Cape Town is the most European of African cities–a true melting pot, molded by Dutch and English imperialism (and a Malaysian population originally imported for slave labor) and deeply infused by indigenous Khoisan and Xhosa culture. Here, you're likely to hear the muezzin's wailing call to prayer from a Bo-Kaap mosque as well as a time-keeping noon cannon blast, a daily custom since 1806. Such traditions—along with the city's colonial-era, wrought-iron–trimmed Victorian architecture—lend an old-world flavor, but make no mistake: today's Cape Town is a thoroughly modern metropolis, with glittering skyscrapers that seem to stretch toward the cloud-wreathed peak of Table Mountain, an international art community, and dazzling chefs who make the most of the area's produce and vineyards.
The 1.5-hour hike up the mini-mountain of Lion's Head—much less strenuous than Table Mountain, but with gorgeous panoramic views of the city.
Sampling samoosas, Cape Malay–style pastries filled with curried beef or vegetables, sold by street vendors throughout the city (try the promenade at St. George's Mall).
Driving the M3 south to the historic wine-growing Constantia Valley, with rolling vine-covered hills surrounding you all the way.