Why visit the Johannesburg Markets
Shopping at a traditional mall is nice, and South African certainly has a ton of those. Anywhere you go, you can practically trip over one. But shopping at the Johannesburg markets is something completely different! It’s outdoors, it’s lively, it’s fresh… it’s something you really should experience when you’re in Johannesburg, aka Joburg, aka Jozi.
At the Johannesburg markets, you’ll find artwork, souvenirs, handmade crafts, clothes, all kinds of food, including exotic foods. Here are a few helpful tips for tackling the Johannesburg markets:
- Go hungry. There are so many good foods to eat. You don’t want to miss out because you’re too full to eat.
- Walk around before you buy. Depending on which market you go to, there may be hundreds of vendors. First, check them out before you commit.
- If you are buying wares, be willing to negotiate on price.
- Take cash. Many vendors accept credit or debit card payments, but it’s best to be prepared because many don’t.
- Go early, especially if you don’t like crowds. These markets are very social and depending on where you go, they can get packed.
The Best Johannesburg Markets
Rosebank Rooftop Market

WHEN: Sundays
WHERE: 50 Bath Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
At the Rosebank Rooftop Market, there are so many interesting local things to buy. They have beaded art, wood art, clothes, jewelry, trinkets, curios, handmade crafts, etc. If you are shopping for souvenirs, this is a good place to go.
It’s a very festive environment. On the second Sunday of every month, they also have a craft beer garden with food stalls and live music from noon to around 5:30 pm. This is a great way to spend a Sunday!
Neighbourgoods Market




WHEN: Saturdays 9 am to 3 pm and the first Thursday of every month – 5 pm until late.
WHERE: 73 Juta St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
The Neighbourgoods Market Johannesburg is in Braamfontein, which is not quite downtown Joburg. Rain or shine, it is open every Saturday for your shopping pleasure.
The market covers two floors with over 100 merchants. You’ll find artisanal food, craft beer, cocktails, chocolate, cheeses, paella, clothes, bags, jewelry, and more.
To secure a table, you’ve got to go early! Otherwise, you can eat while you’re browsing the wares.
Be sure to enjoy the amazing views of the city from the rooftop area.
Market on Main (Maboneng)



WHEN: Sundays, 10am to 3pm
WHERE: 264 Fox St, City and Suburban, Johannesburg, 2094,
This is a food and design market. The initial premise of the market was to give food and design entrepreneurs an opportunity to sell their goods.
You’ll find food stalls that serve decadent ice cream, paella, handcrafted cocktails, braai (barbeque), local craft beer, patisserie, etc. And that’s just the food. You’ll also find vendors selling handcrafted shoes, bags, sunglasses, clothes, jewelry, etc.
1 Fox Market Shed

WHEN: noon-5pm Fridays, 10am-4pm Saturdays and Sundays
WHERE: 1 Fox St, Ferreirasdorp
1 Fox Market is relatively easy to access in downtown Johannesburg.
The market is set in a former industrial warehouse on the western edge of downtown Johannesburg. The vibe is social and relaxed, which is kind of weird since the building overlooks the notorious old John Vorster police building (from the Apartheid days.)
This is a thriving market, offering mainly drinks and foods like local foods, international cuisine, gourmet burgers, pizza, pastries, curries, etc. There is also a small scattering of handmade craft stalls. Ample secure parking is also available.