The city was just named the World’s Best City in the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards, marking the seventh time that readers have handed the Mother City the crown.
Over 20,000 UK travellers voted, favouring Cape Town over tourism darlings like Sydney and Seville — a reminder that this city’s magic isn’t just in its mountains and oceans, but in its energy, people and ever-evolving character.
It’s the second major win this year: Time Out also declared Cape Town the best city in the world back in January. Together, the accolades speak to a place that’s not only striking to look at, but deeply memorable to experience.
ALSO READ: Cape Town International Airport takes title of best airport globally
So, what makes Cape Town the kind of city people vote for again and again? It’s not just the headline sights — it’s the mix of urban vibes, coastal calm, rich history, and cultural colour that makes every visit feel new. Here’s how to dive in:
1. Take a neighbourhood walk — and really look
Forget rushing from one landmark to the next. Cape Town’s soul is found on foot — in its street art, stoep chats, corner bakeries and sea-salt wind. Start in Kalk Bay, where fishing boats bob beside vintage stores and bakeries. Or head to Oranjezicht or Tamboerskloof to catch everyday life playing out beneath the mountain’s watch.
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2. Get wet (cold water is part of the deal)
Locals don’t let the Atlantic’s icy grip keep them on the shore. Join early-morning swimmers at Dalebrook tidal pool in St James or the bold bunch plunging in at Saunders Rock in Sea Point. For a wild twist, kayak from Mouille Point or go paddling with penguins in Simon’s Town.
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3. Swap the wine bus for something slower
While Stellenbosch and Franschhoek attract most of the wine fame, Cape Town’s Constantia Valley is its quiet rival — where vines meet forested slopes and tastings come with fewer crowds. Try the trail linking a few estates on foot or bike. Many offer cellar tours or food pairings under the trees.
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4. Take a sunset mini-road trip
One of the best ways to soak in Cape Town’s drama is on four wheels. Pack a playlist and take Chapman’s Peak Drive at golden hour. Pull over for photos or a picnic with that unbeatable view over Hout Bay.
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5. Eat with your hands in the Bo-Kaap
The Bo-Kaap is more than its Instagrammable rows of houses — it’s a living community with one of the city’s most flavourful food cultures. Book a Cape Malay cooking class or tuck into samosas and curry with a view. You’ll leave full in every sense of the word.
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6. Catch a movie with character
The Labia Theatre is one of the oldest independent cinemas in Africa. Its slightly creaky seats and curated film list are part of the charm. If the popcorn and cult films don’t pull you in, the R60 wine-and-pizza combo might.
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7. Walk the Prom with locals
The Sea Point Promenade is Cape Town’s social runway. Mornings are for joggers, evenings for families, and all day long for ocean air and people-watching. Look out for public sculptures, street musicians and paragliders drifting down from Signal Hill.
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8. Go beyond the Waterfront
While the V&A Waterfront is a crowd-pleaser, explore its less polished edge by walking to the Cruise Terminal at E Berth, now home to Makers Landing — a dynamic space for food entrepreneurs, demos, and tastings. It’s a chance to sample Cape Town’s flavour from the source.
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9. Chase views — but not always the obvious ones
Of course, Table Mountain and Lion’s Head are iconic for a reason. But for a quieter perspective, hike Kloof Corner at sunset or pack coffee for a dawn walk up Devil’s Peak. The city unfurls in all directions, from the glittering coastline to the winelands beyond.
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Cape Town’s brilliance lies in the blend. You can surf at sunrise, hike with dassies, shop from a ceramicist’s studio, and be served world-class cuisine with a side of sea mist — all in a single day.
It’s no wonder the city keeps winning. The only thing better than the view? The feeling that you’re part of it.
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