If you're staying at Old Bank Hotel in Cape Town, you’re already in the perfect spot to explore the city’s best hidden gems. Located right in the heart of the city centre, there’s so much to see and do around the hotel that doesn’t require hopping in an Uber or driving for hours. Here’s our guide to eight spots nearby that are well worth a visit.

The Company’s Garden

Just a short 4-minute walk from the hotel, The Company’s Garden is a serene green sanctuary in the heart of Cape Town. Originally planted in the 1650s by the Dutch East India Company as a refreshment station for ships, this historic garden is perfect for a leisurely stroll under shady trees or a peaceful moment by the fountain. The garden is full of history, with hidden gems like the statues of Queen Victoria and Jan Smuts and nearby landmarks like the South African Museum and the Cape Town Holocaust Centre. If you're into wildlife, don’t miss the squirrels that come right up to you or the aviary with dozens of bird species.

If you’re feeling hungry, grab a bite at the Company’s Garden Restaurant. They serve traditional Capetonian fare and offer a variety of delicious meals, perfect for a relaxed lunch. You can enjoy your meal beneath the shade of big trees, with the city buzz feeling miles away.

Opening Hours: Daily, 07:00 - 18:00
Location: The Company’s Garden, 12 Government Ave, Cape Town City Centre

Greenmarket Square

Right on Old Bank Hotel’s doorstep, you’ll find Greenmarket Square, one of Cape Town’s oldest and liveliest markets. Established in 1696, this historic square has seen it all—from being a fresh produce market to a spot for trading slaves and water to a hub for protests and arts. Today, it’s a vibrant mix of colourful stalls, local arts, crafts, food, and live music. You can spend hours here browsing unique art, handcrafted jewellery and curios or just soaking in the energy of the place.

You’ll also find great street food and local delicacies to try, plus the square often hosts live performances, including buskers and the occasional concert. It’s a perfect spot to pick up a special souvenir, enjoy some local tunes and experience the authentic hustle and bustle of Cape Town.

Opening Hours: Daily, 09:00 - 18:00
Location: Greenmarket Square, Burg St &, Longmarket St, Cape Town City Centre

Bo-Kaap

Just a short walk from the hotel, the Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town's most vibrant and historically rich neighbourhoods. With its distinctive, brightly coloured houses and cobblestone streets, it feels like you’ve stepped into another world. The area, once known as the Malay Quarter, dates back to the 1760s and has a fascinating history, from its origins as a community for enslaved people to becoming a stronghold of Cape Malay culture.

You’ll find plenty to see here, from the historic Auwal Masjid, the oldest mosque in South Africa, to the Bo-Kaap Museum, where you can learn about the local community’s unique mix of African, Malay, and European influences. The food here is legendary, with local eateries like Bo-Kaap Kombuis serving up delicious Cape Malay curries, samosas and more. Don’t miss the chance to try traditional sweets like koesisters at Rose Corner Café.

Beyond the food and history, Bo-Kaap is a wonderful place to just wander and soak in the atmosphere. Explore the streets, chat with locals and snap some photos of the colourful houses. For a deeper dive, you can take a 20-minute audio tour led by a local guide or even join a cooking class to learn the secrets behind the local dishes.

Opening Hours: Suggested visiting time 09:00 - 17:00
Location: Bo-Kaap, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town

St. George’s Cathedral

Just a short five-minute walk from Old Bank Hotel, St. George’s Cathedral is a must-visit for history and architecture lovers. Known as the “Mother Church” of Cape Town, it’s the oldest cathedral in South Africa, built from sandstone sourced from Table Mountain in the 1800s. This stunning Victorian-era building has played a key role in South Africa’s history, especially during the apartheid era. It’s often referred to as the “People’s Cathedral” for its welcoming stance toward people of all races during a time when most places of worship were segregated.

Inside, you’ll find magnificent stained glass windows, a crypt and the striking figure of a black Christ in the central panel of the west window, symbolising the fullness of humanity. St. George’s Cathedral also holds deep historical significance, as it was the site where Archbishop Desmond Tutu coined the phrase “rainbow people” after leading a massive demonstration to Grand Parade in 1989. The cathedral continues to inspire and is often a place of reflection for political leaders, too. In 2013, it hosted a prayer service when Nelson Mandela was hospitalised, and a memorial service was held here after his passing.

If you're looking for a moment of quiet reflection or a chance to admire some beautiful design, step inside and take in the atmosphere. Fun fact: You’ll also find a small piece of the Berlin Wall nearby, a meaningful symbol of freedom and change.

Location: St George's Cathedral, 5 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre

Iziko South African Museum

Located just a short walk from the hotel, the Iziko South African Museum is a must-see for history buffs and curious explorers. Part of the Iziko Museums of Cape Town (also known as "Museum Mile"), the museum offers a fascinating look into the country’s natural and cultural history. Explore the museum's diverse exhibits, from dinosaur skeletons and ancient artefacts to interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone.

Iziko, an isiXhosa word meaning "hearth," reflects the museum's role as the centre for sharing South Africa's stories—just like the hearth was the traditional gathering point for families. The museum’s diverse collection includes everything from prehistoric fossils to fascinating cultural displays, making it an ideal stop if you’re looking to explore more about the history of Cape Town and beyond.

For art lovers, don’t miss the Iziko South African National Gallery, also nearby, which houses stunning collections of South African, African and international art.

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri, 09:00 - 17:00 | Sat-Sun: 08:30 - 16:00
Location: Iziko South African Museum, 25 Queen Victoria St, Gardens, Cape Town

The Labia Theatre

For a bit of old-school charm, make sure to check out The Labia Theatre, just a quick 10-minute walk from the hotel. This historic cinema is the oldest independent art-repertory cinema in the country, offering a unique movie experience in a relaxed, vintage setting. Originally an Italian Embassy ballroom, the theatre opened in 1949 and has been screening international and independent movies, foreign films and alternative cinema ever since.

The Labia is known for its cosy atmosphere, affordable tickets and the opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail while watching a film. It features four screens, a licensed bar and even a chocolate bar with all sorts of sweet treats. Be sure to arrive early on weekends, as the theatre fills up fast!

Opening Hours: Daily, 11:00 - 23:00
Location: The Labia Theatre, 68 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town

The District Six Museum

Just a short 10-minute walk from the hotel, the District Six Museum is a deeply moving and enlightening experience. Housed in the old Methodist Mission Church, the museum tells the story of the forced removals of District Six during apartheid, giving visitors a deep understanding of Cape Town's history. It’s a place where the spirit of this once-thriving community is brought back to life.

The museum started as a gathering place for former residents to share their memories and fight for the right to return to their homes. Today, it houses a 300-meter-long memory cloth filled with firsthand accounts from those who lived there, capturing the emotional history of this neighbourhood. The District Six Museum isn’t just a museum; it’s a tribute to a community's resilience and a reminder of the pain caused by apartheid.

Opening Hours: Mon-Sat, 09:00 - 16:00
Location: District Six Museum, 25A Buitenkant St, District Six, Cape Town

Long Street

Just a two-minute walk from Old Bank Hotel, Long Street is where the energy of Cape Town truly comes alive. Famous for its bohemian vibe, Long Street is one of the oldest and most iconic streets in the city. It’s packed with quirky shops, vintage clothing stores, antique shops and ethnic restaurants, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

By day, you can explore the markets, grab a boerewors roll or sip coffee at one of the sidewalk cafes. But when the sun sets, Long Street transforms into Cape Town’s nightlife hotspot. The street is lined with bars, clubs and pubs, and you'll find everything from live music to rooftop lounges. Whether you're in the mood for great food, cool cocktails or dancing the night away, this iconic street has it all.

Location: Long Street, Cape Town City Centre

So, there you have it – 8 incredible hidden gems you can explore on foot. Whether you're keen on history and local culture or just need to relax with some great food and views, Cape Town has got something for everyone.