Best Things to do in Paarl | Must-see attractions 2025

Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Nature reserve

Jan Phillips Bergpad

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Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve offers scenic hiking and biking trails, unique rock formations, and views over Drakenstein Valley in Paarl, South Africa.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free. Hiking maps available for purchase at the main gate.

Paarl Bird Sanctuary

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Nature reserve

Drommedaris St

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Paarl Bird Sanctuary is a nature preserve in Paarl, South Africa, protecting various bird species and featuring lush landscapes, ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated to assist with maintenance.

Red Hot Glass

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Suid After Paarl Rd Spice Route Wine Estate

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Red Hot Glass in Paarl, South Africa, offers visitors a chance to watch skilled artisans blow glass in a vibrant studio and gallery setting.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Workshops may have a separate fee.

Cheetah Experience Ashia

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Nature reserve

Sonstraal Rd

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Cheetah Experience Ashia in Paarl, South Africa, spans 35 hectares, focusing on the conservation of endangered big and small cats, particularly cheetahs.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Paid. Prices for adults and children may vary.

Paarl Town Hall

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Architectural Building

250 Main Road

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Paarl Town Hall in South Africa's Cape Winelands celebrates the history of Afrikaans and showcases local architectural beauty in the heart of Paarl.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Events may have separate charges.

Old Rembrandt Shopping Mall

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Mall

Lady Grey Street

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Old Rembrandt Shopping Mall in Paarl, South Africa, offers diverse shopping options along with dining and entertainment facilities in a well-structured setting.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Certain events may require entry fees.

Boschenmeer Golf Estate

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

Wemmershoek drive

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Boschenmeer Golf Estate in Paarl, South Africa offers an 18-hole championship golf course surrounded by beautiful nature and stunning views of the mountains.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours for a full round.

Green fees apply, typically ranging from R500 to R1,200 depending on the season and day.

Paarl Mall

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

New Eskdale Street

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Paarl Mall features a wide range of shopping options, dining locations, and entertainment facilities, making it a central hub in Paarl, South Africa.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Free. Some specific events may have associated costs.

Pearl Valley Golf Course

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

R301 between Paarl and Franschoek

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Pearl Valley Golf Course in Paarl, South Africa, features 18 championship holes designed by Jack Nicklaus, surrounded by natural beauty and the majestic Simonsberg Mountains.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees apply. Rates vary based on time of day and season.

Afrikaans Language Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

11 Pastorie Ave

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Afrikaans Language Museum in Paarl, South Africa, explores the history and development of Afrikaans through interactive exhibits, showcasing contributions from diverse cultures.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Combo tickets available for Taal Monument at a discounted rate.

Paarl Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

12 Pastorie Ave

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Paarl Museum, located in the Oude Pastorie built in 1714, features Cape Dutch antiques and Huguenot cultural relics, illustrating the history of Paarl, South Africa.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Taal Monument

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Monument

Paarl

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The Taal Monument in Paarl, South Africa, honors the Afrikaans language and showcases striking architecture with panoramic views, marking its historical significance since 1975.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Special events may require paid tickets.

Het Gesticht Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

112 Main Road

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Het Gesticht Museum in Paarl, South Africa, offers rich historical insights, showcasing local culture and heritage through its unique artifacts and architecture.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have a fee.

Laborie Centre

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Mall

South Africa

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Laborie Centre in Paarl, South Africa, features diverse shopping, local crafts, and culinary options, set against a backdrop of scenic vineyards and mountains.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Babylonstoren Wine Estate

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Winery

Klapmuts - Simondium Rd

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Babylonstoren Wine Estate is a beautiful winery in Paarl. It offers a range of wines and features stunning gardens that visitors can explore.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

$10

Babylonstoren

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Garden

R45 Road between Paarl and Franscchoek between Paarl and Franschhoek

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Babylonstoren is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms in South Africa, dating back to 1692. It features a stunning garden filled with edible plants, ponds, and a maze of cacti, making it a beautiful spot for visitors.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

$35 for cellar tour and tasting, free to enter garden, lunch costs vary

Afrikaans Language Monument

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Monument

Gabbema Doordrift Street

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The Afrikaans Language Monument is a striking architectural structure in Paarl. It honors the Afrikaans language and its cultural significance in South Africa, featuring unique design elements that celebrate the history and development of the language.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

The Alpaca Loom Coffee Shop and Weaving Studio

10:00 AM-6:00 PM

Sights

Suid Agter Paarl Road

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The Alpaca Loom Coffee Shop and Weaving Studio offers a delightful experience with coffee and cakes while you enjoy views of alpacas and Table Mountain. Visitors can see weavers at work and explore the petting zoo, making it a fun outing for families.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

$5

Backsberg

10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Winery

Klapmuts - Simondium Rd

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Backsberg is a popular winery in Paarl known for its quality wines and beautiful outdoor setting. Visitors can enjoy various tasting options, including wine paired with chocolate or cheese, and even create their own blend.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

$10-20