Two towns, two moods
Stellenbosch is a university town with oak-lined streets and Cape Dutch architecture, surrounded by large estates. Franschhoek, founded by French Huguenot settlers in the late 17th century, is smaller and is often described as the Cape's food-and-wine capital. Both are roughly 45 to 75 minutes by road from Cape Town depending on traffic.
How to do it
- Private driver-guide: the best option if you plan to taste. See private Winelands tours.
- Franschhoek Wine Tram: a hop-on, hop-off tram-and-bus tour between estates. Lines and prices change seasonally; check the operator's site.
- Stay over: two or three nights in the valley turns a rushed day trip into a proper holiday.
For long lunches see wine-farm restaurants.
Franschhoek stays on Booking.com affiliate Franschhoek Wine Tram with Cape Town return transfers on GetYourGuide affiliate Private Stellenbosch and Franschhoek wine tour on GetYourGuide affiliate
Frequently asked questions
Franschhoek or Stellenbosch?
Franschhoek for an intimate village and dining; Stellenbosch for variety and a livelier town. Many visitors do both.
Can I visit the Winelands as a day trip?
Yes, but staying one or two nights is far more relaxing, especially if you are tasting.