It's a Melting pot, it's Slaapstad, it's the Mother City, the Cape of Storms and so much more! Trying to cram all that is Cape Town into five days is no easy task. I should know, as a born-and-bred Capetonian I found it hard to whittle it down. But here's my choice selection:

Day One – Cape culture has many faces

Next stop? Athlone, Mowbray, Kaap! That’s right you’re in the beautiful Mother City, though I wouldn’t necessarily recommend using the city’s public-transport system, even though it would give first-hand insight into some of its cultures.

Cape Town is a smorgasbord of historical influences that pulsate into a culture all of its own. Visit the Bo Kaap museum or the Cape Malay Quarters to discover the roots of the Cape Muslim Community. Stroll down The Company Gardens founded by Jan van Riebeeck, which now lines the House of Parliament, before heading off to the District Six Museum where the forced removals of the Apartheid regime are documented.

Ferry across Table Bay to Robben Island, home to Nelson Mandela for 18 of his 27-year imprisonment. Other political prisoners and struggle stalwarts held on the island include Oliver Tambo and Ahmed Kathrada. It is important to note that this 30- to 45-minute boat trip is weather-dependent but worth every minute.

Day two – Beach bumming the Cape Town way

Now that you’re feeling all cultured it’s time to get to know the Cape coast - perfect for sunbathing and it requires minimal effort or planning, baring the traffic nightmare in the height of summer. Yes, you jo’burgers should hang your heads in shame!

A day trip to Cape Agulhas, Africa’s southern-most point can take you from Table Bay on the CBD’s side all the way to False Bay. The drive is long but the scenery is breathtaking. Stop in at Hout Bay, a rejuvenated fishing village that is now sought-after real estate. It has some of the freshest seafood on offer at Mariner’s Wharf. 

The icy Atlantic makes Camps Bay and the surrounding beaches more about sun worshipping than swimming. Trendy cafes and restaurants line the beaches and beachgoers often slip into the cocktail bars that double-up as dancing venues in the evening. Enjoy some light seafood at Summerville or depending on your route some sundowners at La Med.

On the flip side of trendy Camps Bay you’ll find the quaint fishing villages of False Bay. Spend an hour or two browsing the book shops and second-hand stores in Kalk Bay before tasting what the local fishermen have caught at one of the neighbouring bistros. Try the Brass Bell for regular pub fare or Cape to Cairo for a more diverse selection.

Day Three – Savouring the red and white of the Cape

If you’re planning a wine route trip, your options are varied and an organised wine tour may be the way to go. A self-drive through to Paarl, Franschoek, Wellington or Stellenbosch makes for a fun day-trip but be sure you know where you’re going and pack some snacks for the road.

The wines of the Groot Constantia Estate, 20-minutes outside the city, are world renowned. Guided tours of the modern cellars are conducted daily and tasting a selection of their fine wines is a must. Simon’s and Jonkerhuis restaurants can be found on the estate. An alternative would be to purchase a picnic basket and enjoy the sights of the valley along with your meal.

Stellenbosch is less than an hour out of Cape Town and is home to wine estates such as Blauklippen, Delheim and Jordan. Spier is very popular and the estate’s restaurant Moyo provides a true African-style buffet and entertainment. The Spier summer-time concerts also make for an enjoyable evening out or sip some cocktails in the stylish Afro-centric lounge at the Village hotel.

Day four – Shopping indulgence just in case you’re hung over

After bandying about the wine route, a day of indulgence certainly is in order. Venture through the city-centre streets to discover some unexpected charm in the form of quaint art galleries or antiques stores, if you’re into that sort of thing. If not, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cavendish Square or Century City should satisfy any discerning mall rat.

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to cuisine. Long Street in the city centre is popular for its wide selection of eateries and nightlife. Nyoni's Kraal restaurant or Mamma Africa offer some authentic African fare. Royale makes some mean burgers and includes an unrivalled vegetarian selection. Maharaja has been around for years and is the best place for Indian curry. If you’re in the mood for some sushi, Minato’s offers good value-for-money with an eccentric owner whose operating hours can be erratic at best.

Greenpoint’s Piguelle and the Showroom offer some outstanding seafood at an outstanding price or opt for Aubergine near Dunkley Square for their creative fine-dining menu.

Township tours have helped put places like Mzoli’s restaurant in Guguletu on the map and Sundays are best for experiencing this local vibe. The menu is limited and consists mainly of braai-vleis, but if you phone ahead you could get them to prepare a veggie platter. You have to buy your alcohol at one of the neighbouring shebeens and Sheila’s is quite convenient, offering glasses and any other items you might have forgotten.

Day five – Heritage hiking will leave you breathless

Table Mountain is a legend in its own right. You can opt for a three- to four-hour hike up Skeleton or Platteklip Gorge and experience the fynbos treasures first hand – after all it’s the reason the sight has been declared a world heritage site. It’s important to be prepared and to stick to the path as erratic weather conditions can turn it into a treacherous experience. Or simply be thankful for modern technology as you cruise up the cable way and enjoy lunch at the Table Mountain restaurant. Only trouble is getting through those long queues!

Or if you’re a nature lover who isn’t into too much exertion then Kirstenbosch Gardens may be more your style, though this is the starting point for many a hike. Not to worry though, attending one of the Summertime Sunset Concerts won’t see you summiting anything more than a hill to pick out a prime spot close to the stage.
As the curtain falls on your week-long escape keep in mind that there is lots more for you to explore when returning for you next getaway.

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