There is no better place to go shopping than right here in the Mother City. With so many shopping routes to choose from, the city is your oyster. From malls filled with endless stores to hidden gems that hold secondhand secrets, you won’t run out of options. Let’s check out some of the prominent shopping locations and guide you through a shopaholic’s dream!
Table of Contents
V&A Waterfront 🛍️
If you’re up for some retail therapy, you absolutely have to check out the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. With more than 450 stores to explore, it’s a real shopping paradise. Whether you’re hunting for the latest fashion pieces, unique home decor, or quirky souvenirs, this place truly has something for everyone. You can lose track of time browsing through charming boutiques and picking out lovely jewellery or stylish leather goods all while enjoying the fantastic atmosphere.
But it’s not just about the shopping! The V&A Waterfront is packed with stunning views, including Table Mountain. After snagging your favourite finds, why not take a nice stroll along the waterfront? There are plenty of great spots to grab a bite, so you can treat yourself to some delicious food too. It’s all about enjoying the experience of shopping, eating, and just soaking up the lively energy of this beautiful place. You’ll walk away with both goodies and great memories!
V&A Waterfront Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 9 pm
Address: Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
Website: https://www.waterfront.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 408 7600
Cavendish Square 👒
Cavendish Square is a total shopping wonderland in Cape Town that everyone needs to check out. With more than 180 shops, it’s the perfect spot for finding all the latest fashion or that one-of-a-kind accessory. Shoppers can enjoy a great mix of big international brands and local treasures, so there’s something for everyone. After a good session of shopping, take a break at one of the many restaurants or coffee shops, or even catch a movie at one of the eight cinemas on-site!
What makes Cavendish Square so great is the friendly, laid-back vibe. It’s a safe place to roam around and enjoy a day out without any stress. There’s always something going on, from fun events to cool promotions, which keeps things lively. So, whether you’re there for shopping, dining, or just hanging out with pals, Cavendish Square offers the perfect spot where you can dive into a little bit of everything!
Cavendish Square Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm and Sunday plus Public Holidays from 9 am to 5 pm
Address: 1 Dreyer St, Claremont, Cape Town
Website: https://cavendish.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 657 5600
The Old Biscuit Mill 🍪
The Old Biscuit Mill is a super cool spot in Cape Town’s Woodstock area, full of vibrant shops and delicious food stalls. It’s all about laid-back vibes where you can wander through quirky boutiques showcasing local designers and pick up unique gifts that you won’t find anywhere else. From funky clothes to handcrafted goodies, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the restaurants here serve up fantastic meals, making it a great place to grab a bite between shopping sessions.
On Saturdays, the Neighbourgoods Market takes over and brings in a whole new level of fun! It gets pretty busy, but that’s part of the charm, think tasty street food and a buzzing atmosphere perfect for a weekend outing. Just a heads up, parking can be a bit tricky, so consider hopping in an Uber or Taxify to avoid the hassle. With its lively markets and creative shops, the Old Biscuit Mill is definitely a must-visit for a fun day out in Cape Town!
Biscuit Mill Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 10 am to 4 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm
Address: The Old Biscuit Mill, 373-375 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
Website: https://theoldbiscuitmill.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 447 8194
Kalk Bay ⚓
Kalk Bay is a delightful seaside gem in Cape Town, renowned for its bohemian atmosphere and busy shopping scene. The charming streets are lined with a bunch of unique shops, each offering a variety of delightful finds. For those seeking fashion and home décor, places like Oh So Boho showcase stunning imported linen and beautiful clothing, while Kalk Bay Modern features contemporary art from local talents. Book lovers will find solace in Kalk Bay Books, a haven packed with carefully curated literature, particularly from South African authors. Meanwhile, food enthusiasts can indulge in fresh pastries at Dalebrook Deli, making it the perfect spot to recharge amidst a day of retail therapy.
Walking through Kalk Bay is an experience in itself; there’s a mix of antique shops, artisanal boutiques, and quirky stores to explore. The Kalk Bay Trading Post is a treasure trove for collectors, offering everything from vintage furniture to unique movie posters. Don’t forget to stop by Gypsy for some laid-back vibes and delicious ice cream nearby. With its inviting atmosphere and diverse shopping options, Kalk Bay promises a memorable outing that caters to every taste and interest. Just remember to wear comfy shoes and keep an eye out for those hidden gems waiting to be discovered!
The Woodstock Exchange 🏬
The Woodstock Exchange is a super cool spot in Cape Town’s Woodstock area that’s been buzzing since 2011. It’s packed full of quirky shops and funky eateries where you can find everything from unique clothes to handmade goodies. If you’re into discovering local talent, this place is a treasure chest! You can spend hours just wandering around, checking out all the rad stuff on offer it’s like a mini adventure every time you visit.
And while you’re there, don’t forget to grab a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the laid-back cafes. The vibe here is really relaxed and welcoming, making it a perfect hangout spot if you’re looking to chill. Plus, there are often events happening that showcase local creatives, so you might just stumble upon something awesome! The Woodstock Exchange is more than just a place to shop; it’s a hub that captures the spirit of Cape Town.
Woodstock Exchange Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm and closed on Sunday
Address: 66 Albert Road, Cape Town
Contact Number: 021 486 5999
Canal Walk 🌴
Canal Walk Shopping Centre is the largest mall in Cape Town, brilliantly situated in the Century City area and easily accessible from the N1. Open daily, this busy mall/empire offers a fantastic mix of retail outlets, dining options, and entertainment, making it a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists. With a vast selection of shops, you can easily spend hours exploring everything from high-street fashion to unique boutiques.
Beyond just shopping, Canal Walk has a lively atmosphere with frequent events and activities, ensuring there’s always something happening. Whether you fancy grabbing a bite to eat after a day of retail therapy or catching a movie to unwind, this shopping centre has you covered. So, grab your friends or family and make a day of it at Canal Walk, there’s something for everyone!
Canal Walk Opening Hours: Open Daily from 9 am to 9 pm
Address: 490 Century Blvd, Century City, Cape Town
Website: https://canalwalk.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 529 9699
Cape Quarter 🍬
Cape Quarter Lifestyle Centre is a lively spot in De Waterkant, Cape Town, perfect for a fun day of shopping and dining. With its quirky shops and cool eateries, it’s the kind of place where you can wander around, pick up unique finds, and grab a bite with friends. It’s open every day, so you can swing by whenever you fancy a little retail therapy or just want to relax.
There’s a great mix of shops, from trendy fashion boutiques to interesting gift stores, and you won’t want to miss the SPAR for your essentials or TOPS for a good selection of drinks for your next braai. Whether you’re after a special treat for yourself or looking for the perfect present, Cape Quarter makes it easy to enjoy a chilled shopping experience. It’s all about good times and great finds!
Cape Quarter Opening Hours: Varies depending on season please see their website for more information
Address: 27 Somerset Rd, Green Point, Cape Town
Website: https://capequarter.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 421 1111
Gardens Shopping Centre 🪴
Gardens Shopping Centre is a delightful shopping spot located in the heart of Cape Town, offering a charming alternative to the vast malls scattered across the city. With about 85 unique shops, visitors can enjoy a range of offerings from boutique fashion and homeware to health and beauty stores. The centre presents a laid-back, cosmopolitan vibe, perfect for those looking to indulge in life’s little luxuries while mingling in a relaxing café scene.
The centre also caters to modern shopping needs with its convenient click-and-collect service, allowing customers to swiftly pick up their online orders. With free covered parking, baby and disabled facilities, and round-the-clock security, it’s an accessible and stress-free spot for a day out. Whether you’re after a quick coffee or leisurely browsing, Gardens Shopping Centre is just the place to park, meet, shop, and eat all in one go!
Gardens Shopping Centre Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9 am to 7 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm
Address: Buitenkant St, Gardens, Cape Town
Website: https://www.gardensshoppingcentre.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 465 1842
Extra Thrift and Boutique Mentions 👕
Exploring Cape Town’s thrifting and boutique stores is like uncovering a treasure chest filled with unique finds and hidden gems. Whether you’re hunting for vintage clothing or quirky accessories, there’s something for everyone. Strolling through these charming shops, you will not only discover great styles but also support local businesses all while .
Here are five must-visit spots for thrifting and boutique shopping in Cape Town:
- SecondHand Rose – An affordable used clothing paradise located in Grove on the Square.
- Nevernew – This vintage store on Lower Main Road has a fantastic collection of pre-loved outfits at budget-friendly prices.
- Waiting for George – A welcoming spot on Regent Road known for its helpful staff and beautiful, unique items.
- Bangbang Vintage Market – A vintage lover’s dream with an array of retro finds.
- U-turn Charity Shop – A charity shop that not only helps local initiatives but also features a range of affordable goods.
And there you have it some of the top shopping spots in Cape Town. Shop till you drop at the malls of Cape Town or if you’re into sustainable living then the Cape Town thrift stores are calling your name. These are our top mentions but that doesn’t mean it ends there, Cape Town is always the best at hiding some gems so get adventuring and shop the day away!
