What to Do in Cape Town When It Rains: 10 Activities Designed for Bad Weather That Aren’t Boring

Cape Town may be known for its sunny beaches and mountain hikes, but let’s be real...the weather doesn’t always play along. Whether you're visiting in winter or the clouds just decided to ruin your plans, don’t worry...the Mother City still has plenty to offer. Here are 10 exciting, cozy, and fun rainy day activities in Cape Town that’ll keep the FOMO at bay… including one that’ll leave you with more than just memories.

1. Get Your Hands Dirty (In a Good Way) at 2handsy

If you're looking for something artistic, intimate, and truly memorable, step into the world of 2handsy ...Cape Town’s premier hand casting experience hosted in a cosy and warm art studio. Create a beautiful sculpture of your hands (solo, with a partner, or as a group), guided by a charismatic host and sprinkled with fun games while you wait for your cast to dry. It’s the perfect rainy day vibe: warm, social, creative, and you even leave with a custom souvenir you made yourself.

Bonus: We get this question all the time: “Can I fly with my hand sculpture?”

✅ Yes! Once dry, your hand cast is solid and lightweight enough to pack in your luggage or carry on. TSA and airport security have no issues with it...just wrap it safely!

2. Visit the Zeitz MOCAA (Museum of Contemporary African Art)

Skip the usual tourist museums and get lost in one of the world’s largest collections of contemporary African art. It's indoors, visually stunning, and perfect for slow exploration with a coffee in hand.

3. Cozy Up with a Book at The Book Lounge

This indie bookstore in the city centre is beloved by locals. Sink into a couch, sip a flat white, and discover a new read while the rain taps gently outside.

4. Discover Local Flavors with an Indoor Food Tour

Cape Town’s culinary scene is bursting with flavor... and you don’t need sunshine to enjoy it. Join a food tour that takes you through local indoor markets and hidden eateries.

5. Take a South African Cooking Class

Why just eat when you can learn? Cooking classes that teach you to make traditional dishes like bobotie or chakalaka are a great way to spend a rainy afternoon.

6. Explore the Historic Castle of Good Hope

Rain or shine, this 17th century fortress is filled with rooms, museums, and even a dungeon to explore. Just bring an umbrella for the courtyard!

7. Spa Day at One&Only or Local Hammams

Pamper yourself with a luxury spa experience. Whether it’s a 5-star hotel or a hidden Moroccan hammam, there’s no better time to unwind.

8. Go Wine Tasting... Indoors

No sunshine? No problem. Many of the wine estates near Cape Town offer indoor tastings by the fire...think plush couches, rich reds, and cheese boards.

9. Escape Room Adventures

Try something thrilling and team up with friends to solve a mystery in under 60 minutes. There are great escape room spots in the city bowl and suburbs.

10. See a Show at The Baxter Theatre or Labia Cinema

Catch a play, indie film, or local music performance. These cozy venues are perfect for rainy nights with a touch of culture.

So... the Rain Ruined Your Beach Day? Good. It just gave you the perfect excuse to experience something new... something real, tactile, and meaningful. Whether it’s casting your hands at 2handsy or losing yourself in local art and food, Cape Town has just as much magic indoors.🎯 Book your 2handsy experience now and make something beautiful with your own hands ...no matter the weather.

Visuals courtesy of FreePik, & 2handsy