CAPE TOWN / IN THE CITY CENTRE
The city centre is the cosmopolitan heart of Cape Town and the home of many historical events that have shaped the city you visit today. Many are within easy walking distance of each other and are great things to do in Cape Town to get your bearings.
1 — VISIT THE DISTRICT 6 MUSEUM
The District Six Museum tells the story of the forcible ejection of local multi-racial communities from the Sixth District in inner Cape Town. It has both permanent and temporary exhibitions that provide a painful yet objective look at apartheid in Cape Town. The local guides who offer personal insights into the museum make the experience much more tangible.
2 — POP INTO BO KAAP
A popular addition to any South Africa itinerary, Bo Kaap has a rich multi-cultural heritage, thanks mostly to the descendants of slaves who were brought over in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today it’s an interesting neighbourhood to stroll around and admire the colourful houses. Although the exhibits in the museum are average; a good TV presentation documents the residents of Bo Kaap as they reflect on their life and the development of their community. It’s engrossing.
3 — DINE ON THE V&A WATERFRONT
The V&A Waterfront is the oldest working harbour in the Southern Hemisphere and it’s still going strong – attracting over 20 million visitors a year. Selecting one of the restaurants and having lunch with stunning views of Table Mountain is one of the best things to do in Cape Town. After lunch, shop in one of the many designer outlets or entertain the kids at the excellent aquarium.
4 — STROLL AROUND GREENMARKET SQUARE
The tourist market at Greenmarket Square is one of the first places we head to when we get to Cape Town. It’s a great way to get a feel for the African spirit in the centre of the city. The range of colourful art and safari-inspired ornaments always bring a smile to my face and remind me that we are actually in Africa.