With great effort from local architects and historic preservation societies, Long Street was saved from demolition in the 1970s and has since transformed into Cape Town’s leisure and entertainment hub. Its busiest section runs from the junction of Buitensingel Street to Strand Street where youngsters can often be found drinking and socializing at street-level outdoor patios. With so many available food and shopping choices, the sidewalks of Long Street are filled with local residents as well as travelers from nearby backpacking lodges. Visitors can peruse the African crafts found in stores lining the street, or they can people-watch from the balconies of its many restaurants and bars. More importantly, the busy commercial thoroughfare showcases Cape Town’s rich culture and diversity, with landmarks such as the Palm Tree Mosque and Mission Church—some of the oldest religious establishments in the city. The street’s central location makes it highly accessible by public transport, though most visitors arrive on foot, especially during holidays when Long Street and adjacent roads are completely closed off to traffic.

Lined by Victorian-style buildings with wrought-iron balconies, Long Street is often compared to the French Quarter in New Orleans. The street’s architecture is not the only trait it shares with the famous French Quarter. Like its counterpart, Long Street functions as the main parade ground for all of Cape Town’s major festivals and celebrations, and it is constantly abuzz with activity. Before gaining its reputation a festival street, Long Street was more widely known in the 1970s as a main site for political demonstrations and anti-apartheid performances. The 3.8km-long thoroughfare that begins at the iconic harborfront now takes pedestrians and vehicles right into the heart of the central business district, hosting an array of antique shops, second-hand bookstores, bars, and restaurants.

Image credits: shi zhao via Flickr, Anne Fröhlich via Flickr, Wesley Nitsckie via Flickr, 4thethrillofit via Flickr, flowcomm via Flickr, Richard Mortel via Flickr 

Website: www.capetown.travel