Getting around Cape Town is easier than you think, especially if you stay close to the city centre. While only some options might work for everyone, you can find a few that will work for you.
Here are 7 options to consider for getting around Cape Town:
- Renting a car
- Uber
- MyCiti Bus
- City Sightseeing Bus
- Train
- Renting a bicycle
- Walking
Renting a Car
Plenty of places in and around Cape Town are accessible by public transport or Uber, but renting a car is the best option if you want to visit places inaccessible by public transportation or a tour.
Here is a list of car rental companies located at the airport and the city centre:
Please take note if renting a car, finding parking can be difficult and is mostly street parking. Please don’t leave valuables in your vehicle or within sight to avoid break-ins.
Getting Around with Uber
The best option for getting from the airport is taking an Uber or a shuttle, although a shuttle service is more expensive unless it is provided by your accommodation free of charge.
Uber is the most convenient option for getting around Cape Town, although it can become costly if used frequently or for longer distances.
I recommend Unicab if you want to make use of a shuttle service. They are very professional and on time.
MyCiti Bus
The MyCiti Bus is the cheapest option to consider. The MyCiti bus routes have expanded since operating in 2010 for the FIFA World Cup.
The most convenient routes are around the city centre, Gardens, and the Atlantic Seaboard. It runs from the city centre along the coast to Hout Bay, making it a great option.
Other popular destinations to consider are Blouberg, Woodstock, and Century City. Travelling to Blouberg and Century City takes considerably longer than taking an Uber, as you need to take two buses to get there, with waiting times in between, but it is cheaper.
Buy your MyCiti card at any of their purchase points scattered throughout Cape Town, load money on your card, and start using the bus.
City Sightseeing Bus
The City Sightseeing buses are a great way for visitors to explore Cape Town. It is a great way to reach the Table Mountain Cableway, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, and Groot Constantia.
It is also cheaper than taking an Uber to these destinations, and the views you get from the top of the bus are unbeatable.
They also offer tours and great combo options, if you want to explore many attractions around Cape Town.
Did you know you can use the canal cruise as a water taxi between the CBD and the V&A Waterfront? Hop on and off at any stop along the canal, One & Only Hotel, Battery Park, AC Marriot, Harbour Bridge, and CTICC.
Renting a bicycle
Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore Cape Town. You can pedal along the Promenade to the shopping and dining mecca of the Waterfront, into the world-class eco-hub at the Green Point Park and DHL Stadium precinct, or explore the CBD.
Cape Town has plenty of cycle lanes to use and is very bicycle-friendly. There are a few places you can rent a bicycle from and a few different routes to consider.
Getting Around Cape Town by Train
There are a few train routes, but the most popular route and the only one I recommend is the Southern Line to Fish Hoek, and a shuttle to Simon’s Town.
The train system in Cape Town has had its ups and downs over the years. 10 years ago it was relatively safe to take the train, followed by a stretch where crime started to pick up considerably, making it unsafe for visitors and locals.
Over the past year or so, the city has gone to great lengths to improve the train service and make it safer for visitors. A lot of effort has been put into the Southern line because this is such a popular route for visitors.
There are still some train safety tips to take note of:
- Be vigilant on the train and at the station.
- Always be mindful of your surroundings.
- If possible, don’t travel alone and avoid empty carriages.
- If you ever feel uncomfortable, move to a different seat or carriage.
- Avoid confrontation and look for a security guard if needed.
Walking around Cape Town
Walking is a great way to explore and discover areas you might miss otherwise. You can walk everywhere around Green Point, Sea Point, V&A Waterfront, Clifton and beyond.
I highly recommend the route from Sea Point to Clifton for breathtaking views. Or beach hop from Clifton to Bantry Bay.
Here are some walking safety tips to take note of:
- As in many big cities, pickpocketing is unfortunately something to watch out for, especially in the CBD and when walking around. A child or person will likely try and distract you while another will pickpocket you. Ensure you carry all your valuables in front of you in a sling or bag that isn’t easily accessible.
- Avoid walking alone after dark, rather take an Uber.
- If you ever feel uncomfortable, walk away and avoid confrontation.
- Always be mindful of your surroundings.
Cape Town is such a lovely destination to explore, and with so many options for getting around, you will find an option that fits your budget.
