Looking for authentic Cape Town markets to explore? The Mother City is a shopper’s paradise, with vibrant markets, boutiques, and artisan spaces offering everything from African crafts to designer goods—all easily accessible from Century City.
Why Shop Local in Cape Town’s Markets?
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best places to shop like a local in the Mother City, helping you find unique souvenirs, handcrafted goods, and fashionable items that showcase the city’s creative spirit.
Greenmarket Square: Historic Cape Town Market with Global Flair
Located in the heart of Cape Town, Greenmarket Square is a vibrant, bustling market steeped in history.
Established in the 17th century, the market is now a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering an array of African crafts, textiles, jewelry, and curios. Haggling is expected, so come prepared to negotiate and score some great deals.
Just a short drive from our Century City hotels.
The Old Biscuit Mill: A Trendy Hub for Artisans and Designers
The Old Biscuit Mill, situated in the lively neighborhood of Woodstock, is a trendy shopping destination that brings together local artisans, designers, and food vendors.
Browse the boutiques and studios for unique clothing, accessories, and homewares, or visit the Neighbourhood Goods Market on Saturdays for a mix of gourmet food, crafts, and live music.
The Watershed at V&A Waterfront: South African Design Market
Located at the V&A Waterfront, The Watershed is a contemporary market showcasing the best of South African design.
Housing over 150 stalls, the market offers a diverse range of products, including fashion, jewelry, homewares, and souvenirs.
The Watershed is an excellent destination for finding unique, locally-made items to take home.
The Pan African Market: A Cultural Shopping Experience
The Pan African Market, located on Long Street, is a vibrant and colorful shopping destination that offers a wide range of African art, crafts, textiles, and clothing.
Browse the various stalls, chat with the friendly vendors, and find unique treasures from across the African continent.
Kalk Bay: Seaside Shopping Village with Quirky Boutiques
The picturesque fishing village of Kalk Bay is home to an eclectic mix of quirky boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries.
Wander along the main street, popping into charming stores like Oh So Boho, Treasure House, and the Kalk Bay Co-op for unique, locally-made items and vintage finds.
Woodstock Exchange: A Creative Hub for Independent Designers
The Woodstock Exchange, situated in the heart of Woodstock, is a creative hub for independent designers, artists, and craftsmen.
This trendy complex houses a variety of studios, shops, and galleries, offering everything from clothing and accessories to furniture and artworks.
The Mojo Market: A Seaside Shopping and Foodie Destination
The Mojo Market, located in the vibrant suburb of Sea Point, is a lively indoor market that offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Browse the various stalls for unique clothing, accessories, and crafts, or sample the delicious food offerings from the market’s many vendors.
Kloof Street: A Fashionable Shopping Strip
Kloof Street, situated at the foot of Table Mountain, is a fashionable shopping destination lined with trendy boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.
Browse stores like Mungo & Jemima, African Nova, and Kloof Street Emporium for chic clothing, accessories, and homewares, and be sure to stop for a coffee or a meal at one of the many stylish eateries along the way.
The Oranjezicht City Farm Market: A Fresh, Local Shopping Experience
The Oranjezicht City Farm Market, held every Saturday and Sunday at Granger Bay, is a popular destination for locals seeking fresh, organic produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods.
This community-driven market supports small-scale farmers, bakers, and craftspeople, making it an excellent place to find unique, locally-made products while supporting Cape Town’s creative community.
Cape Town’s shopping scene offers a diverse mix of markets, boutiques, and shopping destinations that cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
By exploring the city’s vibrant markets, trendy neighborhoods, and hidden gems, you can discover unique, locally-made treasures that capture the essence of Cape Town’s creative spirit.
Whether you’re searching for handcrafted souvenirs, stylish clothing, or gourmet treats, these shopping spots offer an authentic, unforgettable experience that allows you to shop like a local.
And the best part? If you’re staying in one of our hotels in Cape Town, our central location means you’re only minutes away from all the markets above. What are you waiting for?
After shopping, relax at our Century City location with easy access to all areas. Looking for specific Cape Town souvenirs? Check our guide.
Experience Cape Town Markets from Your Century City Base
Cape Town’s markets offer an authentic glimpse into the Mother City’s creative soul, from the historic charm of Greenmarket Square to the contemporary design showcase at The Watershed. Whether you’re hunting for African crafts, artisan jewelry, vintage treasures, or locally-made fashion, these markets deliver experiences you won’t find in conventional shopping centers.
Staying at our Bridgewater Hotel or Urban Square Hotel in Century City puts you in the perfect position to explore Cape Town’s best shopping destinations. Our central location means you’re just a short drive from all the markets featured in this guide, with the added convenience of secure parking and easy access to main routes.
After a day of market shopping, return to the comfort of your Century City accommodation where you can relax with your finds and plan your next adventure. Need recommendations on which markets to visit first? Our concierge team is always happy to provide insider tips based on your interests and schedule.
Looking for specific items to bring home? Check out our complete guide to Cape Town souvenirs for more shopping inspiration. Ready to explore Cape Town like a local? Book your stay and discover why shopping at Cape Town markets is an unforgettable part of your Mother City experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cape Town Markets
What is the best market in Cape Town?
The “best” market depends on what you’re looking for. Greenmarket Square is ideal for African crafts and souvenirs, while The Watershed at V&A Waterfront offers the widest selection of South African design. For foodies and artisan goods, the Oranjezicht City Farm Market is unbeatable. The Old Biscuit Mill’s Neighbourhood Goods Market combines excellent food vendors with local crafts, making it perfect for a Saturday outing.
Are Cape Town markets open on Sundays?
Yes, several Cape Town markets operate on Sundays. The Oranjezicht City Farm Market runs both Saturday and Sunday at Granger Bay. Greenmarket Square is open seven days a week, including Sundays. The Watershed at V&A Waterfront is also open daily. However, the popular Neighbourhood Goods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill only operates on Saturdays, so plan accordingly.
Can you bargain at Cape Town markets?
Bargaining is expected and welcome at certain Cape Town markets, particularly Greenmarket Square and the Pan African Market where haggling is part of the cultural shopping experience. Start by offering 20-30% below the asking price and negotiate respectfully. However, at more upscale venues like The Watershed, the Old Biscuit Mill, and boutique shops in Kalk Bay or Kloof Street, prices are typically fixed.
Which Cape Town markets are closest to Century City?
From Century City, you can reach most major Cape Town markets within 10-20 minutes by car. The Watershed at V&A Waterfront is approximately 15 minutes away, while Greenmarket Square in the CBD is about 12 minutes. The Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock is roughly 15 minutes, and the Oranjezicht City Farm Market is about 20 minutes. All are easily accessible via main routes with available parking nearby.
What should I bring when shopping at Cape Town markets?
Bring cash for smaller vendors and market stalls, as not all accept card payments. A reusable shopping bag is essential for carrying your purchases. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be on your feet exploring various stalls. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended for outdoor markets, and don’t forget your camera to capture the vibrant atmosphere and unique finds.
Are Cape Town markets safe for tourists?
Yes, the markets featured in this guide are generally safe during operating hours, especially popular venues like V&A Waterfront, the Old Biscuit Mill, and Oranjezicht City Farm Market. As with any busy shopping area, keep your belongings secure and stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash. Shopping during daylight hours is recommended, and most markets have security present.
What time do Cape Town markets open?
Market hours vary by location. Greenmarket Square typically operates from 9am-4pm daily. The Neighbourhood Goods Market at Old Biscuit Mill runs Saturdays from 9am-2pm. The Oranjezicht City Farm Market opens at 8am on weekends. The Watershed at V&A Waterfront follows mall hours, generally 9am-9pm daily. The Mojo Market operates from 11am-10pm most days. Always check specific market websites or social media for current hours before visiting.
Can I ship purchases home from Cape Town markets?
Many vendors at Cape Town markets, particularly at The Watershed and upscale boutiques, can arrange shipping for larger purchases. The V&A Waterfront has a post office and courier services nearby. For valuable or fragile items, consider using a reputable international courier service. Some vendors can package items securely for you to carry on flights. Always ask about shipping options when making significant purchases, and keep receipts for customs purposes.