Cape Town is rapidly emerging as one of the world’s most exciting destinations for contemporary African design. International travellers searching for African gifts in Cape Town, design-led souvenirs, collectible craft, and curated shopping experiences are increasingly drawn to the city’s creative energy and distinctive visual culture.
Blending traditional African craftsmanship with modern design thinking, Cape Town has developed a globally recognised design identity rooted in authenticity, innovation, and storytelling.
1. Norval Foundation – art, sculpture and a garden with a view
Set in Tokai, @norvalfoundation feels like discovering a secret garden with world-class art tucked inside it. The museum focuses on modern and contemporary art from Africa and the diaspora, while outside, its sculpture garden winds through indigenous landscaping, water and mountain views.
What’s on: Norval has a constantly changing programme of exhibitions, talks, workshops, walkabouts and concerts. Check norvalfoundation.org for details.
Where to Eat: At the museum garden café or nearby Bistro 1682 @steenbergfarm.
AAFRICAA tip: Just as in our store we love a slow winding meander of discovery so take time for the beautiful garden full of impressive artworks.
2. Zeitz MOCAA – where African contemporary art takes centre stage
You can’t really talk about art in Cape Town without taking in the @zeitzmocaa. Housed inside the extraordinary, converted grain silo at the V&A Waterfront, the building alone is worth seeing – but go inside and the real discovery begins.
Dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora, spanning painting, sculpture, photography, film and installations.
What’s on: Look out for exhibitions, artist talks, curator walkabouts and special events. First Thursdays can turn the museum into a particularly lively evening destination, with art, music and guided experiences. zeitzmocaa.museum
Where to Eat: Just outside the museum is the popular @vagabondcpt.
AAFRICAA tip: After shopping at AAFRICAA stroll over to one of the museum’s neighbouring cafes and sit there to watch the summer evening concerts outside the museum organised by the V&A Waterfront. waterfront.co.za
3. South African National Gallery – a Cape Town classic
Tucked into the leafy Company’s Garden, the South African National Gallery rewards a slow wander. Its collection spans historic and contemporary South African and international art, photography, sculpture and works on paper.
What’s on: The Gallery’s programme includes exhibitions, curator conversations, workshops, performances and special events.
Where to Eat: Two old Cape Town favourites are nearby. A few minutes’ walk to Dunkley Square and @mariasgreekcafe, or @carneonkeerom across Company Gardens.
AAFRICAA tip: We love when things are mixed up so give yourself time for the first room, where Old Masters, recent acquisitions and lots in between are hung side-by-side. It's a jewel box of delights. iziko.org.za
4.A4 Arts Foundation – where Cape Town’s creative energy comes together
A4 is much more than a conventional gallery. It is a platform for artists, writers, researchers, musicians and other creative thinkers, with exhibitions and projects that encourage experimentation and conversation. There is often something unexpected happening – which is precisely the point.
What’s on: A4 has a changing programme of exhibitions, talks, screenings, performances, residencies and events. Check the calendar before you visit. a4arts.org
Where to Eat: Harrington Street is the place - @newyorkbagelsct or award-winning @bellyofthebeast_ct.
AAFRICAA tip: Don't go looking for a traditional museum experience. Stay Curious is our mantra so go with an open mind – and allow yourself to discover something you weren't expecting.
5.The Old Town House – a little piece of Cape Town history
Right on Greenmarket Square, the Old Town House is easy to miss – but well worth stepping inside.
Built in the 18th century, this beautiful Cape Dutch building was once Cape Town’s city hall and now houses the Michaelis Collection, one of the country's important collections of Dutch and Flemish Old Masters and old and modern ceramics.
What’s on: The collection is the main attraction, but keep an eye out for temporary exhibitions, talks and special programmes. The Old Town House is also perfectly placed for exploring the historic city centre and surrounding galleries. iziko.org.za
Where to Eat: Try @tannin_on_bree for tapas and wine or @rosettaroastery for coffee and a sandwich, both on Bree Street.
AAFRICAA tip: Combine it with a wander around Greenmarket Square and the surrounding streets. The destination is only half the story – the walk there is part of it.
Make a cultural day of it
One of the best things about Cape Town is that art and culture aren't confined to one neighbourhood. Start with contemporary African art at Zeitz MOCAA, discover the city's creative energy at A4, spend a morning at Norval surrounded by sculpture and mountains, or lose yourself in the Old Masters at the Old Town House – and then dine at one of the city's many excellent restaurants.
And that’s exactly what we love about Cape Town: there is always another gallery, exhibition, artist, market or unexpected cultural experience waiting around the corner.
Come curious. Come wandering.