The 10 Best Free Things to do in Cape Town, Western Cape

Enclosed by ocean, mountains and wine farms, the former fishing village offers a country affair with some adventure thrown in.

The V&A Waterfront is a 123-hectare mixed-use destination, and one of Africa’s most visited cultural and historical hubs. Set on the edge of a natural, historic working harbour with the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop, it offers local and international visitors a cosmopolitan mix of experiences ranging from leisure, shopping and exclusive entertainment. It also offers prime residential and commercial property. The prime positioning of the V&A Waterfront boasts sweeping views of the ocean, city bowl and mountain peaks. Up to 100 000 people visit every day during peak season. Contributing R259.1 billion in nominal terms to the South African economy over the last twelve years, the V&A Waterfront’s cumulative contribution to the provincial GGP since 2002 was over R227 billion. The property also reported a 19% increase in retail trade sales for 2014, marking four consecutive years of consistent growth since 2011. By end 2014, total visitor numbers to the property had grown to 24 million a year. Although the V&A Waterfront remains South Africa’s favourite attraction for international visitors, they account for only 23% of all visitors. Visits by locals increased to 63%, while 14% of visitors were from upcountry. With 22 official landmarks on-site, it is also part of South Africa’s historical legacy. Jointly owned by Growthpoint Properties Limited and the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF), represented by the Public Investment Corporation Limited (PIC), the V&A Waterfront was developed in 1988 by the state-owned transport corporation, Transnet Limited, while official commercial trading commenced in November 1990.

Just up Kloof Nek Road from the center of town is this thriving beach community. Plenty of trendy nightclubs, shops and cafes bring diners and shoppers, while tranquil seas and fine white sand draw sun worshippers and swimmers.

Lion's Head in Cape Town is a peak situated at 669 meters above sea level. The hike up Lions Head takes approximately 90 minutes at a moderate pace. Lions Head trail is steep but do-able, while the 5.5km trail packs a punch (Both ways). The views from Lions head are amazing. Take a look around you and see the beauty. Lions Head hike is the preferred route for mountain enthusiasts, the easiest of the routes in Cape Town.

Signal Hill is so named because it was a site for flying flags to communicate weather conditions, thus providing opportune vistas of spectacular views.

Where Cape Town meets for culinary delights and fine local designs. A vibrant community in the heart of Woodstock where talented people come together to share, collaborate and show off their heartfelt passions. The Old Biscuit Mill is home to dynamic office spaces, a range of workshops and designer stores, decadent restaurants, food stalls as well as an inspiring line-up of day and night-markets, festivals and productions. Come and explore the Old Biscuit Mill and meet some of South Africa’s most innovative and creative designers, artists, photographers and connoisseurs of fine taste and décor. Moreover, the Mill – as it’s affectionately known – houses some of the city’s most charming architecture and, since its revitalisation over 10 years ago, has secured its spot as one of Cape Town’s favourite destinations