Parks & gardens
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