Johannesburg has many places to pick up the perfect gift or souvenir, or just to browse around at what is on offer. From modern shopping centre complexes to local markets, it is certainly a varied shopping experience.
If you want to pick up a truly unique South African gift, the flea markets of Johannesburg is the place to shop.
It's a great experience to to go shopping in Johannesburg. Get the best deals, learn about the best places to shop in J'burg, then stop for some finger food or relax in one of the Johannesburg Restaurants along the city's vibrant shopping streets. Also check out our South Africa Shopping Guide for more useful information.
Johannesburg Shopping Guide
Craft Markets
Look out for the famous wire sculpture pieces - you will want to take one back home. At specific craft centres and also on the streets, you will be tempted to buy the beautiful African pots, beadwork, ceramics, carvings and embroidery.
Shopping Malls in Johannesburg
A long list of malls in the city assures you that you will have fun while shopping - whether you are buying traditional curios or designer merchandise or a gift for someone special, the experience will certainly not be disappointing. Try the Sandton City Mall located in Sandton's prestigious Central Business District or the Hyde Park Corner or any mall closest to your hotel.
Factory Shops
If you are looking for some great bargains, then a visit to the factory shops of Johannesburg is mandatory. They sell at wholesale prices and the products include furniture, clothing, food, gifts and much more.
Flea Markets
The Johannesburg flea markets are just the place to pick up something typically South African. Goods from Zimbabwe, Namibia and Congo all make their way to these markets. Try the Bruma Lake Flea Market, which offers everything from clothes to craft and even has a Kid's World! The Rooftop Market is considered South Africa's best flea market.
Shopping Places
Sandton City Shopping Centre
Located in Sandton's prestigious Central Business District.
Hyde Park Corner is a combination of elegance and practicality. As the first fully enclosed decentralised shopping centre in South Africa, it remains innovative in its approach, with an emphasis on wide-open spaces and calming reflective light. The centre offers a comprehensive selection of superior quality merchandise in a modern, airy surround, and housed in a safe, relaxed, and sophisticated environment. It is these qualities that are pivotal to the centre's ambiance. Hyde Park Corner, in the heart of the northern suburbs, accommodates 130 top speciality stores as well as a super market and a cinema complex
Shopping at Melrose Arch suits those looking for exclusive shops or products and it promises high street shopping and a variety of coffee shops and restaurants. A favourite is Cocoa Diva, a gift shop specialising in imported chocolates.
Melrose Boulevard (entrance off Corlett Drive and Athol Oaklands Road)
The Montecasino complex was built to resemble a Tuscan village. Late-night shopping is a unique feature and clothing, jewellery and African curios are the most popular products. There is plenty of entertainment, including cinemas, a theatre and a casino.
Cnr William Nicol Drive and Witkoppen Road Fourways
From designer boutiques and world-class cuisine to local curios and cosy coffee shops, this piazza encapsulates a lifestyle that takes good taste to new levels. Take in a show at the Liberty Theatre on the Square, cast your eye across works of art in one of the galleries or simply sit back and enjoy a meal at one of many renowned restaurants.
The Oriental Plaza is known for its exotic variety of fabrics sold at discount prices. There are no fixed prices - as in eastern markets, bargaining is part of the experience. Local and international brands are also sold at reduced prices.
The first major shopping complex in Soweto, Dobsonville Shopping Centre is seen as a symbol of economic development in the area. It houses major department stores and popular retail chains.
This is a glass wonderland where you can watch the art of glass blowing at work and buy handmade recycled glassware. There are 12 shops to browse around or visit the restaurant, Zest.
Saturdays 9am - 4pm
The "original flea market" at the Newtown Cultural Precinct in the inner city, this lively Saturday market features a little bit of everything.
Newtown Cultural Precinct Bree St
011 832 1641
Michael Mount Organic Village Market
Thursday from 9am to 1pm and Saturday from 9am to 2pm
All products are handmade or produced organically, making a trip to this market in Johannesburg's north a unique experience. Enjoy cakes, pastries, cheeses and crafts.
Cnr Bryanston and Culross Rd Bryanston
011 706 3671
Bruma Lake Flea Market
Tuesday-Sunday from 9.30am to 5pm
Extensive market, based near the Eastgate Shopping Mall, offering everything from clothes to crafts. Live entertainment can be enjoyed as you shop. There is also a Kids' World where youngsters are kept entertained whilst you roam around.
Cnr Ernest Oppenheimer and Marcia Ave Bruma
011 622 9648
Rooftop Market
Open: Sundays and public holidays 9.30am - 5pm
The Rooftop Market is regarded by many as South Africa's best flea market, and is well patronised by locals as well as tourists. More than 500 stalls offer quality clothing, beautiful ceramics, art and craft objects, antiques and collectibles.
Meet Zunaid, your local connection in Johannesburg. We can relate to your needs as tourists... Our team consists of folks who once were tourists, but have been converted to locals! Contact us before you begin planning your adventure. You can even book a stay at one of the many township bed and breakfasts through this site! Come experience the culture and delight of Johannesburg!
