Top Architecture Attractions in Cape Town - by modern and historical architects

1. ZEVENWACHT MANOR HOUSE

Zevenwacht Manor House

This stunning Cape Dutch house is located in front of a lake hidden in the vineyards. An architectural masterpiece dating back more than 300 years, this is now accessible to the public who come to eat at the restaurant. A wonderful outing for the whole family with jungle gym and pre-ordered picnics available.

Read more on the CAPE DUTCH style at this link.

2. TOPAZ ON STRAND

Topaz luxury apartment block

When people hear "architecture attractions" their minds jump straight to historical and heritage places of interest. Their are however numerous spectacular modern architecture sightseeing attractions to be seen in and around Cape Town, for example the shimmering Topaz luzury apartment block in Strand.

See more CAPE DUTCH HOUSE ARCHITECTURE at this link.

3. HUGUENOT MONUMENT

The Huguenot Monument in Franschhoek

The Huguenot Monument was built by French Setters to the Cape and has become one of the top tourist attractions in the greater Cape Town area - situated only an hours drive away from the centre of town. The three arches represent the three members of he trinity.

See more CAPE DUTCH HOUSE ARCHITECTURE at this link.

4. BABYLONSTOREN

Babylonstoren

Many original concepts have been born next to the historical manor of Babylonstoren. Emjoy an outing that will inspire you to live in tune with nature... and enjoy a delicious healthy lunch while you are there. Modern Cape Dutch style restaurant and organic gardens provide more to see.

See more CAPE DUTCH HOUSE ARCHITECTURE at this link.

5. KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Knightsbridge luxury apartments

The eye-catching block is a type of Grande Arche of the Cape with its large massing joined at the top by a bridge framing a perfectly square view of the canals at Century City. Visit Canal Walk Mall and be sure to stroll around the park at the back where you can view this modernist landmark. Designed by Vivid architects.

3. BOSCHENDAL

Boschendal Manor Home

Home to one of the oldest and best preserved historical Cape Dutch manor homes, boschendal is set amidst the finest Cape scenery.

6. PAARL LANGUAGE MONUMENT

A monument to the Afrikaans Language

It is not common practice to dedicate a monument to a language but this is the special thing that has taken place at this iconic manmade sightseeing attraction. It is located on the outskirts of Paarl on the shoulder of Paarl rock and provides spectactular views of the environs. The towers represent those contributing languages to Afrikaans and the museum at the base of the towers explains it all.

7. HIDDEN VALLEY WINES

Hidden Valley Farm

A modern building set at the foot of Helderberg mountain, designed by Jane Visser Architects.

8. GROOT CONSTANTIA

Groot Constantia

The most famous Cape Dutch building in South Africa, and the most accessible from the city center.

9. CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE

View of the Governers House

The castle of Good Hope is an important architectural attraction in the heart of Cape Town. Built in the early 1600's at the start of the Cape colony, it was the heart of the city while it was first being established. The military museum and governers house and art gallery are important custodians of the Cape's history and not to be missed on your tour of historical buildings.

10. RUSTENBERG MANOR HOUSE

The main house on the Rustenberg Farm

With it's Peninsula style gable, the Rustenberg house presents a well balanced facade with the perfect background of Simonsberg mountain. The well maintained and extensive gardens as well as the winery and wine tasting center provide further points of interest. The house is not accessible on the inside.

11. THE TOWN HALL

The building is made of genuine stone

No list of architecture attractions in the Cape would be complete without mention of the Town Hall. It is located in the CBD right between the Castle of Good Hope and the Company Gardens.

12. WATERKLOOF WINES

Waterkloof Wine Estate

Absolutely amazing views, wines and service.


Promoted: See for more upmarket architects in Cape Town for modern Cape Dutch style architecture.

7. RESTAURANT AT SOMERSET LAKES

The restaurant at Somerset Lakes is an exciting modern building that blends with the landscape. Designed by Schabort and Associates

8. LANZERAC HOTEL

The hotel is viewable by a visit to the restaurant or wine tasting facility. One of the most exquisite and well kept Cape Dutch manor houses to see.

9. SANCTUARY SHOPPING CENTER

A stunning modern building designed by SVA architects and built as recently as 2016.

10. LA MOTTE

There is plenty to see at La Motte wine farm in Franschhoek, incuding the pierneef musuem and a gourmet restaurant... not least of all the historical manor house in the distance.