Plan your visit
Plan your Visit
Use these itineraries and transport tips to organize your day. Find out when to arrive and what to expect.
Castle of Good Hope
Corner of Castle and Darling Streets, Cape Town 8001
GPS -33.9259, 18.4278
Open directionsGetting there
Walk, drive, or take the tourist bus to the entrance.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk: Walk from the central business district or Cape Town train station. | 10 minutes from the station | Free | Very convenient if you are already exploring the historic center or Foreshore district. |
| Bus: Take the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off tourist bus. | Varies depending on boarding point | Included in bus pass | The bus stops directly at or very close to the Castle. |
| Car: Drive to the corner of Castle and Darling Streets. | 10-15 minutes from the V&A Waterfront | Parking fee applies | Street parking is available nearby but requires a fee. |
When to go
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- F
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- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
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- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The fort is open from 09:00 to 16:00, 363 days a year. It is closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. The best time to visit is between October and April during the warmer months.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
The courtyard gets very hot in the summer.
Bring sunscreen and a hat.
How the day runs
Suggested routes for your visit.
Catch the ceremonial events and beat the midday heat.
- Arrival
Enter the gates and view the bell tower.
- Museums
Browse the William Fehr Collection and Military Museum.
- Ramparts
Walk the grassy pathways on the star fort walls.
- Dungeons
See the historical prison cells.
A fast overview of the main features.
- Arrival
Walk in from the central business district.
- The Five Bastions
Climb to the corner outlooks for city views.
- The Kat Balcony
See where Dutch leaders made public addresses.
- Depart
Head to your next Cape Town stop.
Practical Advice
Wear comfortable walking shoes. The cobblestones and ramparts are uneven in places. Bring a light jacket, as Cape Town weather changes quickly.
You will need South African Rand to pay the entry fee at the gate if you have not booked a guided tour. Read more in our guide on Packing Guide.
Easiest way to do it
Cape Town Half Day City Tour with Table Mountain ticket
5 h 5.0 (14)
- Shared Tour Guide/Driver and Vehicle
- Bottled water onboard the vehicle
- Entrance fees to Table Mountain cableway
- Entrance fees to Castle of Good Hope
From$156per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
What are the opening hours of the Castle of Good Hope?
The site is open daily from 09:00 to 16:00. It is closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
How long does it take to tour the Castle of Good Hope?
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours here. This covers the ramparts, the museums, and the central courtyard.
How do you get to the Castle of Good Hope from the V&A Waterfront?
You can drive there in 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus directly from the Waterfront.