15 October 2024
19 mins Read
There’s nothing quite like diving straight into a sea of stallholders at one of the many Melbourne markets that occur throughout the year, whether they’re farmers showcasing the latest growing season or imaginative local designers putting their best foot forward. The atmosphere, the affordable prices, the conversations and the endless source of inspiration – a good Melbourne market always brings the local community together.
Below, you will find 28 of the best markets Melbourne locals can’t seem to get enough of.
Melbourne has many weekend markets that are integral to the city’s diverse shopping scene. From innovative local designers to stallholders offloading their pre-loved treasures, everyone is given a platform to share the love when Saturday and Sunday mornings roll around.
Open: Every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm
Find unique gifts, spanning art, fashion, design, jewellery, homewares and furniture. ( Image: Visit Victoria/ Artwork by Aaron Mackenzie)
The Rose Street Market in Fitzroy is inspired by similar markets in world-class cities like London and New York, focusing mainly on local designers across different categories. As one of the best weekend markets in Fitzroy, this is the place you’ll want to go for rare finds and unique gifts, spanning art, fashion, design, jewellery, homewares and furniture.
This popular Melbourne market also has an eatery and rooftop bar, serving up some affordable eats and drinks for a more accessible alternative to all the surrounding restaurants and bars.
Address: 60 Rose St, Fitzroy
Open: Every Sunday from 8am to 1pm
Coburg’s weekend market is messy in the best way possible. The controlled chaos is akin to a massive garage sale, with Coburg Trash & Treasure nailing the phrase “one person’s trash is another person’s treasure”.
Many locals come here to offload their pre-loved wares, so you’ll find rare vintage treasures like videos, CDs, vinyl, plants, toys, car parts, art, books and more. There’s no such thing as junk.
Address: 155 Newlands Rd, Coburg
Open: Every Sunday from 10am to 5pm
The iconic Luna Park looms over the St Kilda markets.(Image: Visit Victoria)
The St Kilda Esplanade Market is the most recognisable weekend market in Melbourne, having been around since the 1970s. And it’s a true shopper’s paradise, set against the golden sands of St Kilda Beach with over 100 stalls from Melbourne’s best makers.
The market is easily accessible on tram 16 or 96, taking just 15 minutes from the CBD to reach a sea of trinkets, accessories, designer fashion, handcrafted artwork and more.
Although many of St Kilda’s best restaurants are nearby, it’s worth bringing your appetite to the dedicated food zone as well. You’ll find cuisines from all over the world, from souvlaki to Dutch pancakes.
Address: The Esplanade, St Kilda
Open: Every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm
Melbourne Book Market is located at Queen Victoria Market every Saturday and Sunday, swelling with a curated collection of over 5,000 new and pre-loved titles from every era you can think of.
The amount of knowledge here is insurmountable and quite overwhelming. It pays to discuss with all the stall holders at this market, chatting about classics and new releases to get an idea of what will appeal to you the most.
Some of the city’s most experienced booksellers, illustrators, book creators and authors regularly pop by the market to showcase their favourite titles, new and old, in Queen Victoria Market’s D Shed.
Address: D Shed, Queen St, Melbourne
Open: The first Saturday of every month between September and May from 9am to 2pm
The Red Hill Community Markets boasts over 300 stalls to browse.
This historic Melbourne market has been around since 1975, often considered one of the most fruitful days out for those who want to go shopping in Melbourne. Over 300 stalls feature every Saturday for the Red Hill Community Market, set in the picturesque locale of Mornington Peninsula.
Yes, you’ll have to drive about an hour of town to dive into this maze of pre-loved treasures, but it’s worth it. An easy $5 parking will get you access to a massive, colourful variety of goods, from vintage fashion and boutique local designers to art and homewares. There are several produce stalls and breakfast stalls so bring your appetite.
It’s worth the drive outside of Melbourne to visit these community markets.
Address: 266 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill
Open: Every Sunday from 7am to 12:30pm
With a distinct love of retro fashion, unique antiques and collectables, the Camberwell Sunday Market is a great choice for anyone looking for interesting gifts and home decorations across more than 350 stalls.
Set in a Suburban car park, the long-running markets are frequented by a young crowd shopping for vintage clothes and pre-loved vinyl records as well. The broad scope of what’s on sale at the Camberwell Sunday Market makes it one of the most diverse in Melbourne. There have even been stories of people finding rare items and going on to sell them to international art dealers for much more than the sale price.
Address: Corner of Station Street, Camberwell
Open: Every third Sunday of each month from 10am to 3pm
Kensington Market is smaller and more focused than some of the other Melbourne markets that have been at it for quite a while. You’ll find around 70 specialty stores at Kensington Town Hall on the third Sunday of every month, highlighting mostly inner-city makers and local craftsmanship.
The range of goods on offer is highly curated and fiercely local, ranging from designer fashion through to homewares, ceramics, kids wear and visual art. There are also homemade treats and coffee to keep you going.
Address: 30-34 Bellair St, Kensington
Open: Every Saturday from 9am to 2pm and every Sunday from 10am to 3pm
The Fitzroy markets feature 75 stalls bustling with second-hand goods
Fitzroy Markets is one of the best markets in Melbourne and perfectly reflects its trendy setting. In almost a decade, the market has grown from a small boutique collection of locals selling their wares to around 75 stalls bustling with second-hand goods.
Given the popularity of the market, it’s likely you’ll find the lion’s share of Saturday’s best market finds in the entire city. There are plenty of handmade items from innovative designers and a nice spread of food stalls as well.
Address: Napier St & Greeves St, Fitzroy
From Melbourne’s best restaurants and bars to the city’s famously diverse cafe scene, eating and drinking exceptionally well is threaded into the Melburnian lifestyle. The state’s best produce dictates those famously high standards; which you can experience first-hand at any number of Melbourne’s farmers markets as fresh seasonal produce passes directly from the growers and farmers to you.
Open: Second Saturday of every month from 8am to 1pm
The popular Regional Farmers Market at the historic Abbotsford Convent happens on the second Saturday of every month, focusing on food security and sustainability from some of the state’s best farmers. Also serving as a strong platform for female representation in the food industry, the farmers market seeks to evolve discussions about produce and the journey of Victoria’s storied food scene.
Note that there is a $2 entry fee, and all proceeds go towards the Abbotsford Convent.
Address: 1/3 St Heliers St, Abbotsford
Open: The third Saturday of every month from 8am to 1pm
Homemade condiments at Gasworks Farmers Markets in Melbourne. (Image: Eduard Ingles)
On the third Saturday of every month, the historic Gasworks Arts Park welcomes the popular Gasworks Farmers Market. It’s a great way to work through a leisurely Saturday morning, with many Melburnians turning out to browse top-shelf Victorian produce direct from the state’s best farmers and specialty makers.
Find everything from just-laid free-range eggs and fresh fruit to freshly cut flowers that give the vibrant award-winning market pops of colour. The park’s resident artist studios are also open during the day so make sure to check out some of the latest works before or after your grocery shopping.
Treat yourself to fresh flowers. (Image: Eduard Ingles)
Address: 21 Graham St, Albert Park
Open: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 4pm
Freshly baked goods from Agathe Patisserie always go down a treat.
Dating back to 1867, the South Melbourne Market is another one of the city’s best farmers markets with an absolute smorgasbord of fine Victorian produce, premium meats, craft spirits and street food. You’ll also find plenty of fresh flowers at this market, as well as a few cafes.
Numerous renowned stalls make a regular appearance, including South Melbourne Dim Sums and Agathe Patisserie.
Spend the morning tasting your way through the markets. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Address: 322 – 326 Coventry Street, South Melbourne
Open: Every Wednesday from 7am to 4pm; every Thursday and Friday from 7am to 6pm; every Saturday from 7am to 1:30pm
Given the area’s strong Hellenic influence, the Oakleigh Market is set apart from other Melbourne farmers markets with its strong Mediterranean accents.
For more than 50 years, this bustling hub of fresh produce has been serving the community, right alongside an additional Sunday market at the nearby Rotary Club with 140 stalls selling all kinds of treasures.
Address: 12-18 Chester Street, Oakleigh
Open: The second Saturday of every month from 9am to 1pm
The focus here is on forging a slower, richer and more meaningful relationship with local growers.
Set in Barrett Reserve in West Footscray, the SloFo WeFo Farmers Market is one of the most modern produce markets in Melbourne, presented by Slow Food Melbourne.
Designed to promote a slower, richer and more meaningful relationship with local growers, the market showcases the best Victorian produce with a particular preference for local artisan makers. The idea is to reduce food miles, with a hyperlocal approach that guarantees unrivalled freshness.
Address: Essex Street, West Footscray
Open: Every Saturday from 8am to 1pm
You’ll find the Coburg Farmers Market every Saturday set inside the grounds of Coburg Primary School. Focused and deeply rooted in community, you’ll find just 30 stalls slinging fresh fruit and vegetables alongside coffee, deli meats, take-home meals and flowers.
Visitors often head here just to grab some delights from Milawa Cheese Company, who are regulars at the weekly farmers market.
Address: 92 Bell St, Coburg
Open: The first Saturday of every month from 8:30am to 1pm
Head out to St Kilda bright and early on a Saturday to find the Veg Out Farmers Market. Just a short walk up from the beach, right next to the area’s community garden, this collection of local produce showcases some of the state’s finest growers alongside small food businesses that sell simple fare like pies, pastries and coffee
Address: 12 Chaucer St, St Kilda
Open: Every Saturday 8am to 1pm
Grab some freshly baked goods from Ned’s Bake pastries and some liquid gold from Bad Bees Honey at Carlton Farmers Market. This simple collection of stalls may be one of the smallest in Melbourne, but the quality of stalls speaks for itself.
You’ll also find fresh flowers, dog treats, and the occasional visit from ethically bred farm animals to keep the family-friendly atmosphere going.
Note that there’s an optional $2 entry fee that can only be paid by card. All proceeds go towards supporting the Carlton North Primary School, which is where this farmers market takes place each Saturday.
Address: 6054/60 Lee St, Carlton North
Open: The third Saturday of every month from 8am to 1pm
The North Essendon Farmers Market only pops on up the third Sunday of every month and is a popular spot for mid-afternoon picnics in Lincoln Park. Set yourself up in the leafy areas while picking at rotating stalls offering all types of fresh produce, alongside baked goods, gourmet pies, fresh juices, and some of that famous brownie banana bread from Brownie Kitchen.
Each iteration is slightly different, with a range of family-friendly activities as well including yoga and face-painting.
Address: Lincoln Rd, Essendon
While some of Melbourne’s best night markets have since shut up shop, you can still find a handful of delicious food stalls after you clock off during the week. These night markets tend to be packed full of life, smoke and some of the best casual food slingers in the state.
Open: Every Wednesday night from 5pm to 10pm (summer only)
Every December through to mid-March, the Summer Night Market takes over Queen Victoria Market each Wednesday, with a huge range of food trucks, festive bars and fashion stalls. There’s also great live music to help pick up the vibe.
Given most of Melbourne’s longer-running night markets have since shut, this seasonal night market usually draws a huge crowd for a Wednesday night so it’s wise to show up early and grab some seats before darting around the many food stalls.
Address: Queen Street, Melbourne
Open: The third Friday of every month from 4pm to 11pm
If you’re looking for a good market in Melbourne then head on down to Chinatown on the third Friday of every month. The bustling Chinatown Market Day feels like a celebration each month, turning Hefferman Lane into a sizzling, smoky scene of dumplings, rice, noodles, cakes and satay.
Address: Heffermen Lane, Chinatown
Freshly cut flowers straight from the best farms and growers in Victoria. While there are very few dedicated flower markets in Melbourne that are open to the public (most of them are wholesale), you can still find plenty of florists scattered amongst other stalls, selling beautiful fresh flowers and flower arrangements.
Open: Every Tuesday and Thursday to Saturday from 7am to 5pm; every Sunday from 8am to 3pm
Prahran Market is a great place to pick up fresh produce and flowers. (Image: Visit Victoria)
The famous Prahran Market has more than just flowers, but the number of options here positions it as the best place to go when you want top-quality blooms. Scattered amongst the spread of artisan cheese and baked goods, Clara’s Flowers is the stall you want with a great variety of fresh flowers and flower arrangements.
Although there are multiple florists on hand to help you find exactly what you need, including a nursery that you can browse for inspiration.
Address: 163 Commercial Rd, South Yarra
Open: Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6am to 12pm; every Tuesday and Thursday from 4am to 12pm; Saturday from 4am to 10:30am
Buy fresh flowers direct at Santospirito.
While not exactly a market with multiple stores, Santospirito Flowers is pitched as the only wholesale flower market within five kilometres of Melbourne CBD. And it’s an absolute haven for those who love everything about freshly cut, perfectly preserved flowers, plants, foliage and sundries.
The growers showcase blooms picked straight from their farms out in Torquay, displayed in a huge warehouse that has plenty of undercover parking and can get quite busy on weekends.
Address: 1 Minnie St, Yarraville
As with Melbourne’s best farmers markets, these food markets are dedicated to the sharp, seasonal flavours of the state. Pull up a chair (or grab a picnic blanket) and wrap yourself in these very energetic Melbourne markets.
Open: Every Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 9am-3pm; Saturday & Sunday 9am-4pm
The most famous market in Melbourne can fall under most categories in this guide. However, Queen Victoria Market is best known for its incredible range of food, scattered across 600 stalls that specialise in all types of treats, as well as specialty produce, unique gifts and fashion.
The Queen Victoria Winter Night Market.
(Image: Visit Victoria)
Given this market is very much part of the furniture for Melburnians, you’ll spark a heavy debate if you’re asking for suggestions on the best food stalls at Queen Victoria Markets. We recommend smoked sausages at Polish Deli; Basque cheesecake at M&G Caiafa; Japanese katsu sandwiches from Meet Sando; coffee from Little League; and dessert from American Doughnut Kitchen.
Mork Chocolate is a go-to stall for visitors to the Queen Victoria Market. (Image: Kristoffer Paulsen)
Address: Queen St, Melbourne
Open: Wednesday and Thursday 4pm to 10pm; Friday and Saturday 12pm to 12am; Sunday 12pm to 10pm.
Welcome to Thornbury offers a diverse spread of food trucks and regular events, (Image: Visit Victoria)
While not technically a market, we can’t get enough of Welcome to Thornbury’s diverse spread of food trucks and regular events. It’s always a party here, from the huge beer garden to the rotating list of trucks that come from around Melbourne and Geelong.
The best time to head along to this bustling food truck park is in the evening, when the neon comes alive, and the crowds turn out to make every night (except Mondays and Tuesdays) feel like one massive celebration of Melbourne’s food scene.
Address: 520 High St, Northcote
Open: Every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 7am to 4pm; every Sunday from 9am to 4pm
Welcoming well over five million visitors per year, Dandenong Market is one of the most established in regional Melbourne. Over 150 years of history sits behind this beloved food market, which is so big that it includes an entire fresh fruit and vegetable hall, and one just for meat, fish and deli produce.
On select days, the market welcomes various street food stalls which you can sample on a guided group tour. And while fresh produce lures most of the crowd, the real reason to head along to Dandenong is that it’s one of the most culturally diverse markets in Australia. Load up on produce from all corners of the globe, from India to Ethiopia, demonstrating exactly why Melbourne’s best restaurants are so innovative and pull from so many different cuisines.
Address: Clow Street and Cleeland Street, Dandenong
Open: Every Wednesday and Thursday from 8am to 3pm; every Friday from 8am to 6pm; every Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 3pm
Buy direct from the farmers at Preston Markets.
Melbourne’s massive Preston Market opens every Wednesday through Sunday, showcasing some of the city’s best food vendors. It’s always worthwhile for food lovers to head on into this busy food market, presenting a diverse, selection of stalls from popular spots like South Melbourne Dim Sum and 888 Street Food.
All your weekly staples are on sale at Preston Markets.
Popular casual restaurants from all over Melbourne show up for this five-day-a-week foodie celebration, threading some of the city’s best suburbs into one big plate of multiculturalism.
Gourmet deli meats and cheese are in abundance at Preston Markets.
Address: 30A The Centreway, Preston
Melbourne loves a seasonal market. From big celebrations of local designers to Christmas blowouts, these are the one-off markets that help capture Melbourne’s irrepressible energy.ther ins
Open: Friday 29 November to 1 December 11am – 5pm
It’s worth timing your visit to Melbourne around this market. (Image: Blake Walshe)
Taking over the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton, The Big Design Market is one of the most anticipated seasonal shopping hubs in the state. Every so often, this massive celebration and showcase of the best designers from Australia and New Zealand pops up with 250 stallholders selling all types of treasures.
The annual Big Design Market is an excellent place to find a gift for a loved one or yourself. (Image: Blake Walshe)
Usually set for May and December, the market pops up for around three days and offers a great range of ceramics, homewares, jewellery, clothing, lifestyle products, art prints and more. Plus, the food and drink offering is just as well-curated, with some of Melbourne’s best showing out from Wonderbao and St ALi to Pizzini Wines and La Tortilleria.
The Big Design Market takes over the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton every year. (Image: Blake Walshe)
Address: 9 Nicholson St, Carlton
Open: Various dates throughout the year
Find a curated selection of some of Australia’s best makers and designers. (Image: Marie Luise)
The nomadic Boho Luxe Market pops into Melbourne now and then with a curated selection of some of Australia’s best makers and designers. Catch boutique jewellers, fashion designers, illustrators and just about every creative expression under the sun, worked into a colourful array of stalls.
Affordable prices and interesting wares aren’t the only reason to head along to Boho Luxe Market whenever it pops up (usually February and December – for a Christmas edition). There are often themes whenever the market is on, taking curation even further so you can focus more on what you want, and less on what you don’t.
Address: Various locations throughout the year
Open: Dates vary throughout the year
Finders Keepers is an extravaganza of retro fashion and design. (Image: Samee Lapham)
Pick up gourmet condiments and treats at the markets. (Image: Samee Lapham)
The Finders Keepers Market is where Melbourne’s love of hand-crafted fashion and accessories reaches its peak. Guests enter an open-air extravaganza of retro fashion and design at this pop-up three-day shopping event, where more than 250 stalls sell everything from slow fashion to stationery.
Local and interstate makers come to sell their artworks at the Finders Keepers Market. (Image: Samee Lapham)
The biannual design market takes over the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton and usually happens in both mid-July and mid-October with an easy $6 entry price.
Find sweet treats on sale alongside homemade wares. (Image: Samee Lapham)
Get a pick-me-up from the margarita stand while you shop. (Image: Samee Lapham)
Address: 9 Nicholson St, Carlton
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