V&A Waterfront

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

A waterfront shopping district built on the old harbour, with malls, the Zeitz MOCAA contemporary African art museum, an aquarium, and the ferry pier to Robben Island. It is one of the safest and most enjoyable areas in Cape Town to explore.

The V&A Waterfront is a waterfront district created from the nineteenth-century Victoria and Alfred harbours. It sits at the foot of Table Mountain and is the most visited place in South Africa, drawing 24 million visitors each year. It is also one of the safest parts of the city centre, making it a good base for accommodation. Main attractions include the Victoria Wharf shopping centre, with local brands, a Woolworths supermarket and restaurants. The Watershed craft market sells African design and handicrafts. Bargaining room is limited, but the quality is high. The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) occupies a converted grain silo. Adult entry costs ZAR 250, and locals enter free on Wednesday afternoons. The Two Oceans Aquarium charges adults ZAR 250 and is a top pick for families, with penguins and marine life from the Cape waters. The Cape Wheel Ferris wheel is nearby. In Nobel Square, you will find statues of four South African Nobel Peace Prize laureates, including Mandela. The Nelson Mandela Gateway is the ferry terminal for Robben Island. Seals often sunbask in the harbour. In the evening, you can take a boat tour for views of Table Mountain. A 30-minute tour starts at ZAR 150, or you can book a sunset champagne cruise. For dining, try the sushi at Willoughby & Co, the seafood at Harbour House, or the Time Out Market food hall. Shops generally open from 09:00 to 21:00, and restaurants stay open later. It is a 20-minute walk from the city centre, or you can take a MyCiTi bus. Parking is plentiful.

V&A Waterfront

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby