Nobel Square Cape Town
A poignant public square at the V&A Waterfront featuring bronze statues of South Africa's Nobel Peace Prize laureates.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Nobel Square Cape Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A poignant public square at the V&A Waterfront featuring bronze statues of South Africa's Nobel Peace Prize laureates.
"A testament to South Africa's journey towards liberation and unity, honoring courageous individuals."
📸 Capture the Moment
The statues and waterfront offer great photo ops. Don't miss the giant Cape Town letters nearby!
🚶♀️ Explore the Waterfront
Nobel Square is just one part of the V&A Waterfront; allow time to wander and discover more.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Statues of Nobel Laureates
Nobel Square
Admire the bronze sculptures of South Africa's four Nobel Peace Prize winners, a powerful tribute to their legacy.
V&A Waterfront Atmosphere
V&A Waterfront
Soak in the vibrant energy of the waterfront, with its shops, restaurants, and scenic harbor views.
Artistic Performances
Nobel Square / V&A Waterfront
Catch spontaneous musical performances, adding a lively soundtrack to your visit.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfront Vibe
Safety and Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Moment
The statues and waterfront offer great photo ops. Don't miss the giant Cape Town letters nearby!
🚶♀️ Explore the Waterfront
Nobel Square is just one part of the V&A Waterfront; allow time to wander and discover more.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
You might stumble upon talented street performers adding to the square's ambiance.
💰 Budget-Friendly Options
While the V&A can be upscale, exploring the square and enjoying street performers is free.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Moment
The statues and waterfront offer great photo ops. Don't miss the giant Cape Town letters nearby!
🚶♀️ Explore the Waterfront
Nobel Square is just one part of the V&A Waterfront; allow time to wander and discover more.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
You might stumble upon talented street performers adding to the square's ambiance.
💰 Budget-Friendly Options
While the V&A can be upscale, exploring the square and enjoying street performers is free.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nobel Square is a well-regarded spot within the vibrant V&A Waterfront, praised for its historical significance and artistic statues. Visitors appreciate its role in commemorating South Africa's Nobel laureates and its contribution to the lively atmosphere of the waterfront, offering a pleasant space for reflection and photos.
"The Noble Square at the V&A Waterfront is a charming and vibrant space that beautifully combines modern elegance with historic charm. Perfect for relaxing, enjoying quality dining, or exploring unique boutiques. A delightful spot that enriches the overall Waterfront experience."
Harm van de Seijp
"Great place... some dog adoptions also happens there."
Raoul A
"Nice place for lunch or a quick snack. Also when you wanna meet friends after work. For us as tourists it was a great start into the fantastic life of capetown. Okay. The melted marshmallow was a bit burned, but vine, crackers and athmosphere were great."
Emely Erdbeer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nobel Square is located within the V&A Waterfront. You can reach the V&A Waterfront via MyCiTi bus, taxi, ride-sharing services, or by car. Parking is available at the waterfront.
Yes, the V&A Waterfront is well-served by the MyCiTi bus system, making it accessible via public transport.
The V&A Waterfront is very walkable. You can also use the free red MyCiTi buses that loop around the area.
Absolutely. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available and a convenient way to get to the V&A Waterfront.
Yes, there are several secure parking garages within the V&A Waterfront, including those close to Nobel Square.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Nobel Square is a public space and entry is free. You can visit and admire the statues without purchasing a ticket.
Nobel Square is part of the V&A Waterfront, which is generally accessible throughout the day and into the evening. Individual shops and restaurants will have their own hours.
The bronze statues of the Nobel Peace Prize laureates are on public display, so there is no admission fee to see them.
Many V&A Waterfront tours and Cape Town city tours will include a stop at Nobel Square as part of their itinerary.
While not a dedicated event venue, Nobel Square can be a backdrop for impromptu performances and is part of the general V&A Waterfront event calendar.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the collection of four bronze statues honoring South Africa's Nobel Peace Prize laureates: Albert Luthuli, Desmond Tutu, F.W. de Klerk, and Nelson Mandela.
Yes, it's a pleasant spot for families to stroll, learn about South African history, and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere.
It commemorates the contributions of South African Nobel Peace Prize winners to peace and reconciliation.
Public restrooms are available throughout the V&A Waterfront, typically within shopping centers or near food courts.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for photos, especially with the statues and the waterfront backdrop.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Nobel Square is surrounded by numerous dining options within the V&A Waterfront, from casual eateries to fine dining.
You'll find a wide variety of cuisines, including South African specialties, seafood, international dishes, and quick snacks.
The V&A Food Market and the Time Out Market are popular spots offering diverse food stalls and a lively atmosphere, located within the V&A Waterfront.
While there aren't designated picnic areas directly in Nobel Square, you can purchase food from the waterfront and find spots to sit and enjoy it.
Yes, the food markets offer more affordable choices compared to sit-down restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The bronze statues themselves, the waterfront views, and the surrounding Victorian architecture are all excellent photo opportunities. 
Yes, the statues and scenic backdrop make it a unique location for portraits.
Late afternoon or early evening often provides beautiful golden hour light for photography.
Just after Nobel Square, you'll find the large 'Cape Town' letters, a very popular spot for tourist photos.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public areas like the V&A Waterfront for safety and privacy reasons. Check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when there's more activity and easier supervision. The proximity to other attractions at the V&A Waterfront means you can easily combine a visit to Nobel Square with other family-friendly outings, making for a well-rounded day.
💰 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, explore the V&A Waterfront's food markets (like the V&A Food Market or Time Out Market) for more affordable meal options compared to sit-down restaurants. Walking around the waterfront is also a great way to experience the city without spending money.
📸 Photographers & Influencers
Don't miss the giant 'Cape Town' letters located just past Nobel Square – a must-have for any Instagram feed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Perceiving Freedom' Sculptures
The sculptures are more than just art; they tell a story of struggle, triumph, and the ongoing quest for equality. Their placement near the Nelson Mandela Gateway further emphasizes the enduring fight for justice and equality in South Africa. Visitors are encouraged to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made and the progress achieved.
These statues serve as a constant reminder that freedom is a precious gift, one that must be cherished and defended by each generation. They offer a profound sense of respect for the courageous individuals who fought for a better future for the country.
V&A Waterfront: More Than Just a Square
Visitors can spend hours exploring the waterfront, which includes the popular V&A Food Market and Time Out Market, offering a vast array of culinary delights. The area also features boat trips, a seal island tour, and the Nelson Mandela Gateway, which serves as the departure point for Robben Island ferries. The waterfront's charming Victorian architecture adds to its unique ambiance, making it a delightful place to wander and soak in the atmosphere.
Nobel Square itself is a peaceful enclave within this lively precinct, offering a moment of reflection amidst the activity. It's a perfect starting point for exploring the V&A Waterfront, allowing visitors to appreciate both the historical significance of the laureates and the dynamic modern energy of Cape Town.
Safety and Solo Travel
It's always advisable to take standard precautions: keep your belongings secure, be mindful of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas late at night. Displaying expensive items openly can attract unwanted attention.
For those concerned about safety, utilizing ride-sharing services or taxis for transport, especially after dark, is a recommended practice. The presence of security personnel and the general foot traffic within the V&A Waterfront contribute to a sense of safety for visitors.
Social
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