Sure, it’s winter in Cape Town, but this is a city that’s great all year round. And one place you can’t miss when coming here is the world-class Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. There are fewer crowds this time of year, although still a good buzz, and the cold air outside makes you feel less guilty for dining and shopping indoors all day or night.
The beauty of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is that it has everything. Right there. Within walking distance of each other are some of the top restaurants in the city, from sushi bars (such as Willoughby & Co, which the Brumbies Australian rugby team earlier this year visited and, according to one waitress there, claim has the best sushi in the world) to steakhouses and more, old school diners to take out joints; clothing stores – the V&A Waterfront is a shopping Mecca with top brands; popular supermarkets; cinema houses – from Blockbusters to artier, Nouveau films; and various activities – from boat rides and the Two Oceans Aquarium to helicopter flights.
Here in the V&A Waterfront are some of the best beers from Germany (Paulaner Brauhaus) and Belgium (Den Anker); whiskeys, for example at the Cape Grace’s Bascule Whiskey Bar and Café, which is home to over 460 whiskeys from all over the world; and wines, from Belthazar for instance, which boasts an unbelievable selection from over 600 of Cape Town’s Finest wines.
The V&A Waterfront has romance. Wrap up warm and take a night time stroll over the bridge to the Clock Tower; watch the boats coming in and the starry sky mirrored on the ocean. It has enthusiasm and character. Tap your foot to the local street side entertainment – from marimbas to mimes – or shows and music in the open-air amphitheater. It has everything you could want.
It’s family-friendly too, so don’t be afraid to take Junior along. The Two Ocean’s Aquarium is a favourite, with a children’s play centre, touch pool and more. There are also several clothing stores and restaurants – such as the Aquarium’s Shoreline Café – that cater for children.
FIND ME A PLACE TO STAY AT THE V&A:
For places to stay in the V&A Waterfront, browse our list of top hotels, or, visit the V&A Waterfront as part of a tailor made tour that explores the rest of this beautiful city and its surrounds too, by speaking to one of Rhino Africa’s travel experts. They offer free expert advice and guarantee cheaper rates than if you booked direct. Tel: +27 21 469 2600, e-mail enquiries@rhinoafrica.com.
TOURS THAT INCLUDE THE V&A:
Try travel consultant, Niki’s favourite tour or Cathrine’s favourite for an already-compiled collection of experiences, destinations and efficient routes that include stop-offs at the V&A Waterfront.
WHEN TO VISIT:
Winter in Cape Town is colder and less windy than summer; definitely a good time to visit if you’re a surfer or enjoy wintry nights by hotel/ restaurant fireplaces. There’s never a wrong time to visit Cape Town, but for more information about when might suit you most, click here.
SHOPPING HOURS:
All stores, other than the V&A Craft Market & Wellness Centre, are open from 09h00 – 21h00 daily. (Excluding Sundays)
Sundays and Public Holidays: open from 10h00am till 21h00pm
V&A Craft Market & Wellness Centre: open from 09h30am till 18h00pm daily
Optional Trading Days: Christmas Day and Good Friday are the only optional trading days at the V&A Waterfront
Thanks for the shout out!
We love the Two Oceans Aquarium and are always willing to come visit.. hint hint.. 🙂
Rhino Africa booked us at the Victoria & Albert for you stay in South Africa. it was fabulous. Had a wonderful time. Just tell Rhino Africa what you want to see, tell them your budget and I can guarantee a wonderful experience.