Markets, consisting of only the best our incredible locals have to offer, are the joys that make up a remarkable and memorable weekend! Filled to the brim with artisanal goods, stalls showcasing all types of homemade crafts, handmade clothes, home décor, jewellery and, not forgetting the best part… more FOOD than you can buy! These markets have it all!

Whether you’re out and about with friends, looking for a relaxing hang out spot with a good vibe, good food, and live entertainment, or you’re a family looking for a fun family outing to a kid-friendly location that has a little something for both the children and the parents, then look no further as I present to you 5 of the best markets Cape Town has to offer (in no particular order)!

1. V&A Food Market
Where: The Old Power Station, V&A Waterfront

What started out as an old power station many years ago further evolved into a culinary hub of innovative ideas – a food market! With up to 42 local vendors putting forth the best of their culinary creations, the V&A Food Market provides you with all types of goods to ensure you go home content and maybe a few kilograms heavier than what you came in. Basically, you never stop eating here! In addition, while continually stuffing your face, on weekends your ears will be mesmerized by some of the talented local artists playing their tunes. All in all, The V&A Food Market creates a chilled atmosphere where time can be spent listening to music, hanging out with friends or family, grabbing a bite to eat and perusing through all the vendors’ stands.

2. Lourensford Market
Where: Lourensford Wine Estate, Somerset West

“Be it to escape city life, or to experience something slightly off the beaten track, the Lourensford Market has become the trendiest new stop.” - Lourensford Market

The Lourensford’s Twilight Market is truly a sight to behold with thousands of fairy lights strung up and around the vendor’s stands creating a warm intimate ambiance that goes unrivaled! The struggle with Lourensford, if you are a true foodie, is that you won’t be able to decide what to eat because it ALL looks incredible! Take a tip from a pro: go with a few people, buy a couple of different dishes, place it in the center of the table and let everyone have a taste of everything! With 70 permanent stalls, a stage set up for live performances and a welcoming vibe, the Lourensford Market is a must-visit!

3. Route 44
Where: Audacia Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

Ah, dear old Route 44. Here you will create nothing but delightful memories that will last forever. Probably the most child-friendly market of them all, the Route 44 Market has something for the whole family. They are equipped with handling the children in their own little World of Adventure and handling the parents with drinks on tap while creating a merry atmosphere with lively tunes where families and friends can come together and just be. The best part you may ask? Come rain or shine, Route 44 has got you covered… quite literally, for they are comfortably nestled in the sturdy marquees that protect from the rain in winter months and provides shade in the summer months. This means… THEY NEVER CLOSE – allowing for camaraderie all year round! With breathtaking views wherever you look, good food, delicious drinks, art and crafts, clothing, jewellery, and homeware to keep visitors happy and frequently returning, Route 44 is the marketplace to be at.

4. Elgin Railway Market
Where: Oak Avenue, Elgin

The Elgin Railway Market, situated in an old apple warehouse that was fashioned after the invention of steam and the industrial age, is a crowd favourite among the locals in the area. Who wouldn’t find this market completely charming and retro in its own purely unique way! Here you can find foods of all kinds ranging from curries to pizzas to ribs, and drinks of beer, wine, gin, ciders, soft drinks, juices, and coffee. You can fill yourself up on ice-cream, waffles, cakes and fudge. At the Elgin Railway Market, you can find a wide variety of jewellery, leather goods, clothing, and handmade arts and crafts. Additionally, just to spice things up, the owner brings in a real steam train a few times a month… I mean, how awesome is that! Whether you’re a local or not, be sure to make a stop at this marketplace.

5. Oranjezicht City Farm Market
Where: Granger Bay, V&A Waterfront

Moving away from fashion, crafts, and foods, the Oranjezicht City Farm Market’s focus is placed more on locally sourced, fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs, meats, breads and many other fresh produce. At this farmer’s market, also known as the organic market, local farmers and artisanal food producers present visitors with only the best their gardens have to offer! Here you can go do your weekly fresh produce groceries shopping and support the community in the process. Not only is the Oranjezicht City Farm Market stocked with produce, but they are also fully stocked with a whole collection of plants, flowers, seeds, and fertilizers for those plant lovers with green fingers! You definitely need to make a stop at this homey, back to basics farmer’s market!

There you have it! So, although I know there are many incredible and wonderful markets out there for you to discover and explore, these are my top picks for markets in Cape Town! I hope this encourages you to venture out and experience these markets for yourselves!

Top 5 Markets in Cape Town