Travel Tips for Cape Town – A Quick Guide for Your Perfect Holiday
This short introduction is for all travellers planning a trip to Cape Town and unsure what to expect.
After seeing breathtaking photos, hearing stories about Boulders Beach, and dreaming of Table Mountain, one thing is clear:
You want to experience Cape Town for yourself.
In this travel guide, you’ll find the most important tips for first-time visitors.
We share what to do in this beautiful city and how to make your holiday unforgettable.
According to official statistics, fewer tourists are looking for active holidays abroad, and many prefer online entertainment instead.
But if you are looking for adventure and real experiences, here are the best tips for an active and memorable Cape Town trip.
Table of Contents
- Best Time to Visit Cape Town
- What Travel Documents Do You Need?
- Flight Duration to Cape Town
- Is a Trip to Cape Town Expensive?
- Where to Stay in Cape Town
Best Time to Visit Cape Town
The most important factor before travelling is the weather.
The best time to visit Cape Town is between October and April, during the South African summer.
Since the seasons are reversed, temperatures are:
- Summer (Dec–Feb): about 25–27°C
- Winter (Jul–Aug): about 12–18°C
It’s always a good idea to check the climate in advance.
What Travel Documents Do You Need?
For stays of up to 90 days, German and Austrian citizens do not need a visa.
Upon arrival, you automatically receive a tourist visa stamped into your passport.
Required:
- a valid passport
- a return or onward ticket
For stays longer than 90 days:
- apply for a visa in advance
or - extend your tourist visa locally
Flight Duration to Cape Town
Flight time depends on stopovers.
Airlines offering direct or regular flights include:
- Lufthansa
- Austrian Airlines
- KLM
- Turkish Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- Egypt Air
- Ethiopian Airways
- British Airways
- Emirates
A direct flight takes 11–12 hours.
With stopovers, the journey can take up to 25 hours.
Is a Trip to Cape Town Expensive?
Flight prices vary depending on the season.
Early booking saves money.
Expected price range: €450–€1,500
Accommodation options include:
- Hotels
- Bed & Breakfast
- Self-catering apartments
Cape Town is generally cheaper than Germany or Austria, especially when it comes to food, activities, and transport.
Where to Stay in Cape Town
Cape Town, with nearly 4 million residents, is a large and diverse city.
Each neighbourhood has its own charm and unique benefits.
Atlantic Seaboard (best for families & safety)
Includes: Waterfront, Green Point, Sea Point, Bantry Bay, Clifton, Camps Bay, Bakoven
→ central, beach access, restaurants, safe at night
City Bowl (heart of the city)
Surrounded by Table Mountain and the Atlantic
→ urban, lively, full of attractions
West Coast (for sport & beach lovers)
→ white beaches, modern buildings, more affordable
Constantia (for nature & tranquility)
→ green, elegant, wine estates, only 15 minutes to the city centre
