The perfect day in Cape Town

South Africa's mother city sits in one of the world's most stunning locations, with the massive Table Mountain within easy reach and beautiful beaches on the doorstep. One day isn't nearly enough time to take in all the sites of this cosmopolitan and historic city but the following itinerary will help you get the most out of your time if you only have one day in Cape Town.

Spend the morning... on top of Table Mountain

As you ascend up the 60 million-year-old mountain take in the amazing 360-degree views of Cape Town and its surrounds. From the cablecar station it's around an hour's round trip walk to the summit at Maclear's Beacon (1088m).

For lunch... stop off at The Kitchen

Head to the heart of edgy Woodstock and enjoy a delicious lunch at The Kitchen, a wonderful deli where Michelle Obama lunched when she visited recently. The area has abundant street art and many contemporary galleries to explore, and if you happen to be here on a Saturday stop by the Neighbourhoods Market to sample the best of the regions artisan food purveyors and product designers.

In the afternoon... meander along the promenade

Your wander down the promenade will take you to Sea Point Pavillion, a lovely outdoor pool complex. If it's a warm day, take a dip in the pools or keep going a bit further to Clifton's wind-protected beaches. Whether you spend most of your afternoon at the pools or pondering life along the promenade this is the perfect place to do some people watching and soak up the stunning waterfront views.

Relax in the evening with... sundowners on the waterfront

There are numerous options here! Wakame restaurant offers cocktails and sushi with an unbeatable ocean front location, while Tobago's in the Radisson hotel on the waterfront is the perfect place to try some local bubbly. After you've watched the sun go down on an amazing day in Cape Town the options for dinner are endless, then wind up the evening (or get it all started) by taking in some local DJs and bands at The Assembly.

How would you spend 24 hours in Cape Town? Tell us about it in the comments section below. Or head to twitter and Facebook to upload pics.

Ready to experience South Africa yourself? Take a look at all our trips to South Africa!

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