5 Days in Cape Town: A Complete Itinerary

Five days covers Cape Town's city sights, the Cape Peninsula, and a wine country day trip at a comfortable pace.

Day 1: Table Mountain and the City Bowl

Check the cable car status before heading up Table Mountain in the morning, weather permitting. In the afternoon, explore the City Bowl and the Bo-Kaap neighborhood's colorful streets and history.

Day 2: V&A Waterfront and Robben Island

Spend the morning on a Robben Island tour, booked in advance, learning the site's history from guides who are often former political prisoners. In the afternoon, explore the V&A Waterfront's shops, harbor, and restaurants.

Day 3: Cape Peninsula

Dedicate a full day to driving the Cape Peninsula — stop at Boulders Beach to see the African penguin colony, then continue to the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point for dramatic coastal views. This is a full day best done with a car or a booked driver rather than rushed.

Day 4: Stellenbosch and the Cape Winelands

Head inland to Stellenbosch and the surrounding wine country for a day of tastings amid mountain scenery. A booked tour or driver is worth it here specifically, given the drinking involved.

Day 5: Flexible day

Use the final day for whatever you missed, a return to a favorite viewpoint, or Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden at the base of Table Mountain for a calmer, greener pace before departing.

Getting around

A rental car or private driver makes the most of this itinerary, particularly for the Cape Peninsula and Stellenbosch days, which are impractical by public transport.

What to pack

Layers for Table Mountain's changeable weather and sun protection throughout — see our Cape Town travel guide for the fuller packing list and important safety notes.