Written by Zeldi Smulders

Franschhoek is a place of exquisite nature, art, and history. This highly cultured town forms part of the Cape Winelands region and is also known as the culinary capital of South Africa. All of that is great, but what does it mean for your South African travel plans? Grab some comfortable shoes because you will be doing a whole lot of exploring! Here are our top 7 things to do in Franschhoek:

1. Hop on the Franschhoek Wine Tram

Get on the wine tram’s starting point at the Franschhoek Terminal or Groot Drakenstein terminal, depending on your chosen routes. There are 8 different lines with 8 top wine estates on each line. The journey includes a narration of the history of Franschhoek and its wine cultivation. As a hop-on hop-off tour, this wine tram allows you to complete the tour at your convenience. If you are coming from Cape Town, you also have the option to commute from there to make your transport arrangements easier. It is highly recommended to book in advance as there are limited tickets available every day. For booking details, click here.

2. Visit the Huguenot Memorial Museum

This museum focuses on the Huguenots’ story of how more than 160 000 French Protestant refugees arrived in South Africa in the 17th century. A lot of winemaking traditions have been passed on by them and that is why you’ll find that many of the top wine farms in the area carry French names. Tickets are bought online or in the museum shop. The entrance fee will also give you access to the Huguenot Monument, the garden, and the first South African Perfume Museum.

3. Have a scenic drive on the Franschhoek Pass

Get on the R45 between Franschhoek and Villiersdorp to experience one of the most scenic drives in the area. It is believed that elephants once traversed this area and that is why this pass was originally known as Olifantshoek (‘Elephants Corner’). As you drive on curved roads past mountains and valleys, you can spot areas where you can pull over to take some amazing photos and look back to catch a view of Franschhoek in the distance.

4. Stroll along the town’s Main Road 

Park your car and walk along Franschhoek’s Main Road to admire Cape Dutch architecture and acquire some first-class products and experiences. This small town allows you to get to the end of this section in a short enough time but you’ll have so much to see and do along the way. Stop at fine dining restaurants, art galleries, and artisan shops, or select your own wine, jewellery, or designer clothing.

5. Indulge in sweet treats at Huguenot Fine Chocolates

At the boutique chocolaterie of Huguenot Fine Chocolates, you can not only taste the chocolate but also learn how it is made. What they call ‘The Chocolate Experience’ can be done in a 30-minute session where you’ll see demonstrations and hear the fascinating history behind making chocolate. The finest imported Belgian chocolate is used to create handcrafted chocolate treats that can be purchased as individual items or packaged in pretty gift boxes.

6. Admire old and new cars at the Motor Museum

Just off the R45, you'll find a display of 100 years of automotive history. At the Motor Museum, there are over 220 vehicles with a collection of motorcycles, bicycles and related memorabilia. You can buy your tickets online and there are guided tours available upon request at no additional charge. If you get hungry along the way, the on-site deli has refreshments available with a selection of delicious wines to choose from.

7. Get local goods at the Franschhoek Village Market

Once a week on a Saturday, you can wander under oak trees and listen to live music in the centre of Franschhoek. Village Market has it all—from craft beers and coffee brewers to freshly-baked goods and homemade preserves. Once you’ve had your share you can browse through art, vintage clothing, antiques, and other crafts being showcased. There are limited credit card facilities and most of the traders only accept cash and SnapScan. However, ATMs are within walking distance of the market. There is no entrance fee and you have free parking, so you can bring along your friends and the whole family (including dogs kept on a leash).

Don’t miss these top activities to keep you stimulated, satisfied, and entertained. Can’t decide which one sounds the best? Try them all while you experience the Cape Winelands in all its splendour! Start planning your trip to South Africa right now.