48 Hours in Cape Town

Cape Town is a city of vivid contrasts and untamed beauty, where the cool blues of the Atlantic crash against rugged shores beneath the towering Table Mountain. Known as the ‘Mother City,’ it is a place shaped by centuries of upheaval—a land scarred by colonial ambition and resilient under its layered past. 

In Bo-Kaap, houses painted in bold pinks, greens, and blues line the steep streets, a living testament to its Malay heritage and defiance against a history that fought to wash it away. Nearby, Clifton’s soft sands are a quiet reprieve before the windswept cliffs of Cape Point, where the edge of Africa meets the open sea. 

Cape Town isn’t merely a stop on a traveller’s map; it’s a journey through light, colour, and time—an unforgettable blend of natural splendour and complex heritage that begs to be explored. 

Friday

08:30 Start the day in an organic way 

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Clarke’s on Bree Street, a local favourite for fresh, organic meals. Known for its warm ambiance and welcoming energy, Clarke’s serves breakfast classics with a twist, from creamy scrambled eggs to indulgent French toast. A morning at Clarke’s introduces you to the laid-back energy of Cape Town and puts you right in the city centre, ready to explore.

10:00 Hover above the city on a cableway 

No visit to Cape Town is complete without a ride up Table Mountain. As the sun rises higher, the mountain’s iconic flat top is bathed in sunlight, offering panoramic views over the city and the ocean. The cable car ride itself is a highlight, with rotating floors for a 360-degree view as you ascend. Once at the top, explore the paths that snake around the summit, where wildflowers bloom and dassies (rock hyraxes) sun themselves.

12:30 Munch on a Victorian-style lunch 

For lunch, head to Kloof Street House, a Victorian-style restaurant nestled in a lush garden. Its eclectic decor, with vintage furniture and fairy lights, makes it feel like a hidden oasis in the middle of the city. Try the grilled calamari or Moroccan spiced lamb burger, both local favourites that showcase Cape Town’s fusion of flavours. Sitting outside on the patio is a peaceful way to take in Cape Town’s creative energy, which flows from its artists, chefs, and musicians alike. 

14:30 Go on a colourful stroll 

After lunch, explore the colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, a historic area known for its vibrant, candy-coloured houses and rich Cape Malay culture. Stroll through the narrow streets and soak up the atmosphere, then stop by the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn about the community’s heritage. The afternoon sunlight adds extra warmth to the painted facades, making it an ideal time for photographs that capture the lively spirit of Bo-Kaap. 

16:00 Get curious about the art scene 

Visit the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, located in a repurposed grain silo at the V&A Waterfront. This remarkable structure is an artwork in itself, housing contemporary African art from across the continent. From paintings and sculptures to mixed-media installations, the museum provides a window into Africa’s modern art scene. As you wander through the galleries, you’ll see Cape Town’s innovative spirit in action.

18:30 Watch the sun go down 

Catch the sunset from Signal Hill, a favourite local spot for panoramic views of Table Mountain, the city, and the ocean. Pack a blanket and some snacks to enjoy as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Cape Town. Signal Hill’s elevation offers a unique perspective on the city and ocean, and the evening sky bursts with colour—pinks, oranges, and purples blending over the water. 

20:00 Gather at The Pot Luck Club

Wrap up the day with dinner at The Pot Luck Club, located in Woodstock’s Old Biscuit Mill. Known for its small plates and bold flavours, The Pot Luck Club offers a tasting menu with international influences, like beef fillet with truffle café au lait. The club’s rooftop location provides a spectacular view of the city lights, making it an ideal choice for a Friday night out. 

Saturday

08:00 Grab your morning brew 

Start your Saturday at The Power and the Glory, a cosy café in Tamboerskloof with a rustic vibe. Enjoy their renowned coffee and a selection of breakfast pastries and some avocado toast. The café’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for easing into the day. It’s also a great spot to mingle with locals, as it’s a regular haunt for residents of the area. 

09:30 Smell the roses 

Spend your morning surrounded by the natural beauty of Kirstenbosch Gardens, situated on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Wander through indigenous flora, from vibrant fynbos to towering proteas, and take in the Tree Canopy Walkway—known as the ‘Boomslang’—and its sweeping views over the gardens. Mornings are quiet here, with only birdsong filling the air, making it a peaceful escape from the city. 

12:00 Support Cape Town’s young chefs 

For lunch, try The Test Kitchen Fledglings, a unique training kitchen in Woodstock by renowned chef Luke Dale-Roberts. The menu is seasonal, with dishes like braised lamb or smoked salmon, showcasing local ingredients with innovative techniques. Dining here is both a culinary experience and a contribution to the local community, as Fledglings trains young chefs who are passionate about Cape Town’s evolving food scene. 

14:00 Take a walk through history 

Spend your afternoon immersed in South Africa’s rich natural and cultural history at the Iziko South African Museum. Located in the scenic Company’s Garden, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the country’s palaeontology, anthropology, and marine biology. Wander among ancient fossils, gaze up at towering dinosaur skeletons, or marvel at the extensive collection of rock art by early indigenous communities. The museum’s quieter afternoon ambiance lets you explore at your own pace, while the surrounding gardens provide a peaceful respite after your visit. This place is not only educational but also acts as a window into the natural wonders and diverse cultures that shape South Africa’s past and present. 

16:30 Recline on a beach…or four 

Spend your late afternoon at Clifton’s famous beaches, where soft sands and clear waters meet dramatic coastal cliffs. There are four beaches in total to choose from, and each possesses a slightly different vibe, but all are perfect for relaxing. The beaches are cooler by late afternoon, making them ideal for lounging and watching surfers take to the waves. 

18:30 Go on a guilt-free shopping spree 

Before dinner, take a stroll through Greenmarket Square in Cape Town’s city centre. This historical square is surrounded by colonial-era buildings and is lined with stalls selling African crafts, textiles, and jewellery. The vibrant colours and lively atmosphere make it a perfect spot to find unique souvenirs and appreciate Cape Town’s cultural diversity.

20:00 Savour the flavours of African cuisine 

End your journey at Gold Restaurant, where a pan-African dining experience awaits. With a 14-dish tasting menu featuring flavours from across the continent, this immersive experience includes dishes like Moroccan lamb tagine and South African bobotie. Live African drumming and dance performances accompany your meal, adding a festive touch that celebrates the richness of African culture, perfect for your final night in Cape Town.

VERDICT 

This is a city that satisfies the soul with its colourful streets, stunning natural landscapes, and warm, vibrant culture. Two days here are enough to catch a glimpse of its many layers—from the history-laden alleys of Bo-Kaap to the expansive views atop Table Mountain, but to stay longer is almost to discover life anew. Cape Town manages to blend the urban with the wild, the traditional with the modern, and the simple with the sophisticated, making it an ideal getaway for any traveller. Its ability to weave natural beauty with cultural depth creates an experience that lingers in the heart and soul long after your trip has ended.