Cape Town is a city that thrives on contrast.
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Mountains meet the ocean, modern art galleries sit beside colourful heritage homes, and you can go from a morning hike to a sunset wine tasting all in one day. But to truly experience the Mother City, you need to do more than just tick off Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront. Locals know that the real Cape Town lives in its neighbourhoods, quiet beaches, independent cafés, and small moments — a sunrise surf, a Saturday morning stroll, or a glass of Chenin shared with friends at a backyard braai. Here’s how to travel like a local in Cape Town.
1. Skip the cable car — hike up (and down) Table Mountain
Yes, the view from the top is breathtaking, but Capetonians know that the journey there is half the magic. Instead of queuing for the cable car, lace up your hiking boots and take the Platteklip Gorge trail for a direct, heart-pumping climb. For a quieter route, locals love Kasteelspoort via the Pipe Track — it’s scenic, less crowded, and leads you to the famous “Diving Board Rock” viewpoint. Pack snacks from Giovanni’s Deli in Green Point and have a picnic up top. Early mornings are best to beat the heat and the wind. Bonus points if you make it for sunrise!
2. Eat where Capetonians eat
Cape Town’s food scene is vibrant, diverse, and ever-evolving, but locals tend to avoid tourist traps in favour of casual, character-filled spots. For brunch, head to Jarryds in Sea Point or Between Us on Bree Street, both known for good coffee and creative breakfast plates. Craving authentic Cape Malay flavours? Bo-Kaap’s busy main strip is always the perfect option but to avoid the traffic, visit Biesmiellah for equally fragrant curries and sweet koesisters.
In the evenings, Capetonians love neighbourhood gems: Mamacitas in Harrington Street is perfect for anyone looking for a taste of Los Angeles street food in the Mother City.
3. Shop small and stroll the suburbs
For a truly Cape Town shopping experience, spend a Saturday at The Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, where local designers, farmers, and food artisans come together in one vibrant space. But don’t stop there — take a walk through Kloof Street and Bree Street for chic boutiques and vintage stores, or explore Observatory for bohemian thrift finds and indie bookshops like OBZ Books.
If you’re after something handmade, stop at Oranjezicht City Farm Market (weekends at the V&A Waterfront) where locals do their grocery shopping with sea views, organic produce, and the city’s best sourdough in hand.
4. Find the quiet beaches (and go early)
Cape Town’s coastline is famous, but the secret is in the timing and location. Locals love Clifton 2nd for sunset swims, Bakoven for intimate rock pools, and Llandudno for peaceful afternoons away from the crowds. If you want a truly local scene, head to Muizenberg on a weekday morning — you’ll find surfers catching early waves, parents pushing prams on the promenade, and cafés serving post-surf cappuccinos.
For a more rugged experience, drive out to Scarborough Beach, about 45 minutes from the city centre. It’s wild, unspoiled, and has a small community vibe that makes you feel worlds away from city life. Grab fish and chips from Whole Earth Café before heading back.
5. Ride the train (yes, really)
It’s not something you’ll necessarily see in many guidebooks, but locals still love the Southern Line Train from Cape Town to Simon’s Town on weekends. It’s affordable, scenic, and runs right along the coastline, offering unbeatable sea views. Sit on the right-hand side for the best shots, hop off in Kalk Bay for antique browsing, ice cream from The Ice Café, and a stroll on the harbour to spot seals lazing beside the fishing boats.
6. Chase sunsets, not schedules
Capetonians plan their lives around the sun, not their watches. The city’s golden hours are sacred, and you’ll see locals flocking to their favourite viewing spots with snacks and drinks in tow. Signal Hill is classic, but for fewer crowds, try Saunders Rocks in Sea Point, Bloubergstrand for that iconic Table Mountain silhouette, or Kirstenbosch Gardens during the summer sunset concerts. Bring a blanket, some local wine, and relax — no rush, no itinerary, just vibes.
7. Take the long way home
Locals know that the best part of Cape Town often lies just beyond it. Spend a Sunday driving Chapman’s Peak Drive, stopping at Noordhoek Farm Village for coffee or a light lunch. Alternatively, meander through Constantia’s wine route — quieter than Stellenbosch but equally beautiful. Sip on cool-climate wines at Steenberg, Eagles’ Nest, or Beau Constantia, where locals gather for leisurely afternoons under oak trees.
Live like you’re staying forever
To travel like a local means slowing down. Spend an afternoon reading at The Book Lounge in the City Bowl, join a yoga class at YogaLife in De Waterkant, or simply wander the colourful backstreets of Bo-Kaap beyond the photo ops. Chat with people, order what they recommend, and linger. Cape Town isn’t a city you “do,” it’s a city you feel.
So take your time, embrace the wind, eat with your hands, and let the city’s rhythm pull you in. That’s the real Cape Town, not just a place to visit, but a place to belong, even if only for a while.
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