Western Cape DestinationsCape Town Central, City Bowl
Fondly known as the ‘mother city’, Cape Town lies in the arms of Table Mountain, more often than not shrouded in cloud and one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks. The heart of Cape Town’s city, her centre, is one of the only major CBDs in South Africa, if not the world, that hasn’t experienced urban decay or major relocation of big business.
The centre of Cape Town has grown fantastically over the last few years and its mix of European and African cultures means it is a-buzz, day or night, with a heady mix of culture, nature and history and an eclectic mix of people. This is the business centre but it’s also a chance to experience South Africa’s past - the South African Museum, the Castle of Good Hope, Company Gardens, Government Avenue and other museums and galleries lining the centre of town.
Long Street is a quirky, bohemian mix of African curios, antique shops, book shops and a bevy of coffee shops, restaurants and bistros.
During peak season, market stalls line some of the avenues near Greenmarket Square and art exhibitions, some of them free of charge like the Michaelis Collection, mean you can spend hours here.
The city centre is compact and small enough to explore in a couple of days. Historical walks around town, like the Cape Spirit City Walk and the Footsteps to Freedom walk, will help you gain insight into the rich history that contributed to the mix of cultures unique to Cape Town, and nightlife in the city centre is awash with theatre and restaurants offering anything from African to European, fusion to traditional, Eastern to Western, and clubs and music venues.
