Travel around Cape Town with Bobby
Day 1From Sea to Sky – Discovering Cape Town's Heart
I arrived in Cape Town early in the morning and checked into my charming hotel in the City Bowl area. The location was perfect—close to everything yet offering peaceful views of Table Mountain. First stop? Naturally, the iconic Table Mountain. I took the cable car up, and let me tell you, the 360-degree views of the city and ocean are even more breathtaking in person. Once I reached the top, I spent a good few hours walking the trails and absorbing the scenery. Later, I made my way to the V&A Waterfront, a lively area filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers. I enjoyed lunch at a seafood restaurant, feasting on Cape Malay-style prawns—spicy, sweet, and perfectly cooked.
For dinner, I couldn’t resist the temptation of trying local cuisine at a cozy spot called Gold Restaurant. The 14-course African-inspired tasting menu took me on a culinary journey across the continent. From bobotie (a traditional Cape Malay dish) to Moroccan lamb, each dish was more flavorful than the last.
If you’re visiting Cape Town, make sure to start with Table Mountain—it sets the tone for the rest of your trip. Also, don’t skip the Waterfront; it’s the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
Day 2History and Heritage – A Day of Reflection
Today was all about Cape Town’s deep and complex history. I took the ferry to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. The tour was led by a former prisoner, which made the experience even more powerful. Walking through the tiny cell where Mandela spent so many years was sobering. After returning to the mainland, I wandered through the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, one of Cape Town’s most photographed neighborhoods. I visited the Bo-Kaap Museum, learning about the Muslim community and the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Lunch was at a local spot in Bo-Kaap where I tried the famous Cape Malay curry—a fantastic explosion of spices. In the evening, I strolled along Long Street, known for its vibrant nightlife. I stopped at a rooftop bar for sundowners, sipping on a gin cocktail while the sun set over the city. The energy of the street below was contagious, with live music and laughter filling the air.
The Cape Malay curry I had at Bo-Kaap Kombuis was packed with flavor and spices, giving me a true taste of local cuisine. The restaurant had a warm, homey feel, though it’s a bit off the beaten path. A great spot for a more authentic dining experience.
Food
My hotel continued to provide a comfortable stay with helpful staff. While I appreciated the central location, noise from the busy streets sometimes seeped in. Overall, still a pleasant stay.
Accomodation
Visiting Robben Island was a deeply emotional and historical experience. The tour, led by a former prisoner, was insightful and poignant, offering a personal connection to the past. However, the ferry ride can be a bit long.
Activity
Robben Island is a must-visit for history buffs, but the tour can get a bit emotional—just be prepared. As for Bo-Kaap, take your time wandering through the streets and enjoy a local meal here; the flavors are unique and unforgettable.
Day 3Cape Point Adventure – Where Oceans Collide
I rented a car today for a road trip down to Cape Point, one of the southernmost points of Africa. The drive along the coastal route was simply stunning—Chapman’s Peak Drive alone is worth the trip! At Cape Point, I hiked up to the lighthouse and was rewarded with jaw-dropping views where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. There’s something magical about standing at the edge of the continent, surrounded by vast, untamed ocean. On the way back, I stopped at Boulders Beach to visit the famous colony of African penguins. Watching these little creatures waddle around was a delightful contrast to the dramatic cliffs of Cape Point.
Dinner tonight was in the coastal town of Kalk Bay, where I had fresh fish at a restaurant right on the water. The seafood here was unbeatable, and the laid-back vibe of the town made it the perfect way to end an adventurous day.
La Colombe’s tasting menu was an unforgettable experience. Each dish was artfully presented and creatively paired with wine, offering a true fine dining experience. A bit pricey, but absolutely worth it for a special occasion.
Food
My hotel remained a solid choice for exploring Cape Town, but the room could have been a little larger for the price. Still, the central location made it easy to get around.
Accomodation
Exploring Cape Point and seeing the penguins at Boulders Beach was a perfect mix of adventure and nature. The drive along Chapman’s Peak was stunning, and the penguins were a quirky highlight.
Activity
If you have the time, rent a car and explore beyond the city—Cape Point is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. Don’t miss the penguins at Boulders Beach; they’re guaranteed to make you smile.
Day 4Wine, Dine, and the Winelands
Lunch at Delaire Graff Estate was a luxurious experience, both in terms of the setting and the food. The farm-to-table dishes were fresh and beautifully prepared, with ingredients sourced from local farms. The views of the vineyards added to the charm.
Food
The hotel continued to serve as a comfortable base, though after several days, I started to notice the limited amenities. It’s a great spot for short stays but not ideal for longer trips.
Accomodation
The Cape Winelands tour was a relaxing escape from the city. The vineyards were gorgeous, and the wine tastings were top-notch. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek provided a scenic backdrop for the day.
Activity
If you’re a wine lover, the Winelands are non-negotiable. Even if you’re not, the scenery alone is worth the trip. Stellenbosch offers a charming escape from the city and is an easy day trip.
Day 5Art, Markets, and Nightlife
On my final day in Cape Town, I decided to explore the city’s creative side. I spent the morning at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), housed in a converted grain silo at the V&A Waterfront. The exhibits were fascinating, showcasing the works of contemporary African artists, and the building itself was an architectural masterpiece.
For lunch, I headed to the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, a hip neighborhood known for its street art and creative vibe. The market was bursting with life, with stalls offering everything from gourmet burgers to artisanal ice cream. It was the perfect spot to pick up some local crafts and souvenirs.
As night fell, I decided to experience Cape Town’s famous nightlife scene. Long Street was buzzing with energy, so I popped into a few bars before settling at Fiction Bar, which had a great mix of music and a friendly crowd. It was the perfect way to end my trip on a high note.
The food at Neighbourgoods Market was diverse and delicious. From gourmet burgers to homemade ice cream, every stall had something unique to offer. It was a fun, lively atmosphere with plenty of local flavor.
Food
By the last day, the hotel had served its purpose well, but I did wish for more personalized service. It’s a functional choice in a prime location, though I’d recommend exploring other options for more amenities.
Accomodation
The Zeitz Museum was a cultural highlight, offering incredible contemporary African art. Later, Long Street’s nightlife brought the energy and fun Cape Town is known for, with bars and clubs catering to all tastes.
Activity
Long Street is the heart of Cape Town’s nightlife, so if you’re in the mood for a fun night out, this is the place to be. Just be mindful of your belongings, as the area can get quite busy.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Cape Town offers a rich and diverse travel experience that combines breathtaking natural beauty, deep historical significance, and vibrant local culture. During my time in the city, I found each aspect of the trip—from its iconic landmarks to the delicious food and friendly people—left a lasting impression. Here’s how I would rate the different elements of my Cape Town journey:
The seafood at Harbour House was fresh and expertly prepared, with the oysters and calamari standing out. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the service was attentive. However, the prices were on the higher side.
Food
My hotel was centrally located, making it easy to explore the city on foot. The rooms were modern and comfortable, though not particularly spacious. The staff were helpful and the rooftop views were a nice bonus.
Accomodation
Taking the cable car up Table Mountain was a highlight of the trip. The views from the top were breathtaking, and the hiking trails offered plenty of opportunities to explore. It can get crowded, so early mornings are best.
Activity