Cape Town - What not to miss on a 4-day first-timers' itinerary

Cape Town is one of those cities that everyone knows - an iconic city like Rio de Janeiro, Sydney, New York and London that finds itself a place on many people’s bucket lists.  The question is not so much whether to visit but when.  This itinerary helps make sense of your first visit.  It will show you what you really must see and what you can leave for next time, and it will help you find the right spot to take some classic shots of the city for those keen on photography. 

From how to make the best use of the Hop on, Hop off sightseeing bus to where you should take a hire car for a day’s drive, this guide simplifies the city and makes it feel do-able in just a few days.  Walking routes are suggested that get you into the heart of neighbourhoods like Bo Kaap, De Waterkant and the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.  Clear maps and colour photographs will significantly reduce your chances of getting lost and will enable you to explore the key landmarks, making sure you don’t waste a moment of your time here.

Suggested highlights include the magnificent views from Table Mountain, with tips on how to save money on your cableway ticket and how to beat the queues, the city's best brunch spot - attractive Camps Bay - and the stunning Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.  There's an overview of the city's historic sites, taking you to the Castle of Good Hope, District Six and of course Robben Island.  This itinerary makes suggestions for a thought-provoking organised tour to Langa Township, where visiting with a local is an essential element to understanding the urban landscape.  Getting out of the city, there are driving directions that enable you to experience the thrilling Chapman's Peak Drive, view endangered penguins near Victorian Simon's Town and reach the south-western tip of Africa at Cape Point.

Cape Town truly deserves its place on those bucket lists.  What are you waiting for?