What better way to explore a city than to immerse yourself in the vibrant street life and mingle with the locals?

These South African cities all have their own unique culture and vibe – which comes through best at popular food and craft markets that serve AMAZING food and bargains that are to-die-for.

Here are some of our favourite South African markets:

 

CAPE TOWN 

Best Markets in South Africa

Bay Harbour Market, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Bay Harbour Market

One of Cape Town’s most popular markets, the Bay Habour Market in Hout Bay is abuzz every weekend. The market is housed in a refurbished old fish factory, next to the active docks, where you can enjoy everything from exotic Tunisian falafel and traditional Cape Malay curries to fresh mussels and artisan brewed coffee. With over 80 stalls on offer, keep an eye out for local arts and crafts items as well as an assortment of established and up-and-coming music artists, who contribute to a lively scene every week.

Where 31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay
When Friday 5 pm – 9 pm, Saturday & Sunday 9 am – 4 pm

 

Root 44

Situated amongst plush vineyards and trees, the Root 44 market offers unqiue craft and homeware items, fun live entertainment and activities, and even a mini-golf set-up at the World of Adventure. On Saturdays, take part in the popular Parkrun to work up an appetite for the wide selection delectable eats and treats.

Where Audacia Wines, Cnr R44 and Annandale Road, Stellenbosch
When Saturday and Sunday 10 am – 4 pm

Best Markets in South Africa

Mojo Market, Sea Point, Cape Town

Mojo Market

Another addition to the bustling Sea Point promenade, Mojo Market boasts an eclectic mix of food and lifestyle vendors. Browse a range of African artifacts, handmade prints as well as jewellery, clothing and homeware from local and international traders. The food on offer is a delightful range of over 25 stalls – from winter comfort food (try the Baskin-Robbins waffle bowl) to daily fresh produce. Mojo’s namesake Coffee Collective is a collection of Cape Town’s artisanal roasters, including the popular Origin blends, which will keep market-goers energised.

Where 30 Regent Road, Sea Point
When Monday to Sunday, 7 am – 10 pm

 

Neighbourgoods at Old Biscuit Mill

Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill  is a  vibrant, warm-hearted village of workshops and merchants. It is also home to over 100 specialty food stalls from local farmers to South African celebrity chefs. Judging by how packed it gets every Saturday morning, this market is still one of the coolest city hangouts in the artsy district of Woodstock. It is comprised of delectable cuisine, trendy designer fashion and a hip crowd of Cape Town’s creative set.

Where Old Biscuit Mill, 373 Albert Road, Woodstock
When Saturday 9 am – 2 pm

 

JOHANNESBURG 

Best markets in South Africa

Neighbourgoods Market, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Neighbourgoods 

Situated in the trendy Braamfontein, the Neighbourgoods market is a source for specialty foods and goods, a meeting point to enjoy the community, swop ideas and be inspired by the vibrant energy of Johannesburg. You can enjoy exquisite views of the city while stocking up on some fresh fruit and veggies, meat and artisanal crafts.

Where 73 Juta Street, Braamfontein
When Saturdays, 9am – 3pm

 

The Collective Market (Kramerville)

Not your typical market, The Collective Market at Kramerville is situated in the open-air on a rooftop of a high-rise building. With over 30 vendors in the indoor and outdoor shopping areas, you can browse through various crafts and trinkets  – perfect for all your holiday shopping.

Where 9 Desmond Road, Kramerville, Sandton
When
First Saturday of the month, 9am – 3pm

 

DURBAN

Best Markets in South Africa

I Heart Market, Durban

I Heart Market

This market boasts an eclectic mix of unique arts and crafts, locally- made jewellery, recycled and repurposed creations, second-hand treasures and vintage finds. Started as a platform for young creatives and entrepreneurs, the I Heart Market’s range of vendors are carefully selected for their originality and design appeal. Fashion, homeware, décor and a yummy range of market food are offer too – along with some laidback and relaxing vibes.

Where Imbizo Lawns, Moses Mabhida Stadium
When 9 & 16 December, 6 January, first Saturday of the month, 9am – 2pm

 

Victoria Street Market

Africa meets Asia at the Victoria Street Market in Durban. A vibrant blend of everything from Indian spices and incense to fresh fruit and vegetables, fabrics, ceramics, arts and crafts, the market is great for those looking to experience Durban’s rich Afro-Oriental culture. The building in which it is housed is one of the city’s most recognizable pieces of architecture with 11 colourful domes modelled on Indian construction – not surprising since Durban has the highest Indian population in the world outside of India.

Where Cnr Queen and Victoria Street
When Monday – Saturday, 8am – 6pm; Sundays, 10am – 4pm

 

PRETORIA 

Best markets in South Africa

Hazel Food Market, Greenlyn Village, Pretoria

 

 

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Hazel Food Market

Known as the Pretoria ‘hotspot for cool people’, Hazel Food Market brings fresh products straight from the producer to a convenient and sociable setting. You’ll find a wide range of Mediterranean style breads and pickled foods, while a communal seating area contributes to the see-and-be-seen atmosphere.

Where Greenlyn Village Centre, Menlo Park
When Saturdays 8am – 2pm

 

AUTHOR: Farah Khalfe 

 

Categories: Lifestyle