The Finest 5 Day Cape Town Itinerary

Have you been captivated by the scenic beauty of Cape Town and thinking about making a trip? Here is the finest 5 Day Cape Town Itinerary that covers all the best places of the magnificent city. 

5 Day Cape Town Itinerary

Cape Town is a vibrant and diverse city located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Known for its breath-taking natural beauty, Cape Town has some incredible landscapes – beautiful beaches, seaside promenades, gorgeous sunsets and mountains. It also has a vivacious cultural scene with a thriving arts and music community. Cape Town is a lively cosmopolitan city with great restaurants and locally produced wine. If you’re looking for a relaxed holiday without any inter-city travel, 5 days in Cape Town is the perfect solution.

Our goal at Wander Smartly is to make your travels smarter and help you have the best experience on your trips. From my own experience of visiting Cape Town and falling head over heels in love with the city, I share the perfect way to explore this gem of a place. Cape Town is among the most beautiful cities in the world, and among the best travel destinations on the planet.

Best Time to Travel

Cape Town can be visited anytime of the year. To enjoy great weather, fewer crowds and the best experience, visit Cape Town between the months of March to May or September to November.

Where to Stay in Cape Town

Camps Bay is a picturesque suburb located on the Atlantic Seaboard of Cape Town, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and upscale lifestyle. Nestled between the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Camps Bay offers a breath-taking setting that makes it the perfect location for your stay in Cape Town.

The streets in Camps Bay are lined with stylish bars, cafes, and shops, making it a hub of activity throughout the day and night. Located close to the city center, Camps Bay provides easy access to the attractions of Cape Town. It is also known for its spectacular sunsets. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky comes alive with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a mesmerizing display.

Ocean View House in Camps Bay is the perfect property to stay at. The rooms are spacious and come with either a terrace or a balcony overlooking the ocean and the surrounding mountains. It has two swimming pools, offers a fabulous breakfast and is great value for your money. Book your stay at this property for all 5 days of your stay in Cape Town. The beach is at close proximity, and you have access to some of the best restaurants in the city at a short walking distance.

If this property is unavailable on the dates of your stay, South Beach Camps Bay Boutique Hotel is a good alternative, similar to Ocean View House.

5 Day Cape Town Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Cape Town and Explore Camps Bay

Cape Town is well connected by flight to major destinations in the world. Arrive in the city and check-in to your hotel. Get some rest from the flight and head out on foot to explore Camps Bay in the evening. Make sure to catch the glorious sunset by the ocean at Camps Bay Beach.

Camps Bay Beach, Cape Town
Camps Bay Beach, Cape Town

Whether it’s lounging on the beach, enjoying water activities, savoring gourmet cuisine, or simply taking in the stunning surroundings, Camps Bay offers a memorable experience for you with a blend of relaxation and sophistication. Enjoy the beachfront vibe and grab dinner at any of the restaurants nearby.

Day 2:  Explore the Iconic Table Mountain & Visit V&A Waterfront

Get some breakfast and head over to see the Table Mountain. This is an iconic landmark and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. It gets its name from its flat-topped shape, which resembles a table, and stretches approximately 3 kilometers (1.86 miles) from end to end. It stands at an impressive height of 1,085 meters (3,558 feet) above sea level and dominates the city skyline, serving as a symbol of Cape Town.

Table Mountain, Cape Town
Table Mountain, Cape Town

Take the aerial cableway to reach to the top of the mountain, enjoying the views as you go by. Once atop the Table Mountain, you will be greeted with awe-inspiring vistas that stretch for miles. On clear days, the views extend to the Atlantic Ocean, Robben Island, the Cape Peninsula, and the rugged Twelve Apostles Mountain Range. The summit also offers various walking trails, picnic spots, and lookout points, allowing you to explore and appreciate the natural beauty at your own pace.

It would be wise to book your tickets online in advance. It is quite normal to see people wait in queues for the cable ride, you can purchase the fast-track ticket and skip queues to avoid waiting in line. The ride doesn’t operate on bad weather days and your ticket will be valid for 7 days from the chosen date. This is, however, a must-do experience in Cape Town, so keep your plan a bit flexible so as to ensure a visit to the Table Mountain.

In the late afternoon, head over to V&A Waterfront. The name “V&A” stands for Victoria & Alfred, referencing the historical connection to Queen Victoria and her second son, Prince Alfred. The area was originally a harbor and port, and over time, it has transformed into a vibrant waterfront precinct that seamlessly blends culture, shopping, dining, entertainment, and stunning ocean views.

The waterfront promenade stretches for several kilometers, offering a scenic pathway for leisurely walks and cycling, with majestic views of the ocean and the city. Enjoy your evening on the lively promenade, gazing at the view, shopping and enjoying culinary delights.

Day 3: Visit the Cape of Good Hope, Hout Bay, Boulders’ Beach Among Other Places

This promises to be a wonderful day as you explore the natural oceanic beauty of Cape Town. This small group tour takes you on a guided trip to all the iconic sites around Cape Town and will pick you up from your hotel. Taking a small group tour is the most efficient and comfortable way to explore these must-see sites in Cape Town in just a day.

Among many other places, you’d be visiting Hout Bay, hopping on a boat ride and checking out seals in their natural habitat.

Hout Bay
Hout Bay

Chapman’s Peak Drive is a breath-taking coastal road that winds along the Atlantic coastline of the Cape Peninsula. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and panoramic views, it is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world.

Chapman’s Peak Drive is an engineering marvel, with its curves and bends carefully designed to blend harmoniously with the natural landscape. You would be halting at numerous viewpoints to admire the scenery and capture memorable photographs.

View Along Chapman's Peak Drive
View Along Chapman’s Peak Drive

The Cape of Good Hope marks the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Indian Ocean, and the surrounding area is known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches and rugged coastline.

Cape of Good Hope, South Africa
Cape of Good Hope, South Africa

The Boulders Beach Penguin Colony is a unique attraction known for its charming colony of African Penguins. Drown in a wave of serotonin as you observe these delightful creatures in their natural habitat.

Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

Muizenberg Beach is a picturesque and vibrant beach known for its colorful beach huts, making it quite an instagrammable point. Be sure to click some great pictures with the ocean and the colorful huts.

Muizenberg Beach
Muizenberg Beach

Day 4: Hike Along Lion’s Head and Tour the Vineyards of Stellenbosch

Begin the day today with a guided hike along Lion’s Head at sunrise. Lion’s Head is a prominent mountain peak in Cape Town, part of the Table Mountain National Park and forms an integral part of the city’s iconic skyline. It offers breath-taking panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding landscapes.

The name “Lion’s Head” is derived from the mountain’s distinct shape, which resembles the head and mane of a lion when viewed from certain angles. Hiking up Lion’s Head is a rewarding and exhilarating experience, a must-do activity in your visit to Cape Town. Taking this guided-tour makes your hike safe, and lets you click amazing snaps at the most appropriate stops.

Lion's Head, Cape Town
Lion’s Head, Cape Town

You can request a pick-up from your hotel. This hike can be done at sunset as well; however, I’d recommend doing it in the morning so that you can visit the famous vineyards of South Africa later today.

In the afternoon, enjoy a four-hour wine and cheese tasting tour today at Stellenbosch, one of the oldest and most prestigious wine regions in South Africa, known for its scenic landscapes, historic vineyards, and exceptional wines.

The Vineyards of Stellenbosch
The Vineyards of Stellenbosch

The town of Stellenbosch serves as the heart of the Winelands. It is a charming and picturesque town with oak-lined streets, Cape Dutch architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere. Stellenbosch boasts of a diverse range of wine varieties, including internationally acclaimed wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, and Chardonnay, making it a paradise for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs.

Day 5: Depart Back Home

After a mesmerizing holiday in the beautiful city of Cape Town, head back home with a smile on your face and memories sweet as sugar.

Local Food

Cape Town offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene with a wide range of local foods to try. Here are some must-try dishes and local delicacies when visiting Cape Town:

  • Cape Malay Curry: Cape Malay cuisine is a fusion of Indonesian, Indian, and African flavors. Cape Malay curry is a fragrant and mildly spicy curry dish made with a blend of aromatic spices and served with rice, sambals, and roti.
  • Bobotie: Bobotie is a traditional South African dish with Cape Malay influences. It consists of spiced minced meat, usually beef or lamb, mixed with raisins, breadcrumbs, and an egg-based topping.
  • Gatsby: The Gatsby is a popular street food sandwich in Cape Town. It typically features a long roll stuffed with fillings like chips, meat, cheese, and various sauces. The Gatsby is known for its generous portions and is perfect for sharing.
  • Cape Malay Koeksisters: Koeksisters are a sweet treat enjoyed in South Africa. The Cape Malay version has the dough infused with fragrant spices like cinnamon, aniseed, and cardamom.
  • Snoek Braai: Snoek is a type of fish found in the waters around Cape Town. It is a local favorite, and a popular way to prepare it is by barbecuing it over an open flame.
  • Malva Pudding: Malva Pudding is a classic South African dessert that originated in Cape Dutch cuisine. It is a warm and sticky sponge pudding made with apricot jam, butter, and sugar.

Local Transportation

Taxis are reasonable and easily available in Cape Town for local travel and airport transfers. Uber is also operational in Cape Town, and the most convenient way perhaps to get from one point to another.

Currency

The South African Rand (ZAR) is the currency used in Cape Town. Credit Cards and Debit Cards too are widely accepted.

Visa

Some countries are exempt from needing a visa to enter South Africa, while otherwise you would need to apply for one. Check the list of exempt countries and the guidelines for visa application on the official website of South Africa Home Affairs Department.

Language

South Africa has 11 official languages including Afrikaans, and English is widely spoken.

Mobile Network Operators

You can buy a local sim from Vodacom, MTN or Telkom in Cape Town and select a plan best suited to your needs (local sim cards in Cape Town are not expensive). Check if your mobile network operator back home has international roaming in South Africa and offers a better deal.

Travel Adaptor

Plug types D, M and N work in Cape Town, on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. It is best to carry a universal travel adaptor to avoid any hassles or confusion.

If you want a short, relaxed holiday without much travel, then 5 days in Cape Town is a wonderful getaway. Giving you the best combination of oceans and mountains, the scenic beauty of Cape Town will leave a lasting impression upon you. It isn’t named among the most beautiful cities in the world for nothing.

Visit our destinations page for more such detailed travel guides on countries worth visiting.

FAQs

How many days do you need to see Cape Town?

5 days is sufficient to see all the beautiful places in Cape Town.

What is the best month to go to Cape Town?

Cape Town can be visited anytime of the year. To enjoy great weather, fewer crowds and the best experience, visit Cape Town between the months of March to May or September to November.

Where to stay in Cape Town?

Camps Bay is a picturesque suburb located on the Atlantic Seaboard of Cape Town, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and upscale lifestyle. Ocean View House in Camps Bay is the perfect property to stay at. The rooms are spacious and come with either a terrace or a balcony overlooking the ocean and the surrounding mountains. 

What is the best 5 day itinerary for Cape Town?

Day 1: Arrive at Cape Town and Explore Camps Bay
Day 2: Explore the Iconic Table Mountain & Visit V&A Waterfront
Day 3: Visit the Cape of Good Hope, Hout Bay, Boulders’ Beach Among Other Places
Day 4: Hike Along Lion’s Head and Tour the Vineyards of Stellenbosch
Day 5: Depart Back Home

Photo of author

AUTHOR

Shreya Kejriwal is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief at WanderSmartly.com. She is an avid traveler and her passion has led her to vividly explore the world while maintaining a regular life and career.

178 thoughts on “The Finest 5 Day Cape Town Itinerary”

  1. Yesterday, while I was at work, my sister stole my iphone and tested to see if it can survive a thirty foot drop, just so she can be a youtube sensation. My iPad is now broken and she has 83 views. I know this is entirely off topic but I had to share it with someone!

    Reply
  2. Heya i am for the first time here. I came across this board and I find It truly useful & it helped me out much. I hope to give something back and aid others like you helped me.

    Reply
  3. Great beat ! I would like to apprentice at the same time as you amend your site, how could i subscribe for a weblog site? The account helped me a applicable deal. I were tiny bit acquainted of this your broadcast provided bright transparent concept

    Reply
  4. What is Tea Burn? Tea Burn is a new market-leading fat-burning supplement with a natural patent formula that can increase both speed and efficiency of metabolism. Combining it with Tea, water, or coffee can help burn calories quickly.

    Reply
  5. Hi, just required you to know I he added your site to my Google bookmarks due to your layout. But seriously, I believe your internet site has 1 in the freshest theme I??ve came across. It extremely helps make reading your blog significantly easier.

    Reply
  6. Good day! I know this is kinda off topic however , I’d figured I’d ask. Would you be interested in exchanging links or maybe guest writing a blog article or vice-versa? My website addresses a lot of the same topics as yours and I think we could greatly benefit from each other. If you might be interested feel free to send me an email. I look forward to hearing from you! Excellent blog by the way!

    Reply
  7. Attractive component of content. I simply stumbled upon your web site and in accession capital to say that I get actually loved account your blog posts. Anyway I’ll be subscribing to your augment or even I success you get right of entry to constantly quickly.

    Reply
  8. Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive learn something like this before. So good to search out anyone with some original ideas on this subject. realy thank you for beginning this up. this web site is something that is wanted on the internet, somebody with somewhat originality. useful job for bringing something new to the web!

    Reply
  9. Hello my friend! I want to say that this article is awesome, nice written and include almost all vital infos. I’d like to see more posts like this.

    Reply
  10. What i don’t realize is actually how you are not actually much more well-liked than you might be now. You are very intelligent. You know thus considerably in the case of this matter, made me personally believe it from so many numerous angles. Its like women and men aren’t interested except it’s something to accomplish with Girl gaga! Your own stuffs nice. Always deal with it up!

    Reply
  11. Its such as you read my thoughts! You seem to understand a lot approximately this, such as you wrote the guide in it or something. I believe that you could do with a few to power the message home a bit, however instead of that, that is great blog. A great read. I will certainly be back.

    Reply
  12. I will immediately seize your rss feed as I can’t find your e-mail subscription link or e-newsletter service. Do you have any? Kindly let me understand so that I may just subscribe. Thanks.

    Reply
  13. Hi, Neat post. There is a problem along with your website in internet explorer, might test this… IE still is the market leader and a good portion of folks will miss your fantastic writing because of this problem.

    Reply
  14. An attention-grabbing dialogue is price comment. I think that you need to write extra on this topic, it won’t be a taboo topic but usually people are not sufficient to talk on such topics. To the next. Cheers

    Reply
  15. I was just looking for this information for some time. After six hours of continuous Googleing, at last I got it in your web site. I wonder what’s the lack of Google strategy that don’t rank this type of informative websites in top of the list. Normally the top sites are full of garbage.

    Reply
  16. I was very pleased to search out this internet-site.I wanted to thanks for your time for this wonderful learn!! I undoubtedly enjoying every little little bit of it and I’ve you bookmarked to take a look at new stuff you weblog post.

    Reply
  17. I keep listening to the news update talk about receiving boundless online grant applications so I have been looking around for the top site to get one. Could you advise me please, where could i get some?

    Reply
  18. This is very interesting, You’re a very skilled blogger. I’ve joined your rss feed and look forward to seeking more of your fantastic post. Also, I’ve shared your website in my social networks!

    Reply
  19. I’m really loving the theme/design of your site. Do you ever run into any web browser compatibility issues? A small number of my blog audience have complained about my site not operating correctly in Explorer but looks great in Chrome. Do you have any suggestions to help fix this problem?

    Reply
  20. Thanks for the sensible critique. Me and my neighbor were just preparing to do some research on this. We got a grab a book from our area library but I think I learned more from this post. I am very glad to see such great info being shared freely out there.

    Reply
  21. This is really fascinating, You are a very professional blogger. I’ve joined your feed and sit up for searching for extra of your wonderful post. Additionally, I’ve shared your site in my social networks!

    Reply
  22. Howdy would you mind stating which blog platform you’re working with? I’m looking to start my own blog in the near future but I’m having a tough time deciding between BlogEngine/Wordpress/B2evolution and Drupal. The reason I ask is because your design seems different then most blogs and I’m looking for something unique. P.S Sorry for getting off-topic but I had to ask!

    Reply
  23. An attention-grabbing discussion is value comment. I feel that you should write more on this matter, it might not be a taboo subject however usually people are not enough to talk on such topics. To the next. Cheers

    Reply
  24. naturally like your web-site but you have to check the spelling on several of your posts. Several of them are rife with spelling issues and I to find it very troublesome to tell the truth on the other hand I will surely come back again.

    Reply
  25. I wwas recommended this wbsite thropugh mmy cousin. I’m noot sujre whether or not
    this puiblish is writyen byy way oof him ass noboody else understand suxh targetesd approximately my trouble.
    You’reamazing! Thnk you!

    Reply
  26. Good day! This is my first visit to your blog! We are a teamof volunteers and starting a new initiative in a community in thesame niche. Your blog provided us beneficial information to work on. You have done a outstanding job!

    Reply
  27. hello there and thank you in your info ? I have definitely picked up something new from proper here. I did on the other hand expertise some technical issues the use of this website, since I skilled to reload the site a lot of times prior to I may get it to load correctly. I have been puzzling over in case your web host is OK? No longer that I’m complaining, but slow loading instances times will often impact your placement in google and could damage your high-quality rating if advertising and ***********|advertising|advertising|advertising and *********** with Adwords. Well I am including this RSS to my e-mail and can glance out for much extra of your respective fascinating content. Ensure that you replace this once more soon..

    Reply
  28. Thank you for every other magnificent article. Where else may just anyone get that type of information in such a perfect manner of writing?I’ve a presentation subsequent week, and I am on the look for such info.

    Reply
  29. I would like to thank you for the efforts you’ve put in writing this site. I’m hoping to view the same high-grade blog posts from you later on as well. In fact, your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my very own site now 😉

    Reply
  30. Excellent read, I just passed this onto a friend who was doing some research on that. And he actually bought me lunch since I found it for him smile Thus let me rephrase that: Thank you for lunch!

    Reply
  31. I’m curious to find out what blog system you are utilizing? I’m experiencing some small security issues with my latest blog and I would like to find something more safeguarded. Do you have any recommendations?

    Reply
  32. You are so awesome! I don’t believe I’ve truly read something like this before. So great to find someone with unique thoughts on this subject matter. Really.. thank you for starting this up. This site is one thing that is needed on the web, someone with a little originality.

    Reply
  33. Attractive section of content. I just stumbled upon your blog and in accession capital to assert that I get in fact enjoyed account your blog posts. Any way I will be subscribing to your feeds and even I achievement you access consistently fast.

    Reply
  34. What i do not realize is in fact how you’re not really a lot more well-preferred than you may be now. You are very intelligent. You recognize therefore considerably when it comes to this subject, produced me personally consider it from a lot of various angles. Its like women and men don’t seem to be interested except it?¦s something to do with Lady gaga! Your personal stuffs excellent. All the time deal with it up!

    Reply
  35. hello there and thank you for your information – I have certainly picked up something new from right here. I did however expertise a few technical points using this site, since I experienced to reload the site a lot of times previous to I could get it to load properly. I had been wondering if your web hosting is OK? Not that I am complaining, but sluggish loading instances times will sometimes affect your placement in google and can damage your quality score if ads and marketing with Adwords. Anyway I’m adding this RSS to my e-mail and could look out for much more of your respective exciting content. Make sure you update this again very soon..

    Reply
  36. I absolutely love your blog and find nearly all of your post’s to be just what I’m looking for. can you offer guest writers to write content for you personally? I wouldn’t mind writing a post or elaborating on a lot of the subjects you write related to here. Again, awesome blog!

    Reply
  37. After examine a couple of of the blog posts on your web site now, and I really like your means of blogging. I bookmarked it to my bookmark website listing and can be checking back soon. Pls take a look at my website as nicely and let me know what you think.

    Reply
  38. The root of your writing whilst appearing reasonable in the beginning, did not really work perfectly with me after some time. Someplace throughout the sentences you actually managed to make me a believer unfortunately just for a very short while. I however have got a problem with your leaps in assumptions and one would do well to fill in those breaks. In the event you can accomplish that, I could definitely end up being amazed.

    Reply
  39. As the decentralized finance (DeFi) space continues to evolve in 2025, SpookySwap has established itself as one of the leading decentralized exchanges (DEXs) on the Fantom Opera blockchain. Known for fast, low-cost token swaps, yield farming, and liquidity rewards, SpookySwap is a powerful tool for traders and DeFi enthusiasts looking to maximize their returns while maintaining full control of their funds.

    Reply
  40. Howdy I am so thrilled I found your web site, I really found you by error, while I was browsing on Yahoo for something else, Anyways I am here now and would just like to say thanks a lot for a remarkable post and a all round exciting blog (I also love the theme/design), I don’t have time to read through it all at the minute but I have book-marked it and also included your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will be back to read a lot more, Please do keep up the awesome job.

    Reply
  41. Thank you for sharing excellent informations. Your site is very cool. I’m impressed by the details that you have on this web site. It reveals how nicely you understand this subject. Bookmarked this website page, will come back for more articles. You, my friend, ROCK! I found just the info I already searched all over the place and simply could not come across. What a perfect web-site.

    Reply
  42. I must express my thanks to you just for rescuing me from this type of setting. Just after surfing around through the search engines and coming across proposals that were not powerful, I figured my life was gone. Existing minus the answers to the issues you’ve sorted out through your entire post is a serious case, as well as the kind which might have in a negative way affected my career if I hadn’t encountered your site. That natural talent and kindness in dealing with everything was priceless. I’m not sure what I would’ve done if I had not discovered such a stuff like this. I can now relish my future. Thanks very much for this impressive and results-oriented help. I will not be reluctant to suggest the blog to any person who needs recommendations about this issue.

    Reply
  43. Aw, this was an exceptionally good post. Spending some time and actual effort to createa really good article… but what can I say… I put things off a lot and don’t manage toget anything done.

    Reply

Leave a Comment