As far as capital cities go, Cape Town in South Africa is considered to be pretty affordable, especially compared to many European and North American cities.
However, if you’re wanting to ensure that you keep your budget to an absolute minimum when visiting Cape Town, we’ve compiled a list of the very best free attractions in Cape Town to give you some inspiration.
If you do want to spend a bit of holiday money on activities, then you can also find our guide to the 10 best paid attractions in Cape Town too!
The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront (or V&A for short) is a shopping mall in Cape Town that’s home to dozens of shops, food stalls and restaurants.
Of course, shopping at the mall isn’t free but that doesn’t mean you can’t visit V&A, experience everything it has to offer and not spend a penny at all!
There’s plenty of free things to do at V&A Waterfront including the Blue Shed Craft...
Table Mountain is one of the best places in Cape Town to enjoy panoramic views of the city for miles around.
There are numerous ways you can get to the top of Table Mountain and the most common one is to take the aerial cable car.
However, this is quite a costly option so if you’re looking to visit Table Mountain free of charge, you can take one of the hiking routes instead.
The most popular hiking route is...
Green Point Urban Park is a place in Cape Town that’s popular with both locals and tourists who want to escape the city for a while and soak up some much-needed fresh air and sunshine.
Whether you’re wanting to take part in some exercise, or you’re just happy to wander around and admire all the beautiful flowers and scenery, Green Point has something to keep the whole family entertained.
There’s even an...
The Cecilia Forest hiking trail is situated inside the Table Mountain National Park, near to the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.
The hiking trail is a relatively easy path to follow so it shouldn’t be too much of a problem for young children to complete.
Cecilia Forest is a fantastic place in Cape Town for nature lovers as there’s plenty of trails and nature paths for you to immerse yourself in.
Dogs...
The beautiful beachfront town of Muizenberg is undoubtedly one of the best free attractions in Cape Town.
After undergoing renovations for over a decade, Muizenberg is now a thriving and thrifty place to spend the day while in South Africa’s capital city.
There’s so much to do in Muizenberg that will suit everyone including the tidal pools at St James, the numerous Victorian bathing huts, surf shops and plenty of...
Known as one of the oldest wine estates in the Constantia Wine Route, Groot Constantia is an incredibly fun and interactive free attraction to enjoy in Cape Town.
You’re probably best advised to leave the kids at home for this activity as it’ll involve being surrounded by many alcoholic drinks and wineries.
The best part about Groot Constantia is that it offers free entry into the wine estate so you can take a walk...
Another remarkable place that’s located near the Table Mountain National Park is the famous Lion’s Head hiking trail.
It’s considered to be one of the best hikes in Cape Town that provides otherworldly views of the city below and is often said to be many locals’ favourite hike.
Depending on how fit you are, or whether you’re travelling with children or not, you can enjoy a choice of the easier...
The Sea Point Promenade in Cape Town runs along the Atlantic Ocean so you know for a fact that it offers stunning views.
It’s a common spot in Cape Town for avid runners who like to run along the promenade, but it’s also a place that attracts many tourists too.
Sea Point Promenade has great things for the whole family to enjoy including a huge lawn where games are frequently played.
There’s even an...
The tumultuous history of the South African Parliament, both in the past and in more recent history has received a lot of controversy over the years.
However, while you’re in Cape Town, it’s a good idea to pay a visit to the Parliament of Republic of South Africa building and take a tour around for yourself.
The free tour sheds a light on some of the recent political stories and issues within the country and...
The Company’s Garden is one of the oldest and most popular public parks in Cape Town and is therefore one of the best free attractions in the city.
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the rose gardens and the aviary, as well as seeing numerous monuments that are sacred to the gardens.
On the outskirts of Company’s Garden you will see many art galleries and museums that you can tie in with your visit to the...
Table Mountain and Cape Town Half-Day Trip
Cape Peninsula Tour from Cape Town
Table Mountain Off-Road Scooter Tour
Cape Town City Cycling Tour
3-Day Garden Route Highlights with 4x4 Safari Small Group Tour from Cape Town
Marine Big 5 Safari from Cape Town
Cape Town City Pass including Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Transport
Cape Town Airport Private Arrival Transfer
There are many things you can do for free in Cape Town like booking free entry into some Cape Town museums, joining locals to do some free activities and others. This allows you to have fun and relax on a budget or save for further experiences on your trip.