Top 10 Things To Do In Winter In Cape Town
Cape Town summers are for ice creams on the beach, sundowners and outdoor picnics; while the winters are for warm fireplaces, whale watching and exploring the Mother City’s local talent at indoor markets. Don’t let the cold, rainy weather keep you cooped up inside… there is plenty to see and discover!
Get inspired with our list of top 10 things to do in winter in Cape Town.
1. Cosy up to a Fireplace
Find a warm restaurant and spend time around the fire
With winter in full swing, there’s nothing better than indulging in a hearty meal in front of a roaring fireplace. Enjoy the warmth, atmosphere and romantic ambience at cosy restaurants like Kloof Street House, Societi Bistro, The Snug and Cafe Paradiso. Peruse this comprehensive list of Cape Town restaurants with fireplaces.
2. Admire Cape Town’s Art Scene
visit one of Cape Towns many art galleries
A miserable winter’s day in Cape Town is perfect for soaking up a bit of culture and exploring the wonderful art galleries that Cape Town has to offer. From classic to contemporary works, our creative metropolis is packed with a veritable feast of options from emerging and well-established artists. Entrance is usually free or surprisingly cheap, making it an ideal way to spend a chilly in the city. View a list of Cape Town’s art galleries and exhibition spaces
3. Whip up Something Delicious
Take part in a cooking class of your choice
From authentic samoosas in the Bo-Kaap to learning the art of chocolate truffles at the Lindt Studio, there’s a cooking class in Cape Town for all tastes. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your culinary skills or just have a fun evening with friends, have a look at some of the best cooking courses on offer
4. Read a Book
Visit one of Cape Towns book stores
Cuddle up under a blanket and dive into a good book. From fantasy tales to fascinating autobiographies, add your collection and explore the literary universe with a visit to one of the city’s many bookshops or libraries. See a list of the best Cape Town book shops
5. A Tasting or Two
Go for a food pairing
Venture out to the winelands and warm up with a taste of some of South Africa’s finest wines, brandies, champages or craft beers. With an endless array of wineries and distilleries to choose from, there is something for every palate. Take your tasting experience to the next level with one of the unique food pairing options where delectable treats are combined to complement and enhance the flavour profile. How about a nougat and MCC pairing at JC Le Roux, or a brandy and chocolate pairing at Van Ryn’s or even a cheesecake and wine pairing at Eikendal?
6. Whale Watching
enjoy whale watching at some of the best view points in the world
Winter is also whale watching season. Every year from June to December, the Southern right whales migrating from Antarctica stop along their way in the Cape waters, treating Cape Town locals to a display of breaching, fluking, spouting and spyhopping. With international travel sites listing the Western Cape as one of the world’s best places to whale-watch, visit hotspots such as Hermanus, False Bay, Chapman’s Peak and Misty Cliffs, and spend a leisurely day watching these majestic creatures from the shore.
7. Cape Town Diamond Museum
Explore the Cape Town Diamond Museum
Brighten up even the gloomiest of winter days with a guided tour of the Cape Town Diamond Museum to explore the fascinating world of diamonds – from how diamonds are formed and the beginning of the diamond rush, to life-size replicas of the world’s most famous diamonds. The end of the tour gives you the opportunity to witness firsthand how expert diamond cutters create jewellery masterpieces at the Shimansky Showroom. The museum is located at the V&A Waterfront Clock Tower, and can be visited seven days a week from 9am to 9pm. Find more information
8. Indoor Markets
Enjoy delicious food and drink at one of the many indoor markets
Cape Town has a thriving market culture, most of which are indoors or under cover. There’s no better place to tuck into delicious artisan food and homegrown produce, stock up on beautiful local goods and enjoy local craft beers and wines. Some of the popular markets in Cape Town include: Oranjezicht City Farm Market in Granger Bay; Mojo Market Sea Point; Hope St market in the city centre; Neighbourgoods market at the Old Biscuit Mill; Hout Bay Market and The Watershed and Food Market at V&A Waterfront. View a full list of Cape Town’s Markets.
9. Museums
Take in the beauty of the Museums located in Cape Town
A visit to one of Cape Town’s museums is a wonderful indoor activity to keep the young and old amused, and there is certainly no shortage of options. See 700-year old fossils at the South African Museum; take a journey through the cultural history of Jewish life and Judaism at the South Africa Jewish Museum or learn about the stories of the 60,000 people forcibly removed from the District Six area in 1901 when you visit the District Six Museum. The fascinating world of medicine at the Cape Medical Museum and the Heart Transplant Museum. Sports fans will enjoy the Springbok Experience Rugby Museum and interactive “Trials” games zone.
10. Labia
Enjoy a movie at the Labia Theater
The Labia Cinema is one of Cape Town’s grand old dames, being the oldest independent cinema in Africa. Grab your popcorn and a warming glass of red wine at their fully-stocked bar, and admire the charm of its old-world ambience while you watch a classic film on one of their four screens. See their website for what’s showing.
