The 10 best markets in Cape Town

What is it? Easily the city’s finest food market, Oranjezicht City Farm Market (known locally as OZCFM) is set on the seafront at Granger Bay, a short stroll from the V&A Waterfront. Look forward to a vibrant farmers’ market experience, with locals stocking the pantry and tucking in at the varied food stalls. Open Saturdays (8.15am-2pm) and Sundays (9am-2pm). 

Why go? Grab a wicker basket and wander the tables piled high with fruit, vegetables, dairy products and meat from the carefully curated roster of growers and producers. If you work up an appetite, hit the food stalls in the rear section, dishing up everything from pho to pastéis de nata.

What is it? One of the oldest public spaces in the city (it’s been a market since 1696), Greenmarket Square was once the site of slave trading, and a place to sell market produce from the nearby Company’s Garden. 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 on to the square as the vendors set up. The historic significance of the square coupled with the entrepreneurial spirit of informal traders makes for a fun morning. As it’s located in the heart of the city, it’s also a convenient stop for anyone exploring central Cape Town.

What is it? Housed on the site of a former biscuit factory, Neighbourgoods Market is an urban renewal project that was the catalyst for the ongoing gentrification of the surrounding suburb of Woodstock. Every weekend, two covered warehouses host the coolest food, drinks and organic produce vendors. Open Saturdays (9am-6pm) and Sundays (10am-6pm).

Why go? Cape Town’s original hipster market has an unmistakable buzz. Try the steak sandwiches, samoosas and local beers. There are also selected clothes and craft designers in the parking lot space, so feel free to munch and browse – or just people-watch.

What is it? A bric-a-brac and antiques market where you can expect bargains galore. Full of oddball collectibles, Milnerton Flea Market is a magpie’s paradise and draws long-term vendors who travel from far and wide to set up shop. This is Cape Town’s best-loved flea market, set on a seafront parking lot against the backdrop of Table Mountain. Open Saturdays (8am-2pm), Sundays (8am-3pm) and some public holidays.

Why go? If it’s the hunt that excites you, Milnerton is the market for you. This is your chance to sift through paintings purchased from estate sales (and sold for a song), eerie WWII gas masks, vintage cutlery, ceramics and all kinds of other bits and pieces. Enjoy a soft serve while you haggle and appreciate the mountain view.

What is it? A contemporary take on the traditional souvenir market, The Watershed at the V&A is a section of the popular V&A Waterfront shopping precinct, which plays host to more than 150 traders selling South African-designed gifts, clothes, jewellery, homeware and crafts. Open daily 10am-6pm. 

Why go? Searching for souvenirs that don’t count as tourist kitsch? You can’t go wrong here. Expect jewellery made from upcycled fynbos plants, hand-painted ceramic ‘friendship bowls’ and African-inspired couture.

What is it? Set just back from the quayside in Hout Bay in a former fish factory, Bay Harbour Market is known for its lively, family-friendly vibe. Open Friday evenings (5pm-9pm), Saturdays and Sundays (9.30am-4pm both days).

Why go? Quirky clothes and craft items take up one large section of the market, but it’s the food hall that attracts most visitors. There’s a wonderful variety here, from Korean plates to pizza to grilled seafood. The Sound Stage features a roster of leading local musicians playing live, and always draws a faithful crowd.

What is it? A thriving neighbourhood market set in a former plane hangar in the bohemian seaside suburb of Muizenberg. Blue Bird Garage Food and Goods Market celebrates local businesses and always draws a lively crowd. Open Thursday and Friday evenings (4pm-10pm both days), it’s pet-friendly and has a separate section for kids to play in. 

Why go? Hang with the locals, just a few blocks back from the popular swimming beach at Muizenberg. This crowded space is crammed with hyper-local artisans and food producers dishing up tasty plates to enjoy on-site, alongside a range of hand-made produce to take home. Don’t miss the new speakeasy serving up customised cocktails.

What is it? Under the covered canopy of Trafalgar Place, the city’s much-loved flower vendors have been doing a fine floral trade at Adderley Street Flower Market since 1880. Wander past bucket-upon-bucket of fragrant flowers sold by long-term vendors who love to have a chat. Open daily 6am-6pm.  

Why go? For the great prices and a bit of banter. Alongside an array of colourful, cultivated flowers, look out for South Africa’s national flower – the king protea – as well as indigenous fynbos arrangements.

What is it? A firmly neighbourhood-focused market filled with local producers, craft stalls and a tempting array of food truck fare. Earth Fair Market takes place in the beautiful gardens of historic Timour Hall Villa.

Why go? Mingle with the locals and soak up the laid-back lifestyle of this leafy corner of the city. The excellent choice of food outlets – from top-drawer pizza to towering burgers – makes it an excellent option for an easy dinner out. There’s live music on offer, plus a great selection of local craft beers and spirits. Open Wednesday evenings (4pm-9pm) and Saturdays (9am-2pm).

What is it? A weekly, low-key event set on a wine estate, Cape Point Vineyards Community Market boasts the best views of any market in the city. If you like your sushi and sauvignon blanc with a side order of sunset vistas, you’ve come to the right place. Open Thursday evenings only (4.30pm-8.30pm).

Why go? It’s a suitably laid-back affair, catering largely for people from the surrounding area, which makes it a fine place to soak up local flavour along with stellar sunset views. The focus is on food stalls and enjoying your chosen fare on the wide lawns, so arrive hungry and don’t expect to do too much shopping.