The Cape Town International Jazz Festival is just around the corner, and the city is buzzing with excitement. Taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), the iconic event draws thousands of visitors from across South Africa and around the world for two nights of world-class performances. But the experience doesn’t have to begin when the music starts.
Explore the City Centre
If you’ve already ticked off big attractions like Table Mountain or Robben Island, the Cape Town CBD still offers plenty to explore before heading to the festival. From immersive science experiences to local food adventures and elegant cocktail spots, here are a few easy activities within the city centre that can turn a jazz festival evening into a full day out.
Tucked inside the lush surroundings of Company’s Garden lies one of the most fascinating attractions in the city: the Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome. Recently upgraded with cutting-edge digital technology, the dome is considered the most advanced digital planetarium on the African continent.
Immersive Experiences
The immersive theatre projects breathtaking 360-degree visuals across its curved ceiling, transporting audiences through the cosmos, deep oceans and even the microscopic world. Visitors can take virtual journeys across the universe, explore the structure of atoms or travel through the human body using powerful data visualisation systems normally used in scientific research.
For a dose of culture, the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) is a must-visit. Located at the V&A Waterfront, the museum is housed in the transformed historic Grain Silo Complex, a towering industrial structure that once stored grain arriving in Cape Town’s harbour.
One of the best ways to get to know Cape Town is through its food. A guided walking tour with Eat Like a Local Food Tours offers a unique perspective on the city’s culinary scene. Here are a few highlights to add to your itinerary:
- Visit the Iziko Planetarium and Digital Dome
- Explore the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa
- Take a guided food tour with Eat Like a Local Food Tours
- Enjoy the views from the rooftop of the Zeitz MOCAA
- Discover the city’s vibrant street art scene
With so much to see and do in Cape Town, you’ll want to make the most of your time in the city. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or just looking for a unique experience, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
