Cape Town Cycle Tour 2026: Best things to do, eat and see during race weekend
Cape Town is gearing up for one of its most exciting weekends of the year as the Cape Town Cycle Tour returns on Sunday
Image: Erin Carelse
Cape Town is gearing up for one of its most exciting weekends of the year as the Cape Town Cycle Tour returns on Sunday, March 8.
Often called the “world’s largest timed cycling race,” the iconic event will see around 30 000 riders tackle the famous 109km route around the Cape Peninsula in the 48th edition of the race.
City officials say about 10 000 cyclists are travelling from outside Cape Town, bringing thousands of supporters and spectators expected to fill hotels, restaurants and attractions across the city.
Major routes across Cape Town will close from Thursday to Sunday as the 2026 Cape Town Cycle Tour winds through the CBD, southern suburbs, Atlantic Seaboard and False Bay.
Image: File: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Newspapers
Beyond the sporting spectacle, the race is also a major boost for the local economy.
Previous editions of the event have been estimated to inject more than R500 million into the city through tourism, hospitality and transport.
Whether you’re riding, supporting a cyclist or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, here’s how to make the most of Cycle Tour weekend.
Start the weekend at the Cycle Tour Expo
Race weekend begins with rider registration and the Lifecycle Expo at the DHL Stadium.
More than 80 exhibitors will showcase cycling gear, technology, nutrition and apparel, with organisers expecting around 30 000 visitors over the three-day event.
Opening times:
- Thursday: 9.30am – 7pm
- Friday: 9am – 7pm
- Saturday: 9am – 4pm
Entry is free for participating cyclists and children under 12. Non-participants pay R50.
Even if you’re not riding, it’s a great place to soak up the buzz before race day.
Saturday: Explore Cape Town’s famous food markets
Saturday afternoon is the perfect time to relax and enjoy some of the city’s most popular food markets.
At the Neighbourgoods Market, visitors will find gourmet street food, artisanal products and a lively atmosphere.
For fresh produce and healthy meals with ocean views, the Oranjezicht City Farm Market is always a favourite with families.
Meanwhile, the Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay offers live music, crafts and a wide variety of international food stalls in a vibrant indoor setting.
Saturday night: Family-friendly spots for a pre-race meal
Many cyclists keep things simple the night before race day with a classic carb-loading dinner.
Family-friendly options near the CBD include Col'Cacchio, known for its pizzas and pastas, and Scala Pasta Bar, which serves hearty Italian comfort food.
For something more casual, Jerry’s Burger Bar is a popular stop for burgers, wraps and generous portions.
These restaurants are all close to the race start area and convenient for riders staying in the city.
A classic carb-loading dinner is perfect for the night before race day.
Image: Eduardo Krajan / Pexels
Sunday: Where to watch the race
Spectators are encouraged to line the route and cheer riders on.
Popular viewing spots include:
- Mostert’s Mill on the M3
- Jubilee Square in Simon’s Town
- Noordhoek Farm Village
- Hout Bay CBD
- Camps Bay Main Road
- Sea Point Promenade
- The finish line on Helen Suzman Boulevard
These locations offer great race energy and plenty of nearby cafés for coffee or breakfast.
Cyclists prepare for the start of the Cape Town Cycle Tour at the Grand Parade in Cape Town.
Image: Supplied
Plan ahead for road closures
Motorists should plan carefully as several road closures will affect traffic across the city.
Key routes impacted include:
- Sections of Chapman’s Peak Drive
- The outbound M3
- Nelson Mandela Boulevard (N2 outbound)
- Hospital Bend Interchange
- Victoria Road through Camps Bay
- Main Road (M4) through the Deep South
In the CBD, Castle Street between Darling and Strand streets will be closed from 7pm on Friday until 6am on Saturday to allow construction of the start gantry.
Additional closures begin Saturday afternoon and remain in place until late Sunday.
After the race: Relax and celebrate
After cycling more than 100km around the peninsula, riders and their families will likely want to unwind.
A stroll along the Sea Point Promenade is a great way to relax while enjoying ocean views.
For a celebratory drink or meal, Grand Africa Café & Beach offers a laid-back beach setting, while Café Extrablatt in Green Point is a great family-friendly option close to the finish area.
Sea Point promenade is a great space to unwind after the race.
Image: Brendan Magaar / Independent Newspapers
From buzzing markets and carb-loading dinners to cheering crowds along the route, the Cape Town Cycle Tour weekend is about far more than just the race.
For riders, families and spectators alike, it’s a chance to experience Cape Town at its most energetic.