass of wine with a sumptuous multi-course menu from one of the world-class estate restaurants.

5. Indulge in a culinary journey

Elegant interiors at La Colombe. Photo Credit: La Colombe. Photographer: Andrea van der Spuy

Dining at Fyn Restaurant. Photo Credit: Courtesy of contributor

Cape Town is a feast of flavour. The city has a dynamic foodie scene, with new must-try restaurants opening regularly. From hip cocktail bars and edgy modern eateries to farm-to-table favourites and fine dining standouts, there is no shortage of epicurean adventures. For a bucket-list experience, reserve a table at La Colombe, Fyn, or Salsify — all consistently ranked among the best dining destinations on the continent.

6. Gallery-hop through the city

The architecturally striking exterior of Zeitz MOCAA. Photo Credit: Credit: Pexels, Jean van der Meulen

Zeitz MOCAA’s dramatic central atrium. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Grant Durr

Cape Town is a diverse, multicultural hub with a complex history and rich heritage, reflected in its many galleries and museums. Contemporary art enthusiasts will enjoy Zeitz MOCAA, which opened as the world’s largest museum dedicated to contemporary African art. The building itself is also a highlight — set inside a repurposed grain silo, with an arresting central atrium carved from 42 concrete tubes. Nearby, you’ll find Southern Guild, displaying collectible pieces by leading African designers. Other galleries worth viewing include the Iziko South African National Gallery, Norval Foundation, Goodman Gallery, and Everard Read. Beyond the well-known institutions, there are a multitude of smaller contemporary galleries (primarily located in the CBD) that promote emerging local artists. Many participate in First Thursdays, a cultural, pedestrian-friendly event where galleries, boutiques, and restaurants around lively Bree Street stay open late on the first Thursday of every month.

7. Take in the view from Table Mountain

View of Table Mountain at sunset. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Lucas Metz

While riding the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is one of the busier attractions, it’s worth it for the breathtaking views from the top of Cape Town’s most famous landmark. Go on a clear, calm day and, if you’re visiting during peak season, purchase a Fast Track ticket online to skip the queue. Sunset visits can be spectacular, but always check the time of the last cable car down before lingering too long at the summit.

8. Explore Cape Town’s most colourful corners

A colourful street in the Bo-Kaap neighbourhood. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Anil Baki Durmus

The Bo-Kaap and De Waterkant are two historic neighbourhoods lined with brightly painted houses, and are ideal for exploring on foot. Take a deep dive into the Cape Malay culture and authentic cuisine of the Bo-Kaap district with a guided walking tour and cooking class. In De Waterkant, stroll the cosmopolitan cobbled streets and drift into the surrounding boutiques, eclectic eateries, galleries, and ultra-cool coffee shops.

Inspired to experience Cape Town for yourself? Golilo is a highly rated, luxury travel specialist that crafts personal, thoughtful and extraordinary journeys across Africa. Based in Cape Town, Golilo provides local expertise and unmatched service. Book a complimentary consultation to begin designing your own unforgettable stay. Reservations are essential.