1. Table Mountain
The world-renowned flat-topped Table Mountain is the most photographed landmark in South Africa. It's sometimes covered in an ominous layer of clouds, referred to as its "tablecloth" by locals. However, when the clouds pass, the views over the city and Cape Peninsula is something extraordinary. You can choose to hike up or take the revolving cableway that climbs the mountain's 1,244 meters in a mere seven minutes. Weather-dependent, the cableway runs daily. However, always double-check the website and book online to skip the queues.
2. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
This garden paradise is located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain and is part of the Cape Floristic Region, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Over 20,000 native South African plant species fill this hilly 528-hectare nature reserve.
3. Signal Hill
Enjoy a sundowner with a view from Signal Hill, rising 350-metres and overlooking Cape Town, Table Bay, and the glittering Atlantic Ocean. Go early so that you don't have to compete for a parking spot as this is a popular activity for locals and tourists alike.
4. City Hall and the Castle of Good Hope
Cape Town City Hall was built in 1905, featuring a medley of Italian Neo-Renaissance and British colonial style influences. The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest surviving stone building in the country.
5. The Heart of Cape Town Museum
The Heart of Cape Town Museum was opened in 2007 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the very first heart transplant Christiaan Barnard performed.
6. Iziko Museums of South Africa
Iziko Museums of South Africa comprises 11 museums governed by a council appointed by the Minister of Arts and Culture.
7. The District Six Museum
Honouring the people of this now-vanished District Six, it showcases the effect of apartheid on the community.
8. Zeitz MOCAA
The Zeitz MOCAA (Museum of Contemporary Art Africa) is the largest museum in Africa dedicated to showcasing African contemporary art.
9. Bo-Kaap
Brightly coloured houses line cobbled stone streets in the Cape Malay (Bo-Kaap) neighbourhood, set at the foot of Signal Hill. Home to a large part of Cape Town's Muslim community, it's a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history and delectable Cape Malay cuisine to explore.