12-Day Shoestring Budget Adventure in Cape Town

Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa

9:00AM

Explore V&A Waterfront

Kick-start your Cape Town adventure by exploring the vibrant V&A Waterfront, filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers.
Walk from your accommodation if nearby, or take the MyCiTi bus to the V&A Waterfront.
CURRENCY0, 2 Hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Watershed

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at the Watershed food market, where local vendors offer delicious and affordable dishes.
Located at the V&A Waterfront, just a short walk away.
CURRENCY80, 1 Hour

1:30PM

Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium

Spend your afternoon exploring the Two Oceans Aquarium, home to an array of marine life indigenous to the waters around Cape Town.
Easily accessible by foot from the Watershed.
CURRENCY200, 2 Hours

4:00PM

Table Mountain Hike

End the day with a hike up Table Mountain, where panoramic views await those who make the trek to the summit.
The trailhead is around a 15-minute drive; consider taking the MyCiTi bus.
CURRENCY0, 3 Hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Tavern

Grab a hearty dinner at a local tavern, such as The Dog’s Bollocks, known for its budget-friendly gourmet burgers.
Located in the Gardens neighbourhood, about 10 minutes by bus.
CURRENCY100, 1.5 Hours
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Day 2: Cultural City Exploration

Cape Town, South Africa

8:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day with a budget breakfast at The Breakfast Room, known for their generous portions and affordable prices.
A short walk from most central accommodations.
CURRENCY40, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit the District Six Museum

Learn about Cape Town's history at the District Six Museum, which preserves the stories of a community forcibly removed during apartheid.
Take the MyCiTi bus from the café to the museum.
CURRENCY45, 1.5 Hours

11:30AM

Explore Bo-Kaap

Wander through the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap and gain insight into Cape Malay culture.
A 10-minute walk from the museum.
CURRENCY0, 1 Hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Bo-Kaap Kombuis

Enjoy traditional Cape Malay cuisine for lunch with great views of the Table Mountain.
Located in the heart of Bo-Kaap, easily walkable.
CURRENCY120, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Visit the Company’s Garden

Stroll through the Company’s Garden, home to beautiful flowers, squirrels, and a peaceful atmosphere.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
CURRENCY0, 1 Hour

3:00PM

Art at Iziko South African National Gallery

Explore the Iziko South African National Gallery and admire both local and international art.
Located just across from the Company’s Garden.
CURRENCY50, 2 Hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Mitchell’s Plein

Have dinner at The Mitchell’s Plein with affordable traditional South African dishes, perfect after a day of exploration.
Take the MyCiTi bus back towards your accommodation.
CURRENCY90, 1.5 Hours
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Day 3: Nature and Beaches

Cape Town, South Africa

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Biscuit Mill

Start your day at The Old Biscuit Mill, where you can grab a light breakfast and enjoy a local market experience.
Take the MyCiTi bus to the Observatory area.
CURRENCY60, 1.5 Hours

10:00AM

Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Explore the breathtaking Kirstenbosch Gardens and immerse yourself in the beauty of South African flora.
Take the MyCiTi bus to Kirstenbosch.
CURRENCY75, 3 Hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kirstenbosch Tea Room

Enjoy a light lunch at the picturesque tea room within Kirstenbosch Gardens, surrounded by nature.
Located within the gardens, easily walkable.
CURRENCY90, 1 Hour

2:30PM

Relax at Muizenberg Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon at Muizenberg Beach, known for its colourful bathing huts and surfing culture.
Catch the train from Kirstenbosch to Muizenberg.
CURRENCY12, 2 Hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Local Fish & Chips

Grab dinner at a local fish & chips spot, such as Fish on the Rocks, known for its fresh catch at an affordable price.
Easily accessible by foot from the beach.
CURRENCY100, 1.5 Hours
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Day 4: Adventure Activities

Cape Town, South Africa

8:00AM

Breakfast at Journey's End Café

Fuel your day with a budget breakfast at Journey's End Café, known for its hearty options.
A short walk from your accommodation.
CURRENCY50, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Cape Point Nature Reserve

Embark on a day trip to Cape Point Nature Reserve, where rugged coastlines and scenic trails await.
Catch the MyCiTi bus to Simon’s Town, then a short taxi ride to the reserve.
CURRENCY150, 6 Hours

4:00PM

Visit Boulders Beach

After exploring Cape Point, visit Boulders Beach to watch the fascinating African penguin colony.
A short drive from Cape Point to Boulders Beach.
CURRENCY100, 2 Hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Fish Hoek

Have a casual dinner at a local spot such as The Fish Hoek, where you can enjoy fresh seafood at budget-friendly prices.
Accessible by taxi from Boulders Beach.
CURRENCY90, 1.5 Hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Wine Country

Franschhoek, South Africa

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Bakery

Start your day with a simple pastry and coffee from a local bakery.
Take the train to Franschhoek, which takes about an hour.
CURRENCY40, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Franschhoek Wine Tram Tour

Join a budget-friendly wine tram tour to explore the breathtaking vineyards of Franschhoek.
Meet at the tram station in the village.
CURRENCY300, 4 Hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Petite Ferme

Enjoy a budget lunch at La Petite Ferme, with excellent views and tasty fare.
Accessible via the tram's stop.
CURRENCY120, 1.5 Hours

3:00PM

Visit Art Galleries

Explore charming local art galleries in Franschhoek, featuring works by local artists.
Easily accessible on foot.
CURRENCY0, 1 Hour

4:30PM

Dinner at The French Connection

Have dinner at The French Connection before heading back to Cape Town for the evening.
Located in the village centre, walkable from the galleries.
CURRENCY100, 1.5 Hours
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Day 6: Wine Tasting Day

Stellenbosch, South Africa

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Stellenbosch Kitchen

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Stellenbosch Kitchen, a local gem popular for its farm-fresh ingredients.
Take a train from Cape Town to Stellenbosch, about an hour ride.
CURRENCY70, 1.5 Hours

9:30AM

Visit Local Wineries

Explore Stellenbosch’s famous wineries and join a couple of budget-friendly tastings.
Opt to bike or walk among nearby wine estates.
CURRENCY150, 3 Hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Stellenbosch Village Square

Grab a budget-friendly lunch at a café in the vibrant village square.
Easily walkable from the wineries.
CURRENCY80, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Visit the Stellenbosch Botanical Garden

Stroll through the serene Stellenbosch Botanical Garden, a perfect relaxation spot post-lunch.
A 10-minute walk away.
CURRENCY0, 1 Hour

3:30PM

Dinner at The Blue Roo

Enjoy dinner at The Blue Roo, known for its delicious local dishes at reasonable rates.
Close vicinity to the botanical garden.
CURRENCY120, 1.5 Hours
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Day 7: Art and Culture Day

Cape Town, South Africa

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Larder

Enjoy a simple breakfast at The Larder, a quaint café popular for its baked goods and fresh coffee.
Located in the city center, short walk from accommodations.
CURRENCY50, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit Zeitz MOCAA

Explore the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, showcasing contemporary African art.
Easily accessible by public transport.
CURRENCY150, 2 Hours

11:30AM

Explore the Waterfront

Wander around the V&A Waterfront again, taking time to mingle with local crafts people.
A short walk from the museum.
CURRENCY0, 1 Hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Dimeo's Pizza

Enjoy a budget-friendly pizza at Dimeo's, a local favorite for its generous portions.
Located at the Waterfront area.
CURRENCY90, 1 Hour

2:00PM

Visit Robben Island Museum

Take a ferry over to Robben Island, learn about South Africa's past at this historic site.
Ferry departure point at the V&A Waterfront.
CURRENCY360, 3 Hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Baobab Café

Finish the day with a casual dinner at Baobab Café, known for its great vibe and local dishes.
Located in the city centre, walkable from the ferry terminal.
CURRENCY100, 1.5 Hours
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Day 8: Explore the Cape Peninsula

Cape Town, South Africa

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Have a light breakfast at your accommodation to save time and money.
Enjoy the comforts of your stay.
CURRENCY0, 1 Hour

9:00AM

Full Day Adventure at Cape Peninsula

Explore scenic spots along the Cape Peninsula, including Hout Bay, Chapman's Peak Drive, and Noordhoek Beach, ideal for stunning photos.
Rent a bike or join a budget tour from the city.
CURRENCY150, 6 Hours

4:00PM

A Stop at The Scratch Patch

Head over to The Scratch Patch at the V&A Waterfront to collect your own 'treasures' or semi-precious stones.
Return to the Waterfront from your day’s adventure by bus.
CURRENCY50, 1 Hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ocean Basket

Savour dinner at Ocean Basket for delightful seafood at great prices.
Located at the start of the Waterfront, accessible by foot.
CURRENCY130, 1.5 Hours
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Day 9: Coastal Escape

Hermanus, South Africa

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Spot

Grab coffee and pastries at The Coffee Spot before heading off to Hermanus.
Walk or catch a lift to the café.
CURRENCY50, 1 Hour

8:30AM

Travel to Hermanus

Take a bus to Hermanus, a charming coastal town famous for whale watching.
Book a ride via local bus service.
CURRENCY100, 2 Hours

10:30AM

Hermanus Cliff Path Walk

Enjoy a scenic walk along the Cliff Path in Hermanus, keeping an eye out for whales if in season.
Begin your walk at the town center.
CURRENCY0, 2 Hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Burgundy Restaurant

Savor a budget-friendly lunch overlooking the ocean at The Burgundy.
Walk back to the center for lunch.
CURRENCY120, 1.5 Hours

2:30PM

Whale Watching Tour

Depending on the season, embark on a whale watching tour for exhilarating views of these majestic creatures.
Book a tour in advance and meet at the designated spot in town.
CURRENCY800, 2 Hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Fisherman's Village

Wrap up your day with fresh, local seafood at a welcoming restaurant near the ocean.
Walk back towards the cliff area.
CURRENCY140, 1.5 Hours
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Day 10: Adventure on the Garden Route

Cape Town, South Africa

7:00AM

Breakfast to Go

Pick up a breakfast sandwich from a local deli and prepare for your day out.
Conveniently located near your accommodation.
CURRENCY40, 1 Hour

8:00AM

Travel to Knysna

Head out early towards the Garden Route town of Knysna, famous for its natural lagoon.
Book a shuttle or bus service to Knysna.
CURRENCY400, 5 Hours

1:00PM

Explore Knysna Heads

Arrive andhead to Knysna Heads for stunning views over the lagoon and the ocean beyond.
Local taxis or walking from the bus stop will do.
CURRENCY0, 2 Hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Knysna Waterfront

Enjoy a light lunch by the waterfront while taking in the sights of this picturesque town.
Located along the waterfront, easily accessible.
CURRENCY120, 1.5 Hours

4:30PM

Visit Knysna Elephant Park

Spend time with elephants and learn about their conservation efforts at the Knysna Elephant Park.
Arrange a local transport to the park in advance.
CURRENCY250, 2.5 Hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Turbine Hotel

End your day with dinner at The Turbine Hotel's restaurant, offering exquisite dishes at moderate prices.
Located at the shore, accessible via local transport back from the park.
CURRENCY200, 1.5 Hours
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Day 11: Returning Adventure

Cape Town, South Africa

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Enjoy a casual breakfast at a nearby café to recharge for your day.
Conveniently located from your accommodation.
CURRENCY40, 1 Hour

9:00AM

Free Day

Take the day free for personal exploration or relaxation at your accommodation.
Explore your surroundings at leisure, with options to revisit earlier sights.
CURRENCY0, All Day

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Braai Spot

Finish your day with an authentic South African braai dinner with locals for a cultural experience.
Join a local meetup or arrange through your accommodation.
CURRENCY150, 2 Hours
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Day 12: Departure

Cape Town, South Africa

7:00AM

Final Breakfast at Local Bakery

Savor a farewell breakfast at your favorite local bakery before your departure.
Easily reachable by foot.
CURRENCY50, 1 Hour

8:30AM

Pack and Check Out

Pack your bags and check out of your accommodation, taking time for last-minute goodbyes.
Ensure you have your travel arrangements sorted.
CURRENCY0, 1 Hour

10:00AM

Final Souvenir Shopping

Take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping at local markets to capture your memories from Cape Town.
Head to the V&A Waterfront or local markets nearby.
CURRENCY200, 2 Hours

1:00PM

Departure

Head to the airport for your onward journey with unforgettable memories of Cape Town.
Arrange transport via MyCiTi or airport shuttle.
CURRENCY250, 1 Hour
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