CAPE TOWN ESSENTIALS
Art & Culture
Cape Town is not only a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers, but also a cultural hotspot full of interesting museums, art and culture. Whether you are interested in African history, modern art or discovering the rich cultural diversity of South Africa, Cape Town has something for everyone. Here are some fun options that you should not miss during your visit!
Tip: For museums, a weekday morning is the best time to visit, as it is relatively quiet then.
Zeitz MOCAA
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) is the place to go for modern art in Cape Town. Located in the V&A Waterfront, this museum offers an impressive collection of African and international artists. From multi-dimensional installations to photography, you’ll find everything contemporary art has to offer here.
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What to do:
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Explore the impressive exhibitions of both emerging and established African artists.
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Enjoy an art walk through the museum, which is housed in an old grain warehouse, making it extra special.
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Cost: Approximately R200 for admission.
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Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 – 18:00
District Six Museum
The District Six Museum is a must-visit for those who want to learn more about South Africa’s apartheid history. The museum tells the story of District Six, a vibrant and multicultural community that was violently evicted during apartheid. This museum offers a deep, emotional look at the impact of apartheid on the local population.
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What to do:
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See photos, videos and memories of the people who once lived in District Six.
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Hear stories from guides who were often directly involved in the events themselves.
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Cost: Approximately R50 for admission.
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Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30am – 4pm.
If you’re into art and boutiques, The Old Biscuit Mill in the Woodstock district is a great place to visit. This former factory is now a creative hub with art galleries, markets, and trendy boutiques. Here you can buy local artwork, discover handmade jewelry, and enjoy street art. There’s also a large food hall with lots of food stalls and often a live band playing. The Old Biscuit Mill is also a great place to visit if you’re looking for a fun afternoon to grab a bite to eat and have a drink with friends while listening to live music.
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Things to do:
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Discover local artists and their work, ranging from paintings and sculpture to textiles and photography.
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Visit the neighborhood market for a vibrant experience of creative Cape Town.
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Cost: Free admission
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Opening hours: Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 – 14:00.
The Slave Lodge
The Slave Lodge is one of the most significant museums in Cape Town, located in the city centre. It tells the story of slavery in South Africa and the impact it had on society. The building itself is one of the oldest buildings in Cape Town and originally served as a slave house for the VOC (Dutch East India Company) in the 17th and 18th centuries.
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What to do:
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Explore the exhibitions that detail the history of slavery in South Africa, focusing on the African slave trade, the living conditions of slaves and the role slavery played in the rise of Cape Town.
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Learn about the struggle for freedom and the abolition of slavery in South Africa, and how this history influences society today.
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Cost: Approximately R40 for admission.
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Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9am – 5pm.
Personally, we found this museum impressive, but we have to be honest: it is almost impossible to take it all in! There is so much textual information that you can really spend hours there. If you really want to discover everything, we recommend planning a second visit - then you can take the time to let it all sink in.
Concert in Kirsten-bosch Botanical Gardens
Music lover? Then we recommend attending a concert at the famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. This iconic garden at the foot of Table Mountain provides the perfect setting for open-air concerts, especially during the spring and summer months. Whether you’re into classical, jazz, or pop, Kirstenbosch is the ideal place for a musical evening under the stars. You can check the schedule on their official website.
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What to expect:
While you can always visit Kirstenbosch Gardens to enjoy the biodiversity, they also provide a fantastic location for music festivals and performances. The Summer Sunset Concerts are particularly popular and attract a wide audience, from locals to tourists.
The combination of music, nature, and views of Table Mountain makes for a unique experience. Many visitors bring their own food and drinks for a picnic so they can enjoy the concert in style.
Visit a
Township
This is an activity that many people are hesitant about, but when done well and responsibly, it can have a positive impact. When guided by local guides and the income goes back to the community, it can support the local economy and create employment. Just make sure you book through a provider that works with the community in a fair and respectful way.
A visit to a township is a unique opportunity to get a different perspective on Cape Town. With a local guide, you’ll discover the rich culture, history and warmth of the communities in these neighbourhoods. You can sample traditional food, meet local craftsmen and learn about daily life. A popular place to visit is Langa, Cape Town’s oldest township.
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Perfect for: Culture lovers, community activists
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Where to book:
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Nathi Cape Town Tours and Camissa offer well-organised and respectful tours.
Cost: Around R500 - R800 depending on duration and extra activities such as a traditional lunch.
Always book through a trusted provider who works with the local community, so that your visit has a positive impact and your experience is authentic.