V&a Waterfront
V&a Waterfront
4.5
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
About
The V&A Waterfront is a 123-hectare mixed-use destination, and one of Africa’s most visited cultural and historical hubs. Set on the edge of a natural, historic working harbour with the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop, it offers local and international visitors a cosmopolitan mix of experiences ranging from leisure, shopping and exclusive entertainment. It also offers prime residential and commercial property. The prime positioning of the V&A Waterfront boasts sweeping views of the ocean, city bowl and mountain peaks. Up to 100 000 people visit every day during peak season. Contributing R259.1 billion in nominal terms to the South African economy over the last twelve years, the V&A Waterfront’s cumulative contribution to the provincial GGP since 2002 was over R227 billion. The property also reported a 19% increase in retail trade sales for 2014, marking four consecutive years of consistent growth since 2011. By end 2014, total visitor numbers to the property had grown to 24 million a year. Although the V&A Waterfront remains South Africa’s favourite attraction for international visitors, they account for only 23% of all visitors. Visits by locals increased to 63%, while 14% of visitors were from upcountry. With 22 official landmarks on-site, it is also part of South Africa’s historical legacy. Jointly owned by Growthpoint Properties Limited and the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF), represented by the Public Investment Corporation Limited (PIC), the V&A Waterfront was developed in 1988 by the state-owned transport corporation, Transnet Limited, while official commercial trading commenced in November 1990.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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The area
Address
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Best nearby
Restaurants
982 within 3 miles
Attractions
216 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Karen WPalo Alto, California173 contributionsTypical shopping center in a nice locationYour typical shopping center with a few stores selling South African goods. The majority of stores are found in America. We ate at Willoughby and Co., a disappointment though highly reviewed. The shopping center is located on the waterfront, which is nice, and there are musicians outside.Hi there, thank you for the wonderful review. We sincerely apologize that our was shopping center was not up to your expectation. We also happy to hear you created great memories on our neighbouhood.Written September 28, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten September 14, 2023
- TTV18 contributionsSpoilt for ChoiceI walked through the mall and grabbed some breakfast, as I walked toward the peer I was able to impromptu hop on a 1 hour harbour cruise with breath taking views of table mountain and the water front. I was spoilt for choice with numerous options for lunch by the water front. In walking distance of watershed, Robben island gateway and the aquarium. You are truely spoilt for choice.Hi there, thank you for a wonderful review. We are excited to hear you had an interesting time at our neighbourhood and memories made . We looking forward on welcoming you again.🥰❤️Written September 28, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2023Traveled soloWritten September 19, 2023
- sun_loverSwansea17 contributionsA wonderful atmosphere with great foodIt was great to choose a restaurant with a view and great food to compliment the surroundings. The vibe was chilled and yet there was plenty to see in the area and lots of bars and restaurants to visit. We would love to go back there.Hi there, thank you for a great review .We happy to hear you had amazing memories at our neighbourhood and we very excited to welcoming you back again.🕺🏻💃🏻💞Written September 28, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2022Traveled as a coupleWritten September 20, 2023
- Alistair W54 contributionsGreat locationStaff very helpful and welcoming. First floor piazza-facing room was large and very comfortable. That said, there was building work going on in the piazza and therefore a Table Mountain View room would be recommended at the moment. Breakfast both plentiful and varied. Evening menu seemed surprisingly limited for this standard of hotel and we ate there only once - it was ok.Hi there, thank you for a wonderful review. We are happy that you had a memorable time at our neighbourhood. We are looking forward to welcoming you again.Written October 2, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited August 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten September 21, 2023
- Wombling_Free_7548Bristol, United Kingdom2,114 contributionsRelaxed placeGood area to stay because it is safe to stroll around day and night thanks to the security personnel. Lots of shops and restaurants, plus plenty of modern art and good views. Official busker spots were filled with choirs when we were there, creating a good atmosphere.Thank you so much for the lovely feedback.Written October 26, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 7, 2023
- KatherineManchester, United Kingdom522 contributionsYou have to visit!It’s well the visit there are plenty of restaurants, views of the harbour, table mountain. Also can’t forget the mall which is massive. We visited plenty of restaurants during our stay but Ferrymans Irish bar was our go to for evening drinks. Overall I thought there would be a little more going on in the evenings as it is a little flat on atmosphere.Hi Katherine, thank you for a wonderful review. We are happy to read about exciting experiences you had on our neighbouhood and we are looking forward on welcoming you back. 💖✨Written November 14, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten November 7, 2023
- trevor B2 contributionsCape Town & V& A 7th wonder if the worldOne of the best places in the world. One of the hubs of cape Town - extremely exciting place. The difference venues to choose from. We went to ferryman's tavern and quay 4. Tried several of their immaculate beers. I'm in love with V&A waterfront. Must go again when in Cape TownHi there, we are glad you fell in love with V&A Waterfront. Thank you for sharing your experience.Written January 3, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled with friendsWritten December 30, 2023
- Galloping GourmetEngland, United Kingdom239 contributionsLovely shopping and restaurantsGood range of shops and restaurants. Mostly aimed at tourists as you would expect. Locals do tend to visit here at weekends, with their families. Booking a restaurant at weekends advised. Lovely waterfront walk, and indoor venues to visitHi there, thank you for sharing your experience with us.Written January 14, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten January 6, 2024
- BigGE52Birmingham, United Kingdom28 contributionsBasic hotel but location is excellentThe hotel is pretty basic but location is fantastic. Cape Town is not safe at night but this hotel is amongst the safest. It is so near all the restaurants that it is easy and safe to walk to. Breakfst on the water front watching sea lions was nice.Thank you for that wonderful review and sharing your experience with us.Written February 11, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten January 27, 2024
- Benjamin JForest Side33 contributionsGreat place...compared to the Caudan Waterfront in Mauritius.We were there 4 times. Loved the KFC, Nando's. But, the Ocean Basket there gave me a huge stomach ache. Had to poop a lot. OB, your food's too greasy. Nando's was better. The Festa Roll is a must try. And, KFC was good. Watched West Ham United vs. Manchester United. It ended WHU 2-0 MUN. I recommend parking at Battery Park. And, the last listed time was for Robben Island (see my review about it).Hi there, thanks for your review. Glad you enjoyed KFC and Nando's, sorry to hear Ocean Basket, we will pass on your feedback to the team. Great tip on parking at Battery Park, gives you the opportunity to explore our neighbourhood. We hope to see you again soonWritten July 29, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited December 2023Traveled with familyWritten February 18, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
14,496 reviews
Excellent
8,763
Very good
4,453
Average
1,061
Poor
155
Terrible
64
Lisa
Toronto, Canada291 contributions
Jan 2020
The V&A Waterfront is a beautiful spot. Today we got there about 5:30 pm and grabbed dinner while the sun set. It's a great atmosphere, the breeze is always blowing and there is music playing. There were african singers/dancing moving around and putting on a show which was great. The restaurants are a little pricey.
Another good thing is that the parking is cheap. We were there for 4 1/2 hours and the parking only cost 20rand. Definitely recommend you spend some time there
Another good thing is that the parking is cheap. We were there for 4 1/2 hours and the parking only cost 20rand. Definitely recommend you spend some time there
Written January 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for posting a great review Lisa_at_large.
Written January 27, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mark R
Brighton, UK98 contributions
Feb 2020
We spent 4 hours at the V&A and will return. Access and parking are easy and the Waterfront is big enough to occupy half a day yet all in front of you so you can’t get lost. It starts with the wonderful surprise, crossing the foot bridge, seeing seals frolicking in the water. The outlets, bars and restaurants are all very stylish and the buskers are all real musicians (sat and listened to a couple for 10 minutes or so). There is a wonderful combination of old Dutch architecture, modern and seafront craft. Your eyes are all over the place. Lost count of food outlets and bars and we had a stupendous tapas. Strongly recommend half a day here.
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for posting a great review MarkR700
Written February 19, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hirene
Morningside, South Africa387 contributions
Feb 2020
The Warefront is unique...there is nothing quite like it anywhere in the world and one could spend days unpacking the treasures here. From taking a boat trip to Robben Island, to sailing In a luxury yacht into the sunset...eating at any one of the dozens of varied eateries, or having a wine tasting, one thing should not be missed, the Aquarium with its very special South African displays. Stay at one of any number of the differently priced hotels, from the world's finest to something far more modest you will not be disappointed if you make the Waterfront your Cape Town point of residence. It is uniquely South African. I have visited here dozens of times over the years and have been elated every single time, this year it was my visit to the art exhibition at the Silo Hotel, and our three nite stay at thenOne and Only, I grew up in Cape Town and the Waterfront has grown up before my eyes.j
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for posting a great review Hirene.
Written April 10, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bobdbl
Wetherby, UK344 contributions
Dec 2019
I am not a fan of shopping centres, or of shopping at all. At the V & A I was able to enjoy the street entertainers and the restaurants whilst the keen shppers got on with their browsing. Prices in the craft market seemed a bit high, but other prices compared favourably with similar facilities in other countries.
For those with an interest in matters marine there is the option of wandering around looking at the ships and boats in the water.
For those with an interest in matters marine there is the option of wandering around looking at the ships and boats in the water.
Written January 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for posting a great review Bobdbl.
Written January 22, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Adrian B
27 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
This area is both picturesque and a restaurant haven and draws in mostly tourists as it is one of the safest areas in Cape Town.It is purpose built and has a good variety of eateries and retail shops over three floors, all retail units were open which is unusual in this day and age. The restaurant variety is excellent and it is not that pricey which was surprising, we had two main courses with wine in one restaurant which only came to £22 including tip.
In the harbour we saw seals and in the evening there were hundreds of terns swooping around the roofs.
In the harbour we saw seals and in the evening there were hundreds of terns swooping around the roofs.
Written February 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for posting a great review Adrian B
Written February 19, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nicholas H
London, UK20,403 contributions
Jan 2020 • Solo
There’s something for everyone here: shops, restaurants, food markets, museums, The Cape Wheel and of course the stunning views of Table Mountain. Expect it to be crowded at pretty much any time and be careful about pickpockets. Most of the shopping and eating facilities are inside in air conditioned malls, which is a blessing on hot days or when it rains. If you come to Cape Town, you have to come here.
Written February 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for posting a great review Nicholas H
Written February 12, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lindy B
Cape Town Central, South Africa17 contributions
May 2020 • Business
I have had a very bad experience with the iStore at the Waterfront. I purchased a Mac Desktop and then returned it to exchange for a MacBook Pro. They said it needed to be sent for assessment which it was and a few days later I was advised all was in order and I could come in And select what I wished to replace it with. Only more then a week Later was I told ‘by the way there is a handling fee of 20%”
I was never told At any stage Nor during or after the return Or this handling fee.
Even more concerning is that a 20% handling fee is astronomical. I can understand a small amount but 20% is shocking abuse when everything was returned in perfect order and in the original box within 7 days of purchase. This amounts to more then R5000 in handling fees.
What upsets me even more now is that it is impossible to reach the store to get this resolved. I cannot call as calls are unanswered and they do not respond to emails.
3 weeks later I am still without a computer after spending a large amount of money at this store.
Do not buy at this store.
I was never told At any stage Nor during or after the return Or this handling fee.
Even more concerning is that a 20% handling fee is astronomical. I can understand a small amount but 20% is shocking abuse when everything was returned in perfect order and in the original box within 7 days of purchase. This amounts to more then R5000 in handling fees.
What upsets me even more now is that it is impossible to reach the store to get this resolved. I cannot call as calls are unanswered and they do not respond to emails.
3 weeks later I am still without a computer after spending a large amount of money at this store.
Do not buy at this store.
Written May 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for posting a review about Istore V&A Watrefront. We are sorry to hear your interaction with Istore has not been a satisfactory one. We will forward your post to the store. Can I ask that you send your contact details to us at Enquiries@waterfront.co.za which we will pass onto the store.
Written June 2, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TravelbugVietnam
Vietnam1,647 contributions
Dec 2022
Unfortunately some of the places at the V & A were closed over the Christmas/New Year holidays so I couldn't see all the places I wanted to e.g. the MOCCA Museum. If you go early in the morning you can avoid some of the crowds that gather later in the day. Luckily the area is large enough to cater to all these visitors, but getting a seat in a cafe can be problematic. There are some great shops there, but the prices tend to be higher than elsewhere in town. The excellent Robben Island tour leaves from here. It is a great place for photos and people watching.
Written January 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi TravelbugVietnam, thank you for your review. We hope you had an amazing time in our neighborhood and looking forward to welcoming you back soon.
Written January 26, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
YazDav
Cape Town, South Africa2 contributions
Apr 2022 • Family
None of the parking pay points accepted card payments today, only cash. This caused a lot of unnecessary queuing at oh points and forcing people to go to an ATM. Surely in 2022 the V&A, our so called flagship mall, should have contactless payments like SnapScan and Zapper? Canal Walk implemented this more than 2 years ago. Very disappointed.
Written April 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi YazDaz, we apologize for the bad experience you had regarding parking, we have recently collaborated with Zapper, SnapScan and the Eezi app to make paying for parking much easier, we look forward to seeing you again.
Written April 6, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Diana M
Sorrento11 contributions
Nov 2019
The Victoria Waterfront is so large you need at least 2 visits to see everything. One of the days we were there, a group of singers were entertaining the crowd with their unique versions of different songs. There are many many choices in restaurants & variety of foods.
Written February 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for posting a great review dianamU841XN
Written February 19, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We walked over from our hotel so I don’t know about parking.
Written April 6, 2024
I visited a lovely shop in Alfred Mall (I think) near the Victoria and Albert Hotel that sold lovely art of animals but also pop artists amongst other things. They were really unusual and some were in 3D. Does anyone know the name of gallery, I'm looking to order some if they have a website.
Many thanks
Written July 8, 2020
Hi there.
Sorry.
Haven't been to the V&A Waterfront since LockDown in March.
Perhaps you can try and contact the center's management office.
Surely they can assist.
Hope you come right.
Written July 9, 2020
What is the best parking to use when visiting the waterfront and what is the zip code for sat navs.
Thanks
Written January 13, 2020
There are parking lots under cover that you pay for however I would suggest that you take an uber there it’s much less of a hassle.
Written January 13, 2020
Staying in Cape Town on New Years Eve at the Southern Sun Hotel on the Waterfront. I have been told that we should go to a restaurant with a view of table mountain to get best value from night's light / fireworks show. We have also been told that there are restaurants with great views on top of shopping centers on waterfront. As I have not visited before I am looking for some local advice on best options for a dinner reservation ( for adult family of 5). Thank you for your assistance.
Written December 8, 2019
For a true African restaurant try Karibu but there are a few with view of table mountain on second level. Realistically table mountain is on view everywhere!
Written December 9, 2019
Can anyone tell me what the weather is like in and around Cape town in September.
T shirt and shorts or coats and brolly.
Thanks
Written October 14, 2019
The beautiful thing about Cape Town is undecipherable if weatherman can't get it right. So prepare for 4 seasons in one day. No shorts yet.
Written December 4, 2019
Hi, we are staying in V&A waterfront for 10 nights in August. Where is the best place to watch sport in a bar?
Many Thanks in advance
Written July 17, 2019
Mitchels which is next to the big wheel - great bar, with good food and atmosphere. Enjoy ;-)
Written July 17, 2019
How is the weather out there? Will be visiting there in 2 weeks time with toddlers.
Written July 13, 2019
Dress warm, warm scarves, fleece, windproof and rain proof jackets a must. Buffs with a scarf are great protection. Use fleece hoodies. Warm gloves. There are days we have sunshine with a cold freezing wind. Winter is here, stay warm. Have a super visit in our lovely Cape Town.
Written July 14, 2019
We will be in Capetown and Johannesburg between March 25th and April 4th. Given weather there what should we pack?
Written March 22, 2019
Pack light jackets or sweaters plus warm/hot hot weather clothes (shorts, sandals etc.). Unless there is is an unusual cold snap you will probably only need something warmish in the evenings, the days should be sunny with a midday temperature of around 25 deg C. Late March early April is normally very nice weather in both Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Written March 22, 2019
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