Shopping in Cape Town delivers real value with well-organized tours for every interest. The standout is the nostalgic steam train experience to Elgin Railway Market, where you’ll find authentic local goods in a charming historic setting. The Franschhoek wine route tours earn my vote for combining excellent shopping with world-class wine tasting – it’s smart, culturally rich, and enjoyable.
I’m especially fond of the half-day craft tours, where expert guides take you to hidden workshops and galleries you’d never find on your own. For convenience seekers, the chauffeured shopping services are worth the splurge, letting you focus on discovering while someone else handles the logistics.
Our carefully selected top shopping tours showcase the best of Cape Town’s retail adventures.
Good To Know
- Scenic train and market experiences, like the Steam Train to Elgin Railway Market, offer a unique shopping and sightseeing adventure.
- Cultural and historical tours, such as the Robben Island Long March to Freedom Exhibition Tour, provide insights into South Africa’s rich history.
- Wine tours in Franschhoek, including a Wine Tram ride and visits to historic estates, combine wine tasting with a cultural experience.
- Jewelry, art, and fashion shopping tours, led by local experts, offer a personalized and curated shopping experience.
- Convenient shopping transfers and full-day shopping experiences, with comfortable air-conditioned vehicles and bottled water, ensure a hassle-free shopping journey.
Steam Train to Elgin Railway Market
One of the top-rated shopping experiences in Cape Town is the Steam Train to Elgin Railway Market. This full-day excursion includes a scenic rail journey and access to the vibrant Elgin Railway Market.
Travelers can expect return rail tickets, on-board restrooms, and food/drinks available for purchase. The market offers a diverse array of stalls with local crafts, produce, and cuisine.
With a 95% recommendation rate, this activity is praised for its knowledgeable staff, beautiful mountain views, and overall enjoyable experience. Guests should plan for potential delays and dress appropriately for the market’s outdoor setting.
This family-friendly adventure is highly recommended for Cape Town visitors seeking a unique shopping and sightseeing opportunity.
Read our full review: Steam Train to Elgin Railway Market Review
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Franschhoek Wine Tour Including Wine Tram & Babylonstoren Farm From Cape Town
Embarking on a Franschhoek Wine Tour from Cape Town offers travelers a chance to enjoy the region’s renowned viticulture and picturesque landscapes.
This full-day experience includes a ride on the Franschhoek Wine Tram, visiting historic wine estates, and enjoying two wine tastings. The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transfers, and a local guide to share the story of the French Huguenots’ impact on local winemaking.
Guests can explore large and small wineries, sample robust reds and sparkling whites, and enjoy lunch at their own expense.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour promises a personalized and comfortable experience, subject to favorable weather conditions.
Read our full review: Franschhoek Wine Tour Including Wine Tram & Babylonstoren Farm From Cape Town Review
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Robben Island Long March to Freedom Exhibition Tour With Shopping
The Robben Island Long March to Freedom Exhibition Tour with Shopping offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of South Africa’s history and culture.
Included in the tour are visits to the iconic Robben Island, the Long March to Freedom Exhibition, the Diamond Museum, and the Diamond Works Museum, time permitting.
Travelers can opt for pickup within a 5km radius of Cape Town’s city center or head directly to the meeting point.
The tour operates Tuesday to Sunday, with a maximum of 20 travelers per group.
Pricing is currently discounted at $128.47 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and a reserve now, pay later option available.
Read our full review: Robben Island Long March to Freedom Exhibition Tour With Shopping Review
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Private Half Day Jewelry and Shopping Tour From Cape Town.
For travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Cape Town’s renowned jewelry and diamond scene, the Private Half Day Diamond and Tanzanite Specialist Tour presents a captivating opportunity.
This private tour offers a focused look at the art of gold, diamond, and tanzanite jewelry crafting. Visitors can meet diamond-cutters, learn about the 4Cs of diamond quality, and view an impressive collection of tanzanite jewelry.
The flexible itinerary includes a visit to a bespoke jeweler, a guided tour of a diamond factory, and the option to commission custom pieces.
With convenient hotel/port pickup, bottled water, and gratuities included, this tour provides an informative and accessible way to discover Cape Town’s vibrant jewelry heritage.
Read our full review: Private Half Day Jewelry and Shopping Tour From Cape Town. Review
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Robben Island Plus Art and Craft Shopping Including Ferry Tickets
On this Robben Island Plus Art and Craft Shopping tour, participants won’t only explore the historic Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also enjoy the vibrant local art and craft scene of Cape Town.
The tour includes round-trip ferry tickets, an accredited guide, and lunch. Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle and provided with bottled water.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with heart conditions or serious medical issues.
The tour ends back at the meeting point, ensuring a seamless experience.
Read our full review: Robben Island Plus Art and Craft Shopping Including Ferry Tickets Review
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Curio / Souvenir Shopping Tour With an African Artifacts Collector
This curio/souvenir shopping tour in Cape Town offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant local craft scene with an expert African artifacts collector as their guide.
Priced from $61.18 per person, the tour accommodates up to 10 participants and provides admission to a Changemaker-led experience.
Besides the knowledgeable tour guide, the package includes a 10% charitable pledge and bottled water available for purchase.
Pickup options are flexible, with detailed instructions provided upon booking.
While not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers, the tour is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a Reserve Now, Pay Later option.
Read our full review: Curio / Souvenir Shopping Tour With an African Artifacts Collector Review
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Afrocentric Fashion Shopping Tour With a Lifestyle Brand Founder
Travelers embarking on the Afrocentric Fashion Shopping Tour can expect an immersive experience led by a prominent local lifestyle brand founder.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and personalized exploration of Cape Town’s vibrant Afrocentric fashion scene. Participants will enjoy a 10% charitable pledge, admission to the Changemaker-led tour, and a knowledgeable guide.
Additional options like hotel pickup, meals, and photoshoots are available for those seeking a more comprehensive experience. The tour caters to a moderate fitness level, is stroller and wheelchair accessible, and provides clear meeting and pickup details.
Backed by a lowest price guarantee and flexible booking, this tour promises an unforgettable shopping adventure in the heart of Cape Town.
Read our full review: Afrocentric Fashion Shopping Tour With a Lifestyle Brand Founder Review
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Shopping Mall Transfers
Conveniently, the Shopping Mall Transfers in Cape Town provide direct transportation to the city’s premier shopping destinations.
With an air-conditioned vehicle and bottled water included, the experience offers a comfortable and hassle-free way to explore the area’s top shopping malls.
Clients can choose to head directly to the meeting point or request pickup, ensuring a personalized start to the tour.
The activity is stroller-accessible and has infant seats available, making it suitable for families.
Importantly, the tour is a private experience, allowing only your group to participate.
With prices starting from $22.94 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, the Shopping Mall Transfers present a flexible and budget-friendly shopping option in Cape Town.
Read our full review: Shopping Mall Transfers Review
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Wine Farm Tour
Embark on an immersive wine adventure through the stunning Cape Winelands.
The private Wine Farm Tour offers a comprehensive experience, including wine tastings, lunch, and transportation within the Cape Town Central Business District.
Explore the region’s renowned vineyards and sample a variety of South African wines. The tour is accessible to all, with wheelchair-friendly transportation and surfaces.
Enjoy complimentary bottled water, snacks, and alcoholic beverages throughout the day.
Priced at $1,003.71 per group of up to 6 people, this tour provides excellent value and flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Wine Farm Tour Review
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3 Days West Coast & Wine Farm Tour
This 3-day West Coast & Wine Farm Tour offers an immersive exploration of the captivating landscapes and renowned wineries surrounding Cape Town.
Priced from $3,928.79 per group (up to 6), the private tour includes accommodation, transportation, and a knowledgeable driver/guide.
Highlights include hotel transfers, two breakfasts, and one dinner.
Travelers can enjoy the flexibility of customizing their itinerary, with activities such as wine tastings and scenic drives.
The tour is accessible for most visitors, and a lowest price guarantee ensures the best value.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, this West Coast & Wine Farm Tour is an ideal way to discover the beauty of the region.
Read our full review: 3 Days West Coast & Wine Farm Tour Review
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Full Day Cape Town Shopping Experience With Private Chauffeur
Enjoy the vibrant shopping scene of Cape Town with this full-day experience led by a private chauffeur.
You’ll explore the city’s top shopping destinations, traveling in comfort and style. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and a knowledgeable driver/guide.
Lunch is provided, and gratuities are included, making it a hassle-free outing. Pickup is available from designated locations, and the experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, you can book with confidence. Whether you’re looking for artisanal crafts, designer fashion, or local souvenirs, this private shopping tour has you covered.
Read our full review: Full Day Cape Town Shopping Experience With Private Chauffeur Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Duration of the Shopping Tours?
The average duration of the shopping tours is typically 4-6 hours, allowing ample time for visitors to explore a variety of local markets, boutiques, and shopping districts at a comfortable pace.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children and Families?
The shopping tours are generally suitable for children and families, with many offering activities and attractions that cater to all ages. Some tours may have age restrictions, so it’s best to check with the tour provider.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Shopping Tours?
The cancellation policy for the shopping tours typically allows for free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. However, cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee. Customers should check the specific policy for the tour they’ve booked.
Do the Tours Include Any Special Discounts or Offers?
The tours often include special discounts or offers at select shops, providing shoppers with exclusive savings opportunities. Travelers should check the tour details to see what deals are included.
What Are the Payment Options for the Shopping Tours?
Payment options for the shopping tours usually include cash, credit/debit cards, and in some cases mobile payment apps. Many tours also offer the convenience of online booking and prepayment prior to the tour.
The Sum Up
Cape Town offers a range of exciting shopping experiences, from historic markets and wine farms to private jewelry tours. Visitors can explore the city’s diverse shopping options, whether they’re seeking local crafts, designer fashions, or a unique wine-tasting experience. With various tour options available, travelers can easily curate their ideal shopping expedition in this vibrant South African destination.