Known for its stunning natural beauty, exceptional outdoor adventures, and breathtaking landscapes, Cape Town is a city that is synonymous with sunshine and breathtaking natural landscapes. What do you do if the weather suddenly decides to take a turn for the worse and the skies open up? There are plenty of indoor activities in Cape Town that will keep you entertained, dry, and cozy when you are in this vibrant city, no matter what the weather outside may be like.

Here are 20 indoor activities to enjoy in Cape Town on a rainy day, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local. From culture enthusiasts to food lovers to adrenaline seekers, these suggestions cater to all kinds of travelers.

1. Visit the Zeitz MOCAA (Museum of Contemporary Art Africa)

The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) is a must-visit for anyone in Cape Town, regardless of the weather. Located in the old Grain Silo complex at the V&A Waterfront, the museum showcases some of the best contemporary African art.

Why Visit:

Over 100 galleries, exhibitions, and collections from across Africa.
Architecturally stunning, with a mix of old and modern design.
A variety of installations, sculptures, and interactive displays that are thought-provoking and visually engaging.

Practical Info:

Entry Fee: ZAR 210 (adults); ZAR 110 (students)
Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: S Arm Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Stunning design and architecture.
Strong focus on African artists.

Cons:

Entrance fee can be steep for some.

2. Explore the Two Oceans Aquarium

A perfect indoor experience for families, the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the underwater world. With over 3,000 species of marine life, you’ll get to see everything from sharks and turtles to colorful fish and rays.

Why Visit:

Stunning exhibits like the Predator Exhibit and the I&J Ocean Exhibit.
Interactive experiences like touch pools and behind-the-scenes tours.
Excellent for children and families.

Practical Info:

Entry Fee: ZAR 180 (adults); ZAR 80 (children)
Hours: Daily from 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8002, South Africa
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Great for kids and families.
Educational and fun.

Cons:

Some exhibits can get crowded during peak times.

3. Afternoon Tea at The Twelve Apostles Hotel

On a rainy day, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a luxurious afternoon tea. The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, perched on the cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean, offers a magnificent setting for a cozy afternoon. Sip on premium teas, nibble on finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries, all while watching the rain dance on the ocean.

Why Visit:

A cozy, refined setting with amazing views.
Excellent tea selection and gourmet pastries.
Relaxing atmosphere.

Practical Info:

Afternoon Tea Price: ZAR 395 per person
Hours: Daily from 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Address: Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Indulge in a quintessentially British tradition.
Spectacular ocean views.

Cons:

Pricey for some.

4. Discover the District Six Museum

Rainy days are perfect for diving deep into Cape Town’s rich history, and the District Six Museum offers a profound look into the area’s apartheid-era past. District Six was once a vibrant, multicultural neighborhood that was forcibly cleared in the 1970s. The museum preserves this history through photos, artifacts, and stories.

Why Visit:

Learn about Cape Town’s history and the impact of apartheid.
Intimate, personal exhibits.
Emotional and educational experience.

Practical Info:

Entry Fee: ZAR 40 (adults); ZAR 20 (students)
Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Address: 25A Buitenkant St, District Six, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Deeply insightful and moving.
Great for history buffs.

Cons:

May be too heavy for those looking for light entertainment.

5. Take a Cooking Class with The Kitchen Collective

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at South African cuisine, Cape Town’s rainy days are the perfect excuse. The Kitchen Collective offers cooking classes where you can learn how to prepare local dishes, from bobotie to malva pudding. Classes are fun, hands-on, and educational.

Why Visit:

Learn how to make authentic South African dishes.
Fun and interactive atmosphere.
Taught by skilled local chefs.

Practical Info:

Cost: ZAR 650 – ZAR 1,000 per class
Location: Ground Floor, I.L. Rosenberg House, 80 Jordaan St, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Great for food lovers.
Hands-on and rewarding experience.

Cons:

Classes can fill up quickly, so booking ahead is recommended.

6. Marvel at the Cape Town Planetarium

Rain or shine, the Cape Town Planetarium offers an awe-inspiring journey into the cosmos. Located in the Company’s Garden, this small but impressive planetarium lets you explore the stars, planets, and constellations of the Southern Hemisphere in a state-of-the-art dome.

Why Visit:

A fascinating and educational experience for all ages.
Interactive shows about the universe, stars, and galaxies.
Great option for science lovers and families.

Practical Info:

Entry Fee: ZAR 50 (adults); ZAR 30 (children)
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Address: 25 Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Excellent for science lovers.
Family-friendly.

Cons:

Small venue, so seating can be limited.

7. Sip Wine at the V&A Waterfront’s Wine Tram

If you’re in the mood for a more relaxed indoor experience, hop aboard the V&A Waterfront Wine Tram. This iconic wine-tasting journey offers indoor seating where you can sample wines from top South African wineries while remaining warm and dry. The best part? You can enjoy it with a view of the beautiful harbor.

Why Visit:

Sample wines from renowned vineyards.
Cozy indoor seating with scenic views.
Perfect way to unwind on a rainy day.

Practical Info:

Cost: ZAR 450 per person
Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Address: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Ideal for wine enthusiasts.
Relaxing and scenic.

Cons:

The tram operates only in specific weather conditions.

8. Catch a Movie at The Labia Theatre

For a cultural escape on a rainy day, head to the Labia Theatre, Cape Town’s oldest independent cinema. Located in a beautiful old building in the heart of the city, it screens both mainstream and arthouse films. You can enjoy a unique movie-watching experience with a glass of wine or a snack.

Why Visit:

Independent cinema with a curated selection of films.
Cozy, vintage atmosphere.
Great selection of wine and snacks.

Practical Info:

Entry Fee: ZAR 50 – ZAR 85
Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Address: 68 Orange Street, Cape Town
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Unique cinema experience.
Intimate and laid-back.

Cons:

The selection of films can vary, so check ahead.

9. Visit The Old Biscuit Mill

A rainy day isn’t an excuse to skip out on Cape Town’s culinary scene. The Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock is home to some of the city’s best food markets, artisanal shops, and trendy eateries. You can spend the day exploring the many indoor food stalls, sampling everything from gourmet cheese to artisanal chocolates.

Why Visit:

Vibrant atmosphere with great food and local products.
Tons of indoor vendors to explore.
Perfect for a foodie tour.

Practical Info:

Entry Fee: Free (except for food purchases)
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Address: 375 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
Google Maps Link

Pros:

A true foodie haven.
Indoor market

Cons:

It can get crowded on weekends, especially during market days.

10. Get pampered at One&Only Spa for an unforgettable spa experience

A rainy day is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself, and Cape Town’s One&Only Spa offers an idyllic retreat. Located in the luxurious One&Only Resort at the V&A Waterfront, the spa offers a range of indulgent treatments, from rejuvenating facials to soothing massages.

Why Visit:

World-class facilities and expert therapists.
Wide range of treatments, including signature African-inspired treatments.
Relaxing and luxurious environment.

Practical Info:

Cost: Treatments start from ZAR 1,000 – ZAR 3,000 depending on service.
Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Address: One&Only Cape Town, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Google Maps Link

Pros:

A luxurious, relaxing experience.
Excellent for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing.

Cons:

Expensive, especially for budget travelers.

11. Take a Scenic Drive Along Chapman’s Peak Drive

While rain can put a damper on some outdoor activities, Chapman’s Peak Drive can still offer a spectacular experience. Even if the rain means you can’t do the hike or enjoy the view from the top, you can still take a drive along this iconic coastal road. The views, with rain clouds swirling over the Atlantic, can be hauntingly beautiful.

Why Visit:

One of the most scenic drives in the world.
Majestic rain-swept landscapes.
A perfect way to explore the coast without leaving your car.

Practical Info:

Cost: ZAR 50 for the toll road
Hours: Open daily, 24 hours (though best driven in daylight)
Address: Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Majestic, weather-driven coastal views.
Perfect for a rainy day drive.

Cons:

Not ideal for those who prefer to be outside during bad weather.

12. Visit the Iziko South African Museum

For those looking to explore Cape Town’s rich cultural and natural heritage, the Iziko South African Museum offers a fascinating experience. Located in the Company’s Garden, this museum offers exhibits on everything from South Africa‘s ancient fossils to its diverse wildlife.

Why Visit:

Rich history of South Africa’s geology, wildlife, and indigenous cultures.
Family-friendly, with interactive exhibits.
Home to a renowned collection of dinosaur skeletons.

Practical Info:

Entry Fee: ZAR 50 (adults); ZAR 25 (children)
Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 25 Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Wide range of exhibits.
Family-friendly and educational.

Cons:

Some parts of the museum can feel a little dated.

13. Take a Pottery Class at Clay Café

For a more hands-on, creative experience, take a pottery class at Clay Café in the vibrant suburb of Hout Bay. This cozy spot offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can create your own ceramic masterpiece, whether it’s a bowl, mug, or sculpture.

Why Visit:

Fun, hands-on activity for all ages.
Great way to spend a rainy afternoon being creative.
You can take home your work as a souvenir.

Practical Info:

Cost: ZAR 150 – ZAR 300 depending on the piece you create
Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: Groot Parys, Jan Van Riebeeck Dr, Paarl, 7646, South Africa
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Fun and creative activity.
Suitable for individuals and groups.

Cons:

You need to wait for your pottery to be fired (usually takes a week).

14. Explore the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront Shopping

The V&A Waterfront is not just home to museums and attractions—it’s also a shopping haven. If the weather isn’t playing ball, you can wander through the large indoor shopping mall. From high-end fashion brands to quirky local boutiques, there’s something for everyone.

Why Visit:

A wide variety of shops, from luxury brands to local crafts.
Cafes and restaurants for a break between shopping.
Indoor shopping experience with plenty to see.

Practical Info:

Cost: Free to explore, but expect to spend on shopping.
Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Address: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Great for shoppers and those looking for souvenirs.
Indoor and weather-proof.

Cons:

Can be crowded, especially on rainy weekends.

15. Unwind at the Gin Bar

For those who prefer a relaxing drink, the Gin Bar in Cape Town offers a cozy refuge. Situated in the heart of the city, this bar specializes in craft gin cocktails, serving everything from classic gin and tonics to more inventive concoctions. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of indoor exploration.

Why Visit:

Wide range of gin-based drinks.
Relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Great spot for an evening out.

Practical Info:

Cost: Cocktails range from ZAR 70 – ZAR 120
Hours: Daily from 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Address: 37 Buitenkant Street, Cape Town
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Cozy, friendly vibe.
Great for gin lovers.

Cons:

Small venue, so it can get packed quickly.

16. Have a Coffee at Truth Coffee

Rainy days and a good cup of coffee go hand in hand, and Truth Coffee is one of the best spots in Cape Town to indulge in both. Located in the trendy suburb of Buitenkant Street, Truth Coffee is a world-renowned café known for its artisanal coffee and quirky steampunk-inspired décor.

Why Visit:

Excellent specialty coffee and pastries.
Unique steampunk-themed interior.
Cozy and atmospheric.

Practical Info:

Cost: Coffee from ZAR 30 – ZAR 60
Hours: Monday to Saturday from 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: 36 Buitenkant Street, Cape Town
Google Maps Link

Pros:

High-quality coffee.
Quirky, Instagram-worthy interior.

Cons:

Can get busy, so be prepared to wait for a seat.

17. Learn the Art of Mixology at The Cocktail Emporium

If you love cocktails and want to learn how to make them, head to The Cocktail Emporium. This unique bar offers cocktail-making classes where you can get hands-on experience creating your favorite drinks, from classics like mojitos to more complex concoctions.

Why Visit:

Fun and interactive cocktail classes.
Expert bartenders teach you the secrets of mixology.
Great for a group or an intimate experience.

Practical Info:

Cost: ZAR 250 – ZAR 450 per class
Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Address: 227 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
Google Maps Link

Pros:

Great for cocktail enthusiasts.
Fun way to spend a rainy day indoors.

Cons:

Classes are usually in the evening, so be sure to plan ahead.

18. Engage in a Cultural Experience at the Cape Town City Hall

Another fascinating indoor activity is visiting Cape Town’s City Hall. This historic building is the seat of local government and is also home to exhibitions and musical events, which are often held in the hall itself. If you’re lucky, you might catch a live performance or lecture.

19. Take a stroll through the bookshops on Long Street

For those who prefer a more laid-back activity, Cape Town has a variety of independent bookstores. Long Street in particular is filled with charming bookshops where you can browse and enjoy finding a new read to dive into on a rainy afternoon.

Final Thoughts

Although Cape Town is known for its glorious sunshine, there’s no shortage of indoor activities when the weather turns. You can indulge in world-class dining, take cooking classes, and relax with a gin cocktail on rainy days in the city.

No matter what the weather brings, Cape Town is ready to show you a whole new side.