48 Hours in Cape Town: Your Ultimate Guide to a Perfect Weekend
Ah, Cape Town - the city where being bored is as likely as finding parking at Clifton 4th beach on a public holiday. There’s just so much to choose from: from jaw-dropping landscapes to vibrant culture, lekker local brands and amazing food. Even if you're only in town for a short while, this place is going to do its utmost to leave a mark on you.
Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of 48 hours in the Mother City, featuring the top things to do, places to eat and sights to see. Don’t miss out on a single moment, neighbour!
Day 1: Dive into the heart of Cape Town
Morning: Table Mountain Adventure
Can’t not start with the big one, right? Kick off your day with a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, Table Mountain. Hop on the cableway to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city and beyond. Feeling adventurous? Try hiking up via the Platteklip Gorge route – it's a bit challenging, but oh so worth it.
Breakfast: Origin Coffee Roasting
After your descent, head to Origin Coffee Roasting in De Waterkant. This place is legendary for its coffee, and their breakfast menu is just as impressive. Grab a freshly-baked pastry or a hearty avocado toast to fuel your morning.
Mid-Morning: Explore the V&A Waterfront
Next, make your way to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, where you’ll find a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Don’t miss the Two Oceans Aquarium, where you can get up close and personal with marine life from both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
Lunch: The Watershed Market
For lunch, check out The Watershed Market. This vibrant spot features a variety of food stalls offering everything from gourmet burgers to vegan delights. Grab something tasty and soak in the atmosphere - usually accompanied by live music from the buskers outside.
Afternoon: Robben Island Tour
In the afternoon, take a ferry from the Waterfront to Robben Island. The tour offers a powerful insight into South Africa’s history and struggle for freedom, and we reckon it’s a must-see.
Dinner: The Pot Luck Club
End your day with a culinary treat at The Pot Luck Club in Woodstock. This trendy restaurant offers a tapas-style menu with innovative dishes designed for sharing. Make sure to book in advance – it’s a hot spot!
Day 2: Cultural immersion and local flavours
Start your second day with a visit to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain, this garden is a showcase of South Africa’s rich plant biodiversity. Don’t miss the Tree Canopy Walkway, known as the Boomslang.
Breakfast: The Good Neighbour
On your way back, stop by The Good Neighbour at our Neighbourgood Newlands location. This local favourite serves up delicious breakfast options, from freshly baked bread to hearty omelettes and some of the best coffee you’ll ever have.
Mid-Morning: Discover Bo-Kaap
Head to the Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, famous for its vibrant, colourful houses and rich Cape Malay culture. Stroll through the cobbled streets, visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, and maybe take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Cape Malay dishes.
Lunch: Biesmiellah
For an authentic Cape Malay lunch, dine at Biesmiellah. This family-run restaurant in Bo-Kaap offers flavorful dishes like bobotie, samosas, and fragrant biryanis.
Afternoon: Cape Point and Boulders Beach
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Cape Point. Explore the dramatic cliffs and enjoy the stunning views where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. On your way back, stop at Boulders Beach to visit the adorable colony of African penguins.
Dinner: Gold Restaurant
For your final evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Africa at Gold Restaurant. Enjoy a 14-dish tasting menu that takes you on a culinary journey through Africa, complete with live entertainment featuring traditional music, puppets and dance.
But where will you stay?
For the perfect blend of comfort, community, and convenience, Neighbourgood is your ideal home away from home in Cape Town. Located in various convenient spots across the city, our locations offer stylish co-living spaces designed to foster connections and creativity. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, you’ll find everything you need – from comfy accommodations to vibrant communal areas where you can work, relax, and meet fellow travellers. Browse our list of accommodations here.
Cape Town in 48 hours might seem like a whirlwind, but with this guide, you’ll experience the best the city has to offer. And with Neighbourgood as your base, you’ll have the perfect place to rest and recharge after each adventure. Enjoy your stay in the Mother City!