The V&A Waterfront is South Africa’s most-visited destination, attracting roughly 24 million visitors a year. There are five shopping districts where you’ll find everything from local designs to international brands, but there’s more to this destination than shopping. There are many coffee shops, restaurants, and bars, most with spectacular harbour views. Kids will love the Two Oceans Aquarium and the chance to ride the Cape Wheel.

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Table Mountain is Cape Town’s centrepiece. If you are relatively fit and are feeling energetic, there are some amazing hikes to try. For those pressed for time, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway offers a quick and convenient ascent. Cable cars depart from the cable station every 10 to 15 minutes and the journey up the mountain takes about five minutes. The cars rotate through 360 degrees during the trip, affording you spectacular views of the mountain below.

Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has come to symbolise the oppression of the Apartheid government. It was here that Nelson Mandela, alongside many other political prisoners, spent 18 years of his 27 years in prison. Ferries depart for the island daily from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront.

Situated on the slopes of Table Mountain, a mere 13km from the city centre, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is regarded as one of the great botanical gardens of the world. The 528-hectare estate contains over 7,000 species of plants from southern Africa. Spend the day picnicking on the lawns, strolling through the Protea garden, or discovering interesting plant species in the Botanical Society Conservatory. While you are there, be sure to check out the 130m Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway – affectionately known as the Boomslang – that snakes its way through the trees of the Arboretum.

The oldest wine farm in South Africa offers up more than just fine wine and delicious food; at Groot Constantia, you can also brush up on your Cape Town history at the museum housed in the old Manor House. It forms part of the Constantia Wine Route, which is the closest wine route to the city. Other options include the Durbanville Wine Route and Helderberg Wine Route, and a little further afield you’ll find the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek Wine Routes.

The Cape Point Nature Reserve is all about natural splendour. You will be treated to some pretty spectacular views of the Atlantic and False Bay coastlines. While you are there, be sure to spend some time in the nature reserve where you are likely to encounter baboons, Cape Mountain Zebras, buck, and at least some of the 250 species of bird that call this reserve home. Don’t miss a ride up to the lighthouse on the Flying Dutchman Funicular for some truly spectacular panoramic views!

Cape Town is also well-known for its beautiful beaches. Visiting the quirky penguins at Boulders Beach, between Simon’s Town and Cape Point, is a unique experience. Camps Bay and Clifton are the place to see and be seen, and are perfect for sunbathing and beach activities. Try Muizenberg or Blouberg for some great surfing.

For more information, visit www.thisis.capetown or www.capetown.travel.