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Parks & gardens

Greenmarket Square

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Greenmarket Square

Greenmarket Square

Established in 1696, this historic square is located in the center of Cape Town's old town. It serves as a public space surrounded by colonial-era architecture, including the Old Town House. Travelers visit the square to walk through its historic layout and view the surrounding heritage buildings.

Getting There

The square is situated within the city center, making it accessible by foot for those staying in the central business district. Depending on your starting point in the city center, the walk typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes.

Duration of Visit

A visit to the square generally requires 30 to 60 minutes for a stroll and observation of the surrounding architecture.

When to Visit

The square is an open public space accessible throughout the day. It often becomes crowded during peak tourist hours and weekends. Visitors should be aware that the atmosphere varies depending on the time of day, with higher foot traffic during the midday period.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its central location, the square can be combined with several other historic sites within walking distance:

  • South African Sendinggestig Museum (0.2km)
  • Groote Kerk (0.2km)
  • Koopmans-de Wet House (0.2km)
  • St. George's Cathedral (0.3km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

This place may not appear in the results — some sites are free to enter or sell tickets only at the gate.

Stays near Greenmarket Square

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Greenmarket Square Nearby stays

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Good to visit alongside

South African Sendinggestig Museum

Museums & galleries

South African Sendinggestig Museum

This museum in downtown Cape Town opened in 1977. It's run with support from the Southern Cape provincial government, making it an easy stop to add to a walk through downtown.

0.2 km away

Groote Kerk

Temples & religious sites

Groote Kerk

Groote Kerk in Cape Town is South Africa's oldest Christian church, first built in 1678. The current building dates from 1841 and is worth visiting for its intricately carved pulpit.

0.2 km away

Koopmans-de Wet House

Museums & galleries

Koopmans-de Wet House

A historic mansion on Strand Street in Cape Town, now used as a museum. Opened in 1914, it is South Africa's oldest house museum and has been designated a national monument.

0.2 km away

St. George's Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

St. George's Cathedral

This Anglican cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Cape Town. As the central church of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa and a landmark building, it's well worth a visit.

0.3 km away

Slave Lodge

Museums & galleries

Slave Lodge

One of Cape Town's oldest buildings, it was originally built as slave quarters and later served as a courthouse and government offices. Today it forms part of the Iziko Museums, offering a look back at South Africa's history.

0.3 km away

Golden Acre

Views & landmarks

Golden Acre

Golden Acre is a shopping mall in the heart of Cape Town, at the junction of Adderley Street and Strand Street, making it a handy starting point for exploring downtown. It's slated for redevelopment into a mixed-use complex with retail and residential space, so it's worth watching how it changes in the years ahead.

0.3 km away