Cape Town Half Day City Tour
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the vibrant essence of Cape Town on a half-day city tour that includes iconic landmarks and a scenic cable car ride up Table Mountain. This informative journey visits historic sites like the Castle of Good Hope and the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, while offering insights into the city's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy air-conditioned comfort and a knowledgeable guide as you discover local gems and capture stunning photos. The tour concludes with a breathtaking ascent of Table Mountain, providing panoramic views of the city and coastline.
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours from 9:00 to 14:00
- Visit Cape Town’s top attractions, including the Castle of Good Hope and Bo-Kaap
- Enjoy a cable car ride to the summit of Table Mountain, with excluded price of admission
- Minimum of 2 participants required; children under 12 pay half price
Available options
Cape Town Half Day City Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Detailed itinerary
1
After pickup from your Cape Town accommodation, begin your journey along Adderley Street, where you’ll see monuments honoring Bartholomew Dias, Jan van Riebeeck, and Zackarias Waganaer Reservoir. Enjoy a short walking tour to learn about the history behind these prominent figures.
2
Stop 2
Explore one of South Africa’s oldest buildings, the Castle of Good Hope, which offers insight into 350 years of Cape history. Witness the Key Ceremony and the Cannon Firing, weather and schedule permitting.
Key Ceremony: Monday to Friday
Cannon Firing: Not on Sundays
3
En route through central Cape Town, pass by City Hall, where Nelson Mandela made his first public speech post-imprisonment. Along the way, your guide will also point out the Grand Parade, Slave Lodge, Company Gardens, and Parliament buildings on your way to Bo-Kaap.
4
Stop 4
Upon arrival in the historically colourful Bo-Kaap (formerly known as the Cape Malay Quarter), pause for a photo opportunity. Stay close to your guide and keep your belongings secure. You can also purchase Malay spices or taste local treats like samoosas, milk tart, and koeksisters (not included). Your guide will share stories about the area’s vibrant homes and cultural heritage.
5
Stop 5
From Bo-Kaap, continue to the Noon Gun, a time-honoured Cape Town tradition dating back to 1806, perched on the lower slopes of Signal Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of Table Bay, the city center, the Atlantic Ocean, Robben Island, and Table Mountain.
What's not included
Alcoholic Beverages
Cable Car tickets
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Cape Town
Cape Town is a stunning coastal city known for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cosmopolitan living, and historical significance.
Top Attractions
Table Mountain
Table Mountain is an iconic landmark and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It offers breathtaking views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline.
Nature
2-4 hours
Moderate (Cableway ticket: R380 return)
V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity, featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place to experience Cape Town's vibrant atmosphere.
Entertainment
Half day to full day
Free to explore, with varying costs for activities and dining
Robben Island
Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. It's a powerful reminder of South Africa's apartheid history.
Historical
3-4 hours
Moderate (Tour ticket: R500 including ferry)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken or lamb. It's a popular street food dish with Indian roots.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.
Cape Malay Curry
A flavorful curry made with spices, herbs, and often includes meat or vegetables. It's a staple of Cape Malay cuisine and is typically served with rice.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.
Biltong
A dried, cured meat similar to jerky, but with a unique South African flavor. It's a popular snack and can be found in various flavors and cuts.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Paragliding
Shark cage diving
Surfing
Mountain biking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Best Time to Visit
November to March
This is the summer season, characterized by warm, dry weather and long daylight hours. It's the peak tourist season, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Afrikaans
- Widely spoken: Xhosa, Zulu
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Cape Town is a generally safe city for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime is less common but can occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious with valuables in crowded areas
- • Use reputable transport services
Getting there
By air
- Cape Town International Airport • 20 km from city center
By train
Cape Town Station
By bus
Cape Town Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The MyCiTi Bus system is efficient and affordable, with dedicated bus lanes to avoid traffic. It's a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Cape Town City Centre
Camps Bay
Bo-Kaap
Day trips
Stellenbosch
50 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Stellenbosch is a charming university town in the heart of the Cape Winelands, known for its historic architecture, world-class wine estates, and vibrant student culture. It's a great place to explore South Africa's rich history and indulge in some of the country's best wines.
Hermanus
120 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Hermanus is a coastal town known for its stunning whale watching opportunities, beautiful beaches, and scenic coastal walks. It's a great place to escape the city and enjoy some of South Africa's most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope
60 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope are two of South Africa's most iconic natural landmarks, offering breathtaking views, scenic hikes, and a rich history. It's a great place to explore the country's diverse wildlife and experience the raw beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
Festivals
Cape Town International Jazz Festival • March (annual)
Cape Town Carnival • January (annual)
Cape Town Fashion Week • September (annual)
Pro tips
- Visit Table Mountain early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and strong winds
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the vibrant Bo-Kaap to the upscale Camps Bay
- Take a day trip to the Cape Winelands to sample some of South Africa's best wines
- Visit the V&A Waterfront for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
- Take a harbor cruise for stunning views of the city and Table Mountain
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
