With world-class restaurants and vibey bars dotted all over the city, Cape Town is the ideal destination for urban foodies and party animals of all tastes. After all, it was recently voted the third-best food city in the world by the discerning readers of Condé Nast Traveller Magazine.
Wake up to a foodie weekend in Cape Town
Foodies will love the fine dining experiences at the Tasting Room at Le Quartier Francais, led by award-winning chef Margot Janse. The sophisticated, authentic African-inspired menu will tantalise the taste buds and leave a lasting impression on your gastronomic memory.
Speaking of authentic experiences, a Cape Malay cooking class in the historical Bo Kaap neighbourhood will teach you about the alchemy of flavours and textures combined in heirloom recipes passed down the generations of local favourite Cass Abrahams. You’ll have a chance to taste the results, too.
Jason Bakery is another firm city favourite, located on Bree Street, which is becoming a notable food destination for locals and visitors alike. Their pastries, freshly baked breads and sandwiches give you delicious sustenance for a busy day of sightseeing elsewhere.
If you’re looking for home-made toast smothered in thick mushrooms and smoky pancetta, among other delectables, then try your luck at the Pot Luck Club. Established by world-renowned chef Dale Luke-Roberts, this is the perfect place for a Sunday brunch with mouth-watering creative recipes and views all the way across the city.
Dinner is served at HQ, whose simple menu offers you a fine steak cooked to your preference and chips or a salad, before turning the tables over to the resident DJ for regular Friday night After Dark events.
Once you’ve eaten your fill, get your dancing shoes on and head into the night for music from brilliant DJs, ocean-front vibes and buzzing urban energy. Start the night with a beach-front sundowner from the chic and shimmering Shimmy Beach Club.
For something a little more hard-core, move on to Aces ‘n Spades, located in a alley off the party centre of Long Street. This is where rock and roll meets grunge, with hipster-chic decor and live music on certain nights. Add craft beer to the mix and you’ll come up trumps.
You’ll also find tables of another kind at GrandWest Casino which combines over 75 gaming tables and slot machines with a year-round calendar of outstanding acts from the biggest names in showbiz.
Whatever you want, whoever you are, wake up to the weekend in Cape Town. Find the best package deals including return flights in economy from Joburg, Durban or Namibia (airline levy incl.), 2 nights in a hotel and 2 days car rental. Each package has unique experiences and savings when you book with kulula and Cape Town Tourism. To book: Call 0861 585 852 (outside RSA: +27119210110)
More great things to do in Cape Town
Memories are made with families and friends. There’s something very special about being able to say “Remember when…” with those you love. It’s those moments that fill the family photo album and Facebook page, shared with others all around the world. All you need is a camera or phone, a picturesque destination and each other. You bring the phone and the family: Cape Town will provide the backdrop.
Also read: More great things to do in Cape Town this weekend
There are few more spectacular sights than a whale breaching into the deep blue sea. Hermanus is a whale-watcher’s paradise, just a few hours’ drive from Cape Town. It’s calving season there, so you can expect to see the magnificent creatures playing in the water all along the False Bay coast.
Cape Point is the Southern-most point of Africa. Take a brisk walk or catch the funicular railway to the very edge of the continent at the Cape Point Nature Reserve. The kids will love the shipwreck trail, too, where they’ll find the remains of some of the 26 ships that came to a watery end on the shores.
If you want to get up close and personal with marine life, then head over to the Two Oceans Aquarium. It’s an underwater wonder-world full of mysterious and beautiful sea creatures. Watch sharks come in for lunch, and feel the activity in the Touch Pool. Many scheduled activities will also keep kids of all ages occupied and enthralled excited for hours.
For a more sedate but no less spectacular experience, take a City Sightseeing Bus tour around the peninsula, hopping on and hopping off as you go to experience many sights and sounds of the city. Be sure to hop off at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens for a breathtakingly beautiful walk along the Boomslang. It’s a 130-metre walkway above the canopy of dense trees in the thick of the gardens. The gardens are spectacular all year round, but winter is the best time to be there, when the fynbos is in full bloom and indigenous vegetation is showing its true, beautiful colours.
But remember: even if you’re travelling solo, playing with friends or sparking a new romance, Cape Town’s got everything for you too. Whether you’re into food or family; arts or adventure; culture or creativity; romance or retail therapy; gay-friendly breaks or golfing getaways, there’s something for everyone in Cape Town this weekend. Wake up to a weekend of everything you love. After all, it’s the best way to beat the Monday blues.
Find the best package deals including return flights in economy from Joburg, Durban or Namibia (airline levy included), two nights in a hotel and two days’ car rental. Each package has unique experiences and savings when you book with kulula and Cape Town Tourism. To book, call 0861585852 (outside RSA: +27119210110).
Wake up to sports and culture in Cape Town
Cape Town is fast becoming a hub for cutting edge art and creativity. Art fairs, design festivals and leading art galleries are all setting the scene for the Mother City’s growing reputation as a creative capital.
If you time it right, you’ll be able to experience the First Thursdays phenomenon, when art galleries, shops and restaurants in the city centre stay open until late on the first Thursday of every month. That’s the best way to get a broad experience of the Cape Town art scene in one evening!
But if you only have a weekend to spare, there’s plenty to do – it’ll just take some exploring on your own. From Woodstock’s street art tours to national collections at the Iziko National Gallery and art classes in between, you’ll find what you need to absorb the incredible mix of artistic talent that exists at the tip of Africa.
Sport-lovers, don’t despair, there’s plenty for you to do too! The Sea Point promenade is a popular place for an early morning run or cycle. Fill your lungs with fresh sea air as dawn breaks, with the majestic coastline opening up ahead of you. You’ll also find great restaurants along the way waiting to serve your carb cravings at the end of the route.
Cyclists and trail runners can discover gorgeous pathways on the mountain or through forests. And no trip to Cape Town is complete without a hike up Lion’s Head. The 1.5 hour hike gives you 360˚ panoramic views for as far as the eye can see.
The Mother City is also perfect for a golfing getaway. From two-day golf and safari packages with Ozzie’s Golf Guides, to perfectly manicured greens at Atlantic Beach and Milnerton Golf Clubs, you’ll be able to work on your handicap in gorgeous surroundings. And Durbanville Hills Wine Estate’s biltong and wine pairing forms an ideal 19th hole once the nine-irons have done their job for the day.
Durbanville Hills.
Whether you’re into food or family; arts or adventure; culture or creativity; romance or retail therapy; gay-friendly breaks or golfing getaways, there’s something for everyone in Cape Town this weekend. Wake up to a weekend of everything you love. After all, it’s the best way to beat the Monday blues.
Find the best package deals including return flights in economy from Joburg, Durban or Namibia (airline levy included), 2 nights in a hotel and 2 days car rental. Each package has unique experiences and savings when you book with kulula and Cape Town Tourism. To book: Call 0861585852 (outside RSA: +27119210110).
Wake up to everything in Cape Town
You may not love mornings, but we’re pretty sure you love weekends. And a weekend in Cape Town is the best way to beat the Monday blues. Whoever you are, whatever you love, the Mother City has something for everyone.
Adventure junkies can find all the action they need. Lovers can rekindle their romance. Families can enjoy special time together. And foodies can have their fill of world-class wines and outstanding cuisine. Lovers of luxury and big spenders will also be spoiled for choice. But, as the old advertising adage goes, that’s not all.
The city is oozing with culture and creativity; shopping and shows; adventure and art; luxury experiences and vintage finds, and more. It’s also the perfect place for high-octane boys’ adventures; and indulgent relaxation for the girls.
Get your blood pumping with an adrenalin-fuelled adventure weekend of hikes up Lion’s Head, abseiling down Table Mountain, skimming the waves in surfing lessons, diving with the mighty great white shark, zip lining across tree canopies and paragliding off mountain tops.
Explore Cape Town’s restaurant scene and find out why the city is fast gaining a reputation as one of the world’s foodie capitals. Afterwards, dance off those calories in vibey clubs and pubs around the city. Many venues are gay-friendly, too, so you’ll have a chance to soak up the LGBTQ vibe at places locals love to go.
If you need some retail therapy, get your glam on at high-end boutiques and fashion showrooms; or blend in with the beautiful people at fashion shows and designer events. But it’s not all high-end glitz. You’ll also find vintage gems and hand-crafted trinkets at markets and independent stores around the city centre and beyond.
For quality family time, kids of all ages will love the variety of activities available, including go-karting, zip lining, roller coasters and pirate boat adventures, followed by food and drink at many family-friendly restaurants.
Culture vultures will also find their zone, with street art and other art tours, art galleries, design centres and design festivals. Don’t miss the spectacular art of the natural world at the world-famous Kirstenbosch Gardens, too.
And for star-struck lovers, there are myriad ways to keep the romance alive. Lose yourself in front of warm fires, breath-taking sunsets and intimate spa experiences in gorgeous surroundings.
Wake up to whatever you want to do this weekend. Wake up to the weekend in Cape Town. Head over to helloweekend.capetown to find cost-effective deals for unique experiences throughout the year. Package deals include return flights in economy from Joburg, Durban or Namibia (airline levy incl.), two nights in a hotel and two days car rental. Book with kulula and Cape Town Tourism. To book: Call 0861585852 (outside RSA: +27119210110).
Whether you’re into food or family; arts or adventure; culture or creativity; romance or retail therapy; gay-friendly breaks or golfing getaways, there’s something for everyone in Cape Town this weekend. Tell us what you love and stand a chance to win your favourite weekend package. Terms and conditions apply.
Wake up to a pink weekend in Cape Town from R3280
As the gay capital of South Africa, Cape Town offers everything for LGBT visitors looking for warm hospitality, pumping night life and indulgent relaxation. The city is full of gay-friendly bars, restaurants, spas, boutiques, hotels and guest houses ready to welcome visitors for a weekend or more in the Mother City.
1. Shop ’til you drop at the Cape Quarter
The quirky De Waterkant district is the ideal starting point. Its cobbled streets are lined with quaint cottages interspersed with fabulous night-spots and high quality retail outlets. Shop till you drop at the Cape Quarter, an emporium of designer luxury, rare antiques, sought-after collectables and delectable food on offer from more than 100 stores and restaurants.
2. Enjoy dinner and a show at the Rockwell Theatre
Indulge your culture vulture at the Rockwell Theatre in Green Point. The venue is well-known for its pulsating theatrical shows and world-class comedy performances by talented artists. Don’t miss Shiza iKapa, the home-grown in-house music and dance production, full of soulful renditions of Mzansi classics.
3. Have a bite at Café Manhattan
Café Manhattan is a particular favourite for a quick meal, cheeky afternoon cocktail or late night rendezvous. The well-known haunt is the longest-standing venue in the area, and a popular stop for locals seeking the sophistication that the Madame Zingara group does so well.
4. Get pampered at the Glasshouse Spa
If you’re looking for a bit of down-time, head to the Glasshouse Spa for some decadent pampering. This men’s only spa offers all the treatments you need to feel rejuvenated and impeccably groomed.
5. Take a sunset cruise with Cruise IQ
This two-hour sunset cruise leaves from the V&A Waterfront. The Cruise IQ team keep you warm, comfortable and safe on their 47-foot catamaran as you sip a glass of bubbly from the deck while watching the sun slide into the sea in the distant horizon.
6. Explore the winelands with Gay Tours
If you’re in the mood for more wine, book a tour with Gay Tours whose bespoke winelands tours take you through intimate wine cellars and introduce you to wines made by some of the world’s most famous wine-makers.
Whether you’re tripping the light fantastic with friends or romancing a lover, wake up to pink this weekend. Packages start from R3280 per person sharing, including return flights in economy from Joburg (airline levy included), two nights hotel accommodation and two days car rental. Each weekend package has unique experiences and savings when you book with kulula and Cape Town Tourism.
Visit helloweekend.capetown to book.
Wake up to an adventure weekend from R2750
Get your blood pumping with a weekend of high adventure in Cape Town. From soaring mountain tops to the depths of the ocean, if you’re an adrenaline junkie, we’ve got the right package for you. Leap into a tandem paraglide off Signal Hill. Skim the waves in the wind and go kite surfing at Blouberg. Or climb aboard for a day of deep sea fishing out of Simon’s Town. Choose that and so much more to do if you’re looking for more ideas to get your pulse racing. Book your unforgettable weekend of thrilling, high-energy action today.
1. Paraglide with Cape Town Tandem Paragliding
Play on the thermals to get a spectacular bird’s eye view of Cape Town. After a quick run up and a leap from Signal Hill, you’re floating high above the world, watching the waves crash on the promenade below.
2. Kitesurf with Best Kiteboarding Africa
Fly with the wind and conquer the famous Blouberg breakers in a three-hour kite surfing lesson on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
3. Deep-sea fishing with Big Blue Charters
Cast your line from the boat or the reef for the ultimate game fishing experience, brought to you by the company with a record-breaking catch rate.
Wake up to a Cape Town family weekend from R2750
Are you a family that loves fun and adventure? Then we’ve got the weekend for you! From side-splitting laughs, to zipping along a forest canopy, this Cape Town weekend has it all. Whether you’re a big or a little kid, you won’t know the difference when you’re sailing on an authentic pirate boat. Say, “Ahoy, matey!” to a family holiday we guarantee will be one of your best yet.
1. The Jive Funny Festival
Let’s start with humour. The annual Jive Funny Festival takes away your winter blues and replaces them with side-splitting laughs. A daily line-up that runs for four weeks, the festival includes stand-up, group performances and hilarious musical acts. The highlight is the home-grown funny-makers, but there are also some well-known international names. The festival is probably not ideal for the little ones, but if you’re a family with teenagers 16+ it’s well worth a visit.
2. SA Forest Adventures
And now for something a little more adventurous. Dare to take the leap and experience the thrill of zipping high above the ground with epic views of the Constantia Valley. SA Forest Adventures boasts an awesome aerial experience that measures in as one of Africa’s longest rides. The longest line is 500 meters in length, and runs as high as 155 meters above the tree canopy, giving you sights – and an adrenaline rush – like you’ve never had before.
3. Kenilworth Karting
While in the area, South Africa’s best indoor race track is located at Kenilworth Karting in Claremont. The mini-replica of the famous Killarney race track runs a full 310 meters of high-speed fun. The whole family can feel the wind in their hair with the two-seater and junior cart options. Choose from 10 to 40 lap race packages and you can fill your need for speed in a thrilling afternoon.
4. The Jolly Roger Pirate Ship
Then there’s the famous Jolly Roger – the only authentic Pirate Ship in South Africa, which sails daily from Quay 5 at the V&A Waterfront. If the crew and deck don’t make you feel like you’re on the real thing, the interactive mid-sail pirate show certainly will. With cruises in the morning, afternoon and during sunset, there’s a time for everyone in the family to enjoy this trip.
5. Café Paradiso
To fill tummies big and small, Café Paradiso makes lunchtime fun for everyone with their kids cooking programme. While parents enjoy the quaint and cosy café, the little ones get to go behind the scenes and join the chef. In the kitchen, they can build their own cupcake, gingerbread man or pizza to take back to the family. If the weather allows, enjoy the menu of comfort food and local wines in the garden. Sounds good?
Wake up to a foodie weekend from R2750
True foodies appreciate cuisine from across the globe and Cape Town is a hub of international flavour. Discover smells and spices that will dazzle your taste buds, starting with the iconic Cape Malay cuisine. After discovering the local take on traditional foods, find more things to do in Cape Town with an authentic taste of India and the Middle East, then let an Italian cook teach you her craft. Of course, no food experience is complete without a chocolate treat or a proper wine tasting. A weekend in Cape Town has all this and more!
1. Cape Malay cuisine
Cape Malay cuisine is the authentic flavour of Cape Town, tracing back to South Africa’s earliest days. Known for its careful blend of spices – the most important of which is turmeric – it’s a distinctive taste served at its very best at Bo-Kaap Kombuis restaurant. The aromas will draw you in from the moment you enter, tempting you with dishes of boboti, sosati and curry. The ambiance is as warm as the food and the service. Plus, its location near Signal Hill offers gorgeous views of the Mother City’s attractions.
Photo by Andrew Brauteseth.
2. An Italian cooking adventure
Next up, join Italian-born chef Enrica Rocca in her Cape Town kitchen as she takes you on a personal Italian cooking adventure, including guided wine tasting. She’ll take you to various wine estates before ending with local delicacies at Constantia Glen Estate. Then, it’s back to her kitchen, where you will learn how to cook an Italian banquet. You’re guaranteed to make friends on this day-trip, as much as you’ll learn valuable lessons from a real Italian chef.
3. Durbanville wines
And now for a trip to Durbanville. Just 20 minutes outside of the city centre, Durbanville Wine Valley has a rich history and an emphasis on quality Sauvignons. Enjoy lunch at Durbanville Hills or Signal Gun, where you can have a picnic delivered from Durbanville Hills Estate Valley. If you’re looking for something different, stop into the estate restaurant for food and wine pairing. Families should visit kid-friendly Nitida Cellars, which has small game and ostrich for children to ogle, and a farmer’s market.
4. Traditional African dining
Back in town, there is arguably nowhere in Cape Town more traditionally African than the Africa Café in Shortmarket Street. Born out of passion and creativity, it’s easily up there as one of Cape Town’s first African restaurants. Feast at a communal table and enjoy a magical taste journey through African tapas while making friends with tourists from all over the world. More intimate dining for two is also available, but all tables are treated to live entertainment, warm hospitality and colourful décor.
Adventurous winter weekends in Cape Town
The weather might be colder, but that doesn’t mean the adrenalin junkie has to hibernate. There are a ton of pulse-quickening experiences to be had all year round in the Mother City, every weekend, from paragliding and hiking to deep sea fishing and helicopter missions.
1. Paragliding
With paragliding, you’ll take flight off Signal Hill where you can enjoy a bird’s eye-view of the city and Atlantic Seaboard for anything from 5 to 30 minutes. And here’s a secret – the best time for this is from May to July when the winds are calmer and the warm airstreams will keep you in the air for longer. Unforgettable and breathtaking!
2. Fishing
A keen fisherman? Big Blue Sport Fishing Charters offers the ultimate in big game fishing. Hook yellowfin and longfin tuna or opt for in-shore game and reef fishing, all out of the Simon’s Town harbour. With experienced crews and skippers, you’ll engage with the richest fishing grounds in the world and may even add to their record breaking hauls. Big Blue Charters has the best catch rate in Simon’s Town, with their biggest yellowfin tuna for the season weighing in at 94kg.
3. Helicopter rides
For the ultimate adrenalin rush, a trip with Cape Town Huey Helicopter will make you feel like you’re on a real-life chopper mission. Experience the thrill of low-level flying and sharp manoeuvring as pilots simulate a flight through a combat zone. With doors kept in open position for the flight, the 30-minute trip is sure to deliver the most unforgettable and exhilarating Cape Town experience you’ve ever had.
4. Hiking and climbing
If you prefer adventure on terra firma, there’s no better time than the cooler winter months to climb the iconic Table Mountain. This is the perfect opportunity to get up close to the mountain’s real beauty. There are various routes up the mountain that are all free to visitors. Platteklip Gorge is one of the most popular, and suitable for various fitness levels. Remember to pack a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water, and why not reward yourself with breakfast at the café on the top before taking the cableway back down.
This winter, wake up to weekends in Cape Town from only R2750 per person sharing, including return flights from Joburg and Durban, two nights accommodation and two days car rental. Each weekend package has unique experiences and savings when you book with kulula and Cape Town Tourism.
Visit helloweekend.capetown to book.
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