Cape Town isn’t cheap, but your weekend plans can be. You just need to know where to look. Whether you’re a broke local, a clever traveller or just allergic to entry fees, here are the best free things to do in Cape Town this weekend—no wallet damage, no FOMO.

Free things to do in Cape Town this weekend – Outdoor edition

1. Hike Lion’s Head

A free hike with city, sea and Table Mountain views that make you feel rich.

• Perfect for: Locals, tourists, fitness addicts, sunrise chasers and hikers (duh).
• Where: From Cape Town city centre, take Kloof Nek Road, then turn right onto Signal Hill Road. The Lion’s Head parking lot is just ahead on the left.

• When: Best at sunrise or sunset. Avoid full moon nights unless you like crowds.
• Why: 360° views and zero cost. Just your glutes paying the price.

Pro tip: Wear proper shoes, pack lots of water and stay away from the edge if you’re scared of heights. 

Like hiking? You might like these  10 incredible hiking trails around the world

2. Explore the Company Gardens

A public garden that’s been around since 1652—still better kept than most modern parks.

• Perfect for: Families, history nerds, Instagrammers, squirrel whisperers.
• Where: Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town CBD.
• When: Open daily, 7am–7pm.
• Why: Free entry, shady trees, cute squirrels and surprise art installations.

Pro tip: Bring raw peanuts to feed the squirrels. But no, you can’t keep one.

Speaking of gardens. Here are 30 amazing ways to explore the garden route,

Quick Fact: Did you know you can shave off R500 off your next domestic flight – Find out how

3. Visit the Sea Point Promenade

A seaside promenade stretching from Mouille Point to Bantry Bay.

• Who: Joggers, dog walkers, rollerbladers, lovers of fresh air and ocean views.
• Where: Sea Point, just off Beach Road.
• When: Anytime. Best around golden hour (Sunrise and Sunset).
• Why: Free views, vibey energy and plenty of people-watching.

Pro tip: Start at Mouille Point lighthouse and walk all the way to Saunders Rock. Bonus: outdoor gym and public art.  Stick to the busier parts if you’re heading out after sunset.

 Pro pro tip: Don’t do it after sunset

4. Take a Dip at Maiden’s Cove

Maiden’s Cove is a natural tidal pool and picnic spot between Camps Bay and Clifton. 

• Perfect for: Sun-seekers, swimmers, sunset hunters and braai enthusiasts.
• Where: Off Victoria Road, just past the Camps Bay turnoff.
• When: Weekends get packed by midday. Early is better.
• Why: Free parking, incredible views, and a tidal pool that feels like a hidden gem.
• Can you braai at Maiden’s Cove? Yes you can. It is equipped with a lekker braai area, perfect for a family day out.

Pro tip: Bring snacks, towels and your own bin bag. It’s beautiful—don’t trash it.

5. Watch the sunset on Signal Hill

A free, no-hike sunset spot overlooking the city, ocean and Table Mountain.

• Perfect for: Romantics, photographers, sunset junkies, picnic pros.
• Where: Drive up Signal Hill Road and park at the viewpoint.
• When: Sunset, obviously. Go early to get parking.
• Why: It’s like a Cape Town ritual—and it’s always stunning.

Pro tip: Pack a blanket, snacks, and some patience. The road gets busy fast. Stay close to the main viewpoint after dark and lock your car.

Free things to do in Cape Town this weekend – CBD Edition

6. Wander through Bo Kaap

A historic neighbourhood famous for its brightly coloured houses and Cape Malay culture.

Want to learn more about Bo Kaap, check out Cape Town: Facts You Did Not Ask For. 

• Who: Photographers, culture chasers, TikTokers, history lovers.
• Where: Just above Buitengracht Street, CBD.
• When: Daytime is best. Quietest in the mornings.
• Why: The houses are iconic, the history is deep, and it costs nothing to look (or learn).

Pro tip: Be respectful—it’s a residential area, not a film set. Don’t lean on people’s walls or block driveways. Speaking of film sets, did you know these movies were filmed in South Africa

7. A self guided art tour in Woodstock

Woodstock is basically an outdoor art gallery doubling as  the walls of Cape Town’s coolest neighbourhood.

• Perfect for: Urban explorers, graffiti fans, photographers.
• Where: Start around Albert Road, then roam freely.
• When: Daytime only. It gets quiet after dark.
• Why: Local artists have turned buildings into canvases—and it’s all free to enjoy.

Pro tip: Grab a coffee from a local café and stroll with purpose. Go during the day, and ideally not solo. Some streets are quieter than others.

8. Browse the Oranjezicht City Farm Market (Only Entry Free)

A trendy outdoor market selling everything from fresh produce to quick bites and flowers. Entry is free—your willpower, however, is not.

• Who: Organic shoppers, foodies, window-shoppers, dog parents.
• Where: Granger Bay, next to the V&A Waterfront.
• When: Saturday & Sunday, 9am–2pm.
• Why: Free entry, great vibe and some of Cape Town’s best people watching.

Pro tip: Go early to avoid crowds. You don’t have to buy anything but bring cash just in case temptation wins.

Cape Town’s Public Beaches

• Perfect for: Everyone with a towel.
• What: Clifton, Camps Bay, Llandudno, Muizenberg, Bloubergstrand… all free.
• Where: All over the peninsula.
• When: Weekends, public holidays, any sunny day.
• Why: Cape Town beaches are world-class. Free sun, free sand, free therapy.

Why limit your beach vacay to Cape Town, there are more beaches in South Africa waiting for you to enjoy!

Know before you go!

Sure, it’s the best city in the world (officially), but before we jump into the free things to do in Cape Town this weekend: some safety tips: 

• Stick to busy areas, especially after dark
• Don’t flash valuables (phones, jewellery etc)
• Use registered e-hailing services
• Carry a copy of your ID for emergencies
• Watch for strong beach currents—ask safe looking locals if you’re unsure

Pro tip: Clifton 1st = quiet. Clifton 4th = popular. Camps Bay = vibey. Llandudno = surfy and secluded.

Learn more about Cape Town

Being broke in Cape Town doesn’t mean being bored. This is proof that fun in Cape Town doesn’t always need a price tag. Just pick your vibe—mountain, market, beach or sunset—and go enjoy the city like a local, because there are so many free things to do in Cape Town this weekend.