Top 15 Best Places to Visit in Cape Town
Cape Town, the southernmost metropolis in Africa and one of the most famous places on earth, is also proudly referred to as the Mother City. There is something ... read more...for everyone's preferences in Cape Town, from beaches, wineries, and mountains (including the renowned Table Mountain) to lovely neighborhoods, museums, and fantastic shopping and nightlife. You'll find what you're searching for here, whether you're seeking for romantic outings, locations to have fun with your friends, or family activities. In order for you to get the most out of your city trip and have the best experience possible, Toplist has put together the ultimate list of the best places to visit in Cape Town.
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Just south of the city center, Table Mountain dominates Cape Town and is undoubtedly the most identifiable feature in the area. The mountain, which received its name due to its distinctive flat top, is the most well-known sight in Table Mountain National Park (which encompasses other top attractions like Boulders Beach and the Cape of Good Hope). The summit of the mountain is typically covered by a layer of clouds known as the "tablecloth," but when they part, tourists can take in breathtaking views of Cape Town and the entire Cape Peninsula. It may be chilly and windy at the top, so bring a sweater.
Table Mountain can be experienced in a variety of ways. Adventuresome visitors can go up one of the mountain's many trails to reach the peak, though the region's changeable weather can make such a trip into an unpleasant, muddy stroll. Recent visitors strongly advise switching to the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. The 360-degree rotation of these suspended cable cars provides passengers with breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. Try ordering tickets online to avoid standing in line as well. Hike or drive up Signal Hill or Lion's Head for breathtaking views of Table Mountain and the ideal vantage point to capture this iconic landmark; both provide breathtaking vistas from their tops.You are not need to pay entrance fee to enter Table Mountain, in contrast to other parts of the park. But, a trip on the aerial cableway will cost you 175 ZAR ($22.50 USD) or 92 ZAR (about $12 USD) one way. Daily operations of the cable cars begin at 8 or 8:30 a.m., but season-specific closing times apply. Visit the South African National Parks website to find out more information on Table Mountain. This is considered as one of the Best Places to Visit in Cape Town.
Address: Table Mountain Rd Cape Town 7925
Phone: +27 21 712 0527
Opening hours: unknown
Rating: 5.0/5.0, 18405 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.tablemountain-nationalpark.co.za/ -
The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, which wraps around two harbor basins, is a bustling entertainment district resembling Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco. This is one of the Best Places to Visit in Cape Town. The second son of Queen Victoria, Alfred, constructed this bustling harbor in the late 19th century, and it has served as a port of call for European ships ever since. This waterfront area, which was formerly a run-down fishing harbor, has been recreated, and many of the original structures have been maintained and repaired.
Millions of tourists come The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront every year to shop, enjoy jazz, dine, stay, see a play, go to the movies, and visit museums. The V&A Waterfront comes to life as dusk falls, with music drifting out over the ships and drinks steadily being poured into glasses at the several pubs in the area. In addition, it serves as the starting point for Robben Island and whale-watching expeditions.
Sports enthusiasts will adore the Springbok Experience Rugby Museum, which uses interactive exhibits to tell the history of South African rugby. Fish from the Atlantic and Indian oceans, particularly from the region near the Cape of Good Hope, total more than 300 species, which are on display at the Two Oceans Aquarium. Highlights include a touch tank, penguin encounter, predator exhibit, and diving experiences, which allow visitors to view fascinating marine creatures up close.Everyone is welcome to examine the museum exhibits at the Nelson Mandela Gateway, where trips to Robben Island depart from. The chic Green Point neighborhood, located west of the beachfront, is also home to the Cape Town Stadium, which played host to numerous FIFA World Cup matches in 2010, and the attractive Green Point Urban Park with its biodiversity garden.
Address: 19 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Phone: +27 21 408 7600
Opening hours: 9 am - 9 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 14360 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.waterfront.co.za/
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The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are a component of the Cape Floristic Area UNESCO World Heritage site and are located in a lovely location on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. One of the earliest botanical gardens in the world with this goal, the location was one of Cecil Rhodes' bequests to the state in 1902, and the gardens were built there in 1913.
At the steep 528-hectare nature reserve of indigenous woodland and fynbos, more over 20,000 native South African plant species are collected, grown, and studied. A hedge of wild almond trees established by John van Riebeeck in 1660 and an avenue of camphor and fig trees erected by Cecil Rhodes in 1898 are of particular historical relevance in the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The arrangement of the flowers, bushes, and trees creates a display of blossoms and color that cheers up the gardens all year long.
Proteas, a perfumed garden, a large collection of cycads, the sculpture garden, and the Botanical Society Conservatory, a specially constructed greenhouse with plants from arid places, are not to be missed. The wooded slopes are traversed by well-marked routes, and the Tree Canopy Walkway offers sweeping views of the gardens with mountains in the background. To reach Table Mountain's peak, one of the trails passes across a ravine. Outdoor concerts can be held in the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens' gardens during the summer.A haven of exotic trees, flowers, aviaries, and ponds in the middle of the city, Company's Garden is a must-see for those with a green thumb and a love of gardens. While here, tourists can also explore the Iziko South African Museum and Planetarium and the Iziko National Gallery.
Address: Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town
Phone: +27 21 799 8783
Opening hours: 8 am - 7 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 9990 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch/
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One of the Best Places to Visit in Cape Town is Boulders Beach. The waters of False Bay are enviably warmer than the waves of the Atlantic, making swimming here more appealing than it is at Clifton or Camps Bay. Although the environment and swimming are beautiful, meeting the locals is the major reason to visit Boulders Beach: An ever-growing colony of African Penguins resides on this beach. These tuxedo-clad beachgoers can be seen balancing precariously on the sand. Please try not to disturb them, even if they are accustomed to human interaction.
Recently arrived guests enjoy getting close to the penguins. One TripAdvisor member claims that "There were penguins everywhere! They didn't appear to mind if you took pictures of them very close up." Visitors can experience up-close experiences with these endearing animals in a breathtaking environment that includes enormous granite rocks, rock pools, tranquil bays, and gloriously empty stretches of glistening beach. A short distance away, Foxy Beach offers excellent opportunities to see penguins thanks to a walkway that passes by the best locations. Both beach and wildlife enthusiasts will adore this wonderful family outing.
Around 26 miles south of the city center of Cape Town, close to the town of Simon's Town, is where Boulders Beach, a section of Table Mountain National Park, is located. The M3, M5, or M6 freeways provide access to the beach by car, or you can ride the Metrorail to Simon's Town Station. Boulders opens to visitors every day at around 7 or 8 p.m.; season-specific closing times apply. One of the few locations in Table Mountain National Park, the beach charges conservation fees to visitors. These fees are 40 ZAR ($5 USD) for adults and 15 ZAR ($2 USD) for children.
Address: Klein Tuin Road Simon's Town, Cape Town
Phone: +27 83 581 9686
Opening hours: 8 am - 5 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 8390 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.bouldershouse.com/contact-us.php -
The Cape of Good Hope, a peninsula separating the Atlantic Ocean from False Bay, extends south from Cape Town (featuring numerous beautiful beaches as a result). The Cape, once a standalone nature reserve, is now completely encircled by Table Mountain National Park and offers miles of serene walking paths bordered by fynbos (a colorful shrub-like plant). You're likely to encounter some of the Cape of Good Hope's permanent inhabitants, such as ostriches and baboons, while exploring the area. Cape Point, the rocky, slender peninsula that protrudes into the Atlantic and serves as the continent's southwestmost point, is the area's main attraction. Although Cape Agulhas, some 100 miles to the southeast, is the actual "point of Africa," standing atop Cape Point will make you feel as though you've reached the limit of the planet.
Recent tourists claim that the Cape has the best views in the world. One TripAdvisor user claims it was "Perhaps the most breathtaking vista on earth (if you like seascapes). Bring a jacket because it is a little cold. and a decent camera." By using the Flying Dutchman funicular or climbing the several stairs to the summit, visitors can reach the Cape Point lighthouse and take in the view. Whale watching, finding shipwrecks from the beach, and taking nature hikes are additional activities.It takes around an hour to drive the nearly 40 miles from central Cape Town to the Cape of Good Hope. But prior travelers affirm that the journey is worthwhile. Between October and March, the Cape is accessible daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. between April and September. One of the few parts of Table Mountain National Park that charges a conservation fee is this one. Adults must pay 85 ZAR (about $11 USD) while minors must pay 30 ZAR (about $4 USD).
Address: Cape Point Rd Cape Town 8001
Phone: +27 21 780 9526
Opening hours: 7 am - 5 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 6928 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: http://capepoint.co.za/index.htm
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Camps Bay, a sizable swath of soft beach bordered with adorable cafés and lively bars, along the western edge of Table Mountain. Like Clifton Beach, this stretch of coastline is too chilly for swimming, but Camps Bay's unwinding weather and welcoming environment make it a fantastic place to relax and take in the scenery. In addition, the beachfront eateries offer a terrific setting for evening cocktails and people-watching. One TripAdvisor customer claims that "The beach is extremely stunning, and there are several excellent eateries around. On this beach, enjoying a cocktail while the sun sets is amazing."
First Beach is a well-liked volleyball location and, when the weather is suitable, has good surf. Another gorgeous beach can be found in trendy Camp's Bay, which is just south of Clifton. It is surrounded by the spectacular Twelve Apostles and the recognizable Lion's Head mountain. People-watching is a skill along this gorgeous palm-lined strip as well as in the stylish cafes and boutiques that border Victoria Street, especially on weekends and public holidays when locals and visitors swarm here to take it all in.
Camps Bay is located immediately south of Clifton Beach and is reachable by automobile from central Cape Town via Camps Bay Drive or Victoria Road (the M6 freeway) (the M62 highway). There is no charge to visit the beach at any time, day or night.Address: Victoria Road, Camps Bay 8005 South Africa
Phone: +27 21 035 0855
Opening hours: 11 am - 11 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 2814 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.campsbaybeach.net/
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The District Six Museum, which was established in 1994, honors and informs tourists about the residents of District Six. One tenth of the city's inhabitants lived in this area during the first half of the 20th century. But, in 1966, when apartheid was in full force, District Six was designated as a "white" district, and more than 60,000 people were compelled to relocate to the shanty communities built in Cape Flats, a desolate region outside of the city.
With exhibits that tell their stories and educate visitors about social justice, the museum honors these displaced individuals. Former residents are invited to name their previous homes and local features on a large-scale map that is located on the museum's floor. The District Six Museum Foundation also offers interesting tours of the neighborhood that are led by knowledgeable interpreters.
Digging Deeper, the museum's ongoing display, is devoted to chronicling many facets of life in District Six through a dynamic visual experience that combines multi-media documentary, digital, and aural components. Visitors are introduced to the former people of the area, and the exhibit conveys the stories of their lives using various themes.
A short distance from Greenmarket Square, the District Six Museum is located in the center of the city. On Mondays, the museum is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; on Tuesdays through Saturdays, it is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The price of admission is 20 ZAR ($2.50 USD) per person, with student discounts available.Address: 25A Buitenkant Street Cape Town 8001
Phone: +27 21 466 7200
Opening hours: 9 am - 4 pm
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 2106 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.districtsix.co.za/
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The sugar-white sands of Clifton Beach lie between the Atlantic Ocean and the opulent houses of Cape Town's "Millionaire's Row." Clifton attracts the seen-and-be-seen crowd as well as surfers looking for an adrenaline rush. The four beaches are separated by enormous stone boulders. Due to its advantageous location on the western slope of Table Mountain, which shields it from Cape Town's infamously frigid winds, this is one of the city's busiest beaches. Nonetheless, the water is consistently chilly throughout the year, discouraging many swimmers.
It's simple to move between the many sandy stretches until you discover the atmosphere that best appeals to you. Several locals and visitors come here to enjoy the sunshine and take in the breathtaking views, and there are a few wonderful guesthouses in Cape Town that are just a short distance from Clifton's sandy beaches. Swimming is possible, although most people might find the water to be a little frigid; stick to the other beach activities instead!
Gay-friendly, dog-friendly, youthful, romantic, and family-friendly,... there is truly a beach to suit every preference. You can play for free at Clifton Beach every day of the year. The M6 roadway provides access to these sparkling white coastlines for motorists.Address: Victoria Road (M6 Highway), Cape Town
Phone: +27 82 775 4489
Opening hours: unknown
Rating: 4.5/5.0, 1887 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: http://capetownattractions.com/cape-town-guide/clifton-beach
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Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium when you're in Cape Town if you have kids. The magnificent oceans that encircle the southern African coast can be seen through the Two Oceans Aquarium. This aquarium is situated on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, close to where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge. It is home to more than 3,000 animals, including penguins, sharks, and turtles. The various species of wildlife that can be found in these two oceans as well as other bodies of water throughout the world will fascinate your children. Also, you may observe animal feedings and even go swimming with sharks (it's completely safe).
The aquarium holds amazing discoveries around every corner, with exhibits featuring everything from sea turtles and shoals of sparkling fish to the tiny and almost fanciful Knysna seahorses. At the Touch Pool, you can get up close and personal with enormous spider crabs while engaging in an exciting tactile adventure. See the I&J Ocean Exhibit, which features a 9-meter window and a 10-meter full tunnel. The possibility to dive in this exhibit with shoals of fish and turtles is also available to qualified divers. The Jelly gallery is certain to fascinate and mesmerize.
Daily hours for the Two Oceans Aquarium are 9:30 am to 6 pm. Children under 4 are admitted free, and admission is 100 ZAR (about $13 USD) for adults and 50 to 78 ZAR ($6 to $10 USD) for children ages 4 to 17. Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium website to find out more.
Address: Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Phone: +27 21 418 3823
Opening hours: 9:30 am - 6 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 4301 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.aquarium.co.za/
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This thriving area, which is close to the city's center and at the base of Signal Hill, one of Cape Town's most iconic mountains, is home to the city's Muslim population. Bo-Kaap is a real visual treat because of its vibrantly colored homes and intriguing neighborhood. The people who now call Bo-Kaap home are descended from "Cape Malays," slaves that Dutch colonists imported from Malaysia, Indonesia, and various African nations. This is one of the Best Places to Visit in Cape Town.
Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, which is housed in the neighborhood's oldest structure, to find out more about the history of the locals. Visitors can explore this compact but fascinating museum from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, for 10 ZAR (just over $1 USD). In an effort to deter gentrification, the locals are passionate about protecting their history and the structures, and banners warning that "This Historic Site is Under Danger" are frequently visible to tourists.
Recent tourists claim that the photo opportunities make a trip to Bo-Kaap worthwhile. Yet, one TripAdvisor user claims "Bo-Kaap is worth seeing due to the vibrant homes and multicultural atmosphere of the neighborhood. There isn't much to do here, though." Don't forget to snap pictures in front of the vibrant homes on Instagram (as long as you aren't including the occupants in your images). From downtown Cape Town, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, or other locations, one can walk or take a taxi to get to the Bo-Kaap neighborhood. Anytime, day or night, is a good time to visit Bo-Kaap, although you should use caution if you decide to explore after dark.Address: 71 Wale St Cape Town 8001
Phone: +27 21 481 3939
Opening hours: 9 am - 6 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 2672 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://wolfandwolf.co.za/contact/
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European settlers built the Company Gardens to grow produce to sell to ships passing by the Cape on their way to India. The garden was called "The Company's Garden" because ships sent by the Dutch East India Company would halt there after months at sea to stock up on fresh vegetables. The park has walking pathways, and there is a lot of wildlife there. The urban park, referred to as Cape Town's "green lung," is simple to get to yet sometimes ignored by tourists. The oldest gardens in South Africa, with a number of historical elements and a few fascinating museums. The gardens have something to offer everyone, whether you set out to discover the hidden gems of the garden or prefer to relax in the serene shadow of a large tree. It can be seen as one of the Best Places to Visit in Cape Town.
Friendly squirrels can be found in the Company Gardens and will approach you for treats. Purchase a bag of peanuts to hand feed the friendly animals, where you may also see a variety of other species, such as geese and herons. At the aviary, there are even more birds to see.Explore walkways surrounded with trees while observing towering rubber trees, peculiar gingko trees, and the oldest tree in South Africa, the saffron pear tree! The ancient Rutherford Fountain, which dates back to 1864, is one of the gorgeous fountains that you can admire while lounging next to pretty ponds. The South African Museum, Cape Town Holocaust Center, and South African National Gallery are all inside the gardens and are great for history buffs and art fans, respectively.
Address: 19 Victoria St Cape Town 7945
Phone: +27 21 423 2919
Opening hours: 7 am - 7 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 1733 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: http://thecompanysgarden.com/
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For lovers of the outdoors, wildlife, and feathery creatures, Cape Town's World of Birds Nature Sanctuary and Monkey Park is a fantastic attraction. It is the largest bird sanctuary in Africa and is home to over 400 different species of birds. The big aviaries allow you to get up close to the birds, and the park is also home to a variety of other animals for even more amazing encounters. It is also an important center for conservation, and many of the birds have been saved and given new homes in the refuge.
The aviaries are spread out over 4 acres of ground in a tropical garden setting in the Hout Bay Valley, which is bordered by the back of Table Mountain, the Twelve Apostles, Constantiaberg, Chapman's Peak, and Little Lion's Head. The World of Birds, one of Cape Town's top tourist destinations, is a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Enter one of the numerous aviaries and take a stroll on the wild side in World of Birds Nature Sanctuary and Monkey Park to observe birds of all shapes, sizes, and colors darting through the air, perched on trees, skimming across water, and scuttling across the ground. A variety of small mammals and reptiles are also visible, and you can get close to monkeys. Younger family members frequently go crazy for the miniature petting zoo and fantasy forest. Have your own meal at the picnic area or restaurant, and be sure to pay attention to when the various inhabitants are fed.Address: VALLEY ROAD,HOUT BAY Hout Bay 7806
Phone: +27 21 790 2730
Opening hours: 9 am - 5 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 887 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://worldofbirds.co.za/
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The oldest cathedral in South Africa is St. George's Cathedral, which dates to the early 1900s. By allowing people of all colors to worship there, it was a crucial part of the resistance movement against apartheid. Because of its approachable nature, it is frequently referred to as The People's Cathedral. From here, Archbishop Desmond Tutu organized a number of marches and campaigns. It's an incredible architectural design, and the crypt is currently a jazzy restaurant! The cathedral, a bustling site of worship, frequently offers concerts of classical music as well. Also, the cathedral participates actively in community improvement initiatives.
Enter the magnificent church - St. George’s Cathedral - to experience a peaceful atmosphere and escape the heat outside. The primary window of the beautiful stained glass windows portrays a black Christ and depicts religious events. Mahatma Gandhi is also depicted in one of the windows, demonstrating the cathedral's openness and tolerance. It's also worthwhile to visit the Hill Organ and bells. Enter the cloisters to practice mindfulness and meditation by walking the Siyahamba Labyrinth. At the Memory & Witness Centre, descend into the crypt for a lesson in humanity.
Address: 5 Wale Street Cape Town 8001
Phone: +27 21 424 7360
Opening hours: 9 am - 4 pm
Rating: 4.0/5.0, 314 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.sgcathedral.co.za/ -
One of South Africa's oldest public squares is Greenmarket Square, which is only a short stroll from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. This cobblestone courtyard, which was formerly a slave market, is today crowded with local sellers selling anything from painted linens to hand-made toys. Here are some tips and tactics for bargaining. Haggling is still commonplace, and if you work hard enough, you may get some great bargains. In the area, there are numerous cafes and eateries where you may enjoy a meal while taking in the sights.
Several "buskers" will keep you delighted as you browse the items with music, dance, and even mime. Please be aware that although the shopkeepers at Greenmarket are quite pleasant, they can sometimes be pushy when trying to sell you something. If you are not interested, either stay away from the stall or politely but firmly respond, "No, thank you."
It's the perfect spot to look for some unusual gifts and souvenirs because it has interesting products from all across the continent. The flea market has an especially large selection of arts and crafts. See the City Hall from the 1760s and rest your feet for a while in one of the nearby restaurants. The Michaelis collection, a wonderful art collection housed in the exquisite edifice, is the ideal compliment to the majestic surroundings. The flea market at Greenmarket Square is bustling every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Although browsing is free, you might want to keep some cash on hand in case browsing leads into shopping.Address: 38 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town
Phone: +27 78 319 3019
Opening hours: 9 am - 5 pm
Rating: 3.5/5.0, 1283 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://www.hugedomains.com/domain_profile.cfm?d=greenmarketsquare.com
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The oldest surviving structure in South Africa is this star-shaped castle in the middle of Cape Town. The Dutch East India Company built the Castle of Good Hope in the late 17th century, serving as both the administrative and military hub of colonial Cape Town. It is one of the world's best restored and rebuilt examples of Dutch East India Company architecture. Moreover, it is the oldest standing structure in all of South Africa. Anyone who is interested in knowing more about the history and development of the Mother City should definitely pay a visit to the old fortress, which now serves as a military museum.
The Castle of Good Hope, which is still the region's military fortress, is home to a number of museums. There are guided excursions available on foot and in a horse-drawn carriage. Plan your trip if you can to coincide with the Key Ceremony, which is signaled by the Signal Cannon's firing. There are breathtaking sights to take in while in Table Mountain's shadow. For some of the best views, climb up atop the bastions. Most days of the week, there are free walking excursions that transport you back in time. Old weapons, uniforms, and other military relics can be found inside the Military Museum, while the William Fehr Collection offers a superb collection of artwork and antiquities.
The Key Ceremony occurs Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. and noon, and the Castle of Good Hope is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (last admission is at 3:30 p.m.). At 11 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m. from Monday through Saturday, guided tours are available. For adults, the entrance fee to the castle is 28 ZAR (about $4 USD), while it is 12 ZAR (about $1.50 USD) for minors.
Address: Buitenkant St & Strand St Cape Town 8001
Phone: +27 21 787 1249
Opening hours: 9:30 am - 4 pm
Rating: 3.5/5.0, 955 Tripadvisor reviews
Website: https://castleofgoodhope.co.za/