Cape Town: Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Wine Tasting and Tram

Experience the Best of Cape Town’s Wine Country in a Day

Cape Town’s surrounding wine regions are truly some of the most beautiful and flavorful spots in South Africa, and a guided tour covering Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl offers a perfect way to see and taste the highlights. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, detailed reviews and the itinerary reveal a well-rounded experience that combines scenic views, authentic wine tastings, and rich history—all for a reasonable price of $110 per person.

What really catches our eye are three standout features: the chance to visit award-winning wineries with expertly paired tastings, the charming towns full of history and architecture, and the unique Franschhoek Tram ride that adds a fun, interactive element. Plus, with knowledgeable guides and a carefully curated schedule, it seems like a great value for those wanting a comprehensive day in the Cape Winelands. A possible drawback? The tour’s tightly packed itinerary might leave some wishing for more time at each stop. This experience suits travelers who love wine, enjoy beautiful scenery, and want a taste of South African culture—all without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines wine tastings, town visits, a tram ride, and a historic prison stop.
• Authentic Wine Tasting: Multiple wineries with pairings like cheese and Biltong, offering both variety and local flavor.
• Beautiful Scenery: Passes some of South Africa’s most well-known towns with picturesque architecture and lush vineyards.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Blaise, Dhillon, and Brandon receive high praise for their friendliness and expertise.
• Great Value: For $110, you get a full day of activities, transport, and tastings, making it budget-friendly.
• Limited Time at Each Stop: Some reviews mention a desire for longer stops in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, but this is typical of half-day tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with pick-up arranged at your accommodation. The first stop is at Zevenwacht Wine Estate, an award-winning vineyard known for its wine and cheese pairing. Here, you’ll enjoy a cellar tour and tasting that lasts about an hour. The estate’s reputation for quality makes it an excellent introduction to the region’s wines, and the pairing adds a delicious layer to the experience. Reviewers like Diane enjoyed Blaise’s knowledge, noting he shared plenty of interesting facts to enhance the tasting.

Next, you’ll head to Stellenbosch, the second-oldest town in South Africa, famous for its Cape Dutch architecture, historic oak trees, and charming streets. A 40-minute stop allows for a quick walk along Dorp Street, where you can admire the oldest buildings in the Southern Hemisphere or snap some photos of the picturesque scenery. The guide usually provides an overview, but some travelers, such as Jacques, wish they had more time to explore the town’s cafes and shops.

The journey then continues to Marianne Wine Estate, where you’ll sample wines paired with Biltong—South Africa’s favorite dried meat snack—at a tasting costing around R75. Reviews highlight the warmth of guides like Dhillon, who explained the wine and pairing details enthusiastically, making the tasting both fun and educational.

Then, it’s time to visit Franschhoek, a town renowned for its French heritage, stunning vineyards, and excellent cuisine. This stop is primarily for lunch, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy local flavors. Most itineraries include about an hour here, with some guests wishing for a bit longer to explore the town’s charming streets and shops. You’ll also get to see the Huguenot Monument, which commemorates the French Huguenots who settled in the area.

In the afternoon, the tour includes the Franschhoek Wine Tram experience, a highlight for many. The tram, which costs about R280, offers a scenic ride through vineyards and stops at select wineries, including Rickety Bridge. This winery, established in 1797, boasts a long tradition of quality, and its tasting is often considered one of the tour’s best moments. Guests have praised the setting and the personal touches from owner Duncan Spence, who has owned the estate since 2000.

Finally, the visit concludes with a meaningful stop at Groot Drakenstein Prison, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for his last 14 months. Standing at this historic site, with views of the mountains, offers a powerful reminder of South Africa’s past. The 25-minute stop here allows for reflection before heading back to Cape Town.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $110, this tour provides an immersive taste of Cape Winelands without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings. The included tastings at Zevenwacht, Marianne, and Rickety Bridge are complemented by the optional cheese and Biltong pairings, which add layers to each experience. The guided aspect means you gain insights into the region’s history, wine production, and local culture—something self-guided trips can’t easily replicate.

While some feel that the tightly packed schedule limits time in towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, this is true of most half-day tours. But it also means you get a broad overview of the area’s highlights, perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time. The tour’s great reviews highlight the quality of guides like Blaise, Dhillon, and Brandon, whose knowledge and friendly approach really enhance the experience.

The inclusion of the Franschhoek Tram ride is a clever touch, making the day more interactive and fun. Its scenic route through vineyards offers excellent photo opportunities, and the stops at key wineries like Rickety Bridge add a sense of tradition and authenticity.

Practical Considerations

The tour is operated by Excitement Travel and Tours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics. Be prepared for an early start, with pickup times starting between 7:30 and 8:10 AM, so it’s best to wait in the lobby or outside your accommodation a few minutes early. The tour lasts roughly 8-9 hours, giving you a comprehensive taste of the region.

The tastings at Zevenwacht and Rickety Bridge cost around R75-85 each, which is reasonable considering the quality and setting. The Franschhoek Tram ride is priced at R280, and while lunch is not included, you’ll have ample options in Franschhoek to suit various tastes and budgets.

Group sizes tend to be moderate, with some reviews mentioning private or small groups, which adds a personalized feel. The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy discovering new wines paired with local snacks, this tour will suit you well. The combination of scenic drives, historic towns, and engaging guides makes it ideal for first-time visitors to Cape Town wanting an overview of the region’s highlights. History buffs will appreciate the Mandela prison stop, while foodies and wine lovers will find plenty to savor.

However, if you’re after a slower-paced exploration or more free time in towns, you might find this tour a bit rushed. It’s perfect for those who want a structured day packed with variety and expert insights.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

This Cape Town wine tour offers a well-balanced look at the region’s beauty, history, and flavors. With knowledgeable guides, thoughtfully curated stops, and excellent value, it’s a fantastic introduction for anyone wanting a comprehensive day in the Cape Winelands. The inclusion of iconic towns, award-winning wineries, and a scenic tram ride ensures you’ll leave with great memories—and a few bottles to take home.

It’s especially suited for travelers who prioritize tasting quality wines, learning about South African culture, and enjoying beautiful scenery without the stress of logistics. While the schedule is busy, most guests find the experience rewarding and worth every penny.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
You should wait in the lobby or outside your accommodation about 5 to 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time, which ranges from 7:30 to 8:10 AM. The guide will confirm your exact time via WhatsApp or email the night before.

Are lunch and tastings included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, so you can choose where to eat in Franschhoek. Tastings at Zevenwacht, Marianne, and Rickety Bridge are included, with optional pairings like cheese and Biltong available at additional costs.

How long is the total tour?
The full day lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. It covers multiple stops and activities, so wear comfortable clothes and be prepared for a full-day outing.

Can I customize or add extra experiences?
This tour is a set package, but you may be able to add extra experiences, such as a longer stay in towns or additional tastings, directly with the operator or by arranging private tours.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the main activities focus on wine tastings, non-drinkers can often opt out or enjoy the scenic and cultural aspects of the stops. It’s best to communicate your preferences when booking.

How much does the wine tasting cost?
Standard tastings at Zevenwacht and Rickety Bridge are R75-85 per person, with the cheese and Biltong pairings at Marianne costing around R75. The Tram ride costs R280 per adult.

This guided tour offers a smart, scenic, and flavorful way to experience Cape Town’s renowned wine country. Whether you’re keen on tasting exceptional wines, exploring historic towns, or simply soaking up the views, it’s a well-rounded adventure for many types of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: