What you can do if you only have 24hrs

So, you’ve flown into Cape Town International Airport. You’ve just arrived at one of Africa’s premier tourist destinations: the ‘Mother City’. Regardless of whether you only have a day to spare on your business trip, or, before heading up the gorgeous Garden Route, there is still plenty to see in Cape Town.

The first thing you’ll need to do is hire a rental car. Cape Town is a city that is best travelled by road. With scenic drives like Old Boyes Drive and the famous Chapmans Peak Drive, there is no better way to appreciate your journey than in a safe and comfortable vehicle. Rentacheapie can collect you directly from the airport and drop you off again; it is a superb option for tourists and visitors looking for a simple and inexpensive rental option.

Having rented a car, begin your day with a trip up the iconic Table Mountain. Don’t worry if you are not a hiker, the Table Mountain Cable Car will have you up in minutes. The Cable Car begins at the foot of Tafelberg road and rotates on the way up, providing you with 360-degree views encompassing both the city and the mountain. Be sure to check whether the cable car is open first - it is subject to the weather conditions. At the top, experience beautiful panoramic views of the city.

Next up is a visit to the V & A Waterfront. If you are a tourist, this is the perfect place to pick up some curios and enjoy some fine South African food. Wander amongst live music performances, handcrafted artwork and artisan stands. Pay a visit to the Nobel square with its larger-than-life statues of South Africa’s 4 Nobel Peace Laureates, including Nelson Mandela. If you have time, the Two Oceans Aquarium is the perfect place to get a glimpse of the life under the water’s surface.

Finally, end your day with a favourite local destination at Camps Bay Beach. Driving along the palm-tree-lined boulevard you could easily mistake this corner of Cape Town for Hollywood! Grab an ice-cream before heading to the sand to catch the sunset. This west-facing beach is perfect for watching the horizon transition through spectacular orange and red hues to the darker purples of dusk. Camps Bay is also home to many restaurants, making it the perfect place to end off your day with a fantastic supper as you reflect on the sights of the day.

Cape Town Express | What you can do if you only have 24hrs