Cape Town has so much to offer. There’s Table Mountain, the Waterfront, Robben Island, Kirstenbosch, and so much more. If you’re planning a trip to Cape Town or if you’re a local already, then there’s no better way to travel than by the City Sightseeing red buses.

It was a sunny Wednesday morning; we ubered into town around 10 am. The buses are located at the Waterfront just opposite the Aquarium. The area was milling with tourists in big backpacking bags, we too felt like tourists, but there were quite a few locals as well. We received a discounted ticket because we used our student cards – it was R195 each. The regular cost for the ticket would be R259 for an adult and R150 for a child. 

Also, side note as warm as the day was, sitting on top it’s best to have a jacket with you because it can get quite windy.  

The buses are available every 15-120 minutes, so it’s incredibly efficient. You can get off on and off as many times as you want. Do be aware of your bus’s route –  we chose the blue route which goes along the ocean side while the red route goes into the CBD (Central Business District) into Table mountain. 

Our adventure started at Waterfront, then we took a drive through Cape Town’s CBD and drove past Kirstenbosch Gardens. Our first hop off was in Hout Bay, where we had lunch at the famous Mariner’s Wharf. Busi had hake and chips while I had calamari and chips. There isn’t much to do at Hout Bay but the food at Mariner’s Wharf is definitely worth the trip. After lunch, we walked by the beach and walked into the marketplace for tourists. You can even spot a seal if you’re lucky! But please be aware to always keep an eye on your belongings and your surroundings during the walk – it’s crowded, and did feel like a pickpocket’s paradise…

After a brief walk around the harbour, and a few snaps later, we hopped back onto the bus and went on our way to Camps Bay. The drive to Camps Bay was truly breathtaking; it never gets old.

It was a really hot day so while we lazed on the beach, we got some yummy suckers from the vendors. We didn’t prepare properly so we had to lay on the sand using our jackets, but we still had  a nice relaxing time.. After COVID it was also lovely to be amongst people enjoying summer especially after a cold winter.. We had sand all over, but it was worth it, honestly. 

After spending too much time in the sun, our next destination was supposed to be Green Point Park, but I totally jumped the gun and we got off in Sea Point. Yes, yes, a big mess but luckily getting another bus is quick and easy. 

When we eventually got off in Green Point, the wind picked up, so we got warm drinks at a café close to Green Point Park. Green Point Park is pretty big and you can watch ducks, have a picnic, watch people getting proposed to, or have their gender reveal parties. It’s a nice spot to chill and people-watch as well if you don’t have anyone with you. You will even be lucky enough to spot Cape Town stadium. 

As a local, it was such an amazing day to feel like a tourist. It felt like we were seeing Cape Town with new eyes, and we will definitely do it again! A 10/10 experience!