As a market LOVER, I am all about discovering the most unique and interesting markets in town. If it were up to me I would spend every weekend morning at a market. Strolling, sipping coffee, browsing through locally made treasures- what a dream. I will say some of my favorite markets I’ve been to have to be markets in Melbourne. They really know what they’re doing down there.
Markets in Melbourne seem to know what you’re looking for. In true Australian fashion, everything is beautiful, artistic, sustainably made- ya know, all the things Australians value. Some are food-centric, others vintage-focused, but no matter what they always have a real pizazz that keeps you coming back.
SO, what are the coolest markets in Melbourne?
Let’s check it out.
The Big Design Market
Not only one of the coolest markets in Melbourne, but this has to be one of the coolest markets I have ever been to. It’s only on for 3 days a year so if you’re around, don’t miss it. Held inside the GORGEOUS Royal Exhibition Center, this market is an art lover’s dream.
There are over 200 stallholders selling amazing things from modern, ceramic lamps to beautiful travel magazines, creative clothing and more. Plus, you can drink there 😉 Local food and drink vendors are on site to satisfy your every tasty need. Shop, eat, drink, repeat. Definitely one of the coolest markets in Melbourne. Admission is $5, free for kids under 12.
The exhibition center is located in the center of Carlton Gardens, be sure to save some time to stroll around, it’s BEAUTIFUL. Carlton is slightly north of the city center, there are nearby tram stops on lines 12, 30, 35, and 96. For updates on market dates and hours, check their website here.
Queen Victoria Market
The holy grail of tourist markets in Melbourne. Yes, Queen Vic market is a magnet for anyone visiting this incredible city, but its also just a fantastic place to grab fresh produce, meats, cheeses, or even stop for a drink. The market boasts food from around the world, one of my favorite being the Spanish tapas bar El Rincon (Sangria anyone?), plus awesome shops to pick up anything you need for home.
The back of the market is quite huge and open air. You will find fresh produce here as well as local vendors (and a lot of touristy merch). There are some gems out here, you might just have to wade through the cheap stuff. 😉
Queen Vic market is very central, located on Victoria St and William St, you can take the tram to nearby stops on the 19, 57, 58 and 59. They are currently open Tues-Fri 6am-3pm, Sat 6am-4pm, and Sun 9am-4pm. Always check the website for any update on hours or closings, you can find their website here.
Rose Street Artists’ Market
I accidentally stumbled upon this one and am SO glad I did. Nestled in the ever-hip neighborhood Fitzroy, Rose Street Artists’ Market is truly one of a kind. Made up entirely of local makers, you are bound to find something to take home at this one. From beautiful, one-of-a-kind clothing to jewelry and wall decor, plus HILARIOUS greeting cards, there’s something for everyone.
Quality is not lost at Rose Street Artists market, I can not recommend it enough. The perfect place to grab a creative gift or just shop for yourself. Plus the makers are super kind and inviting and thrilled to chat with you about their work, and Melbourne!
Rose St market is located at 60 Rose Street, accessible from the city by tram 96 (Kay St) or 11 (Leicester/Brunswick St). Typical hours are Sat-Sun 10am-4pm (check website for any updates here). Be sure to swing by Lune Croissanterie for an epic croissant beforehand, get there early- there’s always a line.
Noodle Night Markets
Melbourne’s Night Noodle Market is put on by Good Food Month every spring in November and runs for a little over two weeks. It is one for the books. Located outdoors at Birrarung Marr near the river, the noodle night market starts daily at 5pm and runs into the night, perfect for watching the sunset over Melbourne.
The market focuses on Asian street food from Japan, Philippines, Taiwan and more. Plus some Asian fusion treats like Dumpling’s cheeseburger dumplings that are to DIE for. With plenty of food stalls to choose from, you will NOT go hungry. Be sure to save room for sweets like Kumokumo’s soufflé pancakes or FRY’d Ice Cream.
For more info and the current schedule, check their website here.
Prahran Market
Also known as the “food lover’s market”, Prahran Market is the ultimate market for great eats and easily one of the coolest markets in Melbourne. Open 5 days a week, this market is perfect for grocery shopping or a bite to eat on the spot. There are so many interesting things to try! From tequila tacos to chocolate dipped dried orange slices, there is no lack of creativity here.
I am a BIG fan of wandering around markets where you can snack, grab a coffee, or drink some wine. It’s such a great way to get to know a town, talking to the vendors and maybe a stranger or two. Another great thing about this market is it takes you south of the river, into the funky Prahran neighborhood which can sometimes get overlooked. You will find great shops and bars/restaurants here so I highly recommend taking some time after the market to stroll down Chapel Street.
The market is located at 163 Commercial Road, South Yarra There are a number of ways to get here depending on where you are and your preferred public transit method. I used to love taking the tram for scenery’s sake, so you could hop on the 6 or 72 from the city center or the 78 from Richmond. You could also take the Sandringham train from Flinder’s to Prahran Station and walk about 5 minutes. There is also a parking lot for the market right behind it on Elizabeth Street.
Typical hours are Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat 7am-5pm, Sun 10am-3pm, closed Mon & Wed. For more info, hours updates and AWESOME recipes, check out their website here.
St. Kilda Esplanade Market
Perfect way to spend a beautiful Sunday. Head down to St. Kilda and stroll the Esplanade, peruse local art and crafts, and take in the beachside view. The sidewalk is lined with tents and local makers as well as a couple stops for snacks, coffee and treats for the kiddos. It’s super easy to get to this market from the city. Depending on where you are just hop on the 96 or the 16 for a direct ride, only about 15-20 minutes.
If you’re just visiting Melbourne, St. Kilda is an absolute must. Come ready to hang by the beach or ride a rollercoaster at the iconic Luna park. Once you finish with the market, stop by my FAVORITE place Hotel Esplanade St. Kilda (no it’s not an actual hotel) for a drink or some amazing food.
For more info on the St Kilda Esplanade Market– check their website here.
Fitzroy Market
A Saturday staple in ultra-cool Fitzroy neighborhood, the Fitzroy Market brings together local artisans, makers, curators, foodies, you name it. This market is HUGE for vintage and pre-love clothing, as well as charming second hand housewares, arts and crafts. Plus it’s Melbourne so there WILL be great coffee and live music. Did I mention they have over 70 stalls? You’re bound to find something you love here.
The Fitzroy Market is located at 75 Rose Street, Fitzroy. It works in collaboration with the Fitzroy Mills Market, the two share a space. So if you run into a sign for that, fear not, you’re in the right place. To get there take the 11 tram to Leicester St/Brunswick St or there is plenty of street parking. Check out more on their website here.
Camberwell Sunday Market
Last but not least, if you didn’t get enough vintage at the Fitzroy market on Saturday, head to the Camberwell market on Sunday! Now this one is HUGE, taking over a suburban parking lot, with hundreds of stalls and all things vintage or second hand. This is one of my favorite types of markets, open air, in a parking lot, live music and tons of energy.
Camberwell is a little bit out of town to the east, right past Hawthorne. It’s only about a 15 minute drive or a 20 minute train ride (not tram). From Flinder’s Street Station, hop on the blue line toward Lilydale and ride 6 stops to Camberwell Station. From there its just a quick walk to the market! Check out more about this funky market here.
There you have it, the coolest markets in Melbourne. Hangin’ around Melbourne for a while? Check out this AMAZING day trip that’s a well kept secret and only a little over an hour drive from the city.
Love ya,
Hannah
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