5 places to make the most of Cape Town

Cape Town is known as the Mother City. In this bustling metropolis, Mother Nature reigns supreme. Nestled between dramatic mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the biggest city in South Africa is a dream come true for outdoor lovers. But it also holds a special place in the country’s history, as the oldest European settlement on the continent.

Want to plan a trip to beautiful Cape Town? Let’s take a look at 5 of the best places to discover during your stay.

Table Mountain

Few cities can boast such a dramatic backdrop. So, there’s no wonder why Table Mountain is the most photographed landmark in Cape Town. This iconic flat-topped mountain forms part of the Table Mountain National Park. It is flanked by picturesque Devil’s Peak on one side, and Lion’s Head on the other.

Table Mountain is the go-to destination for hikers, with hundreds of hiking trails for all levels. At the summit, the views on the city and the Cape Peninsula are simply unparalleled. If you want to take in the panorama without breaking a sweat, the Cableway offers a more accessible way to the top.

Signal Hill and the Noon Gun

Searching for the best vantage point on Table Mountain? Look no further than Signal Hill. Its name stems from the flags that were raised from the hill to guide approaching ships. Nowadays, Signal Hill is especially popular in the evening, as locals and tourists flock to marvel at the sunset.

You can also plan a visit at noon to attend the firing of the emblematic noon cannon. The noon gun works every day, except on Sundays and public holidays. That makes it the world’s oldest gun in daily use. History buffs might want to linger a while longer to attend a free presentation of the history behind this long-standing tradition.

Robben Island

Robben Island is a place of remembrance like no other. The island was used as a prison by the Dutch as early as the 17^th century. It then became a hospital and a military base. Eventually, the island reverted to housing a maximum-security prison for political prisoners. It was in this very prison that Nelson Mandela was first incarcerated for 18 years during the apartheid.

UNESCO has listed Robben Island as a World Heritage Site in 1999. This national monument is a living testimony to the days of apartheid, and a gripping visit for a better understanding of South African history. A 30-minute boat ride takes you from the Waterfront to the island. Before boarding, you can tour the exhibit at the Nelson Mandela Gateway.

Leisure places

The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is one of the liveliest spots in the city. Cape Town’s old fishing harbour has got it all, from theatres to museums and concert halls. But the Waterfront hasn’t lost its soul, as it has managed to preserve the buildings of old.

If you’re looking for fun-filled activities after a long day of visits, the GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World is another top contender. This entertainment venue is the largest of its kind in South Africa. It boasts an ice rink, bowling alleys, and even a world-class casino.

You’ve never set foot in a land-based casino? Nothing to worry about, you can easily practice your skills online. In the world of online casinos, live dealers are the next big thing. Live casinos offer you a genuine gambling experience, as you get to play with real dealers on live cameras. Casinos.co.za has listed the best live dealer casinos for South African players that are chosen by experts, so all you have to do is just pick the best one that suits your needs, sit back, relax, and enjoy a thrilling game of poker or roulette from the convenience of your home.

Clifton and Camps Bay Beaches

Cape Town isn’t all about hiking. The city also boasts some glorious white sand beaches. The beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay are a mere six kilometres away from the city centre. With their deep blue waters, they’re the picture-perfect location for a relaxing afternoon.

If you’re into surfing, head towards the First Beach. Clifton’s Fourth Beach is best for swimmers and families looking for safe waters. As for photographers, Camps Bay offers stunning views on the Lion’s Head peak and the Twelve Apostles.

In a single day in Cape Town, you can visit a historic prison, then go surfing and come back for a jazz gig on the waterfront. And that’s only scratching the surface. Ready to jump on a plane yet?