Top 5 Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting the Franschhoek Wine Tram
So, you’re planning a day out on the Franschhoek Wine Tram? Brilliant choice! Whether it’s your first time joining us or you’re back for round two (or five – we see you!), we’ve gathered a few of our go-to tips to help make your experience as easy, smooth, and wine-filled as possible.
These aren’t rules, just things we’ve learned from years of riding the rails (and stopping for a few glasses along the way).
1. Start Early (Trust us on this one)
We get it, Franschhoek mornings are made for lingering lie-ins. But if you’re keen to visit a good number of estates, an earlier departure gives you more time to sip and stroll without feeling rushed. Think of it as easing into the day with a glass in hand, rather than sprinting through your final tasting because the last tram is waiting.
Plus, it gives you more time to sit back, relax, and soak up those vineyard views.
2. Tram-First or Bus-First? There’s No Wrong Answer!
This is one of the questions we hear most often. And honestly? Both options are great! Tram-first means you hop straight onto our open-sided tram and glide into wine country in style. Bus-first lets you start a little deeper in the valley and work your way back.
It really depends on which estates you’re most excited to visit and where you’d like to start your sipping. Either way, you’ll see stunning scenery, meet lovely people, and try some fantastic wines.
3. Book Your Lunch Ahead of Time
A day of wine tasting is made infinitely better with a proper lunch, and some of the restaurants along our routes are destinations in their own right. They do tend to fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so if there’s a place you’ve been dreaming of, we recommend booking in advance.
No one wants to be hangry on a wine tram.
Browse the estate restaurant options HERE
4. Want to Do More Than Taste? Plan for It!
Many of our estates offer more than just wine tastings, think cellar tours where you can see how the magic is made, or laid-back picnics on the lawn with vineyard views for days. If something like that is on your wishlist, it’s worth booking ahead to avoid missing out.
Our team’s always happy to point you in the right direction – we know these stops like the backs of our hands.
5. Drink Water, Eat Snacks, and Pace Yourself
It’s not the most exciting tip, but it’s possibly the most important. There’s plenty to taste, but pacing yourself means you’ll enjoy the whole day, and the whole weekend, a lot more. Pop a bottle of water in your bag, snack as you go, and don’t be shy to skip a tasting.
One last thing…
Every Wine Tram journey is a little different, and that’s what we love most about it. Whether you’re in it for the wine, the scenery, the food, or the fresh mountain air, there’s no “right” way to do it, just your way.
See you aboard soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Most estates allow you to purchase bottles to take with you, and many offer shipping services—both locally and internationally. It’s a great way to relive your favourite tastings after your trip.
While the experience is wine-focused, children are welcome aboard, and several estates offer non-alcoholic options and family-friendly activities (like garden walks or picnics). There are also discounts for kids’ tickets.
Smart casual is the usual vibe! Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking between tastings and exploring estates. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen—those vineyard lawns are gorgeous, but the sun can be strong!
Yes, the Wine Tram operates rain or shine! The trams are partially covered, and there are cozy tasting rooms at each estate. Bring a light rain jacket or umbrella just in case, and embrace the moody vineyard vibes.
Most guests spend around 60-90 minutes at each estate, which gives you enough time for a tasting and a stroll or a snack. If you’ve booked lunch or an activity, you might want a little longer—check the tram schedule so you don’t miss your next ride!
