The Cape Town hit-list: Where to eat, drink, stay and play in the South African capital

Ask any Cape Town local why international travellers should consider visiting and the answer always comes back to, 'Because this is a place that has everything'.

That's no understatement; located on the northern end of the Cape Peninsula, this is not only a town that's centred around Table Mountain, it's the meeting point of two oceans and is only a short drive away from the country's famous wine regions and private game reserves. 

Boulders Beach penguins, the Lion Trail and Cape Point Nature Reserve; there's no shortage of things to do and see, but if you're looking for top line highlights of the city, don't miss the following.

READ MORE: What to do if your flights are affected by Cyclone Alfred

The place to stay

For a truly luxurious stay which anchors you firmly into a sense of place, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, is the ultimate destination. Book a suite overlooking the pool and don't miss the property's celebrated afternoon tea - or evening drinks around the piano.

Need something at a slightly more affordable price point? Dorp Hotel, located right in the centre of town, was made for life in front of the lens.

The place to eat

You'll have plenty of time for those bold Cape Town reds and accompanying steaks; first you need to surrender to an evening at Fyn, which offers a contemporary (and wholly unique) fusion of Japanese and South African flavours. Housed in an elegant loft-style space, you can choose between a regular menu experience or a plant-based menu experience. 

While you're looking for reservations, be sure to also put The Pot Luck Club on the must-eat list. It's as ambient as it is a feast for the palate. 

READ MORE: Queen Anne is Cunard's first new ship in 14 years - here's what to expect onboard

The place to drink

Love a cocktail bar so hidden others would struggle to ever find it? Getting a seat at Art of Duplicity is no easy matter: this is very much a 'obtain the secret password to gain entry' situation.

Persevere however, and you'll be rewarded with a moody speakeasy with a strong Prohibition-era viva.  Live jazz on Friday and Saturday nights make those inventive cocktails go down that much smoother.

If you've got a thirst you just can't quench, also make a beeline for The Athletic Club & Social, as well as The Gin Bar. Should you visit back-to-back? It's totally up to you. 

READ MORE: 'I found Sydney's best airport hotel - and it comes with a major perk'

The activity

Take a tour out to Robben Island where former president Nelson Mandela served 18 of his 27-year sentence behind bars.

You have the option of booking a pre-booked tour - often held by former inmates who can give personal insight into what life in the prison (and the struggle against apartheid) was like, or just enjoy an opportunity to see the local wildlife, which includes colonies of penguins and seals. 

READ MORE: One thing you should do before you check your luggage

The way to get around

If there's one thing first timers need to know about Cape Town, it's this: while it's a dazzling city with plenty to see, walking around freely - particularly at night - isn't advisable.

Happily, Cape Town is a dedicated Uber city, with the rideshare readily available at any time of day or night. It's the safest, cheapest and most convenient way to get around the city.

READ MORE: Crazy 'airport trend' theory causing people to miss their flights

The neighbourhood

Located a five-minute walk from the city centre, the vibrant neighbourhood of Bo-Kaap is not to be missed.

Famous for its colourful, flat-roofed houses, and Cape Malay community, this is the place to get those iconic shots, take a food or cooking tour which specialists in Cape Malay curries, chow down on koesisters (the local answer to a doughnut) and a sense of the Bo-Kaap's history with a visit to Bo-Kaap Museum.

READ MORE: Japan vs Europe? Where are Aussies travelling to in the next few months

The inside tip

There's little doubt you'll want to tackle the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, but the best way to avoid those maddening crowds (particularly in the summer heat) is by splashing out on a Fast Track ticket which allows you to skip the queues.

Sure, it's pricey, but well worth it.