Top Instagram Spots in Cape Town: Discover Why It's the best city in the world

Cape Town South Africa Best City in the world 2025

Cape Town was crowned the BEST CITY IN THE WORLD by Time Out magazine in 2025!  This incredible achievement is a testament to everything we love about this destination – the breathtaking natural beauty, the buzzing food scene, the vibrant culture, and that undeniable feel-good vibe. We’re bursting with pride! Along with it’s natural beauty if offers jaw-droppingly beautiful Instagram and Selfie photo spots.

Cape Town is a city that effortlessly blends natural beauty with vibrant urban energy, making it a must-visit destination for travelers and those seeking the perfect spot for Instagram and Selfies.

Ready to discover what makes this city so special? Let’s dive into the top spots you can’t miss!

Here are a few of our favorite Top Instagram and Selfie Spots in and around Cape Town:

cape of good hope
  • What makes Cape Town the best city is its breathtaking natural beauty. From the iconic Table Mountain to the pristine beaches and the dramatic coastline, Cape Town is a feast for the eyes.

Let's start by discovering the best selfie spots:

The most iconic neighborhoods:

Here are a few of Cape Town’s most popular and beloved neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm:

  • Camps Bay: Glamorous and iconic, with pristine beaches, luxurious villas, and a vibrant beachfront.
  • Clifton: Known for its four pristine beaches, each with its own distinct character.
  • Sea Point: A lively and diverse neighborhood with a beautiful promenade, art deco buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Green Point: A trendy area with a vibrant nightlife scene, the Green Point Stadium, and easy access to the V&A Waterfront.
  • City Bowl: The heart of Cape Town, with historical landmarks, museums, and a mix of old and new architecture.
  • Bo-Kaap: A colorful and historic neighborhood known for its brightly painted houses and rich Malay heritage.

Iconic Mountain viewpoints you can easily reach for Instagram and Selfie photos:

  • Kloof Corner: This viewpoint on Table Mountain offers panoramic vistas of the city, harbor, and mountains. It’s a popular spot for sunrise and sunset photos.
  • Table Mountain: It’s a must for iconic photos of the city. You can hike to the top, take the cable car, or even paraglide down!
  • Lion’s Head: Hike to the top of this peak for panoramic views of the city and harbor.

The Yellow Photo Frames:

This is a great Travel Tip and starting point:  Go on a Cape-Town-yellow-frame-tour.  Here is a list of the spots you should visit:

These yellow Table Mountain New7Wonders (N7W) frames will give you the best photo opportunities in Cape Town.  Instagram, Selfies, Pinterest, Facebook – these are the places to take your photos.

  • Signal Hill –  GPS: -33.918065, 18.402340
  • V&A Waterfront – GPS: -33.906082, 18.421028
  • Eden on the Bay (Just outside of the shopping mall) – GPS: -33.791826, 18.456706
  • Cape Town Station – GPS: -33.922151,18.425063
  • Harrington Square (In the parking area of Charly’s Bakery) – GPS: -33.928405,18.42478 
  • Lookout Hill, Khayelitsha – GPS: -34.046608, 18.656649
  • The V&A Silo District – GPS: -33.54300, 18 25201

Travel Photo Tip:  To capture the perfect shot of the Western Cape yellow photo frames, position yourself or your subject inside the frame with iconic landmarks like Table Mountain in the background.  Shoot during golden hour for soft lighting, and center the frame to highlight both the subject and the scenery behind for an eye-catching, balanced composition.

Visit a Cape Wine Farm and vineyard

haute cabriere franschhoek

There are various others as well, like this one in FranschhoekHaute Cabrière – the home of Pierre Jourdan – is a good place to stop for a wine tasting, during your stay in Cape Town, and don’t forget the wine-tram in Franschhoek.

The wine farms in the Western Cape are incredibly Instagram-worthy. With sprawling vineyards set against majestic mountain backdrops, every angle offers a picturesque view. Think elegant wine tastings on sunlit terraces, lush greenery, and scenic drives through the famous Cape Winelands. Many estates also feature stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and charming cellars, perfect for those picture-perfect moments.
  • What makes Cape Town the best city is its world-class food scene. From Michelin-starred restaurants to bustling markets and street food stalls, Cape Town offers a culinary adventure for every palate.
instagram spots

Places like Muizenberg and St. James with its colorful beach huts add a playful touch to any photoshoot.

Famous film locations:

  • Blood Diamond: This action-thriller used Cape Town’s waterfront and surrounding areas to depict the diamond trade and its impact on the region.
  • Safe House: This action film utilized Cape Town’s urban landscape, including the city center and the V&A Waterfront, for its high-octane chase scenes.

These are just a few examples of the many films that have captured the beauty and essence of Cape Town on the big screen. The city’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged mountains to the pristine beaches, continue to attract filmmakers from around the world.

But for family fun photoshoots YOU CAN VISIT PLACES LIKE:

The Two Oceans Aquarium

Finding Nemo at the aquarium.  (The perfect place for a family outing while capturing your perfect photo.)  Various areas are specially constructed to enable perfect photo opportunities.  The Two Oceans Aquarium isn’t just for kids—it’s a treasure trove of vibrant marine life perfect for Instagram. From mesmerizing jellyfish displays to stunning underwater tunnels, every corner offers an eye-catching backdrop for unique and colorful photos.  For the perfect Instagram shot at Two Oceans Aquarium, capture vibrant marine life in stunning tanks, from colorful fish to mesmerizing jellyfish, set against a backdrop of crystal-clear waters.  (All without getting your feet wet.)

Website:  https://www.aquarium.co.za/

The Two Oceans Aquarium Cape Town
two oceans aquarium

Photo:  Instagram #m.ric.hele_

  • What makes Cape Town the best city is its vibrant and diverse culture. You’ll find a fascinating mix of African, European, and Asian influences reflected in the art, music, and cuisine.

Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pool

Between Clifton and Camps Bay beaches, you will find Maiden’s Cove and the tidal pool, with a backdrop of the Twelve Apostles, delivering the most beautiful sunset photo opportunities in the Western Cape. – In fact, the whole of Camps Bay to Clifton area is ‘the perfect spot to be’ in Cape Town.

Location:  Victoria Rd, Signal Hill, Cape Town, 8001

Would you like to stay here?  book now…

Cape Town Camps Bay - Maidens Cove
  • What makes Cape Town the best city is its outdoor lifestyle. Hiking, biking, surfing, kayaking – there’s always something to do in the great outdoors.
  • What makes Cape Town the best city is its friendly and welcoming people. Capetonians are known for their warm hospitality and laid-back attitude.
  • What makes Cape Town the best city is its unique blend of urban sophistication and laid-back coastal charm. You can experience the buzz of city life one moment and the tranquility of nature the next.

Discover why you should visit Camps Bay, while you’re in Cape Town.  Read more…

Kirstenbosch Gardens

 

Kirstenbosch Gardens is an Instagrammer’s paradise, with its lush landscapes set against the majestic backdrop of Table Mountain. The vibrant array of indigenous plants, serene walkways, and the iconic Tree Canopy Walkway (Boomslang) offer endless photo opportunities. The glassy pond reflecting the surrounding greenery, blooming flowers, and dramatic mountain views provide stunning natural frames for your shots. For an extra touch, capture the panoramic vistas from the top of the Boomslang during golden hour for a truly magical moment. Kirstenbosch is perfect for nature lovers looking to elevate their Instagram feed with serene beauty.

Discovering fun things to do with kids in Cape Town – this is one of them:  Read more…

Location: Rhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town, 7735

kirstenbosch

Photo:  Instagram #capetownpanorama

  • What makes Cape Town the best city is its wine country. The Cape Winelands offer stunning scenery, world-class wines, and charming towns to explore.
  • What makes Cape Town the best city is its rich history and heritage. From the vibrant township of Langa to the historic Castle of Good Hope, there’s plenty to learn about the city’s past.
The perfect sunset spots in Cape Town Blue Peter Bloubergstrand

Blue Peter, Blouberg

Where you might forget to take an Instagram and/or Selfie, because of the view…

This is the place where everyone goes for the perfect sunset photo, and to have a good time.

Location of Blue Peter:  8 Popham St, Bloubergstrand, Cape Town, 7441

Website:  http://www.bluepeter.co.za/

Blue Peter Bloubergstrand Cape Town Perfect sunset photo spot summer destinations vacation ideas
  • What makes Cape Town the best city is its unforgettable sunsets. Watching the sun dip below the horizon over the Atlantic Ocean is an experience you’ll never forget.

Bloubergstrand with its white sandy beach

Summer Evenings in Blouberg Best places to be in Cape Town

Blouberg as a travel destination, offers: iconic Table Mountain views and is known for its kite surfing paradise, stunning beaches, family-friendly destination, vibrant beachfront restaurants, crystal-clear waters, coastal walks, postcard-perfect sunsets, being the windsurfing hub, scenic cycling routes, whale watching, romantic beach strolls, beachfront accommodations, ideal picnic spots, panoramic ocean views, photographers’ dream, surfing lessons, pet-friendly beach, local seafood dining, nearby wine farms, nature reserves, dolphin sightings, and is overall the perfect weekend getaway.  Read more…

Blue Peter

Photo:  Instagram #shenecca_143

Houtbay

Enjoy picture-perfect moments in the harbor as well as going out on the boat to Seal Island. 

Also, try taking photos from the Chapmans Peak Drive lookout point.  Chapmans Peak drive is one of the most scenic drives you can do in the Western Cape. 

The view of Hout Bay from Chapman’s Peak is nothing short of breathtaking. With the turquoise bay cradled by rugged cliffs and the quaint harbor below, this sweeping panorama offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and coastal charm, making it a must-capture Instagram moment.

If you want super luxurious Instagram photos:  You can even visit the stunning Lichtenstein Castle when hosting events.

Hout Bay as seen from Chapmans Peak Drive most scenic routes in Cape Town South Africa

The two most scenic drives in Cape Town are:

  • Chapman’s Peak Drive: This iconic coastal road hugs the dramatic cliffs of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding scenery.
  • Clarence Drive: A magnificent coastal drive between Rooi Els and Gordons Bay, showcasing the beauty of False Bay and the Hottentots Holland Mountains.

These are part of the reason why Cape Town is the best city and the most beautifu city.

houtbay

Photo:  Instagram #houtbaybackpackers

A photo spot with style:

Belmont Mount Nelson Hotel 

The Pink Palace of Cape Town with beautiful gardens and famous high-teas just offers tons of photo opportunities.  A perfect venue for those looking for a more sophisticated Instagram and Selfie spot.

Location:  76 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001

mount nelson
Photo:  Instagram #annalucinska

The V&A Waterfront: 

While touristy, the V&A Waterfront has undergone a stylish transformation in recent years. It’s now a hub for designer boutiques, art galleries, and sophisticated restaurants.  Some of the high end restaurants have beautiful views and if you’re lucky you might be just in time for one of the huge cruise liners (like The World) visiting the shores, to be your backdrop.

Stylish restaurants in the V&A:
Sevruga Restaurant: Elegant, white-tablecloth setting with colorful walls, for eclectic menu including dim sum and sushi.

Beluga Cape Town: Modern South African and Asian fusion offering exquisite views.

 

A colorful Instagram and Selfie photo spot:

Bo-Kaap

Bo-Kaap is always recommended because of its vibrant, colorful houses that create a unique, eye-popping backdrop perfect for photos. 

Bo-Kaap colorful houses for the perfect Instagram photo

…and remember Muizenberg with it’s beach huts in vibrant colors.

Muizenberg beach Cape Town South Africa blue flag beach

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Just outside of Cape Town:

Kleinmond

This little seaside town has some of the best coastal photo opportunities.   (Nearby you’ll find Hermanus – also a very popular spot.)   Although they are not directly “in” Cape Town it is situated in the Western Cape, and it is definitely recommended.

The town offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, from its picturesque beach framed by wild fynbos to the charming harbor with colorful boats. The surrounding hiking trails provide panoramic views of the ocean and mountains, making for amazing photo opportunities. Plus, the chance to spot wild horses grazing along the lagoon adds a unique touch to your feed. Kleinmond’s serene, unspoiled landscapes make it a captivating and off-the-beaten-path spot for impressive, nature-inspired Instagram content.

Kleinmond Hawe Western Cape
Kleinmond
Photo:  Instagram #mikeseewald

Noordhoek

If you’re looking for perfect Instagram photos on horseback with beautiful sunset rides on white sandy beaches, this is the perfect place:

Noordhoek Beach is an Instagram dream with its vast stretch of pristine white sand and dramatic mountain backdrop, offering a picture-perfect natural setting. The beach’s golden sunsets are breathtaking, creating magical lighting for stunning photos. Its wild, unspoiled beauty contrasts beautifully with the rugged coastline, giving your feed a unique blend of serenity and drama. Whether you’re capturing horseback rides along the shore or the dramatic waves crashing against the rocks, every shot at Noordhoek feels effortlessly cinematic and awe-inspiring. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to elevate their Instagram game!

There is also a fantastic family friendly farm yard with restaurants where small children can get up close to farm animals.

Website:  http://imhofffarm.co.za/

Noordhoek
Photo:  Instagram #neil.preyer
Afrikaans Language Monument - Afrikaanse Taalmonument in Paarl - Suid Afrika - South Africa

Afrikaanse Taalmonument / Afrikaans Language monument

Situated just outside of Cape Town.  Although it’s a prominent sight on your way to Paarl on the N1, it is often overlooked.  There is a little restaurant which you can enjoy, and the views are spectacular.

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect Instagram spot, look no further than Paarl, South Africa. Start your journey at the iconic 5-star Grande Roche Hotel, where its pristine gardens and stunning views of the Drakenstein Mountains create the perfect backdrop for those dreamy golden-hour shots. A blend of luxury and heritage, it’s a location where every corner feels Instagram-worthy.

For a mix of natural beauty and adventure, head to the mighty Berg River. Whether you’re kayaking through its serene waters or capturing the sun reflecting off its surface, the river offers endless photo opportunities for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

For something a bit more historical, don’t miss the traditional Cape Dutch farm architecture scattered across the region. These whitewashed buildings with their iconic gables and charming rustic feel will transport your feed back in time while still offering the aesthetic appeal of modern-day beauty.

And finally, no visit to Paarl is complete without a photo in front of the Paarl “Toringkerk” Church. With its towering spire and intricate architecture, this striking landmark will add a sense of grandeur to your shots. Whether you’re capturing the entire structure or focusing on its ornate details, it’s a must-have photo for your grid!

Paarl has a mix of luxury, nature, and history that makes it a prime spot for those Insta-perfect moments

Afrikaanse Taalmonument in Paarl - Suid Afrika - South Africa
Afrikaanse Taalmonument in Paarl - Suid Afrika

In summary – The list is endless.  There are just to many spots to name them all.  We hope you enjoy our Top Instagram and Selfie spots.  They are all beautiful holiday destinations as well.

For more beautiful places in Cape Town, check out our article on Fun Filled Family Outings in Cape Town.

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