Getting in

• Cape Town International Airport: Use Uber/Bolt or a pre-arranged hotel transfer; there is no direct public transport to Stellenbosch. Allow about 35–45 minutes in light traffic, longer in weekday peaks. A hotel shuttle is typically about R400–500 for up to four people; a ride-hail fare varies with demand. Skip anyone soliciting rides in the arrivals hall.
• Cape Town Station: MetroRail’s Cape Town–Bellville–Stellenbosch service is the budget option, but it is infrequent and not a good late-evening or luggage-heavy arrival plan. Stellenbosch station is on the western edge of town, a short walk from the centre. Check the live timetable and fare before committing; travel in a group and avoid weekday commuter peaks.
• Stellenbosch railway station: This is useful only if the MetroRail timetable happens to suit. The historic centre is a few minutes’ walk east; use Uber/Bolt rather than walking onward after dark.