There are many ways to enjoy Cape Town without having to spend a fortune.
Here are 50 of our favourite things to do in Cape Town for R50 or less.
Nature and adventure
1. Walking tours of the city
Price: Free, but tips are encouraged
Learn more about the city, its history, and other interesting facts while you savour the beautiful sights and scenery with Free Walking Tours. You can opt for a historic city tour, an Apartheid to Freedom tour, or a Bo-Kaap tour.
Website: freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za/
2. Experience Green Point Park
Price: Free
This family-friendly space is perfect for picnics, walks, runs, and some R&R. With a host of facilities like a biodiversity showcase garden, an outdoor labyrinth or maze, an open field, an amphitheatre, an outdoor gym and a play park for the kids, this is a park worth exploring.
Website: www.capetown.gov.za//green-point-park-and-biodiversity-showcase-garden
3. Hiking
Price: Free
There are many magnificent free hiking spots in and around Cape Town. Lion’s Head, The Pipe Track and Woodstock Cave are some of the more popular hiking trails as their paths are ideal for beginners.
Another popular trail is Platteklip Gorge, which takes you to the top of Table Mountain. Newlands Forest, hailed as one of the most beautiful hikes in the Mother City, is leafy and mostly shaded. Don’t forget to follow the hiking rules to keep yourself safe.
4. Trail Running
Price: Mostly free
Cape Town is home to many trail running spots, all offering a unique experience. The Devil’s Peak 5,3 km route, for example, starts at the top of the Devil’s Peak Estate and goes from the gravel paths to Rhodes Memorial. Constantia Nek also offers many optional routes.
5. Marine Wildlife Walk
Price: Free
Take a scenic stroll around the V&A Waterfront and meet some of its wildlife residents. The Marine Wildlife Walk includes 8 lookout points across the neighbourhood where you can spot animals such as otters, sunfish, seals, birds, and jellyfish.
Website: www.waterfront.co.za/marine-wildlife-walk/
6. Enjoy a beach day
Price: Free
With the spectacular backdrop of the Cape Fold Mountain range and breathtaking views, Cape Town offers some of the most scenic beaches in the world. There are a lot of beaches to choose from since the Indian and Atlantic Oceans border our coastal city. Here is a look at some of the best beaches you can visit during your stay in our beautiful city.
7. Swim in a Tidal Pool
Price: Free
Tidal pools are rocky pools built along our coastline that provide a safe, family-friendly place to swim and play. These man-made pools along Cape Town’s coast are also the perfect environments for a host of plants and creatures like octopi, sea slugs, anemones, sea hares, cuttlefish, or iridescent seaweed.
8. Visit the penguins at Boulders Beach
Price: R44 per adult; R22 per child (SA citizens)
Home to the famous colony of African Penguins, Boulders Beach makes the perfect day out. Take a dip in the False Bay Ocean, find a spot on the sand for a picnic, or relax and watch the penguins roam in their natural habitat.
Website: www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/tourism/attractions.php#boulders
9. Take a historic walk at the V&A Waterfront
Price: Free
The V&A Waterfront has a rich and varied history that dates to 1654. The best way to discover its iconic sites and its 22 landmarks is via a self-guided historic walk. Grab a map at the Information Centre and explore to your heart’s content
Website: www.waterfront.co.za/
10. Enjoy the great outdoors
Price: Free
Spending time exploring the parks, beaches, mountains and forests is one of the most enriching and affordable things to do in Cape Town! Enjoy a sunset picnic on Signal Hill, feed the squirrels in the Company’s Garden, join in a game of beach volleyball on Clifton and Camps Bay beaches, take a stroll along the Sea Point Promenade, or partake in a sunset yoga session on the beach…the options are endless.
11. Ratanga Park
Price: Free
Once known as Ratanga Junction, this park is ideal for those who want to walk, jog or relax in a peaceful setting. Not as crowded as other parks, this Century City attraction also showcases grand views of the canals, Table Mountain, and surrounding areas.
12. Get active at Battery Park, V&A Waterfront
Price: Free
This 1.2-hectare park forms part of the V&A Waterfront’s Canal District, lined with shops, art, and adventure. Key attractions include the skate and scooter park, a piazza, a basketball/mini soccer multi-court, and the canal. Each area of the park has public walking paths and benches.
Website: www.waterfront.co.za/area/battery-park/
13. Trek to the Just Nuisance Grave, Simon’s Town
Price: Free
Enjoy a scenic walk to Just Nuisance’s grave in Simon’s Town. The famous dog is believed to be the only dog officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. The steps begin on Barnard Street and lead up to the Navy Signals area where the grave is. Please note the climb can be challenging. You’ll also find a bronze statue of the dog on Jubilee Square.
Website: www.simonstown.com/just-nuisance/
14. Durbanville Rose Garden
Price: Free
The award-winning Durbanville Rose Garden allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature as they stroll through the gardens. People enjoy visiting during summer and spring for its spectacular bloom, with many capturing photos for special occasions. There are short walking trails and scenic spots to sit back and enjoy the views.
Website: www.capetown.gov.za/Durbanville%20Rose%20Garden
15. Strawberry-picking at Polkadraai
Prices: Strawberry picking: R50 per person, Tractor Ride: R25 per person, Mini Golf: R25 per person, pony rides: R25 per child, face painting: R25 per child, and Arts and Crafts: R40 per craft.
The beautiful Polkadraai Strawberry Farm is in Stellenbosch. Strawberry picking takes place between September and January. Take a walk through rows and rows of fruit beds and pick strawberries with family or friends. Kiddie activities include face painting, pony rides, and a playground.
Website: https://polkadraaifarm.co.za/
16. Groot Constantia audio tour
Price: Free
One of the oldest wine-producing farms in the Cape, Groot Constantia is steeped in history. This farm boasts fine examples of Dutch architecture and has been producing wine on the estate since 1685. You can amble around the leafy grounds or take the free VoiceMap audio tours to explore the farm and learn about its rich history. Choose from three exciting audio tours which explore different aspects of Groot Constantia.
Website: voicemap.me/publisher/groot-constantia
17. Visit Kalk Bay
Price: Free
Kalk Bay was voted the coolest neighbourhood in the world according to Forbes in 2018 and a favourite destination for all types of travellers. Known for its array of eateries lining the main road, bustling colourful harbour and quirky little shops – this little seaside suburb is great for families and solo travelers.
18. Watch the wildlife at Rondevlei Nature Reserve
Price: Free entry
A hidden gem in the suburb of Grassy Park, Rondevlei is a 20-minute drive from the city centre. The nature reserve is home to about 230 bird species, a variety of small mammals and reptiles, and is the only nature reserve in Cape Town with a hippopotamus population.
Website: www.capetown.gov.za/False%20Bay%20Nature%20Reserve
19. Discover Intaka Island
Price: R20 – R30
This majestic 16-hectare wetland and bird sanctuary is in the heart of Century City. Open 364 days a year, Intaka Island is a unique example of conservation and property development co-existing in harmony.
Website: intaka.co.za/
20. Muizenberg Catwalk
Price: Free
This easy 3km flat walk offers whale/dolphin watching, swimming in numerous rock pools, bird watching, scenic views, and more. The walk begins at Surfer’s Corner Beach in Muizenberg and ends at Danger Beach in St James. Warning: you will get wet during high tide.
Play
21. The Magic Company, GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World
Prices: Ten-Pin Bowling: R45 from Monday – Thursday, Lazer Tag: R50 per person, X-Rider: R40 per person, Arcade games: R2 per token.
The Magic Company at GrandWest has all the fun needed for kids and teens or adults looking to free their inner child to enjoy. You can race a superbike, shoot some hoops, hit a strike in ten-pin bowling, immerse yourself in a virtual reality experience in the X Rider, try out the Lazer Zone, or compete in a friendly game of ice hockey.
Website: www.suninternational.com/grandwest/activities/magic-arcade/
22. Play Putt-Putt
Price: R40 per player
Situated in Mouille Point, mini golf is probably the best value for money for any outdoor activity anywhere in Cape Town. Families with small kids, couples on dates, and groups of friends all congregate here to test their putting skills.
Website: web.facebook.com/saputtputt/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel&_rdc=1&_rdr
23. Blue Train Park
Price: R35, which includes one free train ride
The Blue Train in Moulle Point is the only beachfront miniature railway that has survived in South Africa. Take the kids and let them enjoy the scenic ride. Besides the Mini Blue Train, the park also has a mini-skate park, cement push bike track, pedal push carts, a 30m zip-line, 2x 8m long slide, see-saws, climbing rock, two jungle gyms, an obstacle course, and an astro turf soccer pitch.
Website: thebluetrainpark.co.za/
24. Visit the Scratch Patch
Price: From R30 upwards
Did you know that almost half of the world’s gemstones can be found in South Africa? And you could scratch for these gems right here in Cape Town! The Scratch Patch, located at both the V&A Waterfront and Simon’s Town, is a fun way to dig for your beautiful gems. Be sure to visit the gem exhibitions and shops afterward.
Website: www.scratchpatch.co.za/scratch-patch/
25. Play a game of Cave Golf
Price: R35 per player.
Enjoy putt putt in a cave-like setting. It’s fun for the whole family and is next door to the Scratch Patch. This indoor activity can be enjoyed in all types of weather.
Website: www.scratchpatch.co.za/cave-golf/
26. Rose Picking at the Chart Farm, Wunberg
Price: R8 per stem if you pick your own; R10 per stem for picked roses.
Stop and smell the roses, then pick ’em. The Chart Farm boasts a wide variety of roses, well-loved for their incredible fragrance. Choose and pick your own bunch of heavenly-scented blooms from the rose garden or select some freshly picked ones instead.
Website: chartfarm.co.za/roses/
27. Bloemendal Trail Park, Durbanville
Price: From R30 upwards
Young and old can get their bike on at Bloemendal Trail Park, located in the Durbanville Wine Valley, between the slopes of the Tygerberg Hill and Kanonberg terrain. The rugged trails are perfect for avid bike riders and running enthusiasts. The best part? The routes cater to everyone from beginner to advanced levels. There is a café on the premises for those who want to grab a bite to eat.
Website: www.bloemendaltrailpark.co.za/
28. Be a kid again at the Toy Museum
Price: Free entry, but individual costs apply
The Warrior Toy Museum in Simon’s Town is lined with dinky toys, dolls, collections of model cars, boats, trains, aeroplanes, and other miscellaneous vintage toys. Check out memorabilia from the 70s and 80s.
Website: web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069644760455
29. Iziko Museums
Price: R15 – R30
Iziko Museums in Cape Town offer insight into South Africa’s natural and cultural history. The exhibits range from 700-million-year-old fossils to insects, fish, dinosaurs and wildlife menageries and everything space-related at the Planetarium. There are also stone tools dating back 120 000 years ago, traditional clothes from the last century and authentic beadwork.
Website: www.iziko.org.za/
30. The Castle of Good Hope
Price: R25 – R50
Locally known as “The Castle” this bastion fort is considered the best-preserved example of a 17th-century architectural structure in the world. A bell tower, situated over the main entrance, was built in 1684. The original bell, also known as the oldest in South Africa, was cast in Amsterdam in 1697 and weighs just over 300 kilograms.
The Castle also acted as the local headquarters for the South African Army in the Western Cape, and today houses the Castle Military Museum and ceremonial facilities for the traditional Cape Regiments.
Website: www.castleofgoodhope.co.za/index.php
Arts and Entertainment
31. Live music shows at your favourite market
Price: Free.
Cape Town is home to a variety of markets that provide an array of entertainment. Mojo Market in Sea Point and Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay showcase local artists and a place where people can shop and indulge in local cuisine.
Website: www.bayharbour.co.za/ and www.mojomarket.co.za/
32. Guga Sthebe Arts & Culture Centre, Langa
Price: Free entry (various costs for certain activities)
The Guga Sthebe Arts & Culture Centre in the Langa township is a public space dedicated to the arts. The centre has a gathering space, an amphitheatre, an arts and crafts shop and a multipurpose theatre.
Website: capetown.gov.za/Guga-Sthebe-Cultural-Centre
33. Go salsa dancing
Price: Free
If you want to learn salsa and get your hips swinging on the dance floor, head to Mojo Market for their free beginner Salsa classes every Sunday at 6:30 pm. Everyone is welcome, whether you are single, a couple, or in a group. Be sure to stay afterward for the Salsa Party featuring a hot line-up of DJs, unique bars and food stalls.
Website: web.facebook.com/events/686705259786669/686705283120000/?active_tab=about
34. First Thursdays
Price: Free
On the first Thursday of every month, arts and culture in Cape Town come alive, with dozens of art galleries and cultural events showcasing the wealth of local talent to ensure your First Thursday is catered to your own specific preferences, organisers provide a map and highlights of what is on show.
Website: first-thursdays.co.za/
35. Go on a street art tour in Woodstock
Price: Free
Take a drive to Woodstock and marvel at the various murals on buildings, walls and even fences. Most of the artwork is either created via proposal or commission and spreads the message of community.
36. Visit the Taunina Studio in Woodstock
Price: Free entry
Head to Taunina studio for some teddy bear art. At Taunina, you’ll find iconic hand-embroidered one-of-a-kind teddy bears, each with its unique design. The artists behind the teddy bears are all women from disadvantaged communities who are provided full-time employment by Taunina.
Website: taunina.com/
37. Entertainment at the Amphitheatre and live Marimba bands at the V&A Waterfront
Price: Free
V&A’s open-air Amphitheatre offers guests exciting live entertainment all year round. Head over to V&A Waterfront’s events page for the latest updates. There are also marimba bands playing in the area. Follow the sounds and you’ll easily spot them.
Website: www.waterfront.co.za/
Food and Drink
38. The Old Biscuit Mill
Price: Free entry, but prices for items vary
The Old Biscuit Mill has it all, from goods markets, eateries, and fresh produce. Head over to Buns Bakery for their scrumptious baked goods or grab a speciality coffee at Espresso Lab Microroasters. Indulge in artisanal and gourmet foods at the Neighbourgoods Market, which takes place every Saturday.
Website: theoldbiscuitmill.co.za/
39. Unframed Ice Cream
Price: From R32
Voted as one of the best ice cream spots in Cape Town, Unframed Ice Cream produces some of the finest artisanal ice creams around. They sell dairy, vegan and sorbet ice creams. Try some of their unique flavours like chocolate passion fruit, pineapple, red pepper and lime sorbet, and double carrot cake.
Website: www.unframedicecream.com/
40. Stellski Café & Coffee Bar, Woodstock
Price: From R22 upwards
Stellski is the perfect spot to get your authentic coffee fix. Their coffee beans are ethically sourced in Africa. Their beans are optimally roasted to ensure the aroma, body, acidity and flavours of the coffee.
Website: stellskicom.wordpress.com/
41. Blue Bird Garage Food and Goods Market, Muizenberg
Price: Free entry but prices vary.
The market takes place every Thursday and Friday night and offers mouth-watering meals, baked goods, handpicked South African wines, craft beer, and a kid’s area.
Website: bluebirdgarage.co.za/
42. Coffee By Moses, Makers Landing at the V&A Waterfront
Price: Various
Named one of Cape Town’s coolest baristas, Moses Lebofa is taking his coffee business, Coffee by Moses, to a whole new level at Makers Landing. Expect a good cup of authentic African coffee with tastes ranging from liquorice to citrusy. Moses’ coffee is sourced from all over Africa so expect different notes with each cup.
Website: www.makerslanding.co.za/
43. Sip a cold craft brew at Beerhouse
Price: Various.
Long Street’s Beerhouse is the place to go for great food, a bustling vibe, and an expansive beer menu. Many of the brews are local, and there are many beers to try for under R50.
Website: www.beerhouse.co.za/
44. Coffee at the award-winning Truth Coffee Shop
Price: From R28 upwards
If you like good coffee served in a gritty and industrialised environment, then Truth Coffee is the ideal Cape Town coffee shop for you. Walking into Truth Coffee feels like you’re walking into a Victorian futuristic fantasy. Think steampunk lovers will be in awe of the well-thought décor. More important than the interior is the coffee: strong, hot and full of flavour.
Website: www.truth.capetown/
45. Wembley Roadhouse
Price: Various
Situated on Belgravia Road in Athlone, Wembley Roadhouse has been around for decades and is known for its legendary Wembley Whopper and hotdogs. This old-school roadhouse is the perfect spot to satisfy those late-night cravings. Get a single hotdog for under R50, or enjoy a samoosa or indulge in delectable savoury bites and milkshakes for under R50.
Website: wembley.co.za/roadhouse/
46. Little Cupcake Bakery
Price: From R15 upwards
Looking for that perfect bolla, koesister or snowball? Or perhaps you’d prefer a mouth-watering chocolate hazelnut cupcake with hazelnut filling? Little Cupcake Bakery has it all from savouries, doughnuts and breads to assorted cupcakes, tarts, cookies and cheesecakes.
Website: littlecupcakebakery.co.za/
47. Crust Café, Gardens
Price: From R26
Crust Café serves some of the most delectable baked goods. Their delicious homemade croissants and muffins make for a great breakfast and start from only R26. Try their coffee and muffin special for only R45.
Website: www.crust.co.za/
48. Empire Café, Muizenberg
Price: From R18
Enjoy a coffee, some baked goods, breakfast, light lunches and more at Empire Café.
Website: www.facebook.com/empirecafemuizenberg/about
49. Berg River Brewery, Paarl
Price: From R35
Berg River Brewery is a passion project brought to life. Glen Grier and his team invite you to share in their beer enthusiasm. It’s a place to relax and enjoy craft beer.
Website: www.bergriverbrewery.co.za
50. Kapoochka, Makers Landing at the V&A Waterfront
Price: From R45
Enjoy mouth-watering Indian street food with Kapoochka’s wide range of traditional eats. Their crispy-fired samoosas are to die for and will satisfy any craving. However, their traditional poochkas are their signature dishes and are packed with layers of flavour.
Website: www.makerslanding.co.za/
