A Visitor’s Guide to Johannesburg’s Best Market

The city of Johannesburg in South Africa is rightly famed as a tourist destination. However, it also has another claim to fame; the city is home to a wide variety of markets, each with their own unique flavour, giving locals and tourists alike the chance to taste delicious local produce, take home some local art or craft items, or perhaps bag a bargain amongst the bric-a-brac.

Naturally, if you are visiting South Africa, it’s likely that you will want to buy something to remind you of your visit. If so, then you should head for the African Craft Market and Rooftop Market, situated in Rosebank. Spread over two floors, this market has been voted the best Johannesburg market for the last 15 years, and has over 400 stalls.

Here you can buy genuine African artefacts, as well as clothing, ceramics, and antiques. The complex also has various food outlets located on the roof, so you can enjoy views across the city whilst you refresh yourself. Opening hours are 9am to 5pm every Sunday.

Another option is the Crafters Market, which can be found in Clearwater. Open every day from 9am to 7pm, this market is mainly devoted to African crafts and gifts.

Markets specialising in local and organic food and other goods are also well represented. The Bryanston Organic and Natural Market, embodies the principles of several of these food markets, emphasising organic and natural products, such as clothing made from natural fibres, hand-made jewellery, and of course, delicious food. Established over 35 years ago, there is also original artwork and photographs, and a number of options for eating, including a tea garden, coffee shop, and pizza and pancake shops. It’s open on Thursdays and Saturdays from 9am until 3pm.

The Jozi Food Market, also offer similar fare, supporting small local traders, and boasting a pub, organic produce stalls, and a bouncy castle. This market opens Saturdays from 9am to 1.30 pm, at the Pirate’s Sports Club in Greenside.
Combining the best of African artefacts and food, the Kensington Arts, Crafts, Esoteric and Farmer’s Market specialises exclusively in hand-made, hand-crafted or recycled goods. The wide range of products includes: hand-crafted clothes, toys and furniture, original art and jewellery, exclusive food such as cheeses, and plants. There are many places to eat, and a vast array of entertainment including street musicians and face painting. This market is open from 11am to 4pm on the last Sunday of the month.

You will be spoilt for choice if you are looking to browse collectibles and bric-a-brac. The Panorama Flea Market in Mulbarton has over 400 stalls, and also provides entertainment and food for visitors (Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 9am to 4pm). Supervised children’s activities are also available. The Market Theatre Flea Market can be found in the city centre, open everyday from 9am, and the Hospice Charity Market in Orange Grove supports the local hospice.

There is a wide choice of hotels in Johannesburg, but one of the best is the Hyatt Regency Johannesburg, a 5-star hotel in the Rosebank area. With sumptuous rooms and suites, and facilities including a heated outdoor pool, spa and fitness suite, together with various dining options, this is the perfect base from which to explore.

It would be impossible to visit every market to be found, but with such a wealth to choose from, there is no doubt that you will have an unforgettable time exploring the many markets in Johannesburg.

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