The 15 best places to thrift, bargain hunt and shop in Durban

A historical landmark located in the heart of the Durban CBD and bustling with the vibrancy that makes this city unique; the Victoria Street Market is a hub of cultural enterprises and diverse traders, offering a range of products from fresh produce, spices, traditional cuisine and medicine to beadwork, clothing, accessories and electronics. This market is an ideal stop for tourists and locals wanting to explore the expanse of the city in one space. Operating hours are 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday; 8am to 4pm on Saturdays; and 9am to 3pm on Sundays.

151/155 Victoria Street, Durban Central

Is it stereotypical to associate Durban with curry, bunny chows and biryani? Perhaps, but it is renowned for its delicious and fragrant cuisine – aromatic, intense and spicy. It is a sensory experience of blending spices together. “When in Rome” as they say, so “when in Durban” why not source the best components of their unique curry flavour? Mumbai Spiceworks is home to authentic Kashmiri chilli powder, garam masala and mixed masala - staples in many local homes. Offering the highest quality ground spices, whole spices, marinades and sauces, Mumbai Spiceworks is the secret to a good home-made curry. Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, Saturdays from 9am to 4pm and Sundays from 9am to 2pm.

Shop No. 7, 319 Felix Dlamini Road, Overport

Located in the recently revamped district of Durban’s Point Waterfront, The Station Collective is nestled at the juncture of something old and something new, for very good reason. It is a co-op space which showcases and sells products from small businesses and creative people; young artists and upcoming fashion designers have a space to market their talents at The Station Collective. A bohemian’s corner filled with art, postcards, embroidery patches and tailor-made, as well as, second-hand clothing. It is a space that is encouraging the growth of the creative economy and contributing to the work of sustainability by selling thrifted, as well as upcycled clothing. Open Thursday and Friday, 11am – 5pm, and every weekend, from 10am – 5pm.

170 Mahatma Gandhi Road

The KZNSA Gallery is Durban’s prime destination for showcasing the artistic work of both local and international producers. The shop attached to the gallery boasts a wide range of unique local art, homeware, textiles, fashion and accessories, jewellery, local art books, stationery and cosmetics ranges; all of which are produced in KwaZulu-Natal by independent makers. The shop was established in the late 1980s to retail the work of local crafters, and continues to source the work of locally-based independents, small and medium-sized enterprises, designers, crafters and artists. The shop currently represents the work of over 300 local crafters, designers and small creative businesses. Operating hours are Tuesday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, Saturdays from 9am to 4pm and Sundays and Public Holidays from 9am to 3pm.

166 Bulwer Road, Bulwer

There is a creaky wooden staircase leading up to the plethora of books located upstairs at an old building on Florida Road; like journeying to a hidden trove, an unexpected find in a fabled attic. Stocking an eclectic mix of books, from science fiction to geopolitics, Ike’s bookshop is a haven for local booklovers. There are vast sections to choose from, and shelves stocked to the brim – for any genre you can imagine. Ike’s Books and Collectables is a second-hand, out of print and antiquarian bookshop, which also hosts book launches and discussions for readers. The love of books is intrinsic to Ike’s and an open invitation to anyone who feels the same about the written word and the inherent power of them. Open from Monday to Friday 10am to 4 pm and Saturdays 9am to 2pm.

48A Florida Road, Windermere, Berea

On the last Friday of every month, Northwood Crusaders Sports Club is transformed into Durban’s premiere night market. Over 90 vendors fill the rugby field with the sweet smells of fresh food - boasting a range of various cuisines - as well as an eclectic offering of fashion items, organic beauty products and artisanal handmade goods. Children will enjoy themselves amongst the jumping castles and free space to play. Adults can enjoy the beverages provided at the Crusaders bar, as well as the live music and sports matches being screened (should there be an important match on – it will not be missed). Pet Friendly, the 031 Night Market takes place on the last Friday of the month from 5pm to 9pm.

10 Ranleigh Cres, Durban North

Textiles remain a prominent component to Durban’s economy. Having a long history of established fabric shops in the CBD, Minty’s has over 40 years of experience within this business; offering customers a unique opportunity to explore fabrics from casual to couture. Anyone in search of fabric for a memorable occasion, such as a wedding or matric dance, would not go amiss with a visit to Minty’s – a store dedicated to the sartorial craftsmanship of dressmaking. Minty’s Fabrics has become a South African landmark for unique, premiere fabric. Open Monday to Thursday 9am to 4:30pm, Fridays 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 4:30pm and Saturdays 9am to 2pm.

542 Peter Mokaba Ridge, Overport

Located in the heart of Kloof at the SPCA, the Village Green Market is a paradise unto itself. Peacocks parade the outskirts of this picturesque setting where majestic jacaranda trees surround the stoney pathways that interconnect the various stalls offering a selection of art, clothing, books, furniture and crockery. The items are sold to fund the work of the Kloof and Highway SPCA. Pre-loved and well-conditioned items are welcome for donation. There is also a Tea Garden which offers a delightful selection of freshly baked cakes, scones and quiches, to be enjoyed and savoured in the company of the jacaranda’s scattered purple blossoms. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 8am to 3pm.

29 Village Road, Kloof

A house is not a home without a plant withering in the corner somewhere. Thankfully, there are places like Bloomingdales Garden Centre which offer a wide range of support for any of your photosynthesising companions. The Bloomingdales Garden Centre stocks a huge variety of plants, pavers, edging, fertilisers, pots, water features, garden ornaments and much more. They also offer landscaping services, instant lawn, tree felling and deliveries. Customers can also phone through their orders and have them delivered. Bloomingdales stocks an extensive range of exotic and indigenous plants, from ground covers to shrubs and trees. There is a small coffee shop available at the centre where you can dine on sweet delights while being enchanted by the sheer beauty of a well-tended garden. Open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 9am to 4pm.

20 Hinton Grove, Virginia

Nestled in the picturesque valley of Hillcrest, overlooking the Kirk falls, Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market is an enchanting experience. As the mist rises over this early morning market, you are greeted by the smells of fresh coffee, pancakes, burgers and falafels. Scrumptious food, deli items and fresh produce are just some of the delights on offer at this all-encompassing market, which includes arts, crafts, clothing, leather goods, vintage items and historical artefacts. A memorable atmosphere is highlighted by local musicians who perform at the venue’s two stages. The market also includes activities for the whole family, such as the Shongweni Express Train rides, merry-go-rounds, jungle gyms and the Shongweni Zipline. Adults can partake in a short nature trail or enjoy Shongweni’s very own craft beer and gin, in the main hall. Shongweni Market is open Saturdays from 7am to 1pm, as well as on certain additional trading days as advertised.

457 Mr551 Rd, Shongweni Resource Reserve, Shongweni

Peels Honey is an easily recognisable brand, noted amongst many stockists for its superior quality and uncompromising support of local beekeeping. Its store, however, not only offers the best of its honey but also a range of treats, preserves, pickles and jams – all locally made, of course. There are also indulgent, handcrafted nougats, biscuits, rusks, chocolates, peanut brittle and Turkish delight – all of which make perfect gifts, for any occasion. The store also stocks hormone and antibiotic free meats and dairy, as well as a range of clean beauty products sourced from honey and beeswax. Located amongst the charming and rustic shops of the Mushroom Farm in Hillcrest, Peels Honey is a store worth visiting for the sheer quality of the food products available. Open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, Saturdays from 8am to 4pm and Sundays from 9am to 3pm.

450 Kassier Rd, Assagay, Outer West Durban

Situated in the suburb of Morningside in Durban, the Eclectic Antique Store has been operating for just over two decades. Most of the stock are antiques or collectibles, with a large variety of items including, but not limited to: porcelain, glassware, mirrors, Persian/handmade carpets, jewellery, silver and silver plated items, as well as gold. Furniture - from Georgian, Edwardian, Victorian, Art Deco to mid-century and retro, lounge suites, chairs, dining room suites, old suitcases, some vintage clothing, old coins, medals, militaria and all associated items are also present in store. Aptly named ‘Eclectic’ for its wide range of vintage and retro styled furniture, décor and memorabilia of a bygone era. Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturdays from 8am to 1pm.

67 Haden Road, Morningside

Every Saturday between 9am and 3pm, the vacant public park on Essenwood Road becomes decorated with the hues of the brightly coloured canopies, which hang aloft above the various stalls. Fresh pickles, jams, candles, crafts, handmade soaps, clothing and pottery are all on offer at this well-established market, which boasts the buzz of central Durban’s Saturday morning. A fully equipped playground is situated next to the eating area, so parents can relax and enjoy an alfresco meal while their children play nearby. Live music, poetry readings and theatre vignettes also regularly feature, adding to the vibrancy and unique ambience of this outdoor market.

Berea Park, cnr Essenwood and St Thomas Rds, Berea

In a world of fast fashion, which continues to cause detriment to the environment, it has been argued that the root to sustainability within the clothing and textile industry is possible through thrifting. It is well known that the Highway Hospice is funded by the altruism of its donors and the compensation earned, through the reselling of goods. Located on the first floor of Kensingston Square, Durban North, the Encore Thrift Shop has a wide selection of clothing; from jackets to dresses, cargos to formal wear. Size availability is dependent on the donated stock. The clothing options are varied and items are resold in mint condition. Open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm.

Shop 51, Kensington Square, Durban North

LIV is an organisation that supports vulnerable, orphaned and unhoused children, it is a non-profit organisation which has received some much-needed financial support through the opening of its thrift stores and cafes around Durban. The first store opened in Glenashley around 2020 and has been growing strong. Customers are drawn to its idyllic setting, warmth and range of options in thrifted clothing, handbags and accessories – not to mention the bargains. Another store has recently opened in Florida Road and offers the same quality, on a smaller scale. Supporting the LIV stores through buying or donating items contributes to the circular economy that seeks to proliferate a more equitable and just society for all. Both the LIV stores in Glen Ashley and Florida Road are open 6:30am to 4:30pm daily.