Cape Town Museums: 23 Popular Museums in the City and Surrounds for Art, Culture and History Explorers (updated 2025)

Introduction

Cape Town is a city of many attractions, but the city is perhaps best known for its museums. There are a wealth of fascinating museums in Cape Town and the surrounding suburbs, each offering a unique perspective on the history, culture, and natural beauty of this vibrant region. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, there is sure to be a museum in Cape Town that piques your interest.

Here are 23 of the most popular museums to visit in Cape Town and the surrounding areas, ordered by distance from the Cape Town City Center.

Slave Lodge (<1km)

Built in 1679, the Slave Lodge is one of the oldest buildings in Cape Town and was once used to house slaves. The museum now serves as a reminder of South Africa’s dark history and visitors can learn about the experiences of the slaves who lived and worked in the building.

The District Six Museum tells the story of a once-vibrant community that was forcibly removed during the Apartheid era. It offers a poignant insight into Cape Town’s history and the ongoing impact of the Apartheid legacy.

The South African Museum and Planetarium is home to a vast collection of natural history exhibits, including fossils, insects, and dioramas of African wildlife.

The Bo-Kaap Museum is located in the heart of Cape Town’s historic Bo-Kaap neighborhood, which is known for its brightly colored houses, cobbled streets, and Malay cultural heritage.

Located in the city center, the South African National Gallery is home to an extensive collection of African art, including traditional pieces and contemporary works.

AVAILABLE: Guided Tours | Family Friendly | OPEN: Monday – Friday | MORE INFO: Museum Website | Facebook Page

The SA Sendinggestig Museum offers a fascinating insight into the cultural heritage and history of the city’s diverse communities.

The new Desmond and Leah Tutu: Truth to Power Exhibition in Cape Town, celebrating the life and legacy of one of South Africa’s greatest sons, Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, is available for viewing at the Old Granary. The state-of-the-art exhibition is the first of its kind on the African continent and explores the multi-faceted life of this loved and respected global icon.

The South African Jewish Museum tells the story of Jewish immigration to South Africa and the Jewish community’s contribution to the country’s history.

Built in the 17th century, the Castle of Good Hope is South Africa’s oldest surviving colonial building. Visitors can explore its ramparts, museums, and exhibitions.

AVAILABLE: Guided Tours | Family Friendly | OPEN: Tuesday – Saturday, Public Holidays | MORE INFO: Museum Website | LinkedIn Page

The Cape Heritage Museum, located in the oldest building in South Africa at the Cape of Good Hope Castle, is a diverse and inclusive museum that proudly showcases the unedited history of South Africa. The museum tells the story of all people who made the Cape their home, including the Khoi, San, Dutch, British, Malays, Jews, Indians, Xhosas, French, Arabs, and many others.

Zeitz MOCAA is a must-visit art museum located in the heart of Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront. This unique museum is dedicated solely to contemporary African art and showcases the works of talented artists from all over the continent and the African diaspora. With 100 galleries, a rooftop sculpture garden, and a vast collection of contemporary art, Zeitz MOCAA is a revolutionary institution that is changing the way we think about African art.

Located in the heart of the city, the Cape Town Diamond Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the world of diamond mining and the history of the diamond industry in South Africa.

Robben Island Museum is one of Cape Town’s most popular tourist attractions, where visitors can learn about the island’s history as a prison and its most famous former President, Nelson Mandela.

The Two Oceans Aquarium is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone looking for a fun and educational experience. The aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and penguins

Located at the top of Table Mountain, this site offers stunning views of Cape Town and tells the story of the cableway that has been ferrying visitors up the mountain for over 90 years

The Cape Town Science Centre offers a range of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, designed to spark the curiosity of visitors of all ages.

AVAILABLE: Guided Tours | Family Friendly | OPEN: Monday – Friday | MORE INFO: Museum Website | Facebook Page

The Heart of Cape Town Museum is dedicated to the first heart transplant, which was performed at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town in 1967.

AVAILABLE: Guided Tours | Family Friendly | OPEN: Wednesday – Friday, Saturday | MORE INFO: Museum Website | Instagram Page

This museum celebrates the life and works of one of South Africa’s most famous artists, Irma Stern. The museum houses a collection of her paintings, drawings, and sculptures as well as a range of her personal effects.

Hout Bay Museum is a fascinating destination that offers visitors an insight into the history of the Hout Bay area. The museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the town and features exhibits on themes from the fishing industry to the local fauna and flora.

The Dennis Goldberg House of Hope is a unique museum that provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the life and work of Dennis Goldberg, an anti-apartheid activist who was imprisoned on Robben Island. The museum showcases Goldberg’s life and work and provides insight into the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.

Nestled at the foot of the Steenberg Mountains, the Norval Foundation is a contemporary art museum and sculpture garden. The gallery houses works from both local and international artists and often features special exhibitions.

Located in the picturesque coastal town of Simon’s Town, the Simon’s Town Museum tells the story of the town’s rich history, from before the arrival of the first European settlers to the present day.

AVAILABLE: Guided Tours | Family Friendly | OPEN: Monday – Sunday | MORE INFO: Museum Website | Facebook Page

Located in the coastal town of Simon’s Town, the South African Naval Museum offers visitors a fascinating insight into the history of the South African Navy.

Conclusion

Cape Town and its surrounding suburbs have an incredible range of museums to visit, from the thought-provoking District Six Museum to the awe-inspiring Two Oceans Aquarium. No matter your interests, you’re sure to find a museum that will leave you feeling enlightened and inspired.