Rich in history, culture and natural beauty – where romance collides with a cool, urban undertone – Cape Town has truly earned its accolades as a world-class city break. With so much to offer, 48 hours barely scratches the surface of things to explore. Below outlines some of Cape Town’s unmissable highlights to begin with.
Nestled in the foothills of Table Mountain, The Mother City is nurturing dramatic mountainous and coastal landscapes, a hip art and design scene & world class food and wine hotspots. Be immersed in the vibrant hum of Cape Town’s streets as you embark on a 48 hour whirlwind escape.
Located within the city centre, the historic neighbourhood of Bo-Kaap boasts strings of brightly coloured houses stacked together along cobbled streets. The history of Bo-Kaap dates back to the mid-eighteenth century when numerous “huurhuisjes” were built and leased to slaves. During this time, slaves did not have permission to paint their houses anything other than white, therefore the rainbow array of houses witnessed today is emblematic of freedom and liberation. Experience the vivid history of Bo-Kaap from the perspective of someone who calls it home and take a guided tour hosted by the locals themselves.
For those looking for a unique and boundary pushing dining experience, Belly of the Beast offers a dynamic tasting menu sourced from local and sustainable producers. Chef ’s Anouchka Horn and Neil Swart offer a unique culinary experience with distinctive seasonal flare.
Drinks: The Gin Bar is hidden behind the famous Honest chocolate café in the city centre and, with no access via the street, the speakeasy style venue is a sought-after establishment if you’re lucky enough to be ‘in the know.’ Cushioned within a romantic Mediterranean style courtyard, it offers an inventive cocktail menu with over 100 gins, of which over 80 are made in South Africa itself.
In order to make the most out of your 48 hours, invest in a bespoke tour of the Cape Peninsula with a private driver guide. Set off early, beginning your adventure at the fishing harbour of Kalk Bay. Ease into the day by navigating the quirky boutiques, antique stores and bohemian arts and crafts shops. Then head to Simon’s Town for a quick dive into the rich naval history of the area, before scouting out the famous feathered locals on a secluded beach. Leaving the penguins (yes, penguins) behind, next head south to the Cape Peninsula itself. Stretch your legs with a hike to explore the reserve and see what other native wildlife you can spot.
Pause for a wild picnic lunch in the heart of the Cape Point National Park and taste the authentic local flavours of a homemade food experience.
After a delicious wild lunch, it’s time to get on the road again. Leaving the national park behind, enjoy the scenic coastal drive around Chapman’s Peak heading back towards the city. On route, make time to stop at one of the local vineyards for a tasting and a well- earned sundowner before heading back to your hotel.
Your final evening in Cape Town deserves a worthy dining experience. Kloof Street House is set within a Victorian House with a whimsical, “fairy-lit” garden. More than a restaurant, Kloof Street House is a visual experience in itself with a maze of different rooms and spaces to enjoy. The venue offers candlelit romantic dinners and on Sundays you can enjoy live jazz with a cocktail in the ambient gardens.
Set on top of the famous Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, The Silo boasts a futuristic blend of glamour and modern decadence. Offering unrivalled views of Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront, the five-star 28- room hotel is part of the prestigious Royal Portfolio hotel group.
The Silo is a magical space towering above the V&A Waterfront surrounded by the natural wonder of South Africa’s Mother City.
Uniquely South African in roots and deeply rich in flavour, a red Pinotage encapsulates the winelands of Cape Town’s countryside. Cultivated since 1925, the signature taste of the wine is best paired with a darker meat, watching the sun rest behind Table Mountain as a day of city exploration concludes.
Enjoy this 2-night trip in Cape Town from £2,125 per person, including 2 nights at The Silo, return airport transfers, private Cape Peninsula tour, Robben Island tickets and a half day tour with Christo Brand.
Alternatively, add Cape Town as part of your South Africa travel itinerary. Take a look at some of example itineraries, showcasing what we can build for you?
10 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £10,700pp
Embark on a remarkable Southern African journey, discovering the highlights of South Africa, Botswana and Zambia. Explore culturally vibrant cities and become immersed in breathtaking natural landscapes with unique features, teeming with diverse wildlife.
Embark on the perfect adventure for families across Africa, exploring beautiful regions rich in wildlife all the while engaging in thrilling outdoor activities.
10 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £7,000pp
Embark on a South African adventure to enjoy the perfect blend of wildlife encounters, scenic towns and delicious wine tasting experiences in charming vineyards.
13 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £9,900pp
Journey to South Africa for pristine beaches and an array of unforgettable wildlife encounters, capturing both the Big Five game animals and the Marine Big Five in a single trip.
12 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £9,300pp
Embark on an exciting South African adventure to marvel at incredible landscapes rich with wildlife and to explore vibrant Cape Town’s rich offerings.
14 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £9,300pp
Experience private seaside picnics and botanical adventures in the Cape Floral Kingdom, complemented by leisurely moments in Franschhoek’s charming village. Explore ancient San rock art and indulge in beachside tranquility and world-class dining in quaint villages.
10 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £10,700pp
Embark on a remarkable Southern African journey, discovering the highlights of South Africa, Botswana and Zambia. Explore culturally vibrant cities and become immersed in breathtaking natural landscapes with unique features, teeming with diverse wildlife.
11 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £7,300pp
Embark on the perfect adventure for families across Africa, exploring beautiful regions rich in wildlife all the while engaging in thrilling outdoor activities.
10 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £7,000pp
Embark on a South African adventure to enjoy the perfect blend of wildlife encounters, scenic towns and delicious wine tasting experiences in charming vineyards.
13 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £9,900pp
Journey to South Africa for pristine beaches and an array of unforgettable wildlife encounters, capturing both the Big Five game animals and the Marine Big Five in a single trip.
12 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £9,300pp
Embark on an exciting South African adventure to marvel at incredible landscapes rich with wildlife and to explore vibrant Cape Town’s rich offerings.
14 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £9,300pp
Experience private seaside picnics and botanical adventures in the Cape Floral Kingdom, complemented by leisurely moments in Franschhoek’s charming village. Explore ancient San rock art and indulge in beachside tranquility and world-class dining in quaint villages.
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