De Waterkant Cape Town
De Waterkant: Cape Town's chic village with colorful streets, trendy cafes, and a vibrant cosmopolitan vibe. Perfectly central for exploring.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
De Waterkant Cape Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
De Waterkant: Cape Town's chic village with colorful streets, trendy cafes, and a vibrant cosmopolitan vibe. Perfectly central for exploring.
"De Waterkant is a very good location, central, clean, with great shopping and dining options close by."
🚶♀️ Walkable & Central
De Waterkant is incredibly walkable, putting you close to V&A Waterfront and Long Street. :athletic_shoe:
💡 Load Shedding Aware
Be prepared for power outages; keep devices charged and have a flashlight handy. :bulb:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

De Waterkant Village Charm
De Waterkant Neighborhood
Wander through the picturesque streets lined with brightly colored Cape Dutch and Victorian buildings. A feast for the eyes!

Cape Quarter Shopping
Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village
Discover unique boutiques, artisanal shops, and gourmet food stores in this stylish shopping hub.

V&A Waterfront Proximity
Short walk from De Waterkant
Easily access the bustling V&A Waterfront for entertainment, dining, and harbor views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace De Waterkant's Charm
Navigating Cape Town's Rhythms
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkable & Central
De Waterkant is incredibly walkable, putting you close to V&A Waterfront and Long Street. :athletic_shoe:
💡 Load Shedding Aware
Be prepared for power outages; keep devices charged and have a flashlight handy. :bulb:
🛍️ Cape Quarter Delights
Explore unique shops and grab picnic supplies at the Spar for a budget-friendly lunch. :shopping_bags:
📱 Watch Your Belongings
Be mindful of your phone and valuables, especially in crowded areas. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable & Central
De Waterkant is incredibly walkable, putting you close to V&A Waterfront and Long Street. :athletic_shoe:
💡 Load Shedding Aware
Be prepared for power outages; keep devices charged and have a flashlight handy. :bulb:
🛍️ Cape Quarter Delights
Explore unique shops and grab picnic supplies at the Spar for a budget-friendly lunch. :shopping_bags:
📱 Watch Your Belongings
Be mindful of your phone and valuables, especially in crowded areas. :iphone:
📅 Book Ahead
Secure your accommodation and popular tours in advance, especially during peak times. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
De Waterkant is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, colorful architecture, and exceptionally central location, making it ideal for exploring Cape Town on foot. Visitors appreciate the abundance of trendy cafes, boutiques, and dining options right in the neighborhood. However, some travelers mention the need to be prepared for load shedding and to remain vigilant about personal safety.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach De Waterkant from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is by taxi or ride-sharing service, which typically takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Some travelers opt for pre-booked private transfers for added convenience. :car:
While De Waterkant itself is very walkable, public transport options like MyCiTi buses serve the surrounding areas, connecting you to other parts of Cape Town. The V&A Waterfront is also within walking distance. :bus:
Yes, De Waterkant is conveniently located within walking distance of the V&A Waterfront, making it easy to explore its attractions without needing transportation. :walking:
Absolutely! De Waterkant's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Cape Town. You can easily walk to many attractions or use ride-sharing services for further destinations. :map:
Ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely used and affordable for getting around Cape Town from De Waterkant. For shorter distances, walking is often the best option. :taxi:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your accommodation in De Waterkant well in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season or holidays, to secure your preferred choice. :housewithgarden:
De Waterkant is a neighborhood, not a ticketed attraction, so there are no entrance fees to explore its streets and atmosphere. :moneywithwings:
Many attractions can be booked online in advance. Your accommodation or local tourist information centers can also assist with ticket purchases for popular sites like Table Mountain. :ticket:
Exploring the colorful streets of De Waterkant, window shopping at the Cape Quarter, and walking to the V&A Waterfront are all free activities. :free:
Shops in the Cape Quarter generally open around 9 AM and close between 5 PM and 6 PM on weekdays, with some extended hours on weekends. :clock1:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
De Waterkant is known for its vibrant, cosmopolitan, and chic atmosphere, with a mix of residents and visitors enjoying its trendy cafes, boutiques, and nightlife. :sparkles:
De Waterkant is generally considered a safe and welcoming area, especially for solo travelers. However, like any urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions. :shield:
You'll find a variety of boutiques, designer stores, art galleries, and specialty shops, particularly within the Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village. :dress:
De Waterkant boasts a fantastic selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering diverse cuisines from local South African dishes to international flavors. :forkandknife:
The area is lively during the day with shoppers and cafe-goers, and it becomes particularly vibrant in the evenings with people enjoying dinner and drinks. :champagne_glass:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
De Waterkant offers a range of dining experiences. Popular spots include those with outdoor seating for people-watching and places serving contemporary South African cuisine. :chef_hat:
While known for its upscale options, you can find more budget-friendly meals at cafes and bistros, or by utilizing the Spar supermarket in Cape Quarter for picnic supplies. :dollar:
Yes, many restaurants in De Waterkant are accommodating and offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus. It's always a good idea to check ahead or ask your server. :leafy_green:
You can expect a fusion of South African flavors with international influences, often featuring fresh, local ingredients. Look for dishes incorporating Cape Malay spices or fresh seafood. :fish_cake:
De Waterkant is dotted with excellent coffee shops, perfect for a morning brew or an afternoon pick-me-up while soaking in the neighborhood's atmosphere. :coffee:
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful, architecturally unique streets of De Waterkant itself are incredibly photogenic. Look for vibrant facades, intricate details, and charming alleyways. :camerawithflash:
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful soft light that enhances the colors of the buildings. Midday can be harsh. :sunriseovermountains:
The entire village is a landmark! Focus on the unique building designs, the vibrant street art, and the lively street scenes. The Cape Quarter also offers stylish backdrops. :art:
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check local bylaws before attempting to fly a drone. :noentrysign:
De Waterkant is perfect for street photography, architectural shots, and capturing the vibrant, cosmopolitan lifestyle of Cape Town. :cityscape:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While De Waterkant itself is more about atmosphere and dining, its proximity to family-friendly activities like the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront or a boat trip makes it a practical choice. Remember to factor in potential load shedding when planning activities that require electricity.
💰 Budget Travelers
Walking to the V&A Waterfront saves on transport costs, and many of its attractions offer free viewing areas. Look for happy hour deals at local bars and cafes in the evenings. While De Waterkant can be upscale, smart planning allows for an enjoyable and cost-effective stay.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure, as advised by some travelers. The lively atmosphere means there's always something to see and do, and it's a great place to meet other travelers or locals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
De Waterkant: A Cosmopolitan Hub
This neighborhood is highly praised for its central location, making it an excellent base for exploring Cape Town. Many visitors find it incredibly convenient for walking to key attractions like the V&A Waterfront and the bustling city center. The presence of the Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village adds to its appeal, offering a curated selection of shops, galleries, and eateries.
When visiting De Waterkant, be mindful of load shedding, a common occurrence in South Africa where electricity supply is temporarily cut. It's advisable to keep your devices charged and have a flashlight handy. Despite this, the area's charm, walkability, and vibrant energy make it a top choice for many travelers seeking a stylish and convenient Cape Town experience.
Navigating Cape Town: Tips from Travelers
When planning your itinerary, remember that Cape Town is known for its diverse offerings, catering to various interests and budgets. Many TikTok creators highlight affordable travel tips, suggesting that experiencing the Mother City's beauty doesn't have to break the bank. It's also wise to book popular activities and accommodations in advance, as Cape Town is a sought-after destination.
Be aware of load shedding, which can impact daily plans. Travelers also note that while Cape Town is beautiful, it's important to be vigilant about personal safety and belongings, especially in crowded areas. Despite these considerations, the general sentiment from visitors is overwhelmingly positive, with many describing Cape Town as a truly special place.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit