10 of the best things to do in Cape Town as a first-time visitor

Cape Town is the capital of the Western Cape and home to around 4 million people. Surrounded by mountains and the ocean, it's a dream destination!

What are the top 10 things to do in Cape Town? Here is a bunch of activities that I recommend if you are a first time visitor:

1. Lion's Head Hikingis a must for every Cape Town first visitor of course. If you can, hike up for the sunset – you will have amazing views of Camps Bay and its beaches with the sun setting in the ocean. Bring a headlamp for the way down!

2. Spend a day at one of the city beaches.Glen Beachor one of the four Clifton Beachesare a great choice. They are less windy than Camps Bay beach for example.

3. Stroll along theSea Point Promenadeand feel like a local. Especially after work, the promenade is bustling with people running, going for a walk with friends or taking out their dogs

4. Visit theOranjezicht City Farm Marketon weekend mornings or Wednesday night. You'll find local fruit, vegetables and flowers here as well as local artisan stands and food stalls with anything that you might desire

5. Do a sunset cruise with Waterfront Charters - Daily Boat Trips & Private Toursto see Table Mountain and the city from the sea. If you are lucky you might even spot some wildlife while sipping on your complimentary glass of champagne!

6. Visit the District Six Museumand learn about South Africa's Apartheid history. When traveling to a country, it's a plus for everyone of you try to learn and understand the culture and past of the place.

7. Watch the sunset fromSignal Hillbut make sure to come early because parking spaces are scarce and this is THE sundowner spot in Cape Town.

8. Go on a tour withCAPE KAYAK ADVENTURESand see dolphins, penguins and maybe even whales up close

9. Do aBo Kaap Cooking Tourand learn how to prepare traditional Cape Malay dishes such as koeksisters or samosas.

10. And last but not least:Take theTable Mountain Aerial Cablewayup Cape Town's most famous landmark. But make sure to buy your tickets in advance to skip the line!

And that's it: Those are the most iconic Cape Town things to do on your first visit. In case you want more: Check out my Cape Town Travel Guide and Map with 200 things to do in the Mother City and the surrounding areas!