With its gorgeous coastline, brilliant family-friendly attractions, and cosmopolitan waterfront, Durban is a city that never fails to delight. This captivating city along South Africa’s eastern coast is the third-largest in the country, and has an incredible amount to do, see, and explore. From art museums to game reserves to golden beaches, Durban brims with exciting activities that will keep your itinerary full! Follow the Inanda Heritage Trail and explore historic sites that shaped South’s Africa’s past, and visit “living fossils,” plants that pre-date dinosaurs, in the Durban Botanical Gardens. Go on a boat tour with KwaZulu Natal Sharks Board and learn about the fascinating biology of these marine creatures, or catch a Sharks rugby match, and watch the speed and agility of a different kind of shark! After a busy day of sightseeing, soak up the sunshine and sink your toes in the sand on the beautiful beaches along the Golden Mile. When you feel rejuvenated, there is still plenty to be done at night! Below is a list of the best night markets in Durban, South Africa.
1. The Stables Lifestyle Market
Located just down the road from Mr. Price Rugby Stadium, the Stables Lifestyle Market is a unique shopping experience unlike any other! As the name suggests, this market is housed in former stables, and the narrow lanes that wind through the stalls are all named after prominent racehorses. Meander past numerous shops and stalls where vendors sell everything from arts and crafts to cellphone accessories to home décor. You can also pick up delectable snacks as you wind your way through the wares, or simply sit back and listen as musicians perform live. The market is fun, family-friendly, and open three days a week, with Wednesday and Friday being open late in the evening.
The Stables Lifestyle Market
Address: 9 Jacko Jackson Dr, Stamford Hill, Durban, 4025, South Africa
Website: The Stables Lifestyle Market
Opening hours: Wednesday - Friday: 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm, Sunday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
2. Roof Top Night Market
A relatively new market, the Roof Top Night Market has surged in popularity since it first opened in 2015. If you are in town on the first Friday of the month, this vibrant market should definitely be added to your to-do list. Food is definitely the star of the show here. Sample sweet treats like over-the-top milkshakes and decadent pastries, or fill up on deliciously crafted sandwiches, massive tacos, and so much more. Even if you think you aren’t hungry, treats like the nitrogen-frozen ice cream and vibrant smoothies are sure to tempt you! You can also shop for souvenirs from clever artisans and pick up handmade wares, and listen to local musicians perform live.
Roof Top Night Market
Address: 115 Musgrave Rd, Musgrave, Berea, 4001, South Africa
Website: The Roof Top Night Market
Opening hours: First Friday of every month: 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm
3. Orchard Nights
An off-shoot of the daytime Litchi Orchard Market, Orchard Nights brings the community together for a celebration of local craftsmanship, fantastic food, and live performances. As you wander the stalls, you will see wares from a variety of different artisans, including potters, painters, jewelers, and clothing designers! You can also pick up seasonal produce, baked treats, and fresh meals featuring local ingredients. This is a seasonal event that occurs every Friday night. For the latest information about the upcoming Orchard Night, check out the website’s calendar of events.
Orchard Nights
Address: Seaforth Avenue, Salt Rock, Umhlali, 4390, South Africa
Website: Litchi Orchard Market
Opening hours: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
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4. Natural and Organic Night Market in Alverstone
This night market is a family-friendly event with fun for everyone. The Natural and Organic Night Market focuses on community engagement, and features live music, plenty of delicious food, and a wide variety of vendors. As you meander through the stalls, you will find everything from handmade puzzles to second-hand books, as well as plenty of fresh snacks like home-made cheese, bread, and organic coffee. Fill up on wood-fired pizzas and melt-in-your-mouth ice cream as you listen to the live performers and watch the bonfires sizzle. There are also tons of great events arranged for children. Set on the first Friday of every month, this market takes place at the Roseway Waldorf School in Alverstone.
Natural and Organic Night Market
Address: D435 Alverstone Assagay, Durban
Website: Natural and Organic Night Market
Opening hours: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
5. Westville Night Market
Located in the Westville Mall, this night market occurs on the last Friday of every month. The Westville Night Market is filled with entertainment for all ages, and brings together local artisans, creators, and performers for an evening of engaging community spirit. Support small business owners and craftsmen as you shop for beautiful home décor, unique statement art pieces, and creative clothing that will make your next outfit pop. Great food can also be found around every corner, with talented chefs serving up delicious meals and amazing vendors selling snacks to take home (or to eat in the car as you leave!). The market also hosts plenty of kid-friendly activities and events that range from art workshops to dance parties. From craft beer to arts and crafts, deep-fried Oreos to home décor, there is something for everyone to love at the Westville Night Market.
Westville Night Market
Address: Jimmy Bellows Sports Grounds, 5 Link Road, Westville, Durban, South Africa
Website: Westville Night Market
Markets, museums, marine life, and more
With its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and wonderful family-friendly attractions, Durban is a city of unceasing enchantment. There is so much to see, do, taste, and try in this vibrant city, and these wonderful night markets give you a taste of local life. Keep the fun rolling into the night and add these markets to your Durban bucket list! Start planning your trip today!