City Sightseeing, the iconic bright-red open-top buses loved by locals and tourists alike, has rolled out a series of exciting upgrades and fresh experiences across South Africa. From a stylish revamp in Cape Town’s city centre to a brand-new vineyard tractor tour in Stellenbosch, and the contemporary redesign in Rosebank, Johannesburg, the operator is giving travellers even more reasons to hop on board.
Cape Town Gets A Fresh Look
If you’ve strolled down Long Street recently, you’ll know it’s more than just a nightlife hub. Soon, visitors will also find a modernised City Sightseeing stop at 81 Long Street, designed with extra comfort in mind while still keeping the street’s eclectic charm. Right next door, Kamili on Long, a local favourite for artisanal coffee and baked goods, is also reopening with a fresh new look.
On the road, a new stop has been added to the popular Mini-Peninsula Blue Tour Route. Since 13 September, Hout Bay’s Sentinel Precinct has become a must-visit addition. Think vibrant stalls at Bay Harbour Market, a taste of small-batch spirits at Hout Bay Harbour Distillery, craft beers, Sinful Ice Cream and classic seafood spots like Fish on the Rocks and Snoekies. With Panama Jacks set to open soon, it’s clear the harbour is transforming into one of Cape Town’s buzziest pockets.
Stellenbosch Welcomes A Wine Tractor Tour
In the Winelands, City Sightseeing has introduced something truly unique: a guided tractor wine tour at Eikendal estate. Passengers are transported from Cape Town to Stellenbosch before climbing aboard a tractor that winds its way through the estate’s rolling vineyards.
“It’s not just about wine tasting,” says David Henwood, City Sightseeing South Africa’s CMO. “It’s about experiencing Stellenbosch’s culture in a new way.”
Wine tourism has always been one of the Cape’s biggest drawcards, but the tractor twist adds a playful edge that’s bound to resonate with travellers looking for something beyond the usual cellar-door experience.
Johannesburg’s Rosebank Stop Gets A Makeover
Up north, Joburg hasn’t been left out. At The Zone @ Rosebank, one of the city’s busiest lifestyle hubs, City Sightseeing has completed its redesign. The upgrades promise a more contemporary, comfortable space, while also giving passengers easy access to Rosebank’s mix of shopping, art and dining. Perfect for those wanting to combine a tour of Johannesburg with a stylish stopover.
Why These Upgrades Matter for South African Tourism
Tourism is a vital lifeline for South Africa’s cities. By refreshing stops and adding new routes, City Sightseeing is not only keeping its tours relevant but also supporting small local businesses — from harbour markets and ice cream makers to family-owned wine estates. For locals, it’s also a reminder that you don’t need to leave the country to feel like a tourist.
Image Source: Joburg Red Bus on X
