Cape Town, South Africa

Best places to shop in Cape Town

5 markets, malls and shopping districts in Cape Town — what to buy, when to go, and the tourist traps to avoid at each one.

Last updated 2026-08-09

1. V&A Waterfront and Watershed

The harbour development — international brands, plus the Watershed hall gathering 150 South African designers and craft makers under one roof.

Where: Mall
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 09:00–21:00
Cost: Mid–Luxury
Tip: The Watershed is the honest place to buy South African craft, with makers named and no bargaining theatre.

2. Neighbourgoods Market, Old Biscuit Mill

The Saturday market in Woodstock — food, small-batch producers, and the design studios and galleries in the surrounding mill buildings.

Where: Market
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Saturdays 09:00–14:00
Cost: Mid-range

3. Greenmarket Square

The cobbled 18th-century square in the city centre — African craft, textiles, masks, beadwork and carvings from across the continent.

Where: Market
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Monday to Saturday 09:00–16:00
Cost: Budget

Watch outMuch of the 'African' craft here is imported from elsewhere in the continent and sold as local. Opening prices run three times the settling price; ask where a piece is from and bargain accordingly.

4. Bree Street and Kloof Street

The city's independent shopping strips — South African designers, concept stores, wine shops and galleries.

Where: Street Shopping
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Monday to Saturday 10:00–18:00
Cost: Mid–Luxury

5. Constantia and Stellenbosch wine estates

The Cape winelands — cellar doors selling estate wine, many at prices well below export, an easy drive from the city.

Where: Luxury
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 10:00–17:00
Cost: Mid–Luxury
Tip: Chenin Blanc and Pinotage are the Cape's own. Estates will pack and ship cases internationally.