Fun things to do in the Mother City

As one of the most beautiful cities in the world, best believe that Cape Town has loads to offer. To make your life easier, we put together a snapshot of things to do. And it won’t break the bank.

Table Mountain and Camps Bay aside, the Mother City has so much more to offer. From trendy thrift stores on Main Road in Observatory to cave putt putt at the Waterfront. You name it, we’ve got it. So, if you’re new to Cape Town, keep this list close by.

It’s sure to help you stay occupied.

Green Point Urban Park

This family-friendly biodiversity urban park is perfect for a picnic on the lawns, or for some downtime in nature after a rough day in front of the books.

Touring the city

Explore the Mother City on foot and enjoy some of the top spots – a stroll in the Company Gardens, a visit to one (or all) of the Iziko Museums for some history 101 and the new Humanity exhibition. Or check out the historical Bo-Kaap on the slopes of Signal Hill for some local is lekker action. It will give you a unique perspective of the city and you can enjoy some koesisters and coffee on Rose Street. You can even join one of several free, yes free, Walking Tours throughout the day.

Go thrifting

For pre-loved, on-trend clothing items that won’t cost an arm and a leg, visit Observatory’s Lower Main Road, and pop into one (or all) of the thrift stores. You’ll be surprised by the gems you’ll find.

Table Mountain

Voted Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction, a trip up Table Mountain in the cable car is a must and Table Mountain Aerial Cableway has slashed rates for students. You’ll pay only R280 for a return ticket or hike up and pay just R170 to get back down. Don’t forget your student card. On your birthday month, you will be able to ride the cable car for free.

Soak up the sun

Soak up some vitamin sea during a stroll or cycle along the Sea Point promenade, and if you enjoy a bit of adventure, you could even hire an e-scooter or e-bike. Or join Promenade Mondays to rollerblade, rollerskate or skateboard down the 11 km seafront.

The Irma Stern Museum

Learn more about the life and times of Irma Stern at UCT’s Irma Stern Museum on lower campus. Prepared to be mesmerised by the eclectic mix of artworks.

Go take a hike

Of course taking a hike is always an option. And there are plenty of trails to choose from in the city, from Table Mountain to Lion’s Head, or even Newlands Forest. It’s loads of fun to do in groups and the good news is, most trails are free. But note the warning signs on some trails, which advise you to walk in groups and stick together.

Play cave putt putt

When the weather gods are not playing game, then a game of cave putt putt at the V&A Waterfront is a good way to spend a weekend afternoon. The 18-hole mini-golf layout is set in a cave and is guaranteed to give regular and novice golfers an entertaining time.

First Thursdays

First Thursdays is when Cape Town’s hottest spots open their doors for some fun after sunset, from the CBD all the way down to the Deep South. You don’t want to miss out. So, gather your besties and visit some of the trendiest dining spots and art galleries or check out one of the many cultural events showcasing the incredible talent the city has to offer. There’s no structured tour and no schedule to follow – it’s all up to you.

Local indoor markets

If you’re into indoor markets then you’ll love Mojo Market in Sea Point, the Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay and the Blue Bird Garage & Goods Market in Muizenberg. With a long list of food and goodie stalls to choose from, you will never go hungry or thirsty. A bonus: several local artists are always on stage to keep you entertained.

Go for a dip

If you’re new to Cape Town then you simply must experience the picturesque beaches. From Camps Bay to Clifton, Muizenberg to Fish Hoek and all the way to Simon’s Town, it’s the best way to spend some time in the waves for that much-needed dose of ‘vitamin sea’.

A lay on the lawn

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is perfect for a lay on the lawn, and what’s cool – it’s a stone’s throw away from campus and students enter at a discounted rate.

Hey, hippos

Visit Rondevlei just outside Grassy Park to spot hippos, eland and plenty of birds. For just a few rands you’ll also see over 250 species of indigenous plants, a museum and other animals like porcupines and the Cape Clawless Otter.

The Baxter Theatre

Did you know many productions offer student discounts? Contact The Baxter office to find out what’s showing and have your student card ready when you buy tickets. The Baxter’s in-house restaurant, Prashad Café, also offers tasty treats (including vegan and vegetarian options) at reduced rates for students.