Castle of Good Hope Travel Guide: Top Sights in South africa, Tours &

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Castle of Good Hope- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Historical & Cultural; South Africa; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 3 hours

The Castle of Good Hope, built in the mid-17th century by the Dutch East India Company, is a significant historical landmark in Cape Town, South Africa. Constructed between 1666 and 1679, it stands as the oldest surviving building in the country and was originally positioned along the coastline of Table Bay. This well-preserved fortification, recognized as a provincial heritage site since 1936, played a vital role as a replenishment station for ships sailing between the Netherlands and the Dutch East Indies. The castle features a distinctive bell tower, home to South Africa's oldest bell, which historically signaled time and danger. Within its walls, visitors can explore a rich tapestry of history, including a church, bakery, and various workshops, all set around a central courtyard. Over the years, the Castle of Good Hope has served multiple purposes, from a military stronghold to a prison during the Second Boer War, and now houses the Castle Military Museum and the Cape Heritage Museum, which delve into the complex narratives of South Africa's past.

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Reviews of Castle of Good Hope

Krish

4
Reviewed: 2024-08-03

Good place. Closer to the city. If you are staying near long st, you can just walk to this place in 10mins. Make sure to go before 4pm. They close doors there but for the main entrance. So you will miss half the things. There is a food place that also closes soon. So make sure to visit this place in the morning or around noon. No tickets needed. This place is free to visit.
Vikash Parbhoo

4
Reviewed: 2024-07-01

I visited the Castle one of the weekends during the Craft Markets that are hosted on the last Saturday of the month. The market was lively, with local crafts and food stalls. As for the Castle itself, it’s excellent to explore and learn more about the history, particularly through one of the complimentary guided tours. The tour lasted approximately 45mins. However you’re free to roam most of the various rooms and roof terraces to capture in the heritage and views of the surrounding city. Great to know that there are special rates for students and SA pensioners too.
Irene12156 Lee

4
Reviewed: 2024-06-04

A good alternative on a rainy day. Environment is kept as authentic and the exhibition ground are all taken care of. Good signage and explanation of each space provided. No need for a guide. A small cozy cafe served homemade muffins and scones and of course freshly brewed coffee. Entrance fee was R50/ pax. Would be good to have a map for walking through the ground.
Arif Mahmud

4
Reviewed: 2024-04-27

We have visited this castle and enjoyed a lot. I haven't taken any guided tours. This place is included in hop on hop off location list and possible to come here by walking from their number 5 stoppage. Museum of this castle is rich and you must visit this. Inside the castle you will find coffee shop. Outside of the castle you can park your vehicle. Walking alone outside of this castle is not safe at all. You should be aware of your phone and bag. This castle has historical significance but I had more expectations.
Angelique Smit

4
Reviewed: 2024-03-31

We went to view the museums. Would suggest to go when there aren’t stalls and perhaps during the week if possible. Also try to be on time for the tours. We unfortunately just missed it thus can’t rate that at all. We did a manual tour - would have loved a pamphlet but there wasn’t one handed. The places we found by wandering on our own were really remarkable. And there is amazing art in the one. Guns and swords that is preserved and viewing from the top was something else. We got the best view of Table Mountain at the top of the castle. Will definitely check next time to go on a tour with the tour guide.