Cape Town City Centre

Cape Town City Centre Overview

While the only wildlife you will see in the Cape Town City Centre is plenty of squirrels and the ever-present city pigeon, the centre of Cape Town offers a fascinating urban jungle with plenty to see and do.

A walk through the tree-lined pathways of the Company Gardens takes you through to the South African National Museum and Planetarium. Green Market Square still boasts the cobbled market place that has been part of the city for hundreds of years. Towards the end of the City Bowl, on the slopes of Signal Hill is the colourful Cape Malay Quarter of Bo Kaap, which miraculously survived the forced removals of the Apartheid, while the Castle of Good Hope offers a glimpse into the Cape’s history. 

Highlights & Places in Cape Town City Centre

Housing many national and international companies in a diverse blend of sky-scrapers, ancient buildings and tiny shops, the Cape Town City Centre is a hub for business and tourism. The people you will see in this part of the city are equally diverse, with a melting pot of cultures, nationalities and styles. Trendy locals walk side by side along curious tourists, smartly dressed business people and bustling market traders, resulting in a cosmopolitan yet distinctly unique hub of activity.

The City Centre includes the old part of town, where Adderly Street and the flower market with many beautiful buildings. Then there is the foreshore, where many tall high-rises housing media companies and other businesses are located. Long Street runs throughout the city centre into Gardens. 

Best Time to Visit Cape Town City Centre

When to Go

With the summer months, particularly December and January, brings plenty of tourists, early autumn during March and April offers warm weather with more space to explore the many attractions. 

Getting There & Getting Around

Getting To Cape Town City Centre

Getting Around Cape Town City Centre

It is mostly safe to explore the Cape Town City Centre by foot, it is not advised to walk around after dark unless you stay on the busy side of Long Street. Rikki taxis are cheap and easy to get around, while scooters and bicycles are also an option.

Private taxis are also a great way to get around, with plenty of market taxis to be found along Long Street. 

Cape Town City Centre Tips : Know Before You Go

ATMs/Money:
There are banks and ATMs throughout the city centre. It is safest to stick to ATMs that are in banks rather than the ones in cafes, especially around Long Street.

Credit/Debit cards:
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most bars, restaurants, shops and accommodation. At Green Market Square, you will need cash however.

Internet availability:
There are plenty of internet cafes and WiFi spots throughout the city centre. 

Cape Town City Centre Map