Cape Town is one of those cities that captivates from the very first moment. With Table Mountain as its backdrop, beaches that rival those of the Mediterranean, and a buzzing cultural and food scene, it’s a place made for exploring. But if you’re visiting as a tourist, a big question arises before you even leave the airport: should you rent a car or use public transport to get around the Mother City?

Both options come with their pros and cons, and what works best depends largely on your travel style, where you plan to go, and how comfortable you are navigating unfamiliar territory. Let’s start with renting a car. For travellers who want the freedom to move at their own pace, hiring a car can be a game-changer. You can go from the city centre to the Winelands, pop into Mhondoro in the Waterberg for a couple of nights en route back, or take a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak without having to worry about timetables or availability. Car hire agencies like Avis, Hertz, and smaller local outfits offer a wide range of vehicles, from fuel-efficient city cars to robust SUVs suited for gravel roads and mountain passes.

Parking in Cape Town is manageable in most areas—especially outside peak season—and many guesthouses, Airbnbs, and hotels offer secure parking. Having your own wheels also makes spontaneous detours possible. You might pass a roadside farm stall in Elgin or find yourself lured into a beach picnic at Llandudno. It’s these unscheduled adventures that often become the highlights of a trip. If you’re staying further out—say in Hout Bay, Noordhoek, or Constantia—a car makes access much easier and cuts down on long transit times.

That said, driving in Cape Town isn’t for everyone. Peak-hour traffic can be frustrating, and navigating narrow city streets or the winding coastal roads might be stressful for those unfamiliar with local driving habits. Load shedding can affect traffic lights, adding to potential confusion. Also, petrol prices have risen in recent years, so budget-conscious travellers may want to factor that in when making their decision.

Public transport in Cape Town is a mixed bag. The MyCiTi Bus system is by far the most reliable, clean, and safe option. It’s especially good for tourists staying in areas like the city bowl, Green Point, Table View, and Blouberg. With dedicated lanes and affordable fares, MyCiTi offers a stress-free way to travel between the airport, city centre, and key tourist hotspots. Plus, the buses are well-maintained, on time, and generally not overcrowded. You’ll need to buy a MyCiTi card and load it with credit, but the system is user-friendly, and staff are helpful.

Minibus taxis are widely used by locals and are the most affordable mode of transport, but they’re not recommended for tourists unfamiliar with the routes and customs. There’s little signage, and safety can sometimes be a concern. Similarly, the Golden Arrow buses serve much of the metro, but they’re primarily geared toward commuters and may not be the easiest option for visitors without local knowledge.

Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are popular and convenient in Cape Town, especially for short hops or late-night returns from dinner at places like Kloof Street House, The Pot Luck Club in Woodstock, or FYN in the city centre. They’re more expensive than buses but significantly cheaper than taxis in many other countries. They also eliminate the stress of parking and navigating.

For those who like the idea of slow travel, Cape Town is surprisingly walkable in certain areas. The V&A Waterfront, Sea Point Promenade, and parts of the CBD are best enjoyed on foot. Renting a bicycle or joining a city cycling tour can be a great way to experience the city, especially on clear days when the views stretch from mountain to sea.

Some travellers opt for a hybrid approach—using public transport and Uber within the city and renting a car for day trips or longer excursions to places like Cape Point, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, or Hermanus. This gives you flexibility without the constant pressure of city driving and parking. It also allows for a few wine tastings without having to designate a driver, which is a win for anyone exploring the Cape Winelands.

If you’re planning to venture into areas where public transport doesn’t reach—like remote nature reserves, beach hideaways, or smaller towns—it’s best to rent a car. On the other hand, if your itinerary is focused on central Cape Town, with occasional excursions to nearby attractions, using a mix of MyCiTi, Uber, and guided tours might be more convenient and cost-effective.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities. If you value flexibility, independence, and the joy of the open road, a rental car opens up more of the Western Cape to explore. If you’d rather relax, stick to familiar routes, and avoid the hassle of traffic and navigation, Cape Town’s mix of public and private transport options will serve you well. Either way, the city and its surroundings have a lot to offer—breathtaking views, unforgettable food, and warm hospitality—no matter how you get there.