Franschhoek Wine Tram Cape Town
Experience South Africa's wine country on the iconic Franschhoek Wine Tram, a charming hop-on-hop-off journey through picturesque vineyards.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Franschhoek Wine Tram Cape Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience South Africa's wine country on the iconic Franschhoek Wine Tram, a charming hop-on-hop-off journey through picturesque vineyards.
"A must-do for any wine lover visiting South Africa, offering a fun, relaxing, and memorable day."
🎯 Choose Your Line Wisely
Research routes based on your interests (gardens, specific wines, food) as lines visit different estates .
⏰ Start Early for More Time
An early start allows you to visit more wineries and enjoy lunch without feeling rushed .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Wine Tram Ride
Franschhoek Valley
Experience a unique hop-on-hop-off journey through picturesque vineyards on a charming tram or bus.

Babylonstoren Garden
Orange Line
Explore magnificent fruit orchards, vegetable gardens, and a stunning glasshouse tasting room.

Rickety Bridge Winery
Pink Line
Enjoy delicious food, great wine, and beautiful views, with special kid-friendly pairings available.

Le Lude (MCC & Fine Dining)
Grey Line
Savor exceptional Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) sparkling wines and enjoy a top-tier dining experience.
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance, Especially for Tours
Consider an Overnight Stay
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Choose Your Line Wisely
Research routes based on your interests (gardens, specific wines, food) as lines visit different estates.
⏰ Start Early for More Time
An early start allows you to visit more wineries and enjoy lunch without feeling rushed.
💰 Budget for Tastings & Food
Tram tickets don't include wine tastings or meals; budget accordingly for each stop.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between the tram/bus stops and the winery buildings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Choose Your Line Wisely
Research routes based on your interests (gardens, specific wines, food) as lines visit different estates.
⏰ Start Early for More Time
An early start allows you to visit more wineries and enjoy lunch without feeling rushed.
💰 Budget for Tastings & Food
Tram tickets don't include wine tastings or meals; budget accordingly for each stop.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between the tram/bus stops and the winery buildings.
💧 Stay Hydrated (Water!)
While you'll be tasting wine, remember to drink plenty of water, especially on warm days.
📦 Wine Storage Available
Many wineries will store your purchased wine for you until you're ready to leave for the day.
🚗 Consider Uber/Taxi
Some travelers find Uber or taxis offer more flexibility than the tram, though it can be pricier.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Franschhoek Wine Tram is widely praised as a unique and enjoyable way to explore the region's wineries, offering beautiful scenery and excellent wine. Many highlight the convenience of the hop-on-hop-off system and the affordability of tastings. However, some find the tram experience itself a bit overrated, with bus transfers on certain routes and a feeling of being rushed if too many stops are attempted.
"I will suggest to have a vip tour
(Private tour)
Yes - experience is higher in price, but definitely worth it!
Best experience so far in SA!
Yes only three wineries - but you are not in a rush
You eat delicious food - paired 100% nicely
You have time to enjoy atmosphere!
Will be back 100% !!!!
Note 📝 in advance for allergies, the staff was very helpful to accommodate gluten free intolerance on spot, but be careful to note it in advance.
Visited in June 2025 - so not so many people!
Enjoyed our time very much !"
Anastasiya Bundur
"If you initially find the different lines a little confusing, then I highly recommend booking one of the tours. We did the Exceptional Wine & Cuisine tour. The experience was incredible. Our guide and the wineries that were chosen were all perfect. The food was delicious from breakfast to evening dessert. Our guide, Courtney was incredibly accommodating. She ensured our experience was nothing less than spectacular. Valentino and Taylor helped us at the station and were fantastic hosts while we waited for our tram to arrive. The whole team was great."
Scott Potter
"The Franschhoek Wine Tram was an amazing experience — a must-do for any wine lover visiting South Africa! We visited multiple wineries throughout the day, each with its own unique vibe, great wines, and beautiful surroundings. Even though it was wet and cold, the weather didn’t ruin the experience at all — the wines, views, and overall atmosphere more than made up for it.
One thing to keep in mind: it’s about a 2-hour drive from Cape Town to Franschhoek and the same on the way back, so it does make for a long day. If you’re a wine enthusiast or want to experience more of what the region has to offer, I’d highly recommend spending at least one night there. That way, you can enjoy the full range of wineries without feeling rushed.
Overall, a fun, relaxing, and memorable day — highly recommended!"
Brad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Franschhoek Wine Tram is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Cape Town.
You can drive yourself, hire a private driver, or use ride-sharing services like Uber. Some shuttle services from Cape Town to Franschhoek are also available.While it's possible to start later, it's highly recommended to begin your wine tram journey in the morning to maximize your time and visit 2-3 wineries comfortably, including lunch.
Yes, taking an Uber to Franschhoek is a popular and reliable option, offering more flexibility than the tram itself.
Yes, some companies offer shuttle services from Cape Town to Franschhoek, which can be a cost-effective option if traveling with others.
The drive from Cape Town to Franschhoek typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The basic tram ticket typically costs around R300-R330 per person, but this does not include wine tastings or food.
Premium tours with curated experiences and meals can be more expensive.It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season or if you wish to join specific guided tours.
No, wine tastings are not included in the standard tram ticket. You will pay for tastings and any food at each individual winery.
The tram operates on several color-coded lines (e.g., Red, Blue, Orange, Pink, Grey, Navy), each visiting a different selection of wine estates.
Consider your interests: Orange line for gardens (Babylonstoren), Navy/Orange for quality wine and views, Pink for family-friendly options, or research specific wineries on each line that appeal to you.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
While a line may stop at several wineries, it's advisable to visit only 2-3 per day to truly enjoy each one and have time for lunch.
The tram or bus typically comes around every 40 minutes, so plan your time at each winery accordingly.
Yes, most wineries offer excellent dining options, from casual lunches to fine dining. It's wise to book popular restaurants in advance.
Yes, many estates have playgrounds or offer kid-friendly pairings. The Pink Line, with estates like Rickety Bridge and Pigcasso, is often recommended for families.
Comfortable shoes are a must as you'll be walking. Dress in layers as the weather can change, and opt for smart casual attire suitable for wine estates.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! Most wineries offer fantastic lunch options, ranging from casual platters to gourmet meals. Booking ahead is recommended for popular spots.
Many wineries are accommodating to dietary restrictions like vegetarian or vegan. It's best to mention any allergies or preferences when booking or upon arrival.
Estates like Le Lude are known for their fine dining and pairings, while Rickety Bridge offers great food with views. Babylonstoren also has excellent dining options.
Prices vary, but expect to pay a moderate to high price for meals at the wineries, especially at more renowned estates.
Generally, it's best to purchase food and drinks at the wineries. Some estates might allow light snacks, but it's not the norm for full meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Franschhoek Valley offers stunning scenery. Look for panoramic vineyard views, charming architecture at the estates, and the iconic tram itself.
Babylonstoren with its gardens, Grande Provence with its art and sculptures, and Boschendal with its historic charm are all highly photogenic.
Yes, the tram offers great vantage points. However, be mindful of other passengers and ensure you have your camera ready when approaching scenic spots.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow over the vineyards.
Drone usage is often restricted at private estates. It's best to check with each winery individually before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🥂 Wine Connoisseurs
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Wine Tram Route
When selecting a line, consider your priorities: are you interested in specific wine types (like MCC or red wines), historical estates, modern architecture, culinary experiences, or beautiful gardens? It's also wise to research the specific wineries on each line and check their menus and tasting options to ensure they align with your preferences. Remember, the tram operates on a schedule, so planning your stops and potential lunch reservations is key to a smooth and enjoyable day.
The Wine Tram Experience: Beyond the Ride
Many visitors highlight the exceptional quality and affordability of wine tastings and food in Franschhoek compared to other wine regions. Some estates offer special pairings, such as kid-friendly options or premium tasting experiences. It's also worth noting that some travelers have reported negative experiences with staff at certain estates, emphasizing the importance of choosing your wineries wisely and being aware of the potential for colonial-era attitudes to persist in some areas. For a more personalized and less rushed experience, some opt for private tours or using ride-sharing services like Uber, though this comes at a higher cost.
Franschhoek for Families
Beyond specific activities, many estates have spacious grounds where children can explore. It's advisable to check the specific offerings of wineries on your chosen route beforehand. While the tram itself is an exciting mode of transport for kids, remember that the focus is on wine, so managing expectations and ensuring children have engaging activities is key to a successful family outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit