Romantiques - Antique, Vintage & Retro Collectibles & Memorabilia

Step back in time at Romantiques, a truly distinctive antique, vintage and collectibles store that's become a landmark institution in Hermanus. Established in 2006 and relocated to Aberdeen Street in 2011, this extraordinary space functions as both a retail shop and a living museum.

More Than Just An Antique Shop

The meticulously organized collection spans numerous themed rooms showcasing thousands of unique items. Visitors can explore dedicated sections for military memorabilia, vintage toys, period clothing, crockery, silverware, brass items, photographic equipment, medical implements, and much more. Local collectors particularly praise the extensive military section, featuring items from the Anglo-Boer War through WWII and more recent conflicts.

What sets Romantiques apart is its immersive experience. The premises includes a charming vintage cinema screening classic films on Saturdays at 1pm, complete with old-fashioned popcorn and sweets. There's also a coffee shop in a garden setting, making it perfect for a rainy day activity in town.

Local Tips

• Plan to spend time: Most visitors end up staying much longer than expected—the sheer volume of items can easily fill 2-3 hours of browsing
• Saturday visits: Catch one of the vintage films at 1pm in their intimate cinema for an authentic old-world experience
• Themed events: Check their social media for special themed movie nights and murder mystery events
• Virtual tour: If you're short on time, their website offers a virtual tour where you can screenshot items of interest

Romantiques caters to serious collectors and casual browsers alike. The store offers both high-end antiques and affordable nostalgic items that evoke childhood memories. Card facilities are now available, and there's ample on-site parking—a rarity in central Hermanus.

For visitors exploring the Overberg region, this makes for a perfect complement to Hermanus's coastal attractions, especially when the weather isn't ideal for outdoor activities. Many locals bring visiting friends here as their first stop in town, demonstrating its status as a genuine cultural institution rather than just another tourist spot.