Explore Cape Town’s Waterfront & City Centre | Culture, Shopping & Discovery Guide
Introduction
Cape Town’s iconic V&A Waterfront and bustling city centre offer a rich blend of culture, shopping, nature, and family-friendly attractions. From oceanic wonders and space exploration to peaceful gardens and world-class retail, this part of the city is where entertainment meets luxury. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, we will help you uncover the best of central Cape Town.
Table of Contents
Top Attractions in the V&A Waterfront
Two Oceans Aquarium
Dive into the fascinating world beneath the waves at the Two Oceans Aquarium, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. This world-class facility features:
- Over 8,000 sea creatures
- Shark tunnels, touch pools, and kelp forests
- Educational programs and interactive exhibits
It’s perfect for all ages, blending entertainment with ocean conservation.
Curio Shops & Luxury Stores
The V&A Waterfront is a shopper’s paradise. Explore:
- African Trading Port, an enormous curio store housed in the Old Port Captain Building, is filled to the brims with unique crafts from all Africa. From masks to souvenirs, from clothes to furniture, the Trading Port is a mandatory stop for all souvenir hunters.
- High-end fashion at stores like Hugo Boss, Prada, and Lindt Chocolate Boutique in Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre
- Authentic African art, beadwork, and textiles stalls in The Watershed
And if you would like to grab a bite, you can spoil yourself in one of the numerous restaurants with a scenic harbor view, like Den Anker or Life Grand Cafe, or, for a cheaper alternative, visit one of the food stalls at the V&A food market.
Cultural & Natural Wonders in the City Centre
Iziko South African Museum & Planetarium
Located near the Company’s Garden, this historic museum offers:
- Dinosaur fossils, giant whale skeletons, ancient tools, and indigenous cultural artefacts
- A fully equipped digital planetarium with immersive space shows
- Family-friendly exhibitions and educational experiences
A must-visit for those interested in both history and science, a must go destination for kids and adults alike.
The Company’s Garden
Originally a vegetable garden for Dutch settlers, today this lush oasis is a beloved public park:
- Shaded pathways, fountains, and flowerbeds
- Resident squirrels, perfect for kids to feed
- Adjacent to art galleries and historical buildings
Relax here after exploring the museums or enjoy a coffee at the Company’s Garden Restaurant.
Long Street & City Centre Markets
No visit to Cape Town’s city centre is complete without a stroll along Long Street, a historic avenue known for its eclectic energy. Here, Victorian-era architecture meets buzzing coffee shops, book stores, bars, and international restaurants. The street comes alive at night, making it a hotspot for nightlife and live music.
Nearby, the Greenmarket Square is one of the oldest public spaces in the city and home to a vibrant daily market. Browse an array of handmade crafts, beadwork, textiles, and paintings—perfect for finding a unique souvenir or gift. It’s a fantastic place to support local artisans while soaking in the atmosphere of Cape Town’s historic core.
Plan Your Visit
Where to Eat & Shop
- Harbour House, Willoughby & Co, and Sevruga offer fine dining with sea views. Sevruga is famous for his seafood based dishes and sushi with an happy hour window daily at 11h – 17:00h for selected sushi and cocktails
- Visit the Watershed market for local goods
- Boutique hotels and rooftop bars for an upscale experience
What to Do
- Start your day with a incredible breakfast buffet at the Radisson Hotel in Waterfront for only 250ZAR per person. The buffet includes prosecco, sushi and oysters!
- Get a view of the waterfront and city on The Cape Wheel
- Take a stroll in long street to visit Victorian shops and cafes
- Hop on a 90 minutes sunset cruise with a complementary glass of bubbly at the V&A Waterfront
Family-Friendly Tips
- Many attractions are walkable and stroller-friendly
- The City Sightseeing Red Bus is a great hop-on, hop-off option
- Bring a hat and water for sunny days exploring the gardens and museums
Start Your City Adventure
Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront and city centre offers luxury shopping experience and culture with nature and exploration. You will be able to explore the beauty of marine life, shopping for African treasures, strolling through English gardens, and learning about the stars, in a vibrant area that offers something for every taste.