Observatory Travel Guide
Cape Town
Visit Observatory
Popular places to visit
Table Mountain
One of the world’s oldest mountains creates an iconic backdrop to the Cape Town skyline. Climb to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding coast.
Camps Bay Beach
See and be seen, admire beautiful sunsets and go hiking in the famous Twelve Apostles at one of Cape Town’s most stylish beaches.
Boulders Beach
Get a privileged close-up view of an African penguin colony among the spectacular rock formations at this beach that also offers excellent swimming conditions.
Cape of Good Hope
Experience the stunning scenery and a wealth of native wildlife at what is almost Africa’s most southerly point.
Clifton Bay Beach
Soft white sand, aquamarine water, striking mountain views and picture-perfect sunsets lure visitors to this collection of four fashionable beaches.
Cape Town Stadium
Take a guided tour of this modern sports arena and then watch a soccer or rugby match while sitting among an energetic, vuvuzela-playing crowd.
Things to do
Cape Town: Heart of Cape Town Medical Museum Entrance Ticket
Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point Small Group Tour Cape Town
Cape Town Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise
Cape Town: Table Mountain Cable Car, Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Cape Town: 1.5-Hour Luxury Sunset Cruise with Prosecco
From Hermanus or Cape Town: Shark Cage Diving Experience
Top hotels in Observatory
Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Mowbray
Reviewed on 22 Jun 2025
Taj Cape Town
Reviewed on 13 Aug 2025
Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport
Reviewed on 13 Aug 2025
The Onyx Apartment Hotel by NEWMARK
Reviewed on 31 Jul 2025
AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront
Reviewed on 12 Aug 2025
Lagoon Beach Hotel & Spa
Reviewed on 23 Jul 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Observatory
City Bowl
The majestic mountain landscape and popular shops are just a few highlights of City Bowl. Make a stop by South African National Gallery or Kloof Street while you're exploring the area.
Cape Town City Centre
Known for its majestic mountain landscape and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Cape Town City Centre. Check out top attractions like District Six Museum and Cape Town City Hall, and jump on the metro at Woodstock Station or Esplanade Station to see more of the city.
De Waterkant
De Waterkant is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Table Mountain National Park and Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village while you're in town.
Victoria and Alfred Waterfront
The picture-perfect mountain views and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. A stop by Cape Town Cruise Terminal or Two Oceans Aquarium might round out your trip.
Gardens
The picture-perfect mountain views and lively bars are top of the list for many visitors to Gardens. A stop by Kloof Street or Bree Street might round out your trip.
Tamboerskloof
Mountain views, gardens and bars highlight some of the noteworthy features of Tamboerskloof. Make a stop by Lions Head or Table Mountain National Park while you're exploring the neighbourhood.