Franschhoek, one of South Africa’s oldest towns, is only a 54 mile (87 km) drive from Cape Town. Travelers can rent a car or hire a private transfer to get there. It’s also possible to take a train or a bus to Paarl and book a private transfer for the rest of the way, though these options are less convenient.
Renting a car is the most affordable way of doing the trip. But if you’re planning a day trip that involves Franschhoek’s famous vineyards, booking a private transfer offers the chance to fully enjoy the wine tasting experience without worrying about driving. Those with extra time might consider this 11-day self-drive tour itinerary that includes a trip to Gondwana Game Reserve.
The quickest and most convenient way of getting to Franschhoek is by car. Travelers who choose to drive a rental car should be aware of traffic—outside of rush hour, you can expect the trip to be just over an hour; during rush hour, your trip will take close to two hours. Booking a private transfer is more expensive, but a great convenience given the popularity of wine tasting at the Franschhoek vineyards. The rideshare app Uber is also commonly used here.
Those wishing to use this method will need to book their return tickets from Cape Town to Paarl in advance. After arriving in Paarl, travelers will have to hire a private transfer for the rest of the route.
While taking the train offers a truly authentic South African experience, it is not your best option. Travelers should be aware that, for safety reasons, train travel here is only advised during daylight hours. In recent years, the Cape Town Metrorail service has also experienced inconsistencies with timing and arrivals. The train route ends at Paarl and travelers will need to hire a private transfer for the rest of the route.
Renting a car is the most affordable way of doing the trip. But if you’re planning a day trip that involves Franschhoek’s famous vineyards, booking a private transfer offers the chance to fully enjoy the wine tasting experience without worrying about driving. Those with extra time might consider this 11-day self-drive tour itinerary that includes a trip to Gondwana Game Reserve.
By Car or Private Transfer
Duration: 1-2 hoursThe quickest and most convenient way of getting to Franschhoek is by car. Travelers who choose to drive a rental car should be aware of traffic—outside of rush hour, you can expect the trip to be just over an hour; during rush hour, your trip will take close to two hours. Booking a private transfer is more expensive, but a great convenience given the popularity of wine tasting at the Franschhoek vineyards. The rideshare app Uber is also commonly used here.
By Bus and Private Transfer
Duration: 1.5-2 hoursThose wishing to use this method will need to book their return tickets from Cape Town to Paarl in advance. After arriving in Paarl, travelers will have to hire a private transfer for the rest of the route.
By Train and Private Transfer
Duration: 2-3.5 hoursWhile taking the train offers a truly authentic South African experience, it is not your best option. Travelers should be aware that, for safety reasons, train travel here is only advised during daylight hours. In recent years, the Cape Town Metrorail service has also experienced inconsistencies with timing and arrivals. The train route ends at Paarl and travelers will need to hire a private transfer for the rest of the route.
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