Johannesburg in South Africa is considered to be the shopping mecca of Africa. It has several high end shopping malls retailing designer labels from around the continent and the world. Items sold in these malls are no cheaper than in other major cities like Paris and New York.
However, to find the best bargains one needs to explore away from the busy shopping malls in the suburbs. Some of the best shopping can be done in Johannesburg’s Central Business District, industrial areas and in the older suburbs.
Below are some great shopping places in Johannesburg.
There are several great craft markets to be found in Johannesburg. In South Africa these are normally called flea markets. At these markets all manner of things can be found, including; wire and grass baskets, beaded dolls, wood sculptures and carvings, toys, clothing, traditional cutlery, collectibles, handmade jewellery, etc. The great thing about shopping in these flea markets is that one can bargain and get reduced prices on almost anything, and they are the ideal place to find some special pieces that are made only in South Africa.
Below are some of the best flea markets in Johannesburg:
- The Rooftop Market in Rosebank. This is one of South Africa’s most famous flea markets. It has more than 500 stalls. If hungry there is also a deli and food court.
- The African Craft Market is also in Rosebank. This market specialises in stalls selling items from all over the continent, from countries such as the Congo, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
- Bruma Lake Flea Market is located in a park near Bruma Lake. This market has a great ambience as there are always live performances to watch or listen to while you shop. There is a special section for kids to play and hangout while the adults get some shopping done. There is also a car wash that cleans your car while you shop (for a fee).
- Crafters Market is in Clearwater Mall. This flea market also specialises in uniquely African curios.
- Bryanston Organic and Natural Market has more than 120 stalls. This market is special because it only sells 100% natural items, including fresh produce. There are also plenty of restaurants and a kid’s quarter.
- Hillfox Market in Weltevreden Park is famous for selling famous brands at almost 50% less than the typical retail prices.
- Finally, there is Hospice Charity Market in Orange Grove which sells items to raise money for charity.
In Newtown Cultural Precinct there is the Market Theatre Flea Market. This market is especially popular amongst young adults because many local up and coming designers use this as a place to sell their one of a kind designs.
Johannesburg also offers a variety of speciality stores. Two notable ones are;
- In Melville there is Kinderspiel. This shop offers a unique fantasy shopping experience. This shop sells toys that are imported from Germany. The toys are well made, and are educational. Toys for sale include furniture sets for doll houses, puppets, musical boxes, fairies and dragons.
- In Greymont there is Mahlah’s. Mahlah’s sells antique tools such as blacksmith tongs and anvils, chisels, saws and planes. The tools are bought from auctions, fairs, dealers, and some of the pieces are as old as 150 years. The store also sells speciality lighting and antique furniture.
For a high-end shopping experience, what Johannesburg is becoming famous for, there are;
- Cresta Shopping mall is one of the biggest malls in the country. It offers the full shopping and entertainment experience with restaurants, movie theatres, supermarkets, etc.
- Fourways Mall offers boutique stores, chain stores, cinemas, shoe shops, etc. There is also a miniature golf course.
- Hyde Park Corner is one of the most expensive malls in South Africa with 130 shops, including some retailing international designer brands.
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- Killarney Mall is one of the quieter shopping malls in the city. It is stylish, posh, modern, yet unpretentious. It is also conveniently located close to the American embassy.
- Melrose Arch is one of the premier shopping malls in South Africa. The shops here sell exclusive, luxurious and expensive items. It also has many great restaurants, including fine dining.
- Montecasino is the ideal place for some late night shopping. There is a theatre, cinema and casino for entertainment. There are also a wide variety of shops for different kinds of people.
Finally there is Nelson Mandela Square which includes designer boutiques, fine dining restaurants and relaxing coffee shops. There are also art galleries and a theatre, the Liberty Theatre.
Johannesburg offers a wide range of shopping experiences for different tastes, interests and budgets.