There's no shortage of things to do in Melbourne, especially on weekends. Melbourne’s markets are the place to be and offer everything from farm-fresh produce to vintage fashion, and everything in between. Here’s a collection of some of Melbourne’s best weekend market offerings.
Queen Victoria Market
Queen St, Melbourne
Affectionately known as ‘Vic Market’ or ‘Queen Vic’, the open-air Queen Victoria Market spans two city blocks. It’s a must for those looking to buy local and imported gourmet produce, while a wide array of soft cheeses, cured meats and continental cakes can be found in the Deli Hall.
South Melbourne Market
Coventry St & Cecil Street, South Melbourne
A neighbourhood institution, the history of South Melbourne Market dates back to 1867. There’s an endless selection of stalls that offer fresh produce and mouth-watering culinary creations such as oyster shots, buttery croissants and the famed dim sum. Leave room for a deliciously fresh seafood-driven lunch at Claypots Evening Star, a market restaurant must.
Dandenong Market
Clow St & Cleeland St, Dandenong
Undoubtedly Melbourne’s most diverse culinary market, Dandenong Market is a melting pot of ethnicity, selling goods from over 150 nationalities under one roof. Including a wide range of exotic fruits and vegetables, specialist cut meats and a bazaar, Melbourne’s second-largest market is a haven for one and all. You can also join the hour-long Free Food Discovery Tour on Tuesdays and Fridays to learn about everything that goes on behind the scenes with select traders at this famous market.
Collingwood Children’s Farm Farmers Market
18 St Heliers St, Abbotsford
On the second Saturday of every month, this inner-city farm, nestled in a bend on the Yarra River, plays host to Victoria’s farmers and artisans. Bring your own basket and fill it to the brim with seasonal produce and gourmet goodies. Travel secret: Pay the $2 entry fee (children free) and you can explore the farm’s seven hectares of paddocks and gardens while getting up close and personal with the animals.
Rose Street Artists’ Market
60 Rose Street, Fitzroy
Meet the makers on both Saturday and Sunday at the Rose Street Artists’ Market, the home of homemade wares. From photographers to emerging designers, this hip market hosts some of Melbourne’s finest art and design talent, making it a must for creative types. The market opens on weekends from 11am to 5pm, but the diner and rooftop bar opens at 8am so you can grab breakfast before your shopping spree.
Mornington Racecourse Market
320 Racecourse Rd, Mornington
Take a day trip to one of Melbourne’s most stunning coastal towns for its racecourse market, famed for its unique mix of handmade wares and delicious foods. Held on the second Sunday of every month, enjoy a meal on the lawn after browsing the markets stalls, and soak up the festive atmosphere while buskers entertain. Trading hours are 9am to 2pm.
