Flights from Christchurch (CHC) to Cape Town (CPT)

About Cape Town

Discover Cape Town

Why visit Cape Town?
Cape Town is a coastal city framed by dramatic mountains, long beaches, and a vibrant working harbour. You can explore a mix of historic neighbourhoods, contemporary art spaces, and waterfront promenades, all set against striking ocean and mountain views.

What to expect
The city spreads around Table Bay, with Table Mountain as its landmark backdrop and the V&A Waterfront as a lively hub. You will find relaxed seaside suburbs, inner-city streets filled with galleries and cafés, and nearby wine valleys that can be visited on easy day trips.

Plan your trip
Cape Town works well as both a city break and a base for exploring the wider Western Cape. Many travellers pair time in the city with coastal drives, wildlife experiences, and wine estates, making it an ideal gateway to the region.

Top sights in Cape Town

Table Mountain

Ride the cableway or hike to the top for sweeping views over the city, coastline, and distant peaks.

V&A Waterfront

Stroll a working harbour lined with restaurants, shops, and attractions, with views across to Table Mountain.

Cape Point

Follow a scenic drive along the peninsula to dramatic cliffs, coastal walks, and sweeping ocean vistas.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Walk among indigenous plants and tree-lined lawns on the slopes of Table Mountain, with mountain views all around.

Bo-Kaap

Explore cobbled streets lined with brightly painted houses and learn about the area’s layered cultural history.

Camps Bay Beach

Relax on a wide sandy beach backed by cafés and the Twelve Apostles range, especially atmospheric at sunset.

Cape Winelands

Take a day trip to nearby wine towns for cellar tastings, mountain scenery, and historic architecture.

Experience Cape Town’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Cape Town is easiest to explore using a mix of taxis, app-based rides, and local bus services on the main corridors. For a scenic overview, the hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses link key attractions. For shorter distances, walking between nearby neighbourhoods is often the most enjoyable option.

Local life & culture
Life in Cape Town moves between the city centre, the waterfront, and the beaches, with many locals spending time outdoors. You will notice a strong creative scene with galleries, design studios, and street art, as well as regular festivals and events celebrating music, film, and contemporary culture.

Where to unwind
When you need a break from sightseeing, head to the city’s beaches, shaded parks, or seaside promenades. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly pleasant for walks, coastal drives, or a quiet coffee with a view, especially when the light softens around Table Mountain and the bay.

A taste of Cape Town

Street food & local specialties
Cape Town’s food reflects many influences, and you can sample local favourites in casual cafés, markets, and small eateries. Neighbourhoods close to the centre and the waterfront are good areas to try grilled dishes, seafood, and baked treats.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Around the city centre, V&A Waterfront, and nearby suburbs, you will find modern restaurants serving local and international flavours. Many venues offer sharing plates or smaller portions, which makes it easy to try several dishes in one meal with friends or family.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose a restaurant with views of Table Mountain, the harbour, or the Atlantic coastline. There are also refined dining options on nearby wine estates, where you can pair seasonal menus with beautiful garden or vineyard settings.

Retail therapy in Cape Town

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Cape Town’s main shopping centres bring together international brands, local designers, and leisure options in one place. Large malls in and around the city, along with the V&A Waterfront, are convenient for picking up fashion, electronics, and travel essentials in a comfortable setting.

Markets & local crafts
For something more distinctive, explore smaller markets and creative districts. Areas such as the V&A Waterfront’s craft spaces, parts of the city centre, and nearby creative precincts showcase handmade jewellery, textiles, art, and design from local makers.

Evening retail scene
In the evenings, waterfront promenades and some central streets stay lively with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Night markets and late-opening venues appear at certain times of year, and you can usually reach these areas easily using taxis or app-based ride services.

Best time to visit Cape Town

Summer (December to February, peak season)
Cape Town’s summer brings long, warm days, with average temperatures around 24°C (75°F) and plenty of sunshine. Beaches and outdoor terraces are lively, and conditions are ideal for coastal drives and al fresco dining during this popular travel period.

Autumn and spring (March to May, and September to November, shoulder season)
These transition months are pleasantly mild, with averages of 18–22°C (64–72°F) and a mix of sunny and cooler days. Vineyards and gardens are especially attractive, and you can enjoy outdoor activities with slightly fewer crowds while still experiencing comfortable weather.

Winter (June to August, low season)
Winters are mild, with temperatures around 13–17°C (55–63°F), occasional rain, and clear days between cold fronts. This is a welcoming time for scenic drives, cosy indoor dining, and exploring cultural attractions, with a calmer pace in the city and surrounding regions.

Frequently Asked Questions