Cape Town’s best 3 markets to visit: Days and opening times you need to know
If you’re visiting Cape Town or living in the Mother City, consider visiting these three markets. Here’s when they’re open …
Being originally from Cape Town with family and businesses there, I’m lucky to visit ‘home’ regularly.
Three markets I never miss are festival-like experiences that capture everything I love about Cape Town’s vibrant food and community culture.
If you’re visiting or living in the city, you should visit these too.
1. Oranjezicht City Farm Market – Now at a Stunning New Waterfront Location
Days: Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday evenings (seasonal)
Opening Times:
- Saturday: 08:00 – 14:00
- Sunday: 08:30 – 14:00
- Wednesday Night Market: 16:00 – 21:00 (September 2025 to April 2026)
Location: Granger Bay, V&A Waterfront, Beach Road
The Oranjezicht Market has always been my go-to for fresh, sustainable, locally-sourced produce, and now it’s better than ever.
In October 2025, this beloved farmers’ market relaunched at its new location within the V&A Waterfront’s Granger Bay precinct.
Consistently ranked in the top 10 farmers’ markets worldwide, the market now occupies a beautiful wooden shed designed by a prominent architect.
The new space offers more room, better parking (350 bays), and improved connectivity with the waterfront – while keeping the signature woodchips and dog-friendly atmosphere locals love.
This is where I do my weekly shopping when ‘home’ – fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, artisanal bread, organic dairy, free-range eggs, raw honey, and ethically sourced meats and seafood.
The focus is squarely on local, fresh, seasonal ingredients from independent farmers and artisanal producers.
The relocation is part of the V&A Waterfront’s R20 billion Granger Bay expansion.
The market has retained its authentic, community-driven spirit while gaining the space it deserves.
What makes it special: Commitment to sustainable food systems, quality produce, community atmosphere, and unbeatable ocean views.
Pro tip: Arrive early Saturday mornings. Dogs on short leashes welcome.
2. Neighbourgoods Market at The Old Biscuit Mill – The Original Hipster Haven
Days: Saturday and Sunday
Opening times:
- Saturday: 09:00 – 15:00 (designers), food stalls until 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 – 15:00 (designers), food stalls until 17:00
Location: 373-375 Albert Road, Woodstock
If Oranjezicht is about farm-fresh produce, Neighbourgoods is about street food culture and creative community.
Located in a former biscuit factory in Woodstock, this market has been Cape Town’s cultural hub for nearly two decades.
This is where I come for inspiration from Cape Town’s creative energy.
The market offers designer street food from around the world – flammkuchen, Korean delicacies, pasta, shakshuka, Swahili doughnuts, paella, and shisa nyama.
Options for everyone: vegan, halaal, and sugar-free. Live DJs and bands create an incredible atmosphere.
Beyond food, you’ll find handcrafted products, designer clothing, organic beauty products, and artisanal goods from local makers.
What makes it special: The vibe, people-watching, and fusion of food, design, and live music representing Cape Town’s cosmopolitan spirit.
Pro tip: No parking available Saturdays. Use Cape Town College parking opposite (R10 all day, entrance on Kent Street) or take MyCiti bus route 261.
Dogs on leashes welcome.
3. Bay Harbour Market – Hout Bay’s Vibrant Celebration
Days: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Opening times:
- Friday: 17:00 – 21:00 (Friday Nite LIVE!)
- Saturday & Sunday: 09:30 – 16:00
Location: 31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay
Set in an old fish factory at Hout Bay Harbour, Bay Harbour Market is the most vibrant market in Cape Town.
This is where I bring visitors who want to experience South African creativity, culture, and cuisine in one place.
Friday nights are special, with live music on the Brampton sound stage that creates a party atmosphere.
The market hosts musicians, dancers, and entertainers throughout the day. You can enjoy with a craft beer or local wine, or get up and dance.
Over 100 traders offer handmade clothing, jewellery, art, and foods representing every cuisine. The indoor setting means rain or shine visits, with an outdoor area for fresh sea breezes. The Hout Bay Harbour setting, surrounded by mountains and ocean, is spectacular.
What makes it special: Live entertainment, diversity of offerings, and genuinely South African atmosphere. A social enterprise supporting traders from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Pro tip: Friday nights have the best vibe. Pets not allowed inside. Explore Hout Bay while you’re there.
Why These Three Markets Matter
Each market offers something different but equally essential to the Cape Town experience.
Oranjezicht celebrates sustainable food systems. Neighbourgoods showcases creative culture and global cuisine. Bay Harbour brings together the diversity and spirit that makes South Africa special.
When I’m ‘home’, I visit all three because they’re about community, connection, and celebrating what makes Cape Town one of the world’s great food cities.
Whether you’re after fresh produce, global street food, or festive market atmosphere with live music, these three deliver every time.