Getting Around Cape Town: A Practical Guide
Cape Town is well-connected by multiple transport modes, making it straightforward for visitors to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. Whether you're exploring the city centre, heading to coastal towns, or discovering the Southern Suburbs, you'll find several reliable options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Arriving from Cape Town International Airport
Cape Town International Airport is located about 20 km east of the city centre and is easily accessible via major roads, situated directly at the N2 near Bellville. Note that there is no longer public transit serving the airport, so you'll need to arrange alternative transport into the city.
When exiting customs, you may see people in Official Airport Taxi vests offering rides. These are not official services and tend to be more expensive than other options. Since these taxis are unmetered, always ask for the fare before getting in the car to avoid paying significantly more than a fair price.
The most practical option for most visitors is to use ride-hailing services. Both Bolt and Uber operate at the airport and offer competitive rates—a journey from the airport to the city centre costs around R150 via these apps.
Rail and Commuter Trains
MetroRail operates commuter trains that connect Cape Town to neighbouring towns and attractions throughout the region. The main Cape Town railway station is located at the corner of Strand Street and Adderley Street in the city centre, with a secondary major hub at Bellville railway station in the eastern suburbs.
MetroRail trains run Monday to Saturday, with no service on Sundays. The network has been updated with modern blue trains equipped with CCTV and security guards. Routes and schedules are available on Google Maps and the operator's website, making trip planning straightforward. Note that most ticket offices accept only cash.
The network is particularly useful for reaching:
- Neighbouring towns including Stellenbosch, Strand, Paarl, Somerset West, Malmesbury, and Worcester
- Southern Suburbs areas such as Claremont, Wynberg, and Retreat
- Coastal destinations including Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, Glencairn, and Simon's Town
The train line to Simon's Town is particularly scenic, running close to the sea from Muizenberg southward, where you can often see whales and experience sea spray on the windows. A Tourist "hop on, hop off" ticket is available for the Cape Town to Simon's Town route, allowing you to travel the entire route throughout the day. Note that sometimes you may need to change trains at Fish Hoek, though this transfer is straightforward.
While MetroRail trains are generally safe, especially the new rolling stock with security features, it's wise to avoid travelling during nighttime hours if possible. If you must travel at night, choose the most crowded carriage and try to travel with a companion.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Ride-hailing services Bolt and Uber are the recommended options for getting around Cape Town. These apps offer transparent pricing and are more reliable than traditional metered taxis for most visitors unfamiliar with the city.
Buses and Long-Distance Transport
Several intercity bus companies operate routes connecting Cape Town to other major cities within South Africa and to neighbouring countries. Major bus operators include Greyhound, Intercape Mainliner, and Translux, as well as budget options such as IIulabus, Nobles Transport, Delta Coaches, Eagle Liner, and City to City. International buses from Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe also serve Cape Town.
The starting point for intercity buses is the bus station located next to the main train station near the Golden Acre building. Bus tickets can also be obtained through Computicket.
Driving in Cape Town
Most roads in Cape Town and its surroundings are in excellent condition, making car travel straightforward. Car rental in South Africa is generally more affordable than in most Western countries, and petrol prices are competitive. Local drivers are known for being polite and driving at relatively moderate speeds compared to drivers in other South African cities.
However, there is a risk of carjacking in certain areas, particularly after dark or when stopped at traffic lights. Ask staff at your hotel or local residents about safe and unsafe areas before driving, and check your intended route to avoid unnecessary detours into unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Several major highways depart from Cape Town:
- The N1 heads northeast toward Paarl, Bloemfontein, and Johannesburg
- The N2 runs along the east coast toward the Garden Route, George, and Port Elizabeth (note that this is a toll road through Tsitsikamma National Park)
- The N7 runs north along the west coast toward Springbok and Namibia
Walkability in the City Centre
While the source material does not provide specific details about pedestrian infrastructure or neighborhood walkability, Cape Town's compact city centre and popularity as a tourist destination suggest that many central areas are accessible on foot. However, it's advisable to inquire locally about which neighborhoods are safe for walking, particularly after dark.