V&A Waterfront Leisure Walk (Self Guided), Cape Town

What better way to combine shopping with sightseeing and having a good meal than on the V & A Waterfront. This was once rather shabby docklands but now it is a tourist hot spot, a center for business, leisure and culture. The Victorian buildings and old warehouses have been entirely renovated and now house shops, galleries, museums, a huge aquarium and over 80 bars and restaurants.

The scenery is marvelous with views out over the harbor and, of course the Table Mountain. Even the kids will be happy to spend time here as apart from the excellent aquarium, there is a super play area and a giant Ferris wheel. The harbor is also busy with yachts and ferries to carry you around Table Bay and out to Robben Island.

Do visit the Cape Town Diamond Museum in the Clock Tower area, where you will learn the fascinating history of one of the world’s most precious commodities and see life-sized replicas of famous diamonds. This area is great for enjoying a leisurely meal and it is fun to stroll along reading the menus displayed outside the restaurants until you find just what you fancy to eat. Even for those of you who just fancy a quick snack, there are numerous cafes overlooking the bay where you can enjoy a sandwich or a pizza and watch the world go by.