Best markets in Cape Town

Are you ready to go on the ultimate Mother City market adventure? In Cape Town, it’s all about the cool market vibes and good fun-loving times. With an exciting variety of markets in virtually every neighbourhood across town, the Mother City is at the very top of her market game! Whether you’re into thrifts, arts, crafts and one-of-a-kind finds or delicious food, fresh produce, live music and a ‘lekker’ vibe, Cape Town has just the market for you.

Here are some of the best markets in Cape Town, all of which deserve a prime spot on your Cape Town market bucket-list!

#BAY HARBOUR MARKET

The Bay Harbour Market is widely known and celebrated as the most vibrant market in Cape Town. Situated on the water’s edge at the old Hout Bay Harbour, the Bay Harbour Market is all about embracing the true spirit of the Mother City. Set inside an old fish factory, this beloved Cape Town Market aims to uplift and empower the local community and talent by bringing local craftsmen, artists, designers, and musicians together in the most unique and authentic way. This undoubtedly makes the Bay Harbour Market the ultimate celebration of community, culture, culinary pursuits, creative expression, and everything in between – And you’re invited to join in on every second of the shopping, sharing, vibrant energy, laughter, dining, dancing, and lively local Bay Harbour Market vibe!

With the reopening of the Bay Harbour Market, the focus will be on all things local – from local vendors right through to local performers. Visitors can expect an awesome line-up of South African talent on the Fever-Tree Sound Stage every Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday. Besides incredible live music to lift everyone’s spirits, there will be an amazing selection of local wines, craft beers and gins on offer as well as a variety of delicious food, ranging from street food to nibbly bits and platters perfect for the whole family.

That’s not all! As always, the Bay Harbour Market’s shopping experience is right on point – Boasting over 100 stalls, you’ll find anything from top fashion, leather accessories and décor to art, collectables, crafts, gifting and so much more – you want it, chances are the Bay Harbour Market has it!

What are you waiting for? The Bay Harbour Market is ready to add some fun, excitement, and extra Bay Harbour magic to your day!

**Bonus: In summer, visitors to the Bay Harbour Market can enjoy the refreshing ocean air, stunning harbour views, and lively vibe on the outside patio. Not to mention some great sightings of the Hout Bay ocean locals – the beloved Cape Fur Seals! When the temperatures start to plummet, visitors are invited to sit inside next to the cosy fire.

**Note: The Bay Harbour Market has implemented stringent COVID-19 protocols and safety measures in line with government regulations.

For more information about the traders and what they have to offer, visit the Bay Harbour Market website: www.bayharbour.co.za

• Location: 31 Harbour road, Hout Bay, Cape Town
• Contact details:  [email protected] | 084 370 5715 |www.bayharbour.co.za
• Facebook: @bayharbour
• Instagram: @bayharbourmarket
• Twitter: @bayharbourmkt

#ORANJEZICHT CITY FARM MARKET

The Oranjezicht City Farm Market is a local fan-favourite of the Mother City market scene. Whether it’s the cool Oranjezicht City Farm vibe, it’s fresh local produce and mouth-wateringly delicious farmer’s market spread or its lively everyone-is-welcome atmosphere, people just can’t get enough of this cool Cape Town market. At its core, The Oranjezicht City Farmer’s Market (OZCF) is a non-profit project that pays tribute to its local farmer’s market roots by celebrating local food, culture, and community through urban farming in Cape Town. The Oranjezicht City Farm Market is the perfect place to do your weekly organic produce shopping and enjoy a beautiful day out in the Mother City with friends and family.

• Location: Granger Bay, V&A Waterfront.
• Operating hours: Saturday, 8:15am – 2pm | Sunday, 9am-2pm.
• More information & updates: For any updates, information and COVID-19 protocols and guidelines, please check their website, ozcf.co.za, and their social media channels:  facebook.com/OZCFarm  and  instagram.com/OZCFarm

#EARTH FAIR MARKET

Widely known as one of the best local food and farmers markets in Cape Town, this amazing market has become a real fan-favourite amongst market lovers. The Earth Fair Market is all about changing up the way you shop by providing you with a top-quality market experience and some of the freshest local produce you’ll find anywhere in the city. From farm-fresh produce, organic vegetables, pasture-reared meats and so much more, the Earth Fair Market definitely doesn’t disappoint. Besides fresh local produce you can also find some of the most delicious afternoon delights and dinner options.

• Location: Block B Unit 9, + 10, South Palms Centre, 333 Main Rd, Tokai, Cape Town
• Operating hours: Wednesday 4pm – 9pm | Friday 4pm – 10pm | Saturday 9am – 3pm
• Contact details: [email protected] | 067 108 1530 (WhatsApp only) | www.earthfairmarket.co.za

**Important note: In accordance with COVID-19 health and safety regulations, there will be strict protocols and guidelines put in place with regards to entry into the market, as well as limitations on the number of shoppers allowed into the market at one time. For more information visit the Earth Fair Market website.

#V&A FOOD MARKET

The vibrant V&A Food Market at the V&A Waterfront is undoubtedly one of the best markets in Cape Town, especially for food lovers! This lively local artisan street food market boasts more than 40 food and beverage stalls as well as a variety of amazing artisan retail stores. Besides a wide selection of sensational food, the V&A Food Market offers a platform for small businesses to launch trend concept food stores and bars alike. This means visitors to the V&A Food Market can always look forward to something new and exciting to try. It’s no surprise that the V&A Food Market has established itself as the leading artisan retail store and street food experience in the Mother City.

The V&A Food Market offers visitors indoor seating when shelter from the wind and rain is required as well as outdoor quayside hangout spots perfect for soaking up the sunshine, sundowners, and sunset watching. Be sure to keep a look out for some of Cape Town’s favourite ocean locals, the Cape Fur Seals!

**Interesting fact: The V&A Food Market is housed in a historical old power station that was established in 1882 to bring power to the Cape Town dockyard. This makes the V&A Food Market’s edgy and authentic location every bit as cool as it’s vibe.

• Location: The Old Power Station, Building 19 Dock Road, Pier Head, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
• Operating hours: Thursday – Sunday 10am – 6pm | Please note: dates and times may be subject to change.
• Contact details: 021 418 1605 | [email protected] | www.waterfrontfoodmarket.com
• COVID-19 Regulation: For more information regarding the COVID-19 regulations and protocols that have been implemented and should be adhered to by everyone visiting the V&A Food Market, visit the V&A Waterfront’s website here.

#WATERSHED AT THE V&A

The Watershed at the V&A is another one of the V&A Waterfront’s sought-after markets. The Watershed at the V&A is a beautiful and vibrant space showcasing over 150 stalls, selling more than 365 brands ranging from ceramics, textiles, furniture, art and craft, fashion, jewellery and so much more – you name it, they’ve got it! This makes it the ultimate Cape Town market to satisfy all your shopping, gifting, and purchasing needs. This cool inner-city space also includes the Jubilee Exhibition Hall as well as smaller spaces which play host to world famous exhibitions, live entertainment, and workshops.

• Location: V&A Waterfront, 17 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
• Operating hours: Monday – Sunday 10am – 7pm | Please note: dates and times may be subject to change
• Contact details: 021 408 7600
• COVID-19 Regulation: For more information regarding the COVID-19 regulations and protocols that have been implemented and should be adhered to by everyone visiting the Watershed at the V&A, visit the V&A Waterfront’s website here.

#FRANSCHHOEK VILLAGE MARKET

Located in the captivating winelands’ region of Franschhoek, the Franschhoek Village Market is an amazing family-friendly, quality food and craft market held every Saturday under the historic oak trees in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley.

This top Cape Town market is known for its incredible selection of fresh local produce, delicatessens, craft beers, coffee brewers, indulgent treats and so much more. Besides amazing things to eat and drink, it’s the perfect place to shop for unique crafts, art, vintage clothing, and antiques, to mention just a few – It’s safe to say the Franschhoek Village Market definitely has something for everyone! They also have a fun play area for the kiddies as well as some soulful live music in the background – what more could you ask for? You’re even welcome to bring your furry friends along (as long as they’re on a leash) to enjoy a fun-filled family day out in Cape Town.

**Tip: On the first Saturday of every month you will be lucky to find some of the top local chefs at the market who set up a shop on an occasional basis. So be sure to keep an eye out for that!

• Location: 29 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek
• Operating hours/times: Low Season (April-September): Held weekly on Saturdays, 10am – 3pm* | High Season (October-March): Held weekly on Saturdays: 9am – 3pm*
  & First Sunday of the month (9am – 3pm*)
• Important note: This market is weather-dependent. Please check the market’s social media pages for updates (they will post by Thursday if the market is to be cancelled).
• COVID-19 regulations: While the Franschhoek Village Market has been closed since the start of lockdown, it has finally re-opened (as of 8 August 2020), with all the required COVID-19 health and safety regulations and protocols fully in place.

#MOJO MARKET

This vibrant sea-facing market located in Sea Point, a mere stone-throw away from the Sea Point Promenade, is definitely one of the best markets in the Mother City. The MOJO Market is a lively hub of food, shopping, and entertainment, boasting around 45 retail stalls, a fresh goods section, and 25 food vendors. You can find anything from beautiful, locally produced items, shoes, clothing, jewellery, accessories, homeware and furniture to indulgent and down-right delicious food and drink options – the Mojo Market pretty much has it all! The Mojo Market is also known for their incredible live music acts and performances!

• Location: 30 Regent Rd, Sea Point
• Operating hours: Open 7 days a week from 8am – 11pm | Food Stalls: Monday – Thursday: 11am – 10pm / Friday – Sunday: 10am – 10pm | Retailers: Monday – Sunday: 10am – 6pm
• Contact details: General enquiries: [email protected] | Trader enquiries: [email protected]

#NEIGHBOURGOODS MARKET AT THE OLD BISCUIT MILL

The Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill is one of the Mother City’s most sought-after market experiences. This regular Saturday market is dedicated to uplifting and supporting small local businesses, sustainability, long term viability and optimal security for traders as well as putting a strong focus on promoting local, organic, free range and bespoke products and services. The Neighbourgoods Market is therefore incredibly proud and excited to present a freshly curated, producer-oriented trading community in a revamped, safe, and accommodating environment for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to their cool loyal long-term traders, the Neighbourgoods market is always thrilled to welcome new and exciting producers to the team – Thereby constantly ensuring that markets lovers experience the very best of what the Cape Town market scene has to offer.

As we enter the ‘new normal’, the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill is committed to providing all visitors with a convenient and streamlined shopping experience, whilst still delivering the same authentic engagement and exchange between maker and customer that have defined them since day one.

• Location: The Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
• Operating hours: Saturdays, 9am – 3pm
• Contact details: [email protected] | www.theoldbiscuitmill.co.za

#THE OLD BISCUIT MILL

There is no market vibe, quite like the Old Biscuit Mill market vibe! Ask any local to name their favourite Cape Town market, and we can guarantee that the Old Biscuit Mill will be right up there with the best of them.

The Old Biscuit Mill, or the Mill as its affectionately referred to by locals, is known as the place where Cape Town unites for culinary delights and fine local designs. At its core, The Mill is a vibrant community in the heart of Woodstock where talented people come together to share, collaborate, and show off their heartfelt passions. This cool Mother City market has without a doubt established itself as the ultimate hub of art, design, food, fashion, and all things unique and trendy.

Boasting a wide variety of decadent restaurants, amazing local food stalls, dynamic office spaces, a range of workshops and designer stores, as well as an inspiring line-up of day and night-markets, festivals and productions, the Mill definitely has it all!

The Old Biscuit Mill is also known as a mecca for local art and design – Home to some of South Africa’s most innovative and creative designers, artists, photographers and connoisseurs of fine taste and décor, you’ll have tons of fun exploring all the cool creative conquests and trendy shops and stops the Old Biscuit Mill has to offer.

• Location: The Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
• Operating hours: Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm | Saturday, 9am – 2pm
• Contact details: 021 447 8194 | [email protected] | www.theoldbiscuitmill.co.za

**Important information: The Old Biscuit Mill and Neighbourgoods Market teams have taken all possible precautions to keep visitors and the rest of the community safe. There will be temperature screening and sanitizing on arrival as well as a strict 𝗡𝗢 𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗞 𝗡𝗢 𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗬 policy. Additional hand sanitizer stations have been set up throughout the venue. All the market traders will also offer sanitizer and will be following strict safety guidelines for their individual stores. Furthermore, the venue is more spacious than ever, with seating plans thought-through and spaced out as well as stalls are further apart. Additional procedures have been put in place to prevent queuing, and additional staff are on hand to keep everything super sanitized and thoroughly cleaned at all times.

#MILNERTON FLEA MARKET

Located roughly 10 minutes outside of the city, the Milnerton Flea Market can be found along Marine Drive just a short distance away from Lagoon Beach in Milnerton. Known among locals as the ultimate bargain hunter’s paradise in Cape Town, the Milnerton Flea Market has something of everything for everyone. It’s no surprise that the it has become a favourite local spot for its 200 stalls, each offering something different. From bric-a-brac, collectables and antiques to simple everyday domestic tools and affordable houseplants – Whatever you’re looking for, the Milnerton Flea Market has it all! This vibrant open-air market is also family friendly. 

• Location: Located on Marine Drive (R27), opposite Metro Industrial Park, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town.
• Operating hours: Open on weekends

#ELGIN RAILWAY MARKET

The Elgin Railway Market is an Art Deco-themed market in Elgin. What used to be an old apple warehouse has been converted into an expansive indoor market, filled with everything your market-loving heart desires. You can expect an amazing selection of stalls, selling anything from jewellery, clothing, ceramics, arts and crafts to delicious food and drink options. They also have live music on weekends as well as tons of great activities to keep the kids entertained. The fun doesn’t end there – Besides a designated play area for the kids, there are cool climbing walls that are safe for all ages (the experts from Cape Canopy Tour are on-hand to ensure safety standards).

• Location: Oak Avenue, Grabouw (via N2, R321)
• Operating hours: Saturday & Sunday, 8am – 5.30pm

#THE LOURENSFORD MARKET

It’s time to enjoy a market experience like no other at one of the Helderberg’s most popular weekend hangouts. Located at the historic Lourensford Wine Estate, the Lourensford Market gives visitors the opportunity to taste award-winning wines and craft beers, browse cool art, craft, fashion and food stalls, and soak up the exquisite natural beauty, landscaped gardens and majestic views of the Lourensford Wine Estate – what more could you possibly ask for?

The Lourensford Market fun doesn’t end there – It showcases some of the area’s hottest up-and-coming entrepreneurs offering everything from delectable food, uniquely handmade wares and original art, to organic, locally sourced, artisanal produce. The Lourensford Market also has regular live music performances with resident DJ Concorde on Friday evenings and acoustic music artists or bands on Sundays. They boast over 60 permanent stalls and ever-changing pop-ups, a fun interactive fountain, treetop adventures with the Jump & Rope Yard, and face painting for the kids. With so much to offer, a visit to the Lourensford Market is the perfect fun-filled weekend activity for the whole family.  Not to mention their signature Friday Night Twilight Market that has become a real local fan-favourite.

• Location: Lourensford Wine Estate, Lourensford Road, Somerset West (via N2, R44)
• Operating hours: Friday, 5pm – 9pm | Saturday, 10am – 3pm | Sunday 10am – 3pm

#ROOT 44 MARKET

ROOT 44 Market in Stellenbosch welcomes everyone with open arms, a cool laid-back vibe, and a wide variety of just about everything your market-loving heart desires. Housed in a sturdy, super-cosy marquees, surrounded by picturesque vineyards and beautiful views, a visit to the ROOT 44 Market is perfect for enjoying a lovely day out in Cape Town. It is also one of the most child-friendly markets in the Mother City, boasting a variety of activities such as World of Adventure which includes indoor and outdoor jungle gyms, mini-golf and so much more – It is bound to keep the kiddies happy and loving life for hours on end.

Besides being one of the best family-friendly markets in Cape Town, ROOT 44 is known as #1 out of 24 for shopping in Stellenbosch. Showcasing a selection of unique take-home products, homeware stalls, hand-picked antiques, leather goods, arts and crafts, clothing, jewellery, and everything in between, the ROOT 44 Market has it all!

Let’s not forget about all the delicious eats, treats and cool ROOT 44 beats! From decadent sweet treats, wood-fired pizza’s, gourmet hamburgers and biltong to healthy salads, sandwiches and spicy curries, ROOT 44 has something for every foodie or lover of delicious things. Not to mention the amazing selection of craft beers that are bound to have you coming back for more. The best thing is, all the stalls and lekker food and drinks can be enjoyed to the cool sounds and viby beats of live entertainment as live bands take the ROOT 44 stage every Saturday and Sunday.

**Cool to know: One of the coolest things about this market, despite the obvious of course, is the fact that it is one of Cape Town’s best all-weather markets. So, come rain or shine, ROOT44 will continue the good vibes and cool market times all the way through. 

• Location: Audacia Wines, Annandale Road, Stellenbosch (via N2, R44)
• Operating hours: Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 4pm (rain or shine)
• Contact: 021 300 3935, [email protected]

#CAPE POINT VINEYARDS MARKET

The Cape Point Vineyards Market is by far one of the best markets in Cape Town. This weekly pop-up market has fast become the ultimate Thursday night hotspot for anyone looking to sit back, and relax in one of the most beautiful vineyard settings. Market lovers can expect super chilled vibes and good fun-loving times as you spend an evening soaking up the sensational Cape Point Vineyard views and enjoy everything this incredible market has to offer. When it comes to food, the Cape Point Vineyard Market has something for everyone to enjoy – from some of the country’s most iconic food vendors to rising stars of the Cape Town food scene, you will truly be spoiled for choice!

Let’s not forget about the wine, oh glorious wine! As this market takes place at the renowned Cape Point Vineyards, you’ll be able to enjoy all the delicious food and fabulous laid-back vibes with a glass of their award-winning Cape Point Vineyard wine in hand.

The market festivities takes place in the restaurant and the picnic area of Cape Point Vineyards. Boasting lushes lawns, beautiful panoramic views, tons of open space and jungle gyms to keep the kiddies entertained, a visit to the Cape Point Vineyards Market is tons of fun for the whole family.

**Insider tip: The views at sunset are absolutely breath-taking – make sure you don’t miss it!

• Location: Cape Point Vineyards, Silvermine Road, Noordhoek (via M3)
• Operating hours: Thursdays, 4.30pm – 8.30pm
• Contact details: 021 789 0900 | [email protected]
• Please note: No food or beverages from outside can be brought into the market area.

#BLUE BIRD GARAGE FOOD & GOODS MARKET

The Blue Bird Garage Food & Goods Market in Muizenberg is another great market to visit in the Mother City. The chilled-out, bohemian, and laid-back beach vibe of Muizenberg is perfectly captured in this cool, quirky, and characterful coastal town market which is situated in an old postal plane hangar. The unique venue gives the Blue Bird Garage Market an urban edge, while the laidback vibe and vibrant energy makes it perfect for a fun-filled family market day out.

Every Thursday and Friday evening artisans, artists, bakers, and brewers come together to celebrate Cape Town’s cool market scene with fellow market lovers at the Blue Bird Garage Food & Goods Market. Besides its laid-back coastal town location and cool and quirky vibe, this top Cape Town market boasts everything from delicious food options (including an amazing vegan selection), freshly baked homemade goods, great craft beer and local wine (which is sold at the bar) as well as an exceptional range of books, clothes, jewellery, ceramics and more! The Blue Bird Garage Food & Goods Market also has an awesome play area and jungle gym to keep the kiddies entertained – Making it another one of the top family-friendly markets in Cape Town.

• Location: Blue Bird Garage, 39 Albertyn Road, Muizenberg
• Operating hours: Thursdays and Fridays, 4pm-9pm
• Contact details: [email protected] | 084 405 3544 (Laura) | 082 920 4285 (Marcus)
• Important note: The Blue Bird Garage Food & Goods Market has implemented various stringent COVID-19 health and safety regulations and protocols to ensure the health and safety of all visitors, traders, and staff members. Remember – No mask – no entry!

#NOORDHOEK FARM VILLAGE MARKET

Warm and welcoming is what the Noordhoek Farm Village Market is all about. You can’t help but feel right at home, ready to taste, explore and experience everything it has to offer from the moment you arrive.  It’s easy, relaxed, and everyone-is-welcome atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy great food, a great time, shared with great people!

The Noordhoek Farm Village Market is every food lover’s dream come true. Boasting Italian, vegan, Mexican, Potjies and Food Barn offerings as well as delicious delights ranging from freshly baked artisan breads, handcrafted ice cream made from the finest natural ingredients, coffee roastery, raw juices and so much more – the choices are endless! You even have the opportunity to sample a variety of locally brewed beers on tap as well as a changing wine bar.

Besides being the ultimate food market hub of the South Peninsula, this cool Cape Town evening market has so much more to offer. From local travel and adventure operators and a tack shop for horse lovers to a spa, beauty centre and local craft shops, there truly is something for everyone!

The fun doesn’t end there – this top Cape Town market takes it up another notch by featuring regular live music acts from South Africa’s best artists and comedians from around the country. Not to mention they have a large outdoor playground area for the little ones, providing a safe & spacious area for the kiddies to have tons of fun while the adults sit back and enjoy an evening of well-earned blissful relaxation. There is no doubt that the Noordhoek Farm Village Market offers market lovers the full Cape Town evening market experience.

• Location: Noordhoek Farm Village, corner of Village Lane and Noordhoek Main Road
• Operating hours: Takes place weekly on Wednesdays from 4 – 8pm 

#BLAAUWKLIPPEN FAMILY MARKET

A visit to the Blaauwklippen Family Market in Stellenbosch is the perfect way to spend a relaxed day with family and friends. The Blaauwklippen Family Market’s unpretentious farm vibe and everyone-is-welcome atmosphere is what makes it so popular among local market lovers.

Boasting an amazing variety of food stalls, wonderful wine tastings, unique arts and crafts, and a selection of shops selling everything from jewellery to clothes – they have something for everyone! You will even find some authentic crafts on offer beneath the shade of the ancient wild fig trees.

The Blaauwklippen Family Market also has tons of fun and exciting activities and entertainment for the kids, including pony rides, Zorb balls, soccer darts, jumping castles, pedal carts and friendly goats to pet and feed – it isn’t known as one of the best family-friendly markets in Cape Town for nothing! Plus, live musicians perform every Sunday to add some more vibrant energy to an already unforgettable market experience!

Besides exploring your stunning surroundings and visiting all the amazing stalls the Blaauwklippen Family Market has to offer, you absolutely have to visit the wine-sales building. Here you’ll find an incredible market deli selling everything from seasonal fresh produce, cheese, homemade pies, olives, baked treats, and so much more – it is any food lover’s dream come!

All of the Blaauwklippen Family Market fun takes places on one of the oldest and most picturesque wine estates in South Africa, the Blaauwklippen Wine Estate.

• Location: Blaauwklippen Wine Estate, Strand Road, Stellenbosch (via N2, R44)
• Operating hours: Sunday, 10am – 3pm
• Contact details: 021 880 0133 | [email protected]
• Please note: Bring-your-own picnics are not allowed.

#BOSCHENDAL FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET

The Boschendal Friday Night Market has become a real local fan-favourite and one of the best and most sought-after markets in Cape Town. Whether it’s the beautiful Boschendal Wine Estate location, magnificent mountain range views, maze of wonderful gardens to explore, warm and welcoming atmosphere, stunning twinkling lights and electric night market vibe, people just can’t seem to get enough of this Cape Town market gem.

The Boschendal Friday Night Market takes place in its historic Werf area, where guests can enjoy live music, an array of wonderful artisanal food and drinks, fresh farm produce, food stalls and other artisanal stands offering amazing local products to peruse and purchase. Besides an incredible selection of stalls, drinks, food, and a vibrant atmosphere, a visit to the beloved Boschendal Friday Night Marek is a real treat. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a wonderful Friday evening with friends or a fun family outing – this is definitely the place to do just that!

• Location: The Werf Area, Boschendal Estate, Franschhoek
• Operating hours: Weekly on Fridays. 6pm – 9pm
• Contact details: 021 870 4200 | [email protected]