Cape Town is the mother of all cities. There really is no such thing as a dull moment if you’re in the heart of Cape Town’s city centre. There are loads of attractions and entertainment options right in front of you, so what are you waiting for? Meet the flower sellers of Adderley Street, something of a Cape Town institution, and make sure you browse in Greenmarket Square, the city’s best-loved flea market. The Pan African Market in Long Street is a must for curios and wares from all over Africa.
There are two museums that are an absolute must – the District Six Museum (+27 21 466 7200; www.districtsix.co.za) on Buitenkant Street and the Gold of Africa Museum (+27 21 405 1540; www.goldofafrica.co.za) just off Buitengracht Street, which focuses on exquisite gold-inspired artworks and hosts fantastic exhibitions.
There are loads of fantastic restaurants in the city centre. Try out Jardine’s (+27 21 424 5640; www.jardineonbree.co.za) in Bree Street or the award-winning Aubergine (+27 21 465 4909; www.aubergine.co.za) in Gardens. The Five Flies (+27 21 424 4442; www.fiveflies.co.za) in Keerom Street is another notable spot and has a great cigar bar to brag about. For something a bit different try the Mesopotamia Kurdish Kitchen (+27 21 464 4664; www.mesopotamia.co.za) on the corner of Long and Church Street or Masala Dosa (+27 21 424 6772; www.masaladosa.co.za) in Long Street for authentic South Indian cooking.
Long Street is where it’s all happening, all of the time. Enjoy dinner at Mama Africa’s (+27 21 424 8634; www.mamaafricarest.net), and then head out and enjoy a big night on the town. The Dubliner (+27 21 424 1212; www.thedubliner.co.za) is a swanky bar offering cigars from all around the world – the place boasts great live jazz. The Zula Sound Experience (+27 21 424 2442; www.zulabar.co.za) also offers fantastic live performances. You could also hang out with the trendoids at The Lounge (+27 21 424 7636) or see in the wee hours at Joburg (+27 21 422 0142; www.joburgbar.com ) at 218 Long Street.