Gardens, Cape Town Accommodation

The suburb of Gardens lies within Cape Town's city bowl, below Vredehoek and Oranjezicht and it is popular to live here because you are so close to everything. The trendy and upmarket Kloof Street is just moments away with its restaurants and interesting shops and boutiques and the CBD is 5 minutes' drive from Gardens.

Close to Gardens are the Company Gardens on Government Avenue, which began as a vegetable garden for skurvy-ridden sailors. Today it is a botanically diverse city park with over 8 000 varieties of flora and an interesting spot to picnic. Other interesting sites include museums, a planetarium, an open-air market at Greenmarket Square, set among stately Georgian and Cape Baroque influenced buildings and the colourful area of the Bo-Kaap, with its tumble of narrow lanes, brightly painted flat-roofed houses and mosques.

Gun salutes are fired automatically at noon every day except Sunday from nearby Signal Hill, used as a signal station from the earliest days of the Cape Settlement.

Cape Town's Gardens neighborhood is vibrant and filled with a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

Here are five things you shouldn't miss:

1. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: While technically located in the adjacent suburb of Newlands, Kirstenbosch is a must-visit when exploring the Gardens area. It's one of the world's most beautiful botanical gardens, showcasing South Africa's diverse flora against the backdrop of Table Mountain. Take a leisurely stroll along the well-marked paths, explore the treetop canopy walkway, and enjoy a picnic on the lush lawns.

2. Company's Garden: This historic park in the heart of Cape Town is a green oasis surrounded by the city's urban hustle and bustle. Originally established by the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century to grow fresh produce for passing ships, today it's a peaceful retreat with beautifully landscaped gardens, historic monuments, and cultural institutions like the South African Museum and the Planetarium. Don't miss the chance to feed the resident squirrels!

3. Iziko South African Museum: Located within the Company's Garden, this museum is a treasure trove of South African natural history, archaeology, and anthropology. Explore fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, indigenous cultures, and the country's biodiversity, including the famous "African Dinosaur Hall" featuring fossils from the Karoo region.

4. Long Street: Running through the heart of Gardens, Long Street is a lively thoroughfare renowned for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. Wander along its bustling sidewalks, browse the boutique stores for unique souvenirs, and sample delicious cuisine from around the world. At night, the street comes alive with live music and a vibrant nightlife scene.

5. Bo-Kaap: While technically situated just beyond the borders of Gardens, Bo-Kaap is easily accessible and well worth a visit. This historic neighborhood is famed for its brightly colored houses, cobblestone streets, and rich Cape Malay culture. Take a guided walking tour to learn about the area's fascinating history, visit the Bo-Kaap Museum to delve deeper into its heritage, and savor authentic Cape Malay cuisine at one of the local eateries. Don't forget your camera – the vibrant colors make for fantastic photo opportunities!