The Ultimate Guide to Franschhoek
Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s Western Cape, the Cape Winelands is famous for its rolling vineyards, magnificent mountain backdrops, and world-class wine estates. Among its three main areas—Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, and Paarl—it’s Franschhoek that most people choose as their home base.
Franschhoek: A quaint village brimming with charm. It’s relatively small, making it easy to explore on foot, and has a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. With the famous Wine Tram on your doorstep and a range of boutique accommodations, it’s the perfect place to stay for a few nights to explore the region.
Stellenbosch: A bustling university town known for its historic architecture, oak-lined avenues, and vibrant restaurant scene. It’s a great day-trip option if you want to explore more of the region’s cultural and culinary offerings. it’s full of students and loads of food places.
Paarl: Paarl is smaller than Stellenbosch and feels more ‘local’ but still boasts beautiful scenery and a handful of wonderful wine farms. It’s a great choice for visitors looking to experience a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-path side of the Winelands and save money on accommodation.
Although each area has its own distinct flavour, Franschhoek stands out for its mix of picturesque scenery, top-notch wineries, gourmet restaurants, and that iconic Wine Tram.
We visited Franschhoek 3 times during out month-long trip to South Africa!
Contents
Getting to Franschhoek
Franschhoek is conveniently located just an hour or so from Cape Town, making it an ideal destination for a weekend escape or a longer stay to explore the Cape Winelands. If you really need to, you can do a day trip.
The Drive from Cape Town takes approximately 60–90 minutes, depending on traffic and any roadworks.
We recommend hiring a car as it gives you the freedom to explore not only Franschhoek but also neighbouring areas like Stellenbosch and Paarl at your own pace. With a car, you can easily hop between vineyards, scenic viewpoints, and off-the-beaten-track destinations. Google Maps works well to help you navigate.
Best Time to Go
Aim to arrive in Franschhoek before the weekend (e.g., Thursday) so you can make the most of the atmosphere, farmers’ markets, and extended winery hours. Many places in town may have limited opening days or shorter hours outside of weekend peak times, and some wineries close on Sundays and Mondays.
Other Transport Options
Organized Tours & Shuttles: If you prefer not to drive, some tour companies run day trips or multi-day itineraries from Cape Town. These typically include transportation and guided winery visits but can be restrictive if you want to explore on your schedule.
There are bus and train routes to Franschhoek but we don’t really know enough about them to include here.
Things to do in Franschhoek
Franschhoek may be small, but there is so much to do, especially if you are a foodie, wine enthusiast or just like to get outdoors.
Explore the Vineyards and Wine Farms
This is why you’re planning to come here after all.
The Cape Winelands is synonymous with world-class wine production, and Franschhoek is no exception. Wander through lush vineyards and sample different varietals as you enjoy the gorgeous scenery. Many estates offer guided tastings, cellar tours, or curated wine-pairing experiences. Whether you prefer smaller, intimate wineries or expansive estates, you’ll have no trouble finding one that suits your taste.
(More about the vineyards below)
Hop on the Wine Tram
Probably the most iconic activity in Franschhoek, the Wine Tram takes the hassle out of winery-hopping. Climb aboard a vintage-style tram or open-air bus to visit selected wine farms along different colour-coded routes. It’s a fun, social, and safe way to experience multiple vineyards without worrying about driving. The tram runs daily.
Read our full guide on the Franschhoek Wine Tram
Get Active Outdoors
Franschhoek’s scenic mountain surrounds are perfect for anyone looking to lace up their sneakers or hop on a bike:
Cycling - You can rent road bikes and cycle around the vineyards to get active. There are a lot of hills in the area, but Franschhoek town is in the valley, and there are plenty of vineyards you can get to cycling along the flat roads. There are also lots of mountain biking trails in the area.
Running - If you’re in town on a Saturday, check out the local Parkrun, a fun and free 5 km run hosted at Rickety Bridge Wine Estate. It’s a lovely scenic run through the farm with a mix of terrain (although it never gets too rough).
Hiking
Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve: Boasts well-maintained trails and stunning panoramic views.
La Motte: Some estates, like La Motte, have their walking trails where you can stroll through the fynbos and vineyards either alone or with a guide.
Visit the Franschhoek Village Market
Every Saturday, the village comes alive at the Franschhoek Village Market, a lively gathering of artisanal food stalls, local crafts, and live entertainment. Nestled under the shade of old oak trees, the market is the perfect spot to:
Sample Local Delicacies: Grab breakfast or brunch from gourmet food stands offering everything from pastries and biltong to international street food.
Shop for Handcrafted Goods: Browse stalls selling handmade jewellery, art, and home décor, making it easy to pick up unique souvenirs.
Enjoy the Atmosphere: Relax under the trees with a coffee or craft beer while listening to live music, soaking up the village vibe.
There is a free car park (just tip the car guards 5-20 Rand), but it does get busy at around midday.
Eat Your Heart Out
From casual cafés to fine-dining restaurants, Franschhoek is known as the “food and wine capital” of South Africa. There are many restaurants offering high-quality tasting menus at reasonable prices (compared to the UK, Europe and USA). If you want to experience high-end dining then this is the place to do it without breaking your bank too much
(More about restaurants below)
Shop and Browse Galleries
Stroll down the Main Road (Huguenot Road) to find boutique stores, art galleries, and souvenir shops. It’s a great way to spend a leisurely afternoon—pop into galleries showcasing local artists, hunt for unique homeware, or pick up handcrafted jewellery and keepsakes.
Take a day trip to Stellenbosch
Just a short (40 min) drive away, Stellenbosch is a vibrant university town that feels both historic and cosmopolitan; it’s worth heading over for the day whilst visiting a nearby vineyard to see what it’ss like and a great spot to stop off for lunch.
The Fat Butcher: A must-visit restaurant if you love steak www.fatbutcher.co.za (book ahead)
Sushi Box: Incredible sushi and dumplings at a laid-back streetside restaurant www.sushibox.co.za
Schoon: A lovely artisanal coffee shop
Shopping: There are plenty of boutique shops to explore
The Best Vinyards in Franschhoek
The vineyards and wine farms are the beating heart of Franschhoek. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or new to wine-tasting, you’ll find a variety of estates offering everything from intimate tastings to full-fledged wine-and-dine experiences.
The larger popular farms are quite commercial and can get busy, but they are incredibly beautiful and offer a large variety of experiences. We’d advise visiting some smaller farms too as there’s such a contrast from the larger farms; offering a more personalised wine tasting experience in a more intimate, yet beautiful setting. They might not have all the bells and whistles, but they still serve top quality wine.
Below is a snapshot of 3 larger, well-known estates and 5 smaller, more personal wineries.
Babylonstoren
You will no doubt end up visiting Babylonstoren, and you can easily spend 2-3 hours wandering around the grounds here before having lunch or dinner.
Known for its beautifully manicured gardens, orchards, and vineyards, Babylonstoren combines heritage charm with contemporary hospitality. You can explore its expansive grounds, savour farm-to-table cuisine sourced from the property’s own gardens, and stay in the on-site hotel (£££).
Expansive gardens, butchers, dairy, coffee shop and farm shop
A quaint greenhouse eatery which is good for lunch (no bookings)
Babel restaurant (must book a table)
You can pick and eat any produce from the gardens; you’re just not allowed to take any off the estate
You have to pay entry, but if you become a member (at the same price), you also get membership to The Newt in Somerset (UK).
Boschendal
One of the oldest wine estates in South Africa (founded in 1685). It is famous for its picnics in the garden. We didn’t end up going here as timings didn’t work it, but it is extremely popular and comes highly recommended. Make sure to book in advance.
La Motte
La Motte features Cape Dutch architecture, picturesque vineyards, and a striking mountain backdrop. There is also a great art gallery; it hosts workshops where you can create a canvas painting of your own; all whilst drinking their wine.
They have a famous bakery, which is a stunning place to go for breakfast (you must book a table).
La Petite Ferme
We stayed at La Petite Ferme for 2 nights during our first trip to Franschhoek, and it was incredible. La Petite Ferme is small but absolutely stunning, with some of the best panoramic views you can get of the valley. They offer outdoor tastings with a spectacular backdrop. We’d highly recommend booking a table at their restaurant to enjoy their gorgeous view over a long lazy lunch.
Hotel and vineyard review of La Petite Ferme
Restaurant review of La Petite Ferme
Lynx
We stopped here as part of our wine tram route. It was a smaller, quieter vineyard offering outdoor tastings. They have a menu of wine tastings that you can order with different food pairing options, including bitterballen (like croquettes) and brownies.
Stony Brook
A family-run winery with outdoor tasting and beautiful views. Perfect if you want a warm, personal experience. Often, smaller wineries like Stony Brook don’t require bookings, though it’s always good to check ahead during peak seasons.
Colmant
Colmant is a renowned producer specialising in Méthode Cap Classique (MCC), South Africa’s take on champagne. If you like sparkling wine, you have to come here and learn about the meticulous process behind MCC while indulging in a delightful, bubbly-tasting flight. A smaller vineyard but in a gorgeous, intimate setting. We most certainly want to come back here!
Glenwood
Overlooking a more rugged view of rolling vineyards and dramatic mountains, the estate provides a serene setting to indulge in fresh sushi and fine wines. Be sure to book ahead if you want to enjoy their gourmet sushi as part of your visit.
Wilderberg
A boutique wine farm nestled in the dramatic foothills of the Franschhoek Valley, celebrated for its handcrafted, small-batch wines that truly capture the wild spirit of the region.
Tips for Planning Your Vineyard Visits
Book Ahead: Some smaller wineries require reservations for tastings or lunch. Large estates can also get busy, especially on weekends, so a pre-booked tasting ensures you have a spot. Just check their websites.
Sizing: The tastings on offer are usually 3-5 glasses, and the pours are generous, so be prepared and pace yourself.
Mix & Match: Try including both large estates and smaller wineries on your itinerary for a well-rounded experience of the region’s wine culture.
It’s not all about the Wine Tram: The wine tram is fun, but make sure you visit some non-tram wineries for a more intimate experience.
Pace Yourself: With so many vineyards to choose from, don’t overbook yourself. Enjoy a leisurely tasting or two in the morning, take a break for lunch, and then continue in the afternoon. Remember, this is about savouring the wines, not rushing through them. We didn’t go to all the vineyards on our route.
Transport: If you plan on indulging in multiple tastings, consider the Wine Tram or designate a driver so everyone can taste responsibly.
Where to eat and drink in Franschhoek
Franschhoek has earned its reputation as South Africa’s culinary capital. Here, you’ll find an array of top-notch restaurants and cosy coffee shops. Whether you’re in the mood for an elegant multi-course meal or just a quick caffeine fix, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Franschhoek Restaurants
You can have dinner at most of the wine estates with their associated restaurants. Below are some of our top picks:
La Petite Colombe (Leeu Estates): A Must Do!
La Petite Colombe, the sister restaurant to the renowned La Colombe in Constantia, offers an intimate, upscale dining experience in the heart of Franschhoek. The tasting menu is incredible, expect a lot of theatre. (££££ for South Africa).
With limited seating and a reputation for exceptional cuisine, it’s best to book in advance—especially for those looking to mark a special occasion in style.
Get there early so you can explore the stunning gardens. The mountain view is just jaw dropping!
Chef’s Warehouse (Maison)
Chefs Warehouse Maison is celebrated for its inventive small-plate menus that artfully blend global influences with local, seasonal produce. As part of the acclaimed Chefs Warehouse family, it upholds a reputation for culinary excellence—consistently earning praise as one of South Africa’s finest dining experiences. Guests can expect a relaxed yet refined setting in which to explore an ever-evolving menu of vibrant, meticulously prepared dishes.
www.chefswarehouse.co.za/maison
Reubens (Franschhoek Town)
Sophisticated yet approachable cuisine that showcases locally sourced ingredients. On weekends, the restaurant runs its outdoor “fire kitchen,” where meals are prepared over open flames to highlight bold, smoky flavours.
Franschhoek coffee shops
Our favourite coffee spots in Franschhoek were Terbodore and Get Lost Coffee. Terbodore specialises in bold, artisan roasts served in a cosy space, as well as boasting outdoor seating; while Get Lost Coffee offers a unique selection of brews in a laid-back setting in the middle of the high-street.
Where to stay in Franschhoek
If you love being in the thick of things, opt for a guesthouse or boutique hotel in the heart of Franschhoek town. Here, you’ll have restaurants, shops, and even the Wine Tram at your doorstep—perfect if you want to explore on foot.
For a more tranquil escape, book a stay at one of the region’s wine estates. You’ll wake up to sweeping vineyard views and can indulge in on-site wine tastings without ever leaving the property.
We stayed at the following places and loved them:
La Petite Ferme - Stunning winery 5 minutes from Franschoekk town (we had a car).
Hotel Du Vin - Boutique hotel in Franschoekk town
General tips for exploring Franschhoek
Reservations: Many of Franschhoek’s top restaurants fill up fast, especially on weekends. Be sure to book ahead.
Pair with Local Wines: Given that you’re in the heart of wine country, make sure to ask for pairing suggestions. Most restaurants have extensive wine lists featuring local estates.
Dietary Needs: Many eateries cater to special diets, from vegetarian and vegan to gluten-free. Always call or check menus online if you have specific requirements.
Timing: For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays. Weekends are livelier, but that also means busier restaurants and coffee spots. Although many places may not be open mid-week or offer a limited service.
Final Tips and Conclusion
Franschhoek effortlessly blends world-class wines, top-tier dining, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re tasting your way through vineyards, indulging in creative cuisine, or cycling between rolling hills, this charming village is sure to leave a lasting impression. Here are a few parting tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Where to Stay
In the Village: Enjoy easy access to restaurants, shops, and the Wine Tram if you book a guesthouse or boutique hotel in the heart of Franschhoek. This option suits travellers who like to be within walking distance of the village’s main attractions and don’t have a car.
On a Wine Estate: Some vineyards have guest accommodations for a more secluded experience. Wake up to vineyard views and enjoy wine tastings without leaving your doorstep.
Plan Around the Weekend
If possible, arrive by Thursday to enjoy the full range of wineries, restaurants, and the lively Saturday market. Keep in mind that some smaller businesses may have limited hours on Sundays and Mondays.
Explore Beyond Franschhoek
Don’t overlook neighbouring Stellenbosch and Paarl. Stellenbosch’s bustling centre offers additional dining and shopping, while Paarl’s quieter streets give you a more laid-back, local vibe.
Stay Safe on the Roads
The drive from Cape Town can take 60–90 minutes. Be mindful of traffic and roadworks, especially if you’re heading out on a Friday afternoon. If you plan on wine tasting at multiple estates, consider using the Wine Tram, booking a driver, or organising a tour so you can sip worry-free.
Book Ahead
Many restaurants and smaller vineyards fill up quickly, especially during high season (November to March). Secure your reservations in advance to avoid disappointment.
Savour the Experience
Franschhoek is all about slowing down and soaking in the good life. Take time to appreciate the valley views, chat with local artisans at the market, and linger over your wine flights.
In a Nutshell
Franschhoek provides the perfect blend of gastronomic delights, outdoor adventure, and Cape Winelands heritage. Its compact size and welcoming atmosphere allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture—one wine glass, market stall, or mountain trail at a time.
Enjoy your stay in Franschhoek, and cheers to an unforgettable Winelands experience!
Let us know if you’ve been and what you enjoyed most!