Stellenbosch Cape Town
Stellenbosch, South Africa's second-oldest town, is a premier wine destination renowned for its historic Cape Dutch architecture and picturesque viney...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming vineyards, pleasant weather
Stellenbosch Cape Town
Best Time
Blooming vineyards, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stellenbosch, South Africa's second-oldest town, is a premier wine destination renowned for its historic Cape Dutch architecture and picturesque vineyards.
"Stellenbosch offers a captivating blend of world-class wine, gourmet dining, and breathtaking scenery."
🚗 Uber is your friend
Uber is reliable for getting around Stellenbosch and to wine farms.
☀️ Beat the heat
February is hot! Wear sunscreen, a hat, and hydrate well during wine tastings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stellenbosch Wine Tram
Franschhoek (nearby)
Hop between picturesque wine farms on a charming tram, enjoying tastings and stunning vineyard views.

Historic Church Street
Stellenbosch Town Centre
Wander through charming streets lined with Cape Dutch architecture, boutiques, and vibrant cafes.

Vergenoegd Löw Wine Farm
Stellenbosch
Witness the unique daily 'duck parade' and enjoy sustainable practices at this beautiful wine estate.

Root44 Market
Stellenbosch
A lively market offering diverse food stalls, crafts, and live music, perfect for a weekend browse.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wine Route
Navigating Stellenbosch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Uber is your friend
Uber is reliable for getting around Stellenbosch and to wine farms.
☀️ Beat the heat
February is hot! Wear sunscreen, a hat, and hydrate well during wine tastings.
🍷 Book wine tastings
Popular wine farms get busy in summer; reservations are highly recommended.
🗺️ Focus on one area
Trying to visit all three winelands towns (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl) in one day is tough.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Uber is your friend
Uber is reliable for getting around Stellenbosch and to wine farms.
☀️ Beat the heat
February is hot! Wear sunscreen, a hat, and hydrate well during wine tastings.
🍷 Book wine tastings
Popular wine farms get busy in summer; reservations are highly recommended.
🗺️ Focus on one area
Trying to visit all three winelands towns (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl) in one day is tough.
🦆 See the ducks!
Don't miss the charming duck parade at Vergenoegd Löw wine farm.
🛍️ Explore local markets
Root44 Market is a must-visit for foodies and shoppers on weekends.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Stellenbosch is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning vineyards, world-class wines, and charming Cape Dutch architecture. Visitors rave about the exceptional dining experiences and the variety of activities available on wine farms. Some find the town itself a bit quiet outside of the wine estates, and transportation costs can add up for those without a car.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Uber is a popular and reliable option, costing around R370-R400 one way and taking about 45 minutes.
Alternatively, consider organized tours or shuttles from your hotel for a more structured experience.While direct public buses might be limited, some tour operators offer services. The City Sightseeing bus has a Stellenbosch tour for around R649.
Yes, Uber is generally reliable for getting around Stellenbosch and to nearby wine farms.
It's highly unlikely to comfortably visit all three towns in a single day due to their distance apart. It's best to focus on one region per day.
Stellenbosch is approximately a 40-minute to 1-hour drive from Cape Town, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your wine tastings in advance, especially during the popular summer months, as farms can get fully booked.
Opening hours can vary, but some wine farms close as early as 3 PM, so it's wise to check their specific times before visiting.
Stellenbosch town itself does not have an entrance fee. Fees typically apply to individual wine farms for tastings or tours.
The Stellenbosch Wine Tram is actually located in Franschhoek and prices can vary, but it's a popular way to visit multiple farms.
Markets like Root44 are generally free to enter, with costs associated with purchases.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Stellenbosch offers a variety of dining options, from fine dining at Clara's Barn
to casual cafes like Lievland Café. Church Street is known for its vibrant restaurant scene.Many wine farms offer food, ranging from light snacks and cheese boards
to full meals. Some have dedicated restaurants.Most restaurants in Stellenbosch are accommodating and offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to check menus or inform your server.
The official currency in South Africa, including Stellenbosch, is the Rand (ZAR). US dollars are sometimes accepted, but it's best to have local currency.
Yes, the Root44 Market is a popular weekend destination for food and crafts.
Oranjezicht City Farm Market also operates on weekends and Wednesday evenings in nearby Cape Town.📸 📸 Photography
Vineyard landscapes, Cape Dutch architecture, and the charming streets of Church Street are highly photogenic.
Wine farms like Tokara and Blaauwklippen offer stunning backdrops.Many wine farms offer beautiful tasting areas with scenic views,
historic buildings, and unique features like the duck parade at Vergenoegd Löw.The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh due to the strong sun.
Drone usage is subject to regulations and may require permits. It's best to check local bylaws and the specific policies of wine farms before flying a drone.
While not as common as wine tours, some private guides or tour operators might offer photography-focused excursions in the winelands.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Stellenbosch Wine Route
When planning your wine farm visits, remember that each estate has its unique character and offerings. Some, like Muratie, are celebrated for their historical charm and rustic ambiance, while others, such as Tokara, offer contemporary architecture and exceptional art collections. It's advisable to research and select a few farms that align with your preferences, whether it's for specific varietals, culinary pairings, or scenic beauty. Booking in advance is crucial, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
Beyond wine tasting, the Stellenbosch winelands offer activities like cellar tours, blending experiences, and even quad biking or ziplining for the more adventurous. The Cape Winelands region, with Stellenbosch at its core, provides a comprehensive sensory experience, blending world-class wines with breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Getting Around Stellenbosch and the Winelands
For a more structured and potentially cost-effective approach, consider organized tours. The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a popular option, offering a hop-on-hop-off service that connects various wine estates in the nearby Franschhoek valley. Many hotels and tour operators also offer dedicated winelands tours that can be booked in advance, often including transportation and curated itineraries. This can be particularly beneficial if you plan to indulge in multiple tastings and prefer not to worry about driving.
If you prefer the freedom of exploring at your own pace, renting a car is another option, though it requires a designated sober driver for wine tasting. Within Stellenbosch town itself, many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance, especially around the historic Church Street.
Culinary Delights in Stellenbosch
Many wine farms have embraced the farm-to-table concept, offering exquisite meals that are perfectly paired with their wines. Blaauwklippen is known for its innovative wine pairings, such as arancini and meze, enjoyed in a stunning outdoor setting. Babylonstoren and Delaire Graaf are also celebrated for their exceptional dining experiences, often featuring ingredients grown on their own estates. The Root44 Market is a vibrant hub for food lovers, offering a wide array of street food, artisanal products, and local delicacies.
When visiting Stellenbosch, be prepared for a culinary journey that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and creative presentations. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch at a vineyard or exploring the bustling market scene, the food in Stellenbosch is an integral part of the overall experience. Remember to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, and consider making reservations for popular restaurants and wine farm eateries.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit