Cape Town is the capital of which country. Cape Town: coordinates and geographical location. Interesting facts about the city. Entertainment and attractions in Cape Town

Cape Town is located on a peninsula near the cape Good Hope, near the base of Table Mountain. Its center (mansions of Old Dutch architecture and elaborate Victorian buildings in the old quarters) is quite small and is sandwiched on one side by the “table mountain” and on the other by Table Bay. Long Street is completely devoted to trendy bars, designer clothing stores, hostels, restaurants and shops.

How to get to Cape Town

Cape Town International Airport is the second largest in South Africa. From here they take place regular flights to Johanburg, Durban and all major cities South Africa, as well as to Namibia, Gaborone and Nairobi. In addition, planes of Lufthansa, British Airways, Delta Airlines, KLM, Singapore Airlines, Malaysian from Europe, America and Asia land here. In the summer, from October to March, operators launch additional charter flights from Europe to Cape Town.

From the airport to the city center you can take PRASA (Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa) trains, which are divided into trains long distance(Shosholoza Meyl) and local destination (MetroRail). Shosholoza Meyl trains have three classes of service: economy (seats only), tourist (with beds) and first class. In addition, a tourist bus runs from the airport to the city center, making several stops along the way. The fare is 50 ZAR, the interval is every 30 minutes.

Search flights to Cape Town

By train

Cape Town's main railway station is located in the city center, at the intersection of Adderley and Strand streets. Trains arrive here from Johannesburg (daily, and twice a day on Mon, Wed, Fri and Sun), Durban (via Kimberley and Bloemfontein, on Mon and Wed), Port Elizabeth (via George and Oudtsvoorn on Fri, first class only ), East London (Sun, Economy only) and Queenstown (Thu, Economy only).

By MetroRail trains

MetroRail has two classes of service - MetroPlus (aka first class) and simply Metro (also known as "third class"). There's no better way to explore the Cape Town area than on the MetroRail. It connects the outskirts of Stellenbosch, Strand, Paarl, Somerset West, Malmesbury, Worcester, and the southern areas of Claremont, Wynberg and Retreat and the beaches of Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, Glencairn and Simon's Town.

The best thing about MetroRail is the locations it covers. For example, the path from Muizenberg to Simon’s Town passes along the ocean, where you can often see frolicking whales. In addition, these trains have a dining car attached, which 100% guarantees a pleasant trip.

Weather in Cape Town

Average monthly temperature, °C day and night, water

    January

    February

    March

    April

  • June

    July

    August

    September

    October

    november

    December

The summer months, from December to March-April, are very hot and not the most comfortable for tourist trips. And despite this, as the New Year approaches, crowds of tourists are literally ready to fight each other for a place on the Cape Town beach.

The winter months, June and July, are considered the rainy season, although this is too strong a word for Cape Town. However, it can rain here either one day a week or all seven days. The nights at this time become quite cold, the temperature drops to +6...8°C. During the day it stays at +18 °C. In addition, sunsets and sunrises at this time are considered the most picturesque, and sea life is considered the most delicious.

Transport

The main city bus station is the Golden Acre Terminal (Grand Parade, City Bowl area), from where buses depart throughout the city, including to Atlantic coast, in Hout Bay. When traveling close, most locals use taxis or private drivers, tourists should do the same. In addition, taxis are an ideal mode of transport for those traveling in a group. Parking can be found on Adderley St at the end of Grand Pde, or call Marine Taxi (021-434 0434), SA Cab (0861 172 222) or Unicab Taxis (021-447 4402).

The Cape Peninsula is not suitable for cycling as it is quite hilly and distances from point to point can be around 70 km. In addition, transporting two-wheeled friends in commuter trains you can’t - so you won’t be able to shorten the distances. But those who do not intend to venture further than the city center can contact the following offices: Atlantic Tourist Information Center (243 Main Rd, Sea Point; bike/scooter for the day R85/195), Cape Info Africa (32 Napier St, Waterkant; for day R85), Downhill Adventures (Orange St, Gardens; per day R100) or Homeland Shuttle & Tours (305 Long St, City Bowl; per day R80).

Popular hotels in Cape Town

  • Is it possible to rent a villa in the vicinity of the Cape of Good Hope

Maps of Cape Town

Beach and surfing

Cape Town is one of the best places in the world for surfing. For beginners, it’s better to go to the town of Muizenberg; in Gary they offer lessons for reasonable price(look for an instructor in a surf shop on the beach). The False Bay area is also worth visiting, but according to locals, sharks can be found here.

Experienced surfers should try the reefs at Kalk Bay, Outer Kom near Kommetjie or Misty Cliffs near Scarborough. You can also swim on the west shore of Milnerton, Table View or Big Bay, where there are often kite surfers when the weather permits. Serious waves can be experienced at Dungeons, next to Hout Bay.

Kite surfing is the second most popular sport in the city. Competent wind good waves, a lot of instructors and equipment rental - in short, everything that a beginner and a pro might need is here. Some of the most popular kite spots are Dolphin Beach in Blouberg Strand, Muizenberg and Langebaan Lagoon.

Previous photo 1/ 1 Next photo




Shopping and shops

V&A Waterfront - the best place for shopping and purchasing souvenirs (though expensive and not original). More authentic crafts and trinkets can be found on Sundays at the Green Point Stadium open market, near the V&A Waterfront (bargaining is welcome). Some items from there are sold throughout the week at the bottom of Long Street. To find some really, really authentic stuff, head to Church Street, but be prepared for a bit of a shock.

Contemporary South African art is currently on a wave of popularity, considered one of the best in the world (but also the most underrated). If you love contemporary art and have money, you can spend it tastefully in one of the city's galleries. For example, at Michael Stevenson Gallery, then at Joao Ferreira Gallery, AVA Gallery or Bell-Roberts Gallery.

  • Where are the souvenir shops in Cape Town and Johannesburg?

Cuisine and restaurants

The basis of Cape Town's “haute cuisine” is fish and seafood, caught in abundance from local waters. Delicacies include Cape Town salmon, tuna and yellowtail; during the season you can try wild and farmed oysters (their prices vary) and lobster. Ask the waiters who is fresher and tastier today. Oysters are a special treat for gourmets, but they must be eaten at certain times of the year. The meal should definitely be complemented with local wine: the alcoholic products of the Cape Town region are known far beyond the borders of South Africa, as well as fruits and Karoo lamb.

The city has two “restaurant” areas: the coastal promenade and Long Street.

The city has two “restaurant” areas: the coastal promenade and Long Street. The first is more pompous, the second is very democratic, with a lot of inexpensive ethnic cafes. At the V&A Waterfront you can always find a variety of restaurants, sometimes crowded and expensive, but decent. There are also plenty of eateries along Long Street, in the trendy De Waterkant quarter (between Bo Kaap and Green Point) and near Somerset Road. Dine with supermodels and others famous people possible in the Camps Bay area, where there are many cafes and entertainment (along Victoria Road).

Hout Bay on the western side of the Cape Peninsula is a foodie destination. The fresh lobster here is very good, costing around R300. Kalk Bay on the east of the peninsula offers excellent fisheries. Don't neglect the wine regions - Cape Winelands, especially if you have a car. The village of Franschhoek is another center wine region, along with the “French Quarter” (Quartier Francais). Constantia Valley has some great restaurants - Pastis Brasserie, Wasabi, The River Cafe, La Colombe and Constantia Uitsig Restaurant.

To avoid turning gray when you see the bill, you should make sure in advance that you correctly understand the price of the dish. You can complement the belly feast with eye candy in the Ritz's revolving restaurant.

Cape Town

Guides in Cape Town

Entertainment and attractions in Cape Town

The sights of Cape Town include the oldest building in South Africa - the Fortress of Good Hope (now it houses a collection of antiques and paintings), the Parliament Building and St. George's Cathedral in the old Company Garden park, the Pink Palm Tree and Nurel Nameida mosques, Turkish baths , the longest shopping street on the continent, Voortrekker Road, one of the best botanical gardens in the world, Kirstenbosch, the commercial center of the City Bowl, filled with artists and artisans, George Avenue, cable car to the top of Table Mountain, mansions of old Dutch architecture and magnificent Victorian buildings in the old quarters.

Also of interest are the South African Museum of Cultural History, Cape Town art Gallery, Bo-Kaap Quarter Museum, national reserve at the top of Table Mountain and the island-prison Robin, where the future president of the country, Nelson Mandela, languished in captivity for 27 years.

In the Art South Africa magazine you can learn more about African art, local artists and exhibitions.

The Garden Route begins 300 km east of Cape Town and runs almost 350 km to Port Elizabeth. This is one of the most beautiful excursion routes in the world, including a lot of interesting provincial towns and nature reserves, rainforests And sandy beaches coast of the warm Indian Ocean.

The routes to Cape Agulhas, the resort of Hermanus with its “whale festivals”, the island of Dulquer seals, a huge colony of birds in Hout Bay, as well as the Boland vineyard area with its famous wine-making centers of Stellenbosch, Paarl, Franschhoek and Constant deserve special attention.

In addition, from Cape Town you can travel to the ostrich capital of the world, Oudstvorn, and visit the Cango Gaves stalactite caves, the Mossel Bay Maritime Museum, the Shell Museum and the Sun People Caves. Also - go on a tour of the Knysna Lagoon (visiting an oyster farm, a lagoon cruise, a hike in the Fezebed Nature Reserve, a visit to the Elephant Park and a ride on the Choo-Choo-Train excursion train), visit the Tsitsikamma Forest Nature Reserve (river rafting and jumping from the world's highest 216-meter bungee) or the Cape Peninsula. The latter drive includes visits to the Cape of Good Hope, the famous Boulders Beach penguin colony, an ostrich farm and an old Dutch fort.

Having immersed yourself in the variety of attractions of Cape Town, do not forget about the entertainment that this city has to offer: aquatic species coastal sports, golf, cycling and hiking. You can visit the Two Oceans Aquarium or stroll along the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, popular among tourists, with colorful restaurants, souvenir shops, bars and discos.

Cape Town is a magical city on the very, very edge of the African continent. Situated in a bay near Table Mountain and a stone's throw from the Cape of Good Hope, this city has always attracted travelers with its historical mystery and colorful reality. Here the turquoise waters of the Atlantic merge with the dark blue bulk of the Indian Ocean, and the bottom is strewn with shipwrecks. Table Mountain, which actually resembles a table with a powerful base and a perfectly flat “tabletop,” reliably protects Cape Town from the hot winds from the continent. Therefore, the weather here is always excellent - warm, fresh and sunny. The literal translation of the name Cape Town is “city on the cape”. The Dutch were the first to choose these lands three and a half centuries ago, building a base here to supply circumnavigators around the world with fresh food and water. But there is another well-deserved title - “Mother of South African Cities”.

For some time now, Cape Town has been rightfully considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Dozens of respectable shops and cafes, street “jazz bands”, seals sunbathing right on the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront piers, cavalcades of expensive convertibles of the “golden” youth and fish restaurants of Camps Bay, crazy beautiful nature– a green valley that smoothly turns into a mountain that looks like a table, the hubbub of African souvenir sellers at Green Market Square, the salty sea wind of the Sea Point and Muli Point embankments, the endless sun and the relaxed smiles of Cape Townians... - all this allows you to feel the cosmopolitan atmosphere on the very first day this amazing city.

In addition to all these delights, Cape Town is also the oldest “European” city in the Republic of South Africa. An ancient fortress, which was built by Dutch soldiers and slaves brought from all over the world, has been preserved here, and now houses a museum. By the way, the only museum of Russian art in all of Africa is open in Cape Town.

Conveniently located, just 12 km. from international airport, Cape Town welcomes travelers and business people all year round. This is an all-season city, where the summer beach season here lasts from early October to early May, the whale season is July-November, and the flower season is August-October.

Cape Town is famous for its romantic atmosphere, rich history and fun carnival processions. Exactly at Cape Town The famous “Wine Route” begins, which every traveler who comes to South Africa for impressions and exquisite tastes must follow. It is very convenient to combine the “Wine Route” with a visit to the Cape of Good Hope.

Another side of this cosmopolitan city is its parks and nature reserves. You get the impression that you are in the real world of nature, in a BBC program, with a picture full of colors and life. Everything here is pristinely clean and natural. Turning your gaze to the sky, you will see a soaring bird. Its majestic and graceful flight will allow you to see its bright plumage and prey in its claws. Looking down at the ground, you will find fresh tracks of a wild animal. Even an untrained person is able to recognize the mark of a lion in them. Of course, the Cape Townians did not quite succeed in preserving all the wealth of natural gifts, but still, only here the rarest species of the unique flora of South Africa still live and reproduce. The land, sensitively guarded by the authorities and residents, will allow you to plunge into the reality of forgotten, original sensations from which modern man is so far away.

And yet, completely wild corner there is no name for this place. If you turn north, you have a breathtaking view of the central part, the “central bowl”, as they say here, of Cape Town - a metropolis with a population of four and a half million people, which, enveloping you, flows along the winding coast of the rather large Cape Peninsula.

It is in this contradiction that lies the secret of one of the most beautiful cities not only on the continent, but in the whole world. Everything here is naturally bright, very close to nature and at the same time avant-garde and technological. Cape Town is the most “advanced” city. Here, like no other place in the country, there are many computer companies; Mark Shuttleworth, the first African astronaut, made his fortune here.

Life in this city never stops and is in full swing all day long. Along three highways, hanging on openwork overpasses above the crowd of central blocks, cars of residents of the giant city rush at breakneck speed. They call it the “Capetonian driving style”, or more precisely, a lifestyle - when speed replaces the cityscapes of life, like cards on a dealer’s table in a casino. Cape Town loves to improve and organize everything. The port here is being rebuilt into a shopping center, the landfill is being rebuilt into a children's amusement town, and the concrete cramped business districts are suddenly replaced by fragrant silence and the singing of strange birds in parks and botanical gardens.

The city's motto: “Save water - drink wine” also has every right to life! They say that for the first time it came from the lips of the founder of the city, Fan Riebeck, who, having barely founded the settlement, began to care about winemaking and already in February 1659 solemnly announced: “Today, thank God, wine is made for the first time from Cape grapes in an oak barrel.”

It was he who brought the first variety of wine grapes, “haneput,” from Europe to South Africa. This Alexandrian nutmeg with obvious splashes of lemon and honey was considered one of the best in the world at the turn of the 18th-19th centuries. Today, the ancient testament of Fan Riebeck is more relevant than ever: scientists threaten the Western Cape with an unprecedented drought, and the authorities are increasingly cutting water consumption standards every day. Maybe it's time to put the seafarer's badass advice into action?

The peaceful charm of this city grew out of its unconventional handling. Here, a person did not adjust the world around him to his whims, but he himself tried to unobtrusively integrate into the natural nature of this unique corner of the planet. In order to have water in the water tap, it is not taken from rivers and streams, but, as in the years of Fan Riebeck, they use rain moisture accumulated in a natural reservoir - the lake at the top of Table Mountain. It is from there that the water flows under natural pressure into the city pipes. To build new roads in Cape Town, they do not destroy existing houses or demolish mountains, but fit them into the existing landscape and, if there is not enough space, build them over the city, on overpasses.

Despite the high population density, people do not feel discomfort or overcrowding. Here, each district is completely self-sufficient: developed infrastructure, luxurious natural landscapes and the availability of everything necessary for a full life allow people to move within a certain district and not leave unless absolutely necessary, unless their work, of course, is located on the other side of the city. There is another huge advantage here - the complete absence of traffic jams and rush hour! Please note that before each trip you need to very carefully study the route of the intended trip and the final destination, since if you miss the desired exit you will have to drive around for a long time in search of a U-turn. Don't be surprised to see large numbers of people running along the embankments. These are not office workers always rushing home, but ordinary Cape Town residents “releasing” a busy day with a leisurely evening jog. Be careful and attentive so as not to interfere with this magnificent process.

South Africans have a great love for many sports. They themselves are not against taking part in one competition or another, concentrating their will to win in the active support of their team. Whether it's rugby, cricket, golf or tennis, the stadium where the competition is taking place will be filled to capacity.

In view of all of the above, one conclusion can be drawn: Cape Town is a kaleidoscope of all the delights and differences of life. This city can and should be enjoyed 24 hours a day. He will not let you relax, throwing up more and more new adventures with richly colorful impressions and sensations. But we must not forget that here expensive and prestigious areas with villas of millionaires are replaced by slums with poor, dull houses of peasants or local residents, who, nevertheless, have retained their charm and the nature of the South African people.

Entertainment:

In Cape Town you will find a lot of different entertainment: helicopter and plane rides over Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula, excellent beaches for every taste, sea cruises, including whale watching in season, active species sports - surfing and sandboarding schools, diving; sea ​​fishing, golf, horse riding; numerous sporting events - marathons around the peninsula, bike rides, surfing, yachting, rugby, golf competitions, etc.

Attractions:

Table Mountain or Table Mountain, Victoria and Alfred Waterfront tourist and shopping complex, oceanarium, Cape of Good Hope, Maritime Museum, Shipping Museum, Telecommunications Museum, amphitheater, cinemas, Imax cinema center, handicraft and souvenir market, wine routes and museums of Stellenbosch, Franschuk and Parl, Kirstenbosch botanical gardens, Robben Island, Centenary City entertainment complex, Castle of Good Hope, House of Parliament, ostrich and crocodile farms, lion park, bird park in Hout Bay, seal island in Hout Bay , South African Museum, National Gallery, Museum air force South Africa, Jewish Museum, Niko Theatre, penguin colony.
As mentioned above, Cape Town is a city of life, buzzing 24 hours a day. Restaurants, casinos, carnival parades, wine and food festivals will leave an unforgettable aftertaste from your trip to South Africa.
Also here in Cape Town, you can buy souvenirs and handicrafts from all over Africa, as this city is rich in jewelry stores and numerous " flea markets"(fly-markets) - primarily in Green Market Square and Green Point.

Table Mountain.
For many years, its unique silhouette greeted sailors from distant countries seeking to replenish their supplies of water and food in the long-awaited Cape Town bay. On a clear day, the mountain is visible almost 200 km away from the ocean. And now, as a symbol of Cape Town, Table Mountain serves as a natural landmark - primarily for tourists, as it is visible from most areas of Cape Town. To visit Cape Town and not climb to the top of the mountain is considered, in some way, a sin. This is one of the most beautiful observation platforms world and is among the ten most visited tourist places peace. In addition, according to esotericists, the Mountain is one of the positive energy points of the planet. You can climb the Mountain by cable car, as well as on foot, but this activity is only for the young and full of energy - such a walk takes about two and a half hours. At the top of the Mountain there are viewing telescopes, a restaurant and a gift shop. They say that in clear weather, you can see Antarctica from here. Of course, this is an exaggeration, but from a height of 1086 meters the entire city is in full view. Particularly stunning views open from the Mountain at sunset, when the horizon merges with the ocean. Table Mountain has a lot of interesting walking paths. Here you can find more than 1,500 species of flora and fauna.
The funicular operates daily from 06:00 to 23:00 and is capable of lifting and lowering 890 people within an hour. During the ascent, the cabin rotates 360 degrees, giving passengers the opportunity to enjoy magnificent views of the city, Camps Bay, Lions Head and the mountain itself. The entrance to the Mountain may be closed due to bad weather or due to heavy clouds (as they say here - there is a blanket on the mountain).

Tourist and shopping complex Victoria and Alfred Waterfront (V&A Waterfront) The world-famous shopping and entertainment complex in the port of Cape Town has more than 250 shops, souvenir shops, restaurants, cafes.

Oceanarium - undersea world Indian and Atlantic oceans. The height of the aquarium is 2 floors, more than 300 species of fish are presented, kelp thickets (one of 5 in the world), seals, penguins... A separate aquarium with predatory fish (daily at 15:30 you can see how they are fed or dive to them accompanied by a guide . Special programs for children. Open daily from 09:30 to 18:00. There is a restaurant and a gift shop.

The IMAX Cinema Center is the only cinema center of its kind in Africa. The screen is the height of a 5-story residential building. Films about nature, space, extreme sports. Usually 5 sessions per day: in summer - starting at 09:00, and in winter from 11:00. It is recommended to check the schedule before going.

Cape of Good Hope. The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve with an area of ​​7,750 hectares with the richest flora and fauna since 1938 is one of business cards Western Cape. It is believed that the Cape Peninsula contains the largest number of flora species per hectare of area. It was not for nothing that the cape itself was called the Cape of Storms during the time of Bartolomeo Dias, who was the first to circle it in 1488 - more than one hundred ships crashed on its rocks (the highest coastal cliffs in the world). In 1860, a lighthouse was built on the Cape, which can still be seen today. Today, here is one of the iconic observation platforms for millions of tourists who come here. You can climb to the lighthouse on foot (238 meters above sea level) or, after purchasing a ticket, take the funicular. You can visit the gift shop or have lunch at the restaurant. The reserve is open daily, in summer from 07:00 to 18:00, and in winter from 07:00 to 17:00

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The botanical gardens, founded in 1913 on the eastern slope of Table Mountain to preserve and develop the flora of southern Africa, are today recognized as one of the 7 best and most famous botanical gardens in the world. The garden area is 528 hectares. Concerts are regularly held here in the summer classical music. Various walking routes run through the entire garden. Route durations range from 45 minutes (1.5 km) to 3 hours (7.8 km). The garden is open daily from 08:00 to 19:00 in summer and from 08:00 to 18:00 in winter.

Robben Island. For almost 400 years, Robin Island, located 12 kilometers from Cape Town, was a place of exile and imprisonment. It was here that local rulers sent those whom they considered political and social outcasts of society. During the years of apartheid, the island became a prison, notorious for its brutal treatment of prisoners. One of them was the former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, who spent almost 18 years here. Since 1997, the island has been a national monument, and since December 1, 1999 it has been recognized as a world heritage and is under the auspices of UNESCO. A ferry runs to the island daily from 09:00 to 15:00 from Waterfront. The walk lasts 3.5 hours.

Century City A 10-minute drive from the city center is the huge entertainment complex Century City. There is a huge shopping center (daily from 10:00 to 21:00), restaurants, nightclubs and a large amusement park - Ratanga Junction (open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00). The complex is connected by a water canal to the Waterfront area, through which pleasure boats ply.

Old fort - Castle of Good Hope. The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest building in South Africa. Construction was completed in 1679, and became a base for the Dutch East India Company (on the trade route to India), as well as a defensive fort for settlers. The fort was declared a museum in 1936 and is still the regional center of the South African Military Forces in the Western Cape. Open Monday to Saturday from 09:00 to 16:00, closed on Christmas Day and New Year. Tours are available at 11:00, 12:00 and 14:00. Large military museum, restaurant, souvenir shop.

Parliament House Tours are available daily (except Saturdays and Sundays) from 09:00 to 12:00. The uniqueness of this place is that during the tour you can listen to real debates at parliamentary meetings. By the way, Cape Town is the parliamentary capital of South Africa. Admission is free, but reservations must be made 2 weeks in advance. There is a gift shop.

Penguin Colony - Boulders A bay located on inland coast Cape Peninsula between the Cape of Good Hope and Simon's Town. There are specially laid paths along which you can walk and observe the large colony. African penguins, which recently numbers more than 1,000 of these rare animals.

Beach holiday.
The beach season starts in September and lasts until the beginning of May. The number of sunny days during this period will satisfy anyone who wants to change their skin color. It should be noted that the entire Cape Peninsula is surrounded by excellent beaches for every taste. Beaches for family vacation adjacent to endless deserted beaches, perfect for lovers wild holiday. There are misconceptions that you cannot swim at all in Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula due to cold water. This is not true. The water is really cool on most beaches. However, water temperature often depends on the direction of the wind and, accordingly, the current. For example, on the beaches of Muizenberg and Simonstown, leeward from the warm Mozambique Current, beach season the water often warms up to 18-19 degrees.

Gay lesbian. Cape Town is one of the world's recognized centers of gay and lesbian scenes, as it is receptive and tolerant of different cultures and views.

Cape Town is one of the most famous and beloved resorts on the African continent. The territory of Cape Town stretches between two oceans and mountain peaks. The city was founded at the end of the 17th century. and is inextricably linked with the name of the Danish traveler Jan Van Riebeeck. Today Cape Town is a famous tourist center, including famous cities, and the flow of tourists to this city is steadily growing every year. No wonder. The mild climate and unique architecture, upscale hotels and gourmet cuisine, as well as an abundance of attractions make Cape Town extremely attractive to tourists from all over the world.

How to get to Cape Town

  • By plane.

The most comfortable and, perhaps, fastest way to get to Cape Town is by air. Unfortunately, direct flights from Moscow are not available, so it is worth choosing connecting flights. The average cost of a ticket on the Moscow-Cape Town route (via Abu Dhabi and Johannesburg) is from $635. Cape Town Airport is located 12 km from the city center, but has good connections with the center. Take Prasa buses or tourist buses, running every half hour from the airport to the center of Cape Town.

  • By train.

If your destination is Johannesburg and you plan to travel further by land transport, it is recommended to use railway transport. The cost of a trip on the Johannesburg-Cape Town route is about $40. Cape Town's main railway station is located in the center at the intersection of two streets - Adderley and Strand. Trains arrive here daily from Johannesburg.

  • By train.

Cape Town's connection with the surrounding regions is maintained through the Metro Rail systems of first class trains and simply Metro third class. The main advantage of this type of transport is the places along which the tracks are laid. For example, in some cases the path runs along the ocean shore. There is also a restaurant and all the amenities for a pleasant trip.

Weather in Cape Town

The climate of South Africa, like most countries in the southern hemisphere of the Earth, may seem unusual to us: when snow covers the territory of Europe in winter, the long-awaited beach season opens here. In the period December-April (summer season), the thermometer jumps to +30 C, and sometimes even higher. But June-July belongs to the cold season, although this is, to put it mildly, an exaggeration. This period is characterized by heavy rainfall (although sometimes it rains for only one day). In winter, the nights are quite cold, and in some cases the temperature drops to +5 C, during the day it remains stably at +18 C. Picturesque sunsets and sunrises at this moment will not leave you indifferent! . Perhaps the most comfortable period for visiting local attractions and beach holiday It is considered spring (+20..+25 C, water +16..+17 C), which lasts from October to November, or autumn (+20..+23 C, water +16 C), from April to May. During these months there are especially few tourists, so there is a high chance of saving on accommodation.

Shops and shopping in Cape Town

Cape Town is an attractive shopping destination that will not only allow you to update your wardrobe, but also give you a great experience! Recently, the VA Waterfront embankment, which is dotted with a variety of shops: from souvenir shops to boutiques or markets, has become a real attraction of the city.

The most popular retail outlets are shopping centers. Canal Walk is considered the largest in the entire Southern Hemisphere, which houses all kinds of shops, restaurants and play areas. Also worth paying attention to are Tyger Valley and Cavendish Square, which have more than 200 stores. Look for antiques in shopping complex Cape Quarter.

The cheapest purchases can be made at local markets. Greenmarket Square is home to a market for clothing, accessories and souvenirs. A few minutes from the square there is a flower market. The large Milnerton art market is located in the Parden Eyland area. For food, head to the Gardens City Bowl Market. Wide choose you'll find wines at Neighborhoods Market.

Basic prices for travelers in Cape Town

Don't want to save on comfort? Give your preference to 5-star hotels; there are a great many of them in Cape Town. The cost of living will be about $200-700. Cheaper accommodation will cost in 3-4 star hotels, about $150-400. If you are planning a long-term stay in the city, then it makes sense to rent an apartment. Counting on budget holiday, you should consider staying in a hostel ($20-80) or hotel ($80-200).

Whatever food you prefer, here you will certainly find a place to suit your taste. You can try delicious seafood dishes and wine at the Baia Seafood restaurant (the cost of a hearty dinner is about $100). The best place to have a cup of coffee is at Lola's (up to $10). Here you can also taste exotic cuisine, for example, in the Bombay Brasserie restaurant (up to $40) you will feel like you're in Bollywood, and Mesopotamia (up to $80) you will not only You will taste Kurdish dishes, but have a great time with folk songs and belly dancing.

Have you decided to go on an excursion? Contact African eagle day tours, which will introduce you to the city for $35 and the surrounding area for $39. Want to save money? Travel on your own. City Sightseeing buses are ideal for this, which for $13 ($6 for children) will take you to all the most significant attractions of the city.

What to see in Cape Town

It’s best to start exploring the city with a natural attraction - Table Mountain. Climbing onto it, you will have a unique view of the city, as well as the surrounding area. No less picturesque place is the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, it includes more than a dozen hiking routes.

Among the unique architectural structures from the era of European exploration of southern Africa, it is worth highlighting the Castle of Good Hope, as well as the Slave House, built in 1679. And yet one of the oldest and most popular buildings is considered Cathedral St. George, built in a strict style and symbolizing detachment from everyday bustle.

Almost everyone excursion route involves a visit to the city hall of the early 20th century, within the walls of which today there is a museum with a large collection of works by Dutch painters of the 17th century. Among the museums we can highlight the South African Museum. Walking along Long Street, you will probably come across a lot of antique shops, an art gallery, as well as a favorite place for tourists and local nobility - Turkish baths.

Little guests of the city will be delighted great amount entertainment venues. For example, the Ratanga Junction park includes over 20 attractions, as well as a traditional Ferris wheel. For family rest is suitable Grand West Casino and Entertainment World, where you can go to the cinema and even go ice skating. The doors of Cape Town are open for inquisitive children and teenagers scientific center with a collection of 300 interactive exhibits.

What is interesting and famous about the city of Cape Town in South Africa? All about Cape Town: the most beautiful city South Africa, what to see and when is the best time to go.

The city of Cape Town was built by colonialists and local people on a small peninsula located near the Cape of Good Hope. The location was chosen very well - near Table Mountain, a mountain that protects Cape Town from cold cyclones. The city is conventionally divided into two parts - old and new. The old one is a center that once belonged to the colonialists. That's why there are a lot of old mansions built between the foot of the mountain and Table Bay. Further from it begins the modern part of Cape Town, where bars, chain stores, restaurants, and hotels are built. This coastal city lies in a mild climate zone and is washed by the waters Atlantic Ocean, is one of the main economic, trade and tourist centers SOUTH AFRICA.

The total area of ​​Cape Town, the largest city in South Africa, is 2.5 thousand square meters. km, it is inhabited by approximately 3.5 million people.

Historical facts

Like many other large African cities, Cape Town was founded by Europeans, and this happened in the second half of the 17th century, although Europeans first appeared in the Cape of Good Hope at the end of the 15th century. The city, or rather a port village with a fort, was founded in 1652; it was then known as Kapstad. Oddly enough, the city, which was essentially the only transit point on the way to India at that time, took quite a long time to develop. It took more than a century for the small town to turn into a major transport and trade hub. This happened in the 19th century, after the British recaptured Cape Town from the Dutch and gave it its real name.

By the mid-20th century, at the time of South Africa's independence, Cape Town was the capital of the entire state. Today, nominally, the center of the Republic is the city of Pretoria, and in Cape Town, as in the old days, legislative power is concentrated, and the parliament also works.

Still, the city can be called the capital, because it is the administrative center of the Cape Province, one of the most picturesque and developed in all of Africa.

What's interesting about Cape Town today?

One glance at the city of Cape Town, taken from a bird's eye view, is enough to understand that this is a modern metropolis with developed infrastructure and a great foundation for the future. Hundreds and hundreds of thousands of tourists come here every year to look at the African miracle. And citizens of South Africa are flocking to Cape Town with the hope of finding a better life, earning money and, in a word, organizing their lives. And this is not surprising, because branches of the largest transnational corporations, largest banks and other firms are concentrated in this metropolis.

Cape Town - the center of surfing

Cape Town attracts tourists with its beaches and attractions, but, first of all, surf lovers come here. Therefore, the city is considered a world center for this sport. There are excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Skiing takes place near reefs, in lagoons, bays. The following places are considered the most popular: Fails and Kalk Bays, the western shore of Milnerton, Table View, Muizenberg.

Cape Town attractions

There are a number of resort areas, entertainment centers operate, excursion activities are carried out. The sights of Cape Town can be divided into historical, cultural, natural, and gastronomic.

Cape Town - historical places

One of historical districts Cape Town, which is very popular today

Among historical places Notable features include the Fortress of Good Hope, parliament, mosques, Turkish baths, an ancient shopping street, St. George's Cathedral, old city quarters, and the island-prison of Roben. Excursions in Cape Town are themed. There are separate tours to historical buildings and the cathedral, and separately organized excursions to city streets, parks and baths. During your walks, you should pay special attention to visiting the mansions of former colonialists, built by the Dutch. And, of course, don’t forget about Cape Town’s long Victoria and Alfred waterfront, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and city buildings.

Cape Town Museums, Galleries and Stadium

Cultural monuments are concentrated in museums and galleries, nature reserves and parks. For example, the national character, characteristics of the local population, its traditions and culture can be studied at the cultural and historical South African Museum, as well as at the Bo-Kaap Quarter Museum.

Football fans - and this is part of modern culture- will be satisfied by visiting the Cape Town Stadium, which was one of the central arenas at the FIFA World Cup held in South Africa in 2010. The architecture is impressive: first of all, thanks to the glass roof, which protects the stadium bowl from the vagaries of nature.

Natural attractions in Cape Town

But the main attraction of Cape Town and the surrounding area is nature. It is truly unique there, because the Cape Peninsula is located at the junction of two oceans - the Indian and Atlantic. To see the beauty surrounding Cape Town, just climb one of its hills. Travelers admire the Cape Town Botanical Garden, the Garden Route, and the coast. Indian Ocean, Capes of Good Hope and Agulhas. Wildlife lovers come to the peninsula specifically to watch seals (Dulquer Island) and birds (Hout Bay area).

Families of whales can be seen in the coastal waters of Cape Town. It is enough to board a ship departing from the Simestone base or from the city port to the island of Hermanus.

The pride of Cape Town is the giant West Coast Park, which has National status. The best season to visit these places is spring, which comes here in August. At this time, park plants begin to bloom, and the birds, the abundance of which the West Coast is proud of, are more active than ever!

Food tourism in Cape Town

The development of gastronomic tourism is facilitated by rich cuisine and the cultivation of vineyards. Cape Town has several world-famous wine centers - Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch - where excursions, festivals and tastings are held.

When is the best time to visit Cape Town?

Cape Town: legacy of colonial buildings

If we talk about holidays in Cape Town in general, travel agencies separate several seasons, each of which is ideal for a certain type of tourism. For example, for those who like to relax on the beach, it is better to choose one of the months between October and May. For those who want to enjoy blooming Africa, it is better to come here from August to October. This time of year is also suitable for those who like to watch whales frolicking in the ocean.

The best time to travel to Cape Town is from late August to October.

Cape Town on the map of South Africa

How to find cheap flights to Cape Town:

“Cheap” air tickets to Cape Town for those living in the Northern Hemisphere are one of a series of gifts from fate. However, finding AFFORDABLE flights is possible. For convenience, we suggest using the calendar low prices a year in advance.

Cape Town is deservedly recognized as one of the most beautiful cities not only on the African continent, but throughout the world. Soft pleasant climate, exquisite cuisine, unique architecture and various attractions invariably attract tourists here from literally all over the world. Street jazz bands, many restaurants and shops, strings of expensive convertibles, salty sea wind, bright sun and the open smiles of the townspeople - all this gives the city a completely unique flavor. Although Cape Town is an African city, it has been heavily influenced by Western European culture, making for a familiar experience of the excitement of Africa.

Region
Western Cape

Population

3,497,097 people (2007)

Population density

1424.6 people/km²

South African rand

Timezone

Postal code

International dialing code

Climate and weather

The city has a subtropical Mediterranean climate, healthy and comfortable. Local weather feature is the southeast fresh wind ("Cape Doctor"), which blows from November to March. This is a kind of advantage, since the wind repels insects that can become carriers of diseases characteristic of the tropics. That is why there is no danger of malaria and yellow fever in the country.

Seasonal differences here are expressed quite sharply, but in general the seasons change smoothly and imperceptibly. In Cape Town, the sun shines brightly 7 months a year, and only between May and August the air temperature drops. In July (winter) the average temperature fluctuates around +12…+14 °C, and in January (summer) it can reach +27 °C.

The most best seasons For holidays in Cape Town are spring (from September to November) and summer (from December to March): it is during these periods that the air temperature is most comfortable for Europeans.

Nature

Cape Town is the second largest city in South Africa (after Johannesburg). It is located on the sunny coast of the Atlantic Ocean, near the Cape of Good Hope. The center of Cape Town lies on the northern side of the Cape Peninsula. The peninsula's majestic Table Mountain, rising more than 1,100 meters above sea level, gives the surrounding area a unique appearance. It is surrounded on all sides by steep cliffs ( Devil's Peak, Lion's Head and etc.). From time to time, a thin cloud appears over the mountain, which local residents nicknamed "good riddance".

The Cape Peninsula itself is a mountain range (its 700 peaks rise more than 300 m), and ends with a cape Cape Point, which connects the peninsula to the mainland.

Attractions

In Cape Town Christian churches are adjacent to synagogues and mosques, and ancient buildings are adjacent to ultra-modern buildings, which makes it a kind of museum city. If we talk about specific attractions, we recommend starting to explore them from the central park, where the Parliament building, the seat of government and St. George's Cathedral are located. Those who want to get acquainted with African flavor should definitely visit the South African Cultural and Historical Museum, located in a building where slaves used to live. In addition to the historical and cultural exhibits of Cape Town, finds from ancient Egypt, Rome and Greece are presented there. Also noteworthy is the Cape Town Art Gallery with paintings by artists from all over the world.

The street is very popular among tourists Long, famous not only for its mass of antique shops, but also for its real Turkish baths and magnificent mosques. And Russian tourists will be very interested in visiting the only museum on the Dark Continent that is dedicated to Russian art ( Marvol Museum).

Among the natural attractions, it is worth highlighting the huge Botanical Garden with an incredible number of unique exotic plants. And 12 kilometers from the city coast there is a famous island prison "Robben", where political prisoners were previously held, including the notorious Nelson Mandela. But for tourists, the most interesting and desirable things in the vicinity of Cape Town are the vineyards Boland. This route was nicknamed the Dear Wines, and the winegrowers themselves call it "Golden Triangle of South Africa".

Nutrition

Cape Town's cuisine is as cosmopolitan and diverse as the city itself. Here Eastern, Western and African cuisines meet and mix. It is also worth saying that almost all National dishes Exotic aromas abound: cinnamon, cardamom, saffron, cloves and red pepper. The most popular among city residents Bobotie(lamb with raisins and dried apricots), Waterblommetjiebredie(stew with lily buds) and Samoosas(biscuits filled with meat). In addition, you can try a variety of spicy porridges and excellent home-made beer everywhere.

It is also worth noting that, in addition to a variety of meat delicacies, the basis of Cape Town cuisine is seafood, which is caught in abundance in local waters. Therefore, almost any restaurant has the opportunity to taste oysters and lobsters.

When it comes to drinks, wine undoubtedly ranks first in Cape Town. Grapes began to be grown here in the 17th century, and today local vineyards and wine are considered one of the best in the world.

Accommodation

Cape Town is one of the most attractive and... prestigious resorts a world where an incredible number of tourists from all corners of the planet constantly come. Therefore, literally every year dozens of new hotels are built here, and in completely different price categories. Thanks to this, literally anyone can choose exactly the kind of housing that suits them.

The most prestigious and comfortable hotels Cape Town deservedly recognized The Westin Cape Town, Queen Victoria Hotel And Rodwell House, where simply ideal accommodation conditions have been created for vacationers (from $180). There are also many mid-price hotels in the city (for example, Tudor Hotel(from $60)) and inexpensive hostels (from $20).

Entertainment and relaxation

In Cape Town the most popular place The recently restored Old Port, where there are many different restaurants, bars, discos and fashionable clubs, has become a place of relaxation.

Those who nightlife prefer active recreation, they can test their strength and tickle their nerves at the highest bungee jumping in the world, or go rafting and try to conquer local rivers. Spearfishing for swordfish and tuna can also provide incredible experiences. And mountain lovers can choose one of the many routes to climb Table Mountain. Horse lovers will undoubtedly enjoy the horse racing, which takes place twice a week. In addition, the city has excellent conditions for playing rugby, windsurfing, scuba diving, sailing and cycling, cricket, tennis and, of course, golf.

Cape Town is also famous for its great beaches. True, the coastal waters are quite cool for swimming, so people usually sunbathe and have picnics there, and from August to November they watch frolicking whales.

And tired of active rest and the bustle of the city can visit the well-known gardens Company Gardens which consist of the oldest public park and botanical garden. The park contains a fish pond, an aviary with birds, a beautiful rose garden and a Japanese garden.

Purchases

With an incredible number of modern and trendy shopping centers, Cape Town can become a true shopping paradise. It is impossible to even list all the different shopping centers in the city, much less visit them in a not very long period of time. The most famous and popular are shopping centers Michael Stevenson, Bell-Roberts And Joao Ferreira, which offer a huge selection of fashionable clothes, perfumes, equipment, etc. Also an ideal place for shopping is V&A Waterfront, which is located on the ocean.

African works of art are most often purchased as gifts and souvenirs: drums, figurines, masks and national clothing. Although it is better to buy all this at local markets, for example, at the African open market Green Point Stadium. Bargaining is always appropriate here, thanks to which you can significantly reduce the price. And lovers of contemporary art can go to one of the galleries ( Michael Stevenson Gallery etc.), where you can buy authentic household items and decorations, although you will have to fork out some money.

Transport

The most comfortable view Cape Town's urban public transport is buses. Almost all buses operate from Golden Acre Terminal, which is located in the historical center of the city on the square Grand Parade. The Skytrain connects almost all areas of Cape Town and is open until midnight, while buses leave quite early.

In general, buses and the metro are mainly used only by those who travel quite significant distances. If you are planning a short trip, it is more convenient to use a taxi.

Moreover, it is advisable to check the cost of the trip in advance, since not all cars have meters. average price a state taxi costs about $0.8 per kilometer, and a route taxi costs $0.3 per trip.

It is also quite convenient to get around the central part of the city by bicycle. For this purpose, there are special rental points in Cape Town ( Atlantic Tourist Information Centre, Homeland Shuttle & Tours and etc.). However, one should not forget that in public transport Bicycles are prohibited.

Connection

On the streets of Cape Town there are telephone booths everywhere, from which you can call anywhere in the world if you wish. Blue phones accept only local currency as payment, while green phones work with calling cards, which are sold everywhere. The cost of a call within the city is approximately $0.06.

Cellular communication works according to the standard GSM at frequencies 900/1800 Mg, and roaming is available to almost all subscribers. Local operators mobile communications are MTN And Vodacom, which have fairly dense coverage throughout South Africa. In any of the offices of these companies you can buy a SIM card and even rent a phone. By the way, this will be quite profitable, since local tariffs are an order of magnitude lower than roaming ones.

It is worth mentioning that when entering South Africa you must register your mobile phone by presenting its serial number and your passport details. If this condition is not met, the device will be blocked by all mobile operators operating in the country.

To obtain access to the Internet, there are quite a few Internet cafes in the city; in some hotels it is available WiFi.

Safety

For safety reasons, tourists are advised to be extremely careful when central region cities and large shopping centers, because, despite the fact that the main crowded places are monitored by cameras and the police, tourists are often subject to pickpocketing. Subject to the rules of caution that apply in any big city, no trouble will happen.

Also, tourists are often approached by beggars and beggars. We do not recommend giving them money: they are often members of small criminal groups, even children. If you really want to help them, it is better to give them food.

Business climate

Today, South Africa represents the most promising market among third world countries. The recent financial crisis, which had a profound impact on a number of third world countries, only emphasized the dynamism and strength of the economy in South Africa. The country's government supports the constant growth of exports and investments in any economic sector.

Real estate

On this moment The market situation is quite favorable for any investment in real estate in South Africa. For example, for $88,000 you can buy a detached house with 4 bedrooms, for $53,000 - with 2 bedrooms, and you can become the owner of a small apartment in the city center for $25,000.

All tourists and guests of the city are recommended to use only bottled water for drinking, which can be purchased at absolutely any grocery store or supermarket. We also do not recommend getting carried away with all kinds of soft drinks, which are everywhere offered in street tents and cafes. These drinks, like local tap water, are safe for health, but can seriously interfere with the acclimatization process.

 

It might be useful to read: