Perfect Weekend Getaway: Must-Visit Spots In Cape Town

by Barbara Yakimchuk

Perfect Weekend Getaway: Must-Visit Spots In Cape Town

9 Jan 2025

Considering the 8-hour flight from Dubai, Cape Town is probably not a destination for a quick weekend trip, suiting longer stays better. Thankfully, 2025 brings good news: Dubai will enjoy at least 12 public holidays throughout the year. So, if you are already planning how to spend them, Cape Town is an excellent choice and will not take long to steal your heart. Whether you are into hiking and adventure or prefer slow evenings, long spa days, and sleeping in until noon, this city has something for everyone.

What to do: 3 must-see places

Boulders Beach with Penguins

When to go: Penguins can be seen year-round, though operating hours vary by season.

If you are someone who hikes a lot and loves exploring wild beaches, your chances of spotting penguins in the wild are pretty high! But if your time in Cape Town is short and penguins are on your must-see list, head straight to Boulders Beach. It is a popular tourist spot with wooden walkways along the beach, home to hundreds of penguins. My only advice: try to arrive early in the morning — it gets crowded later in the day, however, even with the crowds, the penguins are still there, and the photos turn out great.

Cost: ~45 AED

Cape Point National Park

If you are in Cape Town, visiting the Cape of Good Hope is non-negotiable — even for those who prefer to skip hiking activities. It is located within a Cape Point National Park which is a home to three main attractions: the Cape of Good Hope itself, the lighthouse at Cape Point (the tallest in South Africa, standing over 200 metres), and a swimming lagoon where a family of baboons resides.

Cape Point is the perfect way to wrap up your active adventures: to reach the top of the Cape of Good Hope, you will need to hike up. Although the lighthouse has a funicular, it was not operating, so hiking is your only option here as well. Just make sure to bring some warm clothing — Cape Point is the windiest spot we visited!

Cost: ~90 AED

Vineyards

Cape Town is known for its stunning mountains, lush vineyards, and fresh air. When it comes to exploring the vineyards, you have two options: either book a wine tram that takes you from one winery to another, or choose a single winery and spend the day there. If you opt for the tram, the easiest way is to book the tickets on TripAdvisor for the preferred dates — the tram runs between wineries from morning to evening. If you would rather focus on one winery, I recommend Dieu Donné (has an incredible views of the valleys), and Maastricht.

In case you are planning to stay overnight at a vineyard, consider Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa — the perfect spot to unwind and recharge.

Cost for Wine Tram: ~65 AED

Cost for Wine Tasting: from 190 AED

Photo: @dieudonnewines & @polly.koleva

What to do: animal-lovers' edition

Shark Cage Diving

When to Go: If your goal is to see great white sharks, plan your trip between June and September. However, other shark species can be spotted year-round.

Shark cage diving is a bucket-list experience that draws thrill-seekers from across the globe. Here is how it works: A boat, typically carrying up to 12 tourists (with four people in the cage at a time), heads out to shark hotspots. The crew uses pre-prepared bait to attract the sharks, and once the action begins, a human-sized cage is lowered into the water, offering a close-up view of these predators. Rest assured, the experience is completely safe for both sharks and divers.

For me, watching the sharks from the boat was even more thrilling than being in the cage — seeing dozens of sharks swirling beneath you gives a raw sense of adrenaline. Plus, in the water, you have to deal with the cold and control your breathing. Inside the cage, the experience was also fascinating — there is something truly chilling about locking eyes with their cold, grey gaze and razor-sharp teeth.

Cost: from 500 AED to 700 AED

Photo: @shark_divingcapetown

Whales Watching

When to Go: Whale migration in South Africa takes place from June to October, with the best months being August, September, and October.

This year, we missed the whale migration but I tried it in Australia before, and I can confidently say — if you have the chance to see whales, do not pass it up. In South Africa, you will find both single-day tours and multi-day excursions. Since it is wildlife, nothing is guaranteed, so some people opt for longer trips to increase their chances, but I would recommend starting with a one-day tour — a full day on the water (usually in small, rocky boats) is not for everyone. Here is a small tip: skip the snacks offered before and during the trip. Even in calm waters, seasickness can sneak up on you and ruin the entire experience.

Cost: from 500 AED to 1000 AED

Kalk Bay Harbour Jetty and Seals

When to Go: All year round

Not far from the popular surf spot at Kalk Bay Harbour Jetty, you will find a group of seals! This is not an official spot on the map, but the seals are always around. The reason is simple — locals often fish in the area and share some of their catch with these cute animals. By the way, there is a hidden gem just nearby: Olympia Café, discovered by our Head of Content, Sofia. They serve the most delicious mussels I have ever tried!

Where to eat:

South Africa is a place full of incredibly delicious spots. Steaks are particularly popular, so if you are a meat eater, Cape Town will certainly please you! An important tip — during winter season it is easy to pick up a stomach virus, so stick to the basic rules: wash your hands, do not overload your stomach, and bring some pills with you.

The Hussar Grill

A spot with steaks and a nice view of the waterfront — a perfect place to start your journey. The portions are generous, and the meat is served with a side of your choice! We had the beef ribs and ostrich steak the second one is a must-try in South Africa, as you will rarely come across it elsewhere. For dessert, we had cream brulée (to be honest, I had it everywhere) — it is top-notch!

Photo: @thehussargrill

SeaBreeze Fish & Shell

A cosy spot to enjoy fresh oysters and seafood. Beautiful presentations, a light interior that makes you feel like you are sitting by the sea with the ocean breeze blowing, and friendly staff. One thing worth noting — from 5 to 6 pm, they usually have happy hour, with a huge basket of oysters in different varieties and flavours available at almost half price. So come here for a late lunch or early dinner!

Café Paradiso

This place has a great location — it is perched on a hill, so in the evening, the view is especially beautiful — it feels like you are almost touching the clouds. The vibe here is typical Italian — delicious, a bit noisy, and relaxed. So if you are in a hurry and want fast service, this might not be the spot for you! The pizza is absolutely delicious — we had the one with mushrooms and truffle. A special mention — the ostrich carpaccio!

by Barbara Yakimchuk