Top 10 Unique Things to Do in Cape Town

When exploring Cape Town, it’s easy to get stuck on the major tourist attractions. Table Mountain, the aquarium, Boulder’s Beach, Robben Island. And although you will definitely not be disappointed when visiting the iconic tourist attractions, if you stay in the Mother City, you might feel the need to spice things up a bit.

Dig A Bit Deeper into The Mother City Fun

We’ve found a few alternative activities to enjoy. From foodie fun, to outdoor activities, to learning new skills. Cape Town truly has something to offer every type of person.

#1 Tuning the Vine – Inner City Wine Route

You don’t have travel all the way to the Stellenbosch winelands to taste good wine. Now you can simply venture into the CBD and embark on an inner-city wining adventure. The route meanders between 13 venues, each offering you a snippet of their best wine selections. Meander from Tjing Tjing Torii, to Publik Wine Bar, to House of Machines and other distinguished venues tucked away in the city centre. The event occurs once a month, at R150 per person. Your wine tasting will be infused with wine-tasting challenges, food pairings, and live music. The ticket includes access to the various venues, a glass, and a tasting map.

Visit tuningthevine.co.za to stay in the loop.

#2 Visit the R10 Restaurant

The Xpresso Café believes that good coffee (and tea) should be affordable. And a cup of good coffee (or tea) should be accompanied by a yummy munchie, also at an affordable price. So, they decided to make everything on their menu, yes you heard right everything, only R10. The concept keeps things plain and simple, but delicious. They are open Mondays to Fridays from 7am to 6pm, on Saturdays from 7am to 4pm and Sundays from 8am to 1pm.

They have branches in Durbanville, Canal Walk, Cape Town CBD, Cape Gate, Stellenbosch, N1 City, Vangate Mall, and Table Bay Mall.

#3 Life-size Chess in The Company Gardens

Feel like you’ve fallen down Alice’s rabbit hole and pretend you are part of a Wonderland scene with this oversized chess set. It’s situated close to the Company Gardens Restaurant. If you feel a bit tired after dragging the big pieces around, pop in at the restaurant for a refreshing beverage. It was recently revamped by the Madam Zingara group, breathing a breath of fresh air into the eatery with its sought-after location.

#4 Embark on A Real Life Treasure Hunt

The Gallivanting Goose is a fun treasure hunting concept. Explore areas you’ve seen a hundred times before in a fresh new way. At the start of the hunt, you get a special smart device loaded with the game and used for navigation. Choose between the following venues: V&A Waterfront, Two Oceans Aquarium, Cape Town City Walk, Hout Bay, and Stellenbosch. Do you have the strategic, navigational, and problem-solving skills it takes to be the winning team?

Visit thegg.co.za for more info.

#5 Smash A Few Plates

Every month, on the last Saturday, you can fill your tummy with great Greek food and then party like only the Greeks can. Drink ouza, say “opa!” and decadently break a plate.  Hosted at Mykonos Taverna, in Sea Point, this popular Greek restaurant is a firm favourite in the local culinary scene. So, make sure you book a table to avoid disappointment.

Visit mykonostaverna.co.za for more information.

#6 Hike to The Kleinplaas dam

Cape Town is full of hiking opportunities, tucked away within the city borders. If you are looking for a leisurely weekend outing that the whole family can enjoy, this is a great option. The dam lies in the Redhill area, situated above Simon’s Town. Along the way there are also interesting old ruins to explore.

#7 Learn to Salsa

Dancing is a fun couples’ activity to do. The Que Pasa dancing school hosts fun free dance classes every Friday night at La Prada, 107 Bree street (CBD), starting at 21:00. Or join at Jade Bar, 39 Main road (Greenpoint) on Sunday nights, starting at 20:00.

For more info, visit quepasa.co.za

#8 Fine Dining on Peaceful Waters

The V&A Waterfront has a magical vibe. It’s always abuzz with activity. And now an even more exciting restaurant has entered the scene, a first of its kind in the city. The Alba offers you a floating restaurant experience. While you are feasting, you can stare out over the calm waters of the harbour.

The 22m long cruise boat can seat 72 people for an unforgettable dining experience. It’s designed as an all-weather boat, so come rain or sunshine, you can enjoy a unique dining experience. Plus, it operates every day of the year. You can also book out the Alba for your private function. The cruise and dine options range from R495 to R695, depending on the time of day.

Book your floating seat now!

Related: Top 10 things to do at the V&A Waterfront

#9 Become A Chocolatier

Lindt chocolate is a world-famous brand. If you are a hardcore chocolate fanatic, you most likely have an opinion on the various types of chocolate they create, with the cocoa percentage varying from milky sweet to darkly bitter. You can book a class to learn how to make your own chocolate delights with the delicious Lindt chocolate. Classes range from R345 to R475. Choose between making truffles, cupcakes, a cake, macarons, or a fondant pudding. They also offer kids chocolate making classes.

Visit the chocolate studio website to book now.

#10 Explore the Abandoned Zoo

Did you know the city once had a zoo? It was functional from 1931 to 1975. Cecil John Rhodes requested it, and it included animals from his own menagerie. Situated close to the Rhodes Memorial it makes for an interesting exploration adventure with friends. Investigate the eerie remains of the old cages and other structures.

Back in the day it was very popular and offered free access to the public. Look out for the lion’s den, it is the most distinguishable structure.

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