Cape Town in 5 days
A day-by-day itinerary · 19 places · South Africa
Updated · Every place checked on Google Maps and grouped by area, one area per day.
Explore the vibrant city of Cape Town over five days, visiting iconic sites like Table Mountain, the Greenmarket Square, and the Bo-Kaap Museum to experience its rich history and culture. Enjoy local flavors at Mama Africa, explore contemporary art at the Zeitz Museum, and relax at the V&A Waterfront, with memorable meals at The Codfather Seafood and Sushi and a meaningful tour of Robben Island Museum.
Make this trip yours
Your dates, budget and interests, with opening hours for the days you visit.
Day 1
Table Mountain, Greenmarket Square, Bo-Kaap Museum and Mama Africa
Morning· 2 hrs
Table Mountain
Ascend via the cable car to enjoy panoramic views of Cape Town and the Atlantic Ocean. Walk along the summit’s well-marked trails and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Cape Town · Map
Afternoon· 1 hr
Greenmarket Square
Stroll through this historic square bustling with local vendors selling crafts, textiles, and artwork. Experience the lively atmosphere and pick up unique souvenirs.
Cape Town · Map
Afternoon· 1 hr
Bo-Kaap Museum
Explore the colorful neighborhood's history and its Cape Malay heritage through exhibits and guided walkthroughs. Discover the vibrant architecture and traditional Cape Malay culture.
Cape Town · MapEvening· 2-3 hrs
Mama Africa
Enjoy a lively dinner at this iconic restaurant, renowned for its authentic African cuisine, live music, and vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for group socializing and experiencing local flavors.
Cape Town · Map
Book your cable car tickets online in advance to avoid long queues and secure your preferred time slot.
Day 2
Robben Island Museum, Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, V&A Waterfront and The Codfather Seafood & Sushi
Morning· 2 hrs
Robben Island Museum
Take a guided ferry ride from the V&A Waterfront to Robben Island, where you’ll explore the historic prison where Nelson Mandela was held. The tour includes a bus around the island and visits to the former prison cells, providing a deep dive into South Africa's apartheid history.
Cape Town · Map
Afternoon· 1-2 hrs
Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa
Visit this stunning museum housed in a converted grain silo, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary African art. Walk through immersive exhibits and enjoy striking architecture that combines industrial heritage with modern design.
Cape Town · Map
Afternoon· 1-2 hrs
V&A Waterfront
Stroll through this lively waterfront area filled with street performers, boutique shops, and scenic views of Table Mountain. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, watch artists at work, or relax beside the harbor with a refreshing drink.
Cape Town · MapEvening· Evening
The Codfather Seafood & Sushi
Relax at this popular seafood spot known for its fresh catch and lively atmosphere. Choose from a variety of sushi, grilled fish, and seafood platters while enjoying views of the ocean in a casual setting.
Cape Town · Map
Book tickets for Robben Island Museum online in advance to avoid long queues and ensure availability, especially during peak season in November.
Day 3
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Groot Constantia Wine Estate, Constantia Winelands and The Foodbarn
Morning· 1.5 hrs
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Stroll through this world-renowned botanical garden nestled against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Expect to see indigenous fynbos, towering trees, and beautifully curated themed sections that showcase South Africa's rich plant diversity.
Cape Town · Map
Afternoon· 1.5 hrs
Groot Constantia Wine Estate
Explore the oldest wine estate in South Africa with a guided walk through historic buildings and lush vineyards. Finish with a tasting of their signature wines, enjoying the estate's picturesque surroundings and colonial architecture.
Cape Town · MapAfternoon· 2 hrs
Constantia Winelands
Join a relaxed group tour through the scenic vineyards of the Constantia valley, tasting some of South Africa's finest wines. The tour includes visits to historic cellars and opportunities to learn about local wine traditions in a lively, friendly atmosphere.
Cape Town · MapEvening· 2 hrs
The Foodbarn
Dine at this celebrated restaurant located in the Noordhoek countryside, known for its innovative farm-to-table cuisine and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a relaxed evening with friends, savoring dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients.
Cape Town · Map
Visit Kirstenbosch early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the garden's stunning biodiversity at its freshest, then enjoy a guided tour at Groot Constantia to learn about South Africa's historic wine-making heritage.
Day 4
Cape Point Nature Reserve, Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, Simon's Town Coastal Walk and Harbour House Simon's Town
Morning· 3 hrs
Cape Point Nature Reserve
Explore dramatic cliffs, rugged trails, and abundant wildlife at this UNESCO-listed site. Hike to the iconic Cape Point lighthouse and enjoy stunning panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and False Bay.
Simon's Town · Map
Afternoon· 1 hr
Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
Visit the famous colony of African penguins nesting on the sandy shores and rocky outcrops. Observe these charming birds up close in their natural habitat, and enjoy the scenic beach surroundings.
Cape Town · MapAfternoon· 1.5 hrs
Simon's Town Coastal Walk
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along the historic shoreline, enjoying views of the bay, colorful fishing boats, and colonial architecture. This outdoor walk offers a relaxed introduction to the maritime heritage of Simon's Town.
Cape Town · Map
Evening· 2 hrs
Harbour House Simon's Town
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at this renowned seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor. Savor fresh local fish and shellfish dishes in a lively, stylish setting as the sun sets over the water.
Cape Town · Map
Book your train tickets from Cape Town to Simon's Town online in advance to secure the best prices and seat reservations. The train offers scenic views along the coast and is a relaxed way to transfer between these areas.
Day 5
Transfer from Simon's Town to Cape Town, District Six Museum and The Pot Luck Club
Morning· 1 hr
Transfer from Simon's Town to Cape Town
Take the Southern Line train from Simon's Town to Cape Town station for a scenic and relaxed journey along the coast. The ride lasts approximately 1 hour and offers stunning views of the ocean and seaside towns; ensure you have your tickets booked online beforehand and keep your luggage with you on the train.
Cape Town · Map
Afternoon· 1.5 hrs
District Six Museum
Explore this poignant museum that vividly recounts the history of the forced removals during apartheid, featuring photographs, stories, and artifacts from the vibrant community that once thrived here. It offers deep insights into Cape Town’s cultural and social history, engaging visitors with interactive displays and personal narratives.
Cape Town · MapEvening· 2 hrs
The Pot Luck Club
Enjoy a lively dining experience at this trendy restaurant perched on the 6th floor with panoramic views of the city and harbor. The menu features inventive small plates inspired by global flavors, perfect for sharing among friends while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Cape Town · Map
Book your train tickets from Simon's Town to Cape Town in advance online to secure the best rates and avoid long queues, especially during peak hours. Arriving early in Cape Town allows you to settle in and explore the city's vibrant atmosphere without stress.
Make this trip yours
Your dates, budget and interests, with opening hours for the days you visit.
Questions
- What should I see on my first day in Cape Town?
- This plan starts with Table Mountain, Greenmarket Square and Bo-Kaap Museum, close together so you spend the day exploring instead of travelling.
- Is 5 days enough for Cape Town?
- 5 days covers 19 places in this plan, one area of Cape Town per day. For more, see the 3-day plan.
- Where should I eat in Cape Town?
- Each evening ends near that day's sights: Mama Africa, The Codfather Seafood & Sushi, The Foodbarn, Harbour House Simon's Town and The Pot Luck Club.
- Can I change this itinerary?
- Yes. Plan Cape Town with TripPlano and set your own dates, budget and interests. You get opening hours for the days you visit, travel times between stops and a map, free for trips up to 3 days.