Things To Do In Cape Town On A Budget

With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Cape Town offers many experiences. From breathtaking hikes up Table Mountain to exploring local markets and historic sites, there’s no shortage of affordable or even free things to do. It is the place to be if you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking to soak in the local vibe.

Cape Town provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy its beauty and charm without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to exploring the best of the Mother City on a budget.

Explore Cape Town’s Natural Beauty

Panoramic views of the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains are a treat whether you’re a tourist or a local just rediscovering the city. Here are top suggestions.

Lion’s Head

Near Table Mountain, Lion’s Head offers a panoramic view of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Its shape resembles a crouching lion, hence the name, first coined by the Dutch settlers. Enjoy the natural fauna and flora, including the beautiful pink and orange fynbos flowers during spring and the Rock Hyrax, also known as the Dassie. Additionally, it’s well-known as a launching point for Cape Town’s paragliding community, great for a hike and an excellent spot to enjoy the sunset, and the best part? Entrance is free.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Explore all the Cape’s natural biomes in one place at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The cost is around R100 for SA and SADC residents (R230 for international tourists), R40 for children from 6 to 17, and free for kids under six and pensioners (on Tuesdays). If you’re from the continent but not in the SADC region, it will set you back R140.

Explore the Kirstenbosch hiking trails with the Braille trail and Boekenhout trail. The Stinkwood trail explores the oldest part of the forest with some of the largest trees. The Yellowwood trail and Silvertree trail take you up to a waterfall and around the estate through forest and fynbos. The gardens offer deep historical treasures stretching back to the 1600s and beautiful vegetation. Enjoy a picnic on the lawns and leave with a deep sense of culture and beauty.

Visit the Penguins at Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach is the only place where you can get up close to African penguins. This trip will set you back around R45 if you’re South African and R190 if you’re an international tourist. Take a walk along the coastline, relax on the beach, and watch penguins as they come and go.

You definitely want to visit during the summer months, as the penguins enjoy relaxing and waddling on the beach. If you want to see penguins, it’s best not to go between September and October, as it is their feeding season, and as a result, they will be out at sea during this time.

Picnic at The Company’s Garden

Find yourself in central Cape Town’s Garden of Eden. Company Gardens is the oldest garden in South Africa, a park, and a heritage site. It was initially the site of the vegetable and fruit gardens planted by settlers of the Dutch East India Company. Inside the Company’s Garden, you can also find the Iziko South African Museum and the Iziko National Gallery.

Enjoy your charcuterie on the grass, wander past historical statues and memorials, and feed the squirrels nuts from bags sold in the garden. The walking route runs the length of the garden, past the back of the Parliament building, past the National Library of South Africa Cape Town Campus, and is flanked by ancient oaks. The Company’s Garden is free to both tourists and locals, so it’s a great option if you’re on a budget.

Discover Cultural and Historic Sites on a Budget

If you prefer history over nature, Cape Town offers a treasure trove. With an emphasis on education and exploration, you can explore the city’s history through art and architecture without breaking the bank.

Explore Cape Town’s Museums

Explore the history of Cape Town through stories, statues, and the words of those who came before. The District Six museum offers a journey into the District Six forced removals during Apartheid. The cost is roughly R70 to enter. The Iziko Slave Lodge is another option and explores the history of slavery on the Cape, with vivid imagery and stories. It’s also close to the Company Gardens’ site and easily integrated into a picnic, and it is about a two-minute walk from Long Street Hotel.

The Iziko House Museums allow you to explore the houses of prominent South African historical figures. The Koopmans-de Wet house has some beautiful Cape furniture and is an architectural feast for the eyes. The Old Town House is situated in the hub of Cape Town on Greenmarket Square and offers a world-renowned selection of Dutch art from the seventeenth century.

Visit Art Galleries & Bars for Free on First Thursdays

The First Thursdays program offers a rotating list of bars and art galleries for you to enjoy for free. This event transforms the city into a hub of creativity, allowing art enthusiasts and curious visitors to explore a variety of exhibitions, from contemporary to classical, without any admission fees. It also extends into the evening, with bars offering special deals, live music, and a social atmosphere. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a unique night out, First Thursdays provide a fantastic opportunity to engage with local culture, meet artists, and enjoy a lively social scene—all for free.

Dive into History with St. George’s Cathedral

If you’re interested in religious history, St George’s Cathedral is the oldest in Southern Africa. Known as the “People’s Cathedral” for its role in the resistance against Apartheid, this iconic structure has a deep-rooted history in the region’s fight for social justice.

The classic Gothic architecture is a feast for those interested in architecture, with its soaring arches, stained glass windows, and detailed stone carvings. It also features a courtyard garden and labyrinth. St George’s Cathedral serves as a beacon of hope and unity, making it a must-visit for those interested in history, spirituality, and culture.

Discover Beauty and History with Long Street Hotel

Stay at Long Street Hotel to experience the perfect blend of beauty and history. Nestled in the heart of Cape Town’s vibrant Long Street, our unique hotel offers stylish accommodations with easy access to the city’s most iconic landmarks, trendy bars, and eclectic shops. Book your stay and immerse yourself in the charm of Cape Town’s rich heritage right at your doorstep. If you’re looking for a place to go for drinks after a long day of exploration, read about the best bars on Long Street.