Cape Town is the most European of African cities–a true melting pot, molded by Dutch and English imperialism (and a Malaysian population originally imported for slave labor) and deeply infused by indigenous Khoisan and Xhosa culture. Here, you're likely to hear the muezzin's wailing call to prayer from a Bo-Kaap mosque as well as a time-keeping noon cannon blast, a daily custom since 1806. Such traditions—along with the city's colonial-era, wrought-iron–trimmed Victorian architecture—lend an old-world flavor, but make no mistake: today's Cape Town is a thoroughly modern metropolis, with glittering skyscrapers that seem to stretch toward the cloud-wreathed peak of Table Mountain, an international art community, and dazzling chefs who make the most of the area's produce and vineyards.
Don't Miss
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The 1.5-hour hike up the mini-mountain of Lion's Head—much less strenuous than Table Mountain, but with gorgeous panoramic views of the city.
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Sampling samoosas, Cape Malay–style pastries filled with curried beef or vegetables, sold by street vendors throughout the city (try the promenade at St. George's Mall).
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Driving the M3 south to the historic wine-growing Constantia Valley, with rolling vine-covered hills surrounding you all the way.
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