8 great markets in Cape Town

What is it? One of the oldest public spaces in the city (est. 1696), Greenmarket Square was once the site of slave trade and a place to sell market produce from the Company Gardens close by. Today you’ll find of a vast collection of African curios from wooden giraffes to beaded vuvuzelas. Open daily. 

Why go? Come for the vibe, stay for the bargains. Start with breakfast at one of the cafés spilling onto the square as the vendors set up. The historic importance of the square coupled with the entrepreneurial spirit of informal traders, makes for a fun morning.

What is it? Housed on the site for a former biscuit factory, this project was the catalyst for Woodstock’s gentrification. Every Saturday two covered warehouses host the coolest food, drinks and organic produce vendors. Open Saturdays only. 

Why go? Cape Town’s original “hipster” market has an unmistakable buzz. Try the steak sandwiches, samoosas and local beers. Selected clothes and craft designers take up the parking lot space so you’re free to munch and browse (or people-watch).

What is it? Bric-à-brac and bargains galore, this is a magpie’s paradise and draws career-vendors who come from across the province. This is Cape Town’s best-loved flea market set endearingly against a backdrop of Table Mountain. Open Saturdays and Sundays.

Why go? If it’s the hunt that excites you, expect anything from pretty oil paintings purchased from estate sales and sold for a song, eerie WWII gas masks, vintage cutlery, ceramics and other collectibles (and trash). Enjoy a soft serve, squinting at the mountain.

What is it? The OZCFM has found a home in Granger Bay near the Waterfront and is host to a true organic farmers’ market experience. Home cooks shop here and there are plenty of food stalls too. Open Saturdays and Sundays. 

Why go? Grab a straw basket and wander the rows of fruit, vegetables, dairy and meat from the carefully curated growers and suppliers. For the hungry, the fresh juices, falafel-stuffed pitas and pastéis de nata are sure to please.

What is it? Modern and luxurious but ultimately affordable, this section of the popular shopping mall at the waterfront, houses a gorgeous selection of South African-designed gifts, clothes, jewelry, home ware and crafts. Open daily. 

Why go? For keepsakes for loved ones with impeccable taste, you can’t go wrong here. Look for jewelry made from upcycled fynbos plants, vibrant hand painted ceramic “friendship” bowls and African-inspired couture.

What is it? In a former fishing factory at the edge of the sea in Hout Boy, this covered market is known for its boisterous, family friendly atmosphere. Open Friday evenings, Saturdays and Sundays 

Why go? Quirky clothes and craft items take up one section next to the generous food offerings of raw foods, kombucha, pizzas and grilled seafood. The live sound stage with top local musicians draws a faithful crowd.

What is it? Under the covered canopy of Trafalgar Place, the city’s flower vendors have been doing a fine trade since 1880. Pass bucket upon bucket of fragrant flowers sold by established vendors who are loved by locals. Open Mondays to Saturdays. 

Why go? Go for the prices and a bit of banter. Look out for the national flower, the protea and other fynbos like indigenous pincushions, amongst the roses, lilies and sunflowers. This market is living proof of the black-owned businesses that have existed in spite of the odds for over a century under numerous repressive regimes.

What is it? Situated in the historic Company Gardens where the Dutch established a victualing station in 1652, this pet-friendly market offers food stalls, activities like yoga and salsa under the oaks. Open Sundays.

Why go? Adjacent to the Iziko South African museum, the Slave Lodge and National library, these picturesque grounds offer a relaxed, family-friendly outing in the city center. Look out for the cute wire animals, and indulge in the curries and vegan fare, face-painting and pony rides for kids.