Get your bearings by spending the morning exploring the coastal city; bike and bus tours reveal more about colonial history and culture, and typically take you to districts such as Mondesa and the Democratic Resettlement Community. Choose from a range of itineraries to suit you—if you’re interested in Namibian cuisine, try a food tasting tour, or immerse yourself in local customs on a cultural tour led by a local.

Dedicate your afternoon to exploring the attractions dotted in the center, which include the Swakopmund Museum, Woerman House, and the National Marine Aquarium. Or, opt for an out-of-town tour to see the city’s coastal desert surrounds. Foodies can explore nearby farms and breweries for a taste of fresh Namibian produce, or snack their way around the center on a food tour, which allows you to overcome the language barrier and discover dishes you may otherwise have missed. Alternatively, nature lovers can glimpse desert flora and fauna on a nature tour; desert biking experiences are ideal for adrenaline-seekers, while chauffeured tours let you create your own sightseeing tour of the Namibian desert.

Unwind after an active day with drinks and dinner on the beachfront—several upscale hotels line the promenade on the way up to Vogelstrand and offer prime views of the Swakop sunset. If you’re not ready to retire to bed after dinner, the city center is also home to many trendy bars—try Desert Tavern or Kücki' s Pub for a relaxing nightcap.