Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Cape Town (CPT)

About Cape Town

Discover Cape Town

Why visit Cape Town?
Cape Town is a coastal city framed by mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, known for its dramatic scenery, creative energy, and relaxed pace. You will find a blend of historic districts, modern waterfront spaces, and beaches that make it easy to balance exploration with downtime.

What to expect
The city is anchored by Table Mountain, with neighbourhoods like the V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay, and the colourful Bo-Kaap each offering a distinct atmosphere. Expect a strong outdoor culture, a growing arts and design scene, and a compact central area that is simple to navigate as a visitor.

Plan your trip
Cape Town works well as both a city break and the starting point for a wider journey along the coast or into wine country. From here, you can join day trips to the Cape Peninsula, nearby vineyards, or longer journeys along scenic routes, making the city an ideal gateway to the region.

Top sights in Cape Town

Table Mountain

Ride the cableway or hike to the summit for panoramic views over the city, coastline, and surrounding peaks.

V&A Waterfront

Stroll a lively harbour district filled with shops, dining, galleries, and views of the working port.

Bo-Kaap

Walk through streets lined with brightly painted houses and explore the area’s layered urban history.

Camps Bay Beach

Relax on a wide sandy beach backed by palm trees and the Twelve Apostles mountain range.

Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope

Take a day trip to dramatic cliffs, walking trails, and ocean viewpoints at the tip of the peninsula.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Enjoy landscaped gardens, indigenous plants, and a treetop walkway on the slopes of Table Mountain.

Chapman’s Peak Drive

Follow one of the region’s most scenic coastal roads, with multiple viewpoints over the ocean and cliffs.

City Bowl and Long Street

Explore historic streets, architecture, and a mix of cafés, bars, and small boutiques in the city centre.

Experience Cape Town’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Cape Town’s central areas are best explored on foot or by using ride-hailing services between neighbourhoods. For longer journeys, use reputable taxis or organised shuttles, and consider guided tours for outlying attractions. In busy areas, walking during daylight and staying on main streets keeps getting around simple.

Local life & culture
Cape Town’s daily life revolves around its outdoor spaces, cafés, and creative hubs. You will notice people meeting on sea-facing promenades, in inner-city parks, and in renovated warehouses that now host studios and galleries. Many neighbourhoods mix historic architecture with contemporary design, reflecting a city that is constantly evolving.

Where to unwind
You can slow down along the Sea Point Promenade, where walkers and cyclists follow the Atlantic shoreline at sunrise and sunset. For more greenery, head to parks and gardens around the City Bowl, or take a short drive to quieter beaches along the peninsula. Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and cooler temperatures for being outdoors.

A taste of Cape Town

Street food & local specialties
Cape Town’s food scene highlights grilled meats, seafood, and fresh produce, with casual eateries and food halls dotted around the city. You will find simple café-style spots and local bakeries that make it easy to sample a range of flavours in one day.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern dining clusters around the V&A Waterfront, central city streets, and redeveloped dockside areas. Here you can choose from cafés, bistros, and contemporary restaurants that serve both local and international dishes, often in sharing-friendly portions so you can try several plates.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for venues with mountain or harbour views, or restaurants set along the coastline. Some dining rooms showcase open kitchens or terraces that frame the sunset over the Atlantic, turning a relaxed dinner into a highlight of your stay.

Retail therapy in Cape Town

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Cape Town offers modern shopping centres with international brands, South African designers, and entertainment options under one roof. These complexes often combine retail with cinemas and family-friendly facilities, making them convenient places to spend a few relaxed hours.

Markets & local crafts
For locally made items, explore compact markets and inner-city streets where small labels and artisans showcase their work. Areas near the city centre and waterfront often host weekend markets with textiles, jewellery, and design pieces that make meaningful souvenirs.

Evening retail scene
In the evening, certain waterfront and central districts stay active, with well-lit promenades and late-opening shops and eateries. Nighttime brings a pleasant atmosphere for a stroll between stores, cafés, and bars, and local transport or ride-hailing services make these areas straightforward to reach.

Best time to visit Cape Town

Cape Town summer (December to February, peak season)
Summer brings warm, dry days with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F) and plenty of sunshine. Coastal breezes keep conditions pleasant, especially near the Atlantic. This is a popular time for beach visits, outdoor dining, and longer evenings spent along promenades and terraces.

Cape Town autumn and spring (March to May, and September to November, shoulder season)
These months offer mild, changeable weather with temperatures around 18–22°C (64–72°F). You can enjoy fewer crowds, comfortable conditions for hiking and sightseeing, and clear days that are ideal for photography. Vineyards and surrounding landscapes are particularly attractive during these transitional seasons.

Cape Town winter (June to August, low season)
Winter is cooler and can be rainy, with average temperatures around 15°C (59°F), but there are also crisp, clear days. This is a calm time for city exploration, indoor attractions, and scenic drives when roads are quieter. You may also enjoy dramatic coastal views when the weather changes quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions