5 Reasons Why Cape Town Is The Best City In The World

5 Reasons Why Cape Town Is The Best City In The World

Cape Town is the greatest city in the world, did you know that? Time and time again, this incredible coastal location in South Africa has topped the list of the greatest cities in the world in polls by both the general public and some of the world's leading newspapers and publications.

From its vibrant nightlife, to its rich culture scene – not to mention the breathtaking ocean views and gorgeous walks – Cape Town has certainly earned its reputation as being the greatest city in the world. Here are just a few reasons why you should make this vibrant and beautiful location the top of your “places to visit” list.

1. The wildlife

Of course, it's not just The Big Five that South Africa is famed for. Cape Town gives you the chance to see an enormous range of wildlife, on land, in the air and under the sea. If you are a keen birdwatcher, you will have the opportunity to spot a huge selection of exotic birds in the area.

Alternatively, you could go scuba diving and view the vast variety of sea life, from seals to sharks, all in their natural habitat. The clean and clear waters that surround Cape Town provide you with unclouded views of exotic fish and make for a wonderful diving experience.

2. The food

Much of Cape Town's exquisite cuisine is influenced by the catch of the day, so if you are a lover of seafood, you will be in heaven during your visit. That being said, Cape Town is far from being a one-trick cuisine pony; the city is also famed for its culinary diversity, ranging from traditional French dishes to some of the finest curries you will ever taste.

Aside from the wonderful range of world class restaurants like the Test Kitchen and La Colombe, food markets also provide visitors with plenty of opportunities to try a diverse mix of traditional and organic foods. The Truth Coffee shop in Cape Town was actually voted the best coffee shop in the world, making it a firm favourite with locals and tourists, alike.

3. Culture galore

There is a staggering amount of art on display in Cape Town, hanging in some of the finest galleries to be found anywhere on the continent. Culture buffs will be in heaven as they study the eclectic range of artwork hanging in famed galleries like the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, and The Cape Gallery. 

There are also various suburbs, such as Woodstock, where quirky shops and small galleries abound, promising culture on every street corner.

4. The scenery

From stunning sea views to awe-inspiring mountain peaks, the scenery in Cape Town is to die for. Visitors from every corner of the globe are taken aback by its stunning natural beauty, every day.

One of Cape Town's most iconic landmarks is Table Mountain. Stretching 1,084 metres into the South African skyline, this mountain takes its name from its flat-topped appearance; cable car rides offer gorgeous panoramic views of the landscape and there's also a wide range of activities to be enjoyed on the mountain, including hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing.

Signal Hill also offers you panoramic views and is the ideal spot to relax and watch the glorious South African sunset.

5. Its rich history

Cape Town has an array of different sights, activities and stories centred around its spectacular history.

If you don’t know anything about Cape Town, you may not already be aware that that Nelson Mandela was a prisoner for 18 years in Robben Island. Traces of his commendable fight for freedom are sprinkled across Cape Town, with the “First Step to Freedom” statue at Mandela Rhodes Place being a typical tourist spot.