1. V & A WATERFRONT

Famous for the hive of top restaurants located on a thriving working harbour with stunning views of Table Mountain. The atmosphere is unmatched, and there are plenty of things to see in do to keep you busy for several days. The Vitoria Wharf shopping mall provides cinemas and great entertainment, while craft markets display artworks to remember your trip to Africa. The aquarium, Mineral world, Gateway to Robben Island and Museum of Contemporary Art are all located within walking distance of each other.


Restaurants and craft shops line the working harbour

The bustling working harbour provides endless entertainment to restuaruant goers craft shoppers. Of course their are numerous tourist cruises available in ferries, l luxury charters, and even an pirate ship!

The Jolly Roger Pirate ship provides kids with a unique sailing experience. See the page ABOUT THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS in Cape Town during the holidays and weekends.

2. THE CLOCK TOWER

The clock tower is situated in the Vicotria and Alfred waterfront and is victorian-gothic in its style. It was built as the office for the port captain in the year 1882. In this picture it is painted yellow which was for the 2014 design Indaba held in Cape Town. Usually it is red - in fact the exact colour was carefully matched to samples remaining on the building from it orignal coat. The building was used by the Captain to overview the harbour and had a mechanism on the ground floor for measuring the tides. See CAPE DUTCH SOUTH AFRICAN HISTORY for more for the history of Cape Dutch architecture.

3. TABLE MOUNTAIN CABLEWAY

The cable car, photograph by Marietjie Vosloo.

Take a cable car to the top of this iconic flat mountain that has become the symbol of Cape Town. View the stunning city bowl, twelve apostles and Robben island from this breath-taking vantage point. There are also a number of hiking trails to the top of the mountain for the more adventurous.

Vistas of the Waterfront and Camps Bay are so be seen from the top of Table Mountain.

4. THE TWO OCEANS AQUARIUM

The aquarium is located in the V&A Waterfront.

No list of architecture attractions in Cape Town would be complete without Groot Constantia - one of the most magnificent and beautifully preserved Cape Dutch style buildings in South Africa This significant Cape Dutch Style building stands on a wine farm just on the South Side of Table mountain. The roof burnt down and the house was restored to more than its former glory in 1925. The Neoclassical gable style was originally built by Simon van der Stel in about the year 1685. A splendid variety of tropical fish is on display.



The enormous glass tunnels enable visitors to see the underwater world.

5. GROOT CONSTANTIA

No list of architecture attractions in Cape Town would be complete without Groot Constantia - one of the most magnificent and beautifully preserved Cape Dutch style buildings in South Africa This significant Cape Dutch Style building stands on a wine farm just on the South Side of Table mountain. The roof burnt down and the house was restored to more than its former glory in 1925. The Neoclassical gable style was originally built by Simon van der Stel in about the year 1685. See THIS LINK TO BUILT ATTRACTIONS for a list of the top man-made sightseeing attractions to visit.

He lived in it while acting as one of the first governers of the new Cape Colony. Stellenbosch and Simonberg are both named after him. This manor home is a stones throw away from the city centre and can easily be viewed on the same day as the Botanical gardens or the Rhodes monument which are nearby on the Southern slopes of Table Mountain.





(See more house types in SA).

9.SEAPOINT

The Seapoint promenade provides fantastic holiday vibes.


The three pools are what this place is most famous for.

Seapoint captures the sundrenched lifestyle with sparkling waters that is available to all at this vibrant seaside destination. The streets are lined with clulinary delights with tastes from around the world. This cosmopolitan district is one of the top places to see when you are in Cape Town.

6. MOUILLE POINT LIGHTHOUSE

Built in 1824 This notable historical building was the first operational lighthouse constructed in South Africa and remains in use today as a working lighthouse. It is located in Mouille Point which is very near to the Cape Town Stadium and a stone's throw away from the V & A waterfront. See CAPE DUTCH SOUTH AFRICAN HISTORY for more on the Cape Town architecture scene.


Mouille point provides fantastic views of Lion's Head.

The location of a children's playpark right next to the historic lighthouse, make this a stop with plenty to see. The Mouille Point park is one of the best places to take photos of Lion's Head Mountain - the icon peak next to Table Mountain. The shoreline is bustling with great reastaurants and bars, making this a popular place day and night.

8. KIRSTENBOSCH BOTANICAL GARDENS

The Cape floral Kingdom is preserved in this magnificent park at the foothills of the leeward side of Table mountain. During summer, live concerts on the lawns bring everyone together to enjoy the beauty of this paradise.







The nursery at Kirstenbosch provides plenty of indigenous and water-wise plants for you to purchase for your own garden. Plant Krantz Aloe, Cape Honesuckle and Pincushion proteas to ensure your garden thrives through the hot summers and flowers more than half the year to attract sunbirds, white-eyes and other beauctiful birds to your own piece of paradise.

10.THE COMPANY'S GARDEN

This beautiful park is located in the heart of the Cape Town CBD and also the historical core of the city, around which many of the buildings mentioned here can be seen, including the Parliament buildings, Tuynhuis, the Jewish museum, the Planetarium and the South African National Art Gallery. The sculpture shown here was unveiled in 1930 and commemorates soldiers who fought in Delville wood France and other battles of World War II. It features two male figures either side of a horse resting on eight classical style columns. Click on the link BEST ACTIVITIES IN CAPE TOWN for for a comprehensive list of things to do for the whole family especially on public holidays and weekends.

THE PARLIAMENT BUILDINGS-AT THE COMPANY'S GARDEN

The original building was completed in 1884, various additions and alterations have been sensibly built on to it since then. It is a working government building in which parliamentary sessions are frequently held. The neoclassical style building features red bricks and white plaster panelling. It is located next to the company gardens.

Try click on GLITZYMAGAZINE for more photos of iconic landmarks in the Mother City.

THE JEWISH MUSUEM - AT THE COMPANY'S GARDEN

Located in the Company gardens, the building is one of the numerous historical architecture attractions to see when visiting the gardens. During the year 2000 Nelson Mandela unveiled the musuem section that celebrates the lives and history of the Jewish people in South Africa. It is located in SA's first synogogue which was built in 1863.

ST GEORGE'S CATHEDRAL - AT THE COMPANY'S GARDEN

Located in the Company gardens, the building is one of the numerous historical architecture attractions to see when visiting the gardens. During the year 2000 Nelson Mandela unveiled the musuem section that celebrates the lives and history of the Jewish people in South Africa. It is located in SA's first synogogue which was built in 1863.

TUYNHUYS - AT THE COMPANY'S GARDEN

Originally built in 1682, Traditionally the presidents home while in Cape Town, it was built in 1682 and is a much loved and photographed architctural heritage of South Africa. It located very near to the houses of parliament next to the Company Gardens. Simon van der stel lived in this beautiful house while acting as one of the first governers of the new Cape Colony lived here. Stellenbosch and Simonberg are both named after him. This manor home is a stones throw away from the city centre and can easily be viewed on the same day as the Botanical gardens or the Rhodes monument which are nearby on the Southern slopes of Table Mountain.

THE SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL ART GALLERY - AT THE COMPANY'S GARDEN

Opened to the public in 1930, This beautiful building houses collections of paintings, and is well run by the Iziko museums of South Africa. Table view is visible in the background of this photogenic landmark. It was opened in 1930. It is one of the historical buildings located next to the Company Gardens.

11. THE CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE

The Castle of Good Hope is the first major building to have been erected by the settler's of the 1600's. The Khoisan refused to work for the settlers, so slaves were brought in from Malaysia. The complex history is interwoven with the stories of a melting pot of people brought together by increasing global trade and transport. It is now a declared National Monument and treausure to all people of the Rainbow Nation.

12.THE TOWN HALL

Located in the heart of the CBD near the Cape Town castle and the Grande Parade, this genuine limestone building was constructed in the early 1900's and remains useful today as a public building. The vibrant local goods market outside the town hall has become part of the imagery of this iconic landmark. Be sure to combine your photos shoot of this building with a visit to the Castle of Good Hope which is located just alongside it. Vist this page on the website on the highlighted link GLITZYMAGAZINE for more great itineries and day trips.

13. THE RHODES MEMORIAL

This style is loosely based on architecture from the town of Tuscany in Italy. The warm colours, red tiled pitch roof, and flexibility regarding columns, balconies and shutters make it an appealing domestic scale style.

The Rhodes Memorial is a combination of classical architecture consiting of two pediments supported by doric columns, and a stairway of 49 steps that is flanked by 8 lion statues. It was designed by Sir Herbert Baker who designed numerous buildings for Cecial John Rhodes in whose honour the memorial is built. Rhodes was a Prime Minister of the Cape for six years from 1890 to 1896. He is a significant historical figure and founder of the De Beers mining company which played a big part in shaping South Africa's history - for better or for worse. Rhodes also had Groote Schuur Estate built as well as the Rhodes Cape Dutch house at Boschendal Farm - both buildings influenced or designed by Sir Herbert Baker. The memorial is an important tourist attraction, not only for its historical significance, but also for the panoramic views of the Hottentot's Holland Mountains, Cape Flats, and Groote Schuur itself. It is also one of the few locations where the Atlantic and Indian oceans are visible from the same vantage point. The horse sculpture is a dynamic and beautiful artpiece worth seeing in its own right. The memorial was completed in the year 1912 ten year after the end of Rhodes' life (born 1853, died 1902) View the site GLITZYMAGAZINE for beautiful pictures of Cape Dutch gardens.

14.THE VICTORIA WHARF

This mall is located in the heart of the V&A Waterfront complex and contains everything from cinemas to craft markets. Shop for world class books, clothes and toys as well as locally produced quality gift items and souvenirs.


The Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre at the V&A Waterfront


The typical view from restaurants in the Victoria Wharf.


There is always something surprising at the mall - like this shark encounter!


The Victoria Wharf architecture combines a classy mix of heritage motifs with nautical-inspired roof structures.

THE PENINSULA

15. CAPE POINT LIGHTHOUSE

This beautiful lighthouse was built in 1914 - the year the first World War broke out. It is the most powerful in the coutry and is visible far off the shore.
Go to GLITZYMAGAZINE for more gardens and parks in Cape Town.

16. BOULDERS PENGUIN RESERVE

One of the last remaining penguin colonies of the Cape Peninsula is located just outside of Simonstown. Be sure to stop here on your tour of the Peninsula to see these gentle creatures - the African Penguin. The visitor's center explains what we can do to assist the survivial of this endangered species. Boardwalks guide you past the nesting areas while being sure not to disturb the animals.
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African penguins are the only species of penguin that breeds in Africa. These flightless,marine birds that grow to be about 60–70 cm tall and weigh 2–3 kg. This colony is one of only a few in the world, where African Penguins breed on land and not on an island. The site has become famous and a popular international tourist destination. The other important site is located at Kleinmond, also in the Western Cape.

17. ST. JAMES CHANGE HOUSES

The colourful changerooms of St.James have become an iconic postcard image.

This iconic scene is located at St. James beach on the peninsula, near to Fish Hoek. The colourful change rooms have been rebuilt in recent times, and the beach is as popular as ever. Walk a little north or south along the beach for a quieter area. The St James catwalk enables you to walk from St. James all the way to Muizenberg Beach.
Go to GLITZYMAGAZINE for more gardens and parks in Cape Town.

18. HOUT BAY

The colourful working harbour is constantly changing.

No trip to Cape Town is complete without heading a little South down the Peninsula, to the vibrant fishing town of Hout Bay. The Bay overlooks views of the iconic outcrop called "The Sentinel". Choose from a variety of restaurants and bars within a stones throw of the Harbour. Hout Bay is also the starting place of the famous Chapmans Peak drive - a scenic route not to be missed. Visit World of Birds, to see not only birds, but monkeys and many other small animals.
The Sentinel is a tall outcrop - the symbol of Hout Bay.
See the unique birds of South Africa at World of Birds.

19. KALK BAY

The Brass Bell Restaurant located at Kalk Bay, photo By Alan Perring.

With unmatched maritime atmosphere, the coastal town of Kalk Bay is located half an hour away from Cape Town central. The ships, tidal pool and popular beach, are just some of the things to see in this beauticul place.
Not far from Kalk Bay lies the neighbouring beach of Fish Hoek. The annual Red Bull Triathlon is a popular event that take place at this location.

ENTERTAINMENT CENTRES

20.CANAL WALK

The canals are flowing with water and are the life-blood of the centre. Freedom Adventure Park is located in the Food Court

This vast shopping complex is beautifully designed with a stunnig arched steel structure that is divided into two segments - one light and airy, and the other painted green and remininscent of an 1800's classy train station. The enormous food court lies at the centre of the Mall and leads out onto the open canal area with large trees and vast lawns dotted with interesting architectural features. The Freedom Adventure Park is a large indoor fun zone for children of all ages, and contains giant slides, ball parks, and trampolines. Visit the GoKarting race arena in the mezzanine parking area for an exciting kids activity.

21.GRAND WEST

Grand West takes the form of a magnificent french chateaux.

The manicured gardens contain bright flowers and trimmed hedges.

The food court is the heart of the complex

Originally centering on a casino, the ancilliary features have come to make Grand West a vast year-round family entertainment centre. The ice-rink, lazer zone, ten pin bowling and cinema, together create a wide variety of activities that are suitable during the hot summer months as well as the rainy winters. Centrally located and providing ample parking, special events, concerts and exhibitions continue to draw crowds into an otherwise unknown part of greater Cape Town. Choose from a number of eateries and restaurants that are well-priced and make this a great venue for enjoying holidays and weekends.

Enjoying a milk shake in the food court.

The "Ice Station" is the only ice rink in Cape Town.

BEACHES

22.BLUOUBERG BEACH

The perfect view of Table Mountain.

Blouberg beach is 20 minutes drive from centre of the city, and it well worth the trip, as the enspoilt white sands and turquise waters provide an idyllic foreground to your postcard perfect photographs of Table Mountain! This is the classic angle to view this wonder of the world, and no trip to Cape Town is complete without a pilgrimage to this fabulous beach. For the active, there are plenty of kite surfing shops lining the beach that can rent equipement. The water is cold due to the Atlantic currents, so be sure to wear a wet-suite.

23.CAMPS BAY AND MAIDEN'S COVE

The perfect view of Table Mountain.

Situated next to each other - Camps Bay and Maidens cove are delightful parts of the shoreline very near to the city centre. Slightly easier to find parking than at Clifton and Bantry Bay, this is the holiday maker's go to place for palm trees, clean sand, and azure waves. Choose from a variety of eateries that line the vibrant beach road. Maiden's cove is within walking distance and is a wondrful picnic and braai spot, dotted with large boulders connected by grassy lawns. The tidal pool provides a more sheltered place to cool of by having a swim.


The tidal pool at Maiden's Cove. The twelve apostles are rocky outcrops along the road from Camps Bay to Hout Bay.

24. BANTRY BAY

Bantry Bay.

The combination of holiday apratments, rocky shore, deep blue waters and mountain backdrop, create iconic scenes. Be prepared to park far away and walk, as there is not much parking, especially during peak seasons.

Lions Head standing guard over the spectacular shoreline.

25. CLIFTON

Clifton consists of four beaches.

These pristine beaches are difficult to reach from long stairways from a road with little parking. Be prepared to park far away especially during peak seasons. You will be rewarded with spectacular scenery and pristine beaches. There are four beaches seperated by rocky outcrops, known as Clifton 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Lions Head standing guard over the spectacular shoreline.

THE WINELANDS

26.THE HUGUENOT MONUMENT

Inaugurated in the year 1948 the monument was built with a musuem adjacent to it celebrating the lives of the French settlers who developed the Franschoek valley in the 1600's and 1700's after the initial Cape Colony was set up. The design by J.C Jongens in 1945 represents the trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit... represented by three beautiful equally tall arches. It is an important tourist attraction in the greater Cape Town area. Click on FRANSCHHOEK HISTORICAL BUILDING ITINERARY for a great list of historical attractions in Franschhoek and the Winelands.

MAP OF FRANSCHHOEK LANDMARKS

For more information on the nearby Winelands town of Franschhoek, click on the linlk to PAGE ON FRANSCHHOEK SIGHTSEEING ITINERARY which has a map and all the most important landmarks for tourists.
Stellenbosch to Franschhoek Itinerary.

27. BEADED STATUE OF NELSON MANDELA

The world renowned leader of Peace and first Democraticly elected president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela is paid tribute to in this beautiful beadwork scuplture located at Warwick Wine Estate in Stellenbosch. Visit the Restaurant and Wine Tasting Centre at Warwick Wine Farm.

28. ZEVENWACHT

The manor home at Zevenwacht wine farm is one of the best preserved examples of the Cape Dutch style. Enjoy a wonderful meal at the restaurant and get a chance to enjoy the interior of one of these magnificent gems from the past. Overlooking a lake, the scenery is exquisite and you can also order a picnic basket and play on the jungle gyms if you choose.

29. BABYLONSTOREN ORGANIC GARDENS

Located in Franschhoek, Babylonstoren Organic Gardens have been grown around a historic Cape Dutch Manor house. With multiple habitats and plant types, the center is an important educational and horitcultar center in the Western Cape. The magnificent views of Simonberg Mountain creat stunning natural scenes. A restaurant and bakery serve delicious food made with local produce grown on the farm. A small petting zoo adds interest for children, along with a fish tank and water fountain. This is an all day outing not to be missed, and has something for everyone.

30. VERGELEGEN WINE FARM

At Vergelgen Wine farm there is a cluster ofhistorical Cape Dutch Architecture buildings including a library and a homestead that contains a museum furnished according to the period. Vast gardens include and octoganal garden and a row of Camphor trees that is more than 300 years old. The stable's restaurant and wine tasting centre provides gourmet cooking and wine tasting at reasonable price, while the children's playpark will delight the little memebers of the family.
Large 300 year old Camphor trees guard the front gable of the homestead.


Colourful blossoms welcom visitors to the Wine Tasting Centre

The Estate features several gardens containing different plant groups.


Interested in early-learning? Visit RAINBOWLEARNER for a vibrant new range of early readers and educational workbooks.

Click on CAPE TOWN SIGHTSEEING ITINERARY for more sightseeing tourist attractions in and around Cape Town.

MORE WEEKEND ACTIVITIES WITH KIDS >