From this bustling precinct on the water’s edge, you have a perfect view of the Mother City. If you’re looking for activities to fill your time at the Waterfront – from kids’ fun to sophisticated sunset cruises – here’s where to start.

What better way to start your exploration of the V&A Waterfront than with an aerial view of it all? Take a ride in one of the air-conditioned cabins of The Cape Wheel and rise 40 m above Breakwater Boulevard. From here, you’ll be able to see all the comings and goings of Table Bay, from the bustle of cruise ships, charter boats and container ships, to the more peaceful sight of kayakers – and possibly even a whale. Gaze further out on a clear day and you’ll see Robben Island in the distance. And, of course, you’ll enjoy a perfect view of Table Mountain, Signal Hill and the iconic Cape Town Stadium. The ride takes 12–15 minutes – just long enough to get the lay of the land and plan your next stop.

A trip to the Two Oceans Aquarium is not just for kids (although they’ll love it!) Visitors of all ages will enjoy watching the various animals being fed, whether they’re thrilled by the spectacle of divers entering the ragged-tooth shark tank or entertained by the comical African penguins as they gobble up their fishy snacks. You’ll get the chance to admire the unique kelp forest and other exhibits up close through transparent tunnels and giant observation windows. The aquarium is open 365 days a year.

The Zeitz Museum of The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MoCAA in full, but known by locals as just “the Zeitz”) houses an impressive collection of art from Africa and the African diaspora. The permanent collection is supplemented by various temporary exhibitions, and the artworks range from traditional paintings to photography, beadwork and textiles. The whole collection is housed in an architecturally stunning building – an old grain silo that has been reimagined with a soaring central atrium and plenty of glass that fills the space with light. Arrive in time for the daily free tour at 1 p.m. to make the most of your visit.

No visit to the V&A Waterfront is complete without a boat trip, and you’re spoilt for choice. If a little adrenaline is your style, you’ll love the Waterfront Adventures jet boat. Strap in and gear up for a high-speed excursion. If playing pirate is more your speed, step aboard The Jolly Roger Pirate Boat for a cruise. A perfect way to end the day is with a sunset trip on Ameera Sailing Catamaran. Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine as you sail out of the harbour and towards Sea Point and the Atlantic Seaboard.

If you’re not afraid of heights, a helicopter trip is an unforgettable way to see the Waterfront from a different angle. NAC Helicopters, Cape Town Experiences and the The Huey Helicopter Co. all give you the opportunity to get a bird’s eye view of some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. Be wowed by Robben Island, Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula’s coastline like you’ve never seen them before!

For a fun way to take in all the sites the V&A Waterfront has to offer while indulging your competitive streak, sign up for the HintHunt Amazing Race. Select the Heritage Hustle, Wheely Wild, Street Arts, Premium or Premium Plus option and enjoy a closer look at historical sites, wildlife and art you might not otherwise encounter, all while keeping a sharp eye out for clues, completing challenges and racing against the clock.

You may have spotted the bright red hop-on, hop-off buses making their way around Cape Town, but did you know that City Sightseeing Cape Town also offers a canal cruise? The various attractions, offices and hotels of the Waterfront precinct are linked by a series of waterways that you can explore at a leisurely pace. Dream of staying at the opulent One&Only Cape Town hotel as you pass by, admire the agile stand-up paddleboarders and perhaps get close to a Cape fur seal or Cape clawless otter.

By now, you’ll need to stop and refuel. Makers Landing is a great choice if you’re looking for a wide variety of South African cuisine. This is no ordinary food court: Makers Landing was created with the aim of empowering local food entrepreneurs to successfully create their own businesses. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood and smoked brisket to cakes, cookies and fudge.

If you’re in Cape Town on a Saturday or Sunday morning or a Wednesday evening, it’s well worth organising your visit to the Waterfront around the Oranjezicht City Farm Market (OZCF). This is where Capetonians go to meet friends for some seriously good food, a perfect flat white or a glass of wine. Originally an urban farm project, the market still sells locally grown fresh produce, but it’s the array of artisanal food stalls that are the real attraction. You’ll find everything from Cape Malay curry and samoosas to bao and falafel at this food market

Looking for things to do in Cape Town? Look no further. The V&A Waterfront has the perfect mix of fascinating attractions, fun experiences and delicious dining options.