Cape Town is a city in South Africa and the capital of the Western Cape province. Founded by the Dutch, exploited by Huguenots and the British, it was also a hub for the slave trade with origins in Asia. Today, it's a city that prides itself on being cosmopolitan, culturally rich and full of discoveries. Not to mention its exceptional natural setting and location between mountains and ocean… To ensure you don't miss anything, we've compiled the must-see attractions to explore in Cape Town's city centre.

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, the Historic Quarter

This is Cape Town's most touristy neighbourhood. Nestled between the sea and mountains, this quarter boasts an exceptional location: it's both a historic neighbourhood and a maritime port. In other words, the place is bursting with character! Built in 1860 under the orders of Alfred, the son of Queen Victoria of England, the quarter has been completely renovated since the late 1980s.

Cape Town is also a vibrant neighbourhood where numerous bars, restaurants, boutiques, hotels and colourful shops cheerfully coexist… Since 2017, the neighbourhood has even welcomed the Zeitz MOCAA, Africa's largest contemporary art museum. Finally, it's from the Waterfront that you can board a boat to visit Robben Island, the famous prison island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

Bo-Kaap, the Malay Quarter

This is Cape Town's most photogenic neighbourhood! And for good reason, the Malay quarter is renowned for its houses with ultra-colourful facades dating from the late 18th century. Also called Bo-Kaap (translated from Afrikaans as "the top of the Cape"), it's a quarter whose ancestors were Muslim slaves from Malaysia, India and Indonesia.

As an interesting note, the colours of the buildings are symbolic as they were used by residents as signs of protest against the regime of the time. To learn more about the history of this Muslim community, from the enslaved period through to apartheid, don't miss the Bo-Kaap Museum.

Woodstock, the Trendy Quarter

Woodstock is Cape Town's artistic and trendy neighbourhood. Located to the east of the city centre, you'll find countless small vintage boutiques, art galleries, trendy cafés and restaurants… As you wander through this vibrant quarter, you'll also discover spectacular street art.

If you love shopping, don't miss the Woodstock Exchange with its many quirky concept stores. Finally, foodies can't overlook the famous The Neighbourgoods Market, which takes place every Saturday morning. Located in a former biscuit factory (the Old Biscuit Mill), it's the city's most renowned food market.

Camps Bay, the Beachside Quarter

If you'd like to take a breath of fresh air and venture slightly out of the city centre, head to Camps Bay, the beach closest to Cape Town. Bordered by towering mountains (known as the "12 Apostles"), the beachside quarter boasts an exceptional environment. In an atmosphere that's both chic and laid-back, you can come to relax and admire the sunset with a cocktail in hand…

Note: while the crystal-clear water might tempt you to swim, the temperature rarely exceeds 15 degrees Celsius!