Cape Town, South Africa — Shopping
Shopping in Cape Town, South Africa
Shopping in Cape Town is an eclectic delight. The city has everything from designer stores to African craft markets.
Markets
Markets Greenmarket Square in the city center has an African arts and crafts market with antiques and clothes too, surrounded by some of the city's most gracious buildings. The Pan African Market, 76 Long Street, offers wall-to-wall curios in a double-story labyrinth. Leathersmiths, hair braiders, drum tutors and tailors practice their crafts here too. Waterfront Craft Market at the V&A Waterfront has an eclectic range of arts and crafts such as hand-knits, fashions, jewelry and paintings.
Shopping centers
The V&A Waterfront wins hands down for location, and boasts a massive and varied array of shops, including designer boutiques. Canal Walk, at Century City, is also big on brand-name boutiques, with 400 stores including numerous specialty stores, generally open until late.
Key areas
Long Street in the city center is where to be if you're hunting for surfer gear, funky fashion, old books, music, African crafts and antiques. A bohemian, hippy-chic area, Church Street nearby is known for its antiques, including old clothes and books.
Shopping hours
Standard hours are Monday to Saturday 0900-1800, although many open until late in the evenings and on Sundays until mid-afternoon.
Tax information
VAT stands at 14%, although this is largely ignored in the markets. Visitors can reclaim it at the airport for purchases over R250, if receipts are retained.
