Arguably Cape Town’s most iconic landmark, taking the cable car (or trekking) up Table Mountain is a rite of passage for any visitor to the Mother City. At the top, enjoy winding pathways and jaw-dropping city and ocean views. For more views, hike neighboring mountain, Lion’s Head.

This island-prison, a short ferry from Cape Town’s shores, is most famous for housing Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners, as recently as 1996. Tours to visit the island are required but well worth it, as they are often led by former prisoners whose stories of perseverance in the face of injustice are integral to the fabric of the city.

The star-shaped fortress has held government and military importance for centuries and is the oldest building in South Africa. Originally built at the direction of the Dutch East India Company in the 17 th century to protect their monopoly over the Spice Trade, the grounds now operate as a museum exploring Cape Town’s history.

Located 70km from Cape Town, the Cape was a historically significant thoroughfare for traders between Europe and Asia and is a popular day trip from the city. The drive itself is worth the trip, hugging the coastline and passing Chapman’s Peak. At the Cape, climb (or ride the funicular) to the lighthouse, soak in the stunning vistas, and learn about the tumultuous history between the area and sailors.

Often described as “hipster,” visit to see Cape Town’s artistic side. Old Biscuit Mill is a marketplace of local shops, cafes, and restaurants that gets even bigger on Saturdays.

This historic harbor is best known nowadays for its many restaurants and shops. Its picturesque setting and endless entertainment options make it a popular place to spend an afternoon.

A museum that honors the more than 60,000 residents whom the government forcibly removed from the District Six neighborhood of Cape Town during apartheid. A stop here is mandatory to understand the country’s history and celebrate the resilience of its people

A botanical garden that puts most others to shame. This 1,300-acre garden sits in the shadow of Table Mountain and boasts 2,500 species of plants, tree canopy walkways, an amphitheater, and a tea room.

Anchored by Stellenbosch and Franschhoek regions, there is no shortage of beautiful wineries and idyllic villages to explore within a few hours’ drive of Cape Town. Groot Constance holds particular infamy as South Africa’s oldest wine and is celebrated in Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility.

Simon’s Town is home to some of South Africa’s most famous residents, the Boulder Beach penguins. Wander the boardwalk, almost certainly joined by other sightseers, to gawk at the colony. Located 40km from Cape Town, the charming town is a great spot to grab a seafood lunch.

A sophisticated neighborhood with stunning ocean and mountain views; enjoy one of the many restaurants and take a dip in Camps Bay Tidal Pool.

A tour of a township offers a more complete view of Cape Town beyond the wealthy and polished tourist areas. It can be an enriching experience and benefit the township when done respectfully. Be sure to book with a reputable company whose proceeds benefit the area and whose residents want to share their community with tourists.

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Originally, when leased to enslaved people, the homes in this neighborhood were painted all white. When the residents were freed, they painted the buildings in the bright colors you see today in an expression of freedom. Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum to delve deeper into the neighborhood’s history and visit Auwal Mosque, the first established Muslim mosque in South Africa.