Shopping in the Shade of Table Mountain: The V&A Waterfront Cape Town

TThe V&A Waterfront in Cape Town is home to a wide range of exciting retail outlets, from well-known international brands to exclusive local boutiques. Visit this shopping and leisure Mecca and discover why it attracts more visitors than any other destination in South Africa.  

Many factors contribute to the extraordinary appeal of the V&A Waterfront. High on this list is the fact that it is one of South Africa’s top shopping destinations. 

Situated in the heart of Cape Town, where the mountain meets the sea, it has been a working harbour since about 1860, when trade routes to the East transformed the seafront into a lucrative trading post. 

In 1988, the redevelopment of the historic docklands built on this legacy, transforming the harbour into an exciting 21st-century ‘trading post’, complete with a comprehensive array of shops, entertainment venues, prime office locations, world-class hotels, luxury apartments and restaurants (from fast food to fine dining). 

The Victorian architecture of the waterfront pulses with African energy, and there are more than 400 retail outlets offering both local and international brands. 

There is also an impressive array of accommodation, ranging from budget to five-star luxury, placing you within close proximity to the stores, restaurants and entertainment. 

And if the shopping becomes too much, you can enjoy some of the many other activities on offer. These include seal watching; a visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium or the Maritime Museum; boat trips around the harbour and along the coast; or an exciting helicopter tour! 

The V&A Waterfront also recently became home to the Zeitz MOCAA, the largest museum of contemporary South African art in the world. This architectural feat is located in the Silo District and is definitely worth a visit. 

Travel tips & planning  info 

Who to contact 

V&A Waterfront Cape Town  
+27 21 408 7600  
Email: enquiries@waterfront.co.za 

How to get here  

The V&A Waterfront is within walking distance of the city centre and offers easy access to other major tourist attractions. 

Things to do 

The V&A Waterfront is a gateway to many other attractions in and around Cape Town. There is a tour to Robben Island by boat that departs from the Waterfront daily. The Zeitz MOCAA is the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world and is located in the V&A Waterfront Silo District. The centre showcases a vast selection of other tourist attractions, accommodation facilities, adventure sport, unique destinations, tours and services, and is designed to anticipate and meet the diverse needs international travellers. Visit The V&A Waterfront Information Kiosk (located in the V&A Waterfront near the Nespresso) for all the information you need on the Waterfront and other activities around the area.  

What to pack 

The V&A Waterfront is home to a range of international and local brands so make sure you’re ready to shop. If you plan on taking one of the boat tours bring a jacket, even in the summer, as it can get cold on the water. 

Where to stay  

There are a number of accommodation options at the Waterfront itself and it is easily accessible from the city centre.  

Related links 

V&A Waterfront Official Website  

Zeitz MOCAA Official Website  

Robben Island Tours