Cape Town and Franschhoek have travel inspo in bucket loads. And Johannesburg refuses to be left behind.
This is according to two definitive lists for travellers looking for new and exciting places to add to their itinerary. Time and Time Out have both given these local destinations the nod as ideal tourist spots to visit. Here's why...
Cape Town has it all!
The City of Cape Town has been listed 11th on Time Out's top 53 Best Cities Index for 2022.
Time Out bases the best cities in the world on locals’ opinions, as well local editors and experts who share what it’s like to live there.
According to artist and freelance writer Yazeed Kamaldien, the Mother City's good food, culture, mountains, beaches, and nightlife are what make the city great.
The index also shows that 93 percent of locals who participated describe Cape Town as beautiful, the second highest percentage ranking in the world for this year's list. Cape Town also ranked highly for its variety of activities and relaxed vibe.
Kamaldien adds that Cape Town especially "nurtures theatre-making and is known for its dance and experimental works". The Baxter Theatre or Artscape should be top of your list for the latest productions.
SEE: 10 fun experiences for families in and around Cape Town
Joburg's vibrant nightlife
The City of Johannesburg also makes a showing in the Time Out list, coming in at number 49 on the 2022 list.
Journalist Thando Mpembe describes Johannesburg as "a city full of life and possibilities and adds that its nightlife is a phenomenal drawcard, while its outdoor markets are a must-do".
Joburg came dead last for walkability though – as just 4 percent of Joburg residents who participated reckon the city can be navigated easily on foot. Some 77 percent however say they have easy access to nature and green space.
READ: 8 beautiful (and free!) picnic spots in and around Joburg
Franschhoek, a valley of dreams
READ: Your ultimate Cape Town Wine-Tastings planner
Add to the above accolades for SA, Time magazine has just released its list of the World’s Greatest Places of 2022, featuring the Franschhoek Valley as one of its top 50 destinations.
The heavy-weight publication states that it is the ultimate wine-lovers dream, and we could not agree more.
In particular, Time notes Paul Siguqa’s Klein Goederust as top choice wine farm to visit. Franschhoek’s first Black-owned wine farm, it has established itself for its Chenin Blanc, a peppery Shiraz 2020, a vibrantly fruity Noble Late Harvest 2020, as well as a 2018 Cab-Merlot blend.
The celebrated Cape Winelands destination is in good company along with popular global tourist spots from Miami, Istanbul and Copenhagen to less conventional choices like Skellefteå, a Swedish city near the Arctic Circle.