Things to Do in Franschhoek: The Ultimate Guide to the Cape’s Food and Wine Valley
Tucked into a valley of vineyards and orchards about an hour from Cape Town, Franschhoek is widely known as South Africa’s food and wine capital. Its French Huguenot heritage, tree-lined main road and ring of dramatic mountains make it one of the most rewarding stops in the Cape Winelands. Here are the best things to do in Franschhoek, whether you have a day or a long weekend.
Top things to do in Franschhoek
1. Ride the Franschhoek Wine Tram
The hop-on, hop-off Franschhoek Wine Tram is the valley’s best-known experience. A combination of open-air tram and tram-bus carries you between wine estates on set routes, so you can taste at several farms without anyone having to drive. Book ahead in summer and over holidays.
2. Taste world-class wine
The valley is known for Méthode Cap Classique (South African sparkling wine made the traditional way), Chardonnay, Sémillon and elegant reds. Many estates pair tastings with chocolate, cheese or charcuterie, and several have cellar tours.
3. Eat at one of South Africa’s best restaurants
Franschhoek’s reputation rests on its restaurants. Expect everything from fine-dining tasting menus to relaxed bistros and estate picnics among the vines. Reserve the most popular tables well in advance.
4. Discover Huguenot history
French Huguenot refugees settled the valley in the late 1600s and gave it its name, which means “French corner”. Visit the Huguenot Monument and the Huguenot Memorial Museum to understand how their winemaking traditions shaped the Cape.
5. Visit the Franschhoek Motor Museum
Set on a wine estate, this museum displays a superb collection of classic and vintage cars spanning more than a century of motoring.
6. Hike or cycle in the mountains
The Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve has trails with sweeping views over the valley. Mountain biking, e-bike wine tours and horse riding through the vineyards are other good ways to get active.
7. Drive the Franschhoek Pass
The winding pass east of town has spectacular views back over the valley and is a scenic route towards the Overberg.
8. Time your trip for a festival
The Bastille Day celebrations around mid-July are a highlight of the winter calendar, with food, wine and French-themed festivities.
Where to stay in Franschhoek
Accommodation ranges from village guesthouses within walking distance of the main road to wine-estate lodges and private villas. For something special, consider an exclusive-use villa such as La Clé des Montagnes: four individually designed villas with private pools set among orchards and vineyards, a short walk from the village, with butler and concierge service. Villas like this suit couples, families and friends travelling together.
Planning a winter visit? See our pick of winter getaways around Cape Town, many with log fires.
How to get to Franschhoek
Franschhoek is roughly 45 minutes to an hour by car from Cape Town International Airport and about half an hour from Stellenbosch over the Helshoogte Pass. Many visitors combine both towns. Read our Cape Winelands guide for ideas.
Things to do in Franschhoek: FAQ
How many days do you need in Franschhoek?
Two nights is ideal: one day for the Wine Tram and a long lunch, and another for history, hiking or a second round of tastings.
What is the best time to visit Franschhoek?
Late summer and autumn (February to April) bring harvest season and warm, settled weather. Winter (June to August) is quieter, cosier and great value.
Is Franschhoek a good day trip from Cape Town?
Yes, but stay overnight if you can so that you can enjoy dinner and avoid driving after wine tastings.
Find more food and wine guides, or contact us to plan your Winelands stay.
