Exploring Melbourne's Top 5 Markets

Melbourne is known for its markets. These are the perfect place to pick up a unique gift for a loved one back home, find a fun souvenir to remind yourself of your time here or to try the local produce.

This is the capital - and largest - city in the state of Victoria. In fact, it is expected to overtake Sydney as the country’s most populous city by 2026. So, you may like to pick up a car rental in Melbourne to make travelling between the markets quick and easy. You can then fill your boot with all purchases and won’t have to leave behind anything you really want, simply because you can’t carry it.

So, with so many markets to choose from, which ones should you visit? Here are the top five:

1. South Melbourne Market

This village market, which first opened in 1867, serves fresh, local produce as well as an array of products from books to clothing. As well as browsing around 145 stalls, you can also enjoy live music and take part in the regular events and activities organised here.

Where is it? CNR Coventry and Cecil Streets

When is it? Wednesday, Friday, Sunday: 8am to 4pm and Saturday: 8am to 4pm

Parking: From Coventry Street, you can enter the rooftop car park or you’ll find a car park on York Street. On market days you’ll get two hours free parking.

2. Queen Victoria Market

Open since 1878, this market can be found on the National Heritage List. Here you’ll find more than 600 small businesses serving everything from food to souvenirs. As well as wandering around by yourself, you can also join a foodie tour to learn more about the history.

Where is it? Nestled between Peel, Franklin, Victoria and Elizabeth Streets.

When is it? Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 6am to 3pm, Saturday: 6am to 4pm, Sunday: 9am to 4pm. During summer, you can visit the Night Market from 5pm to 10pm on Wednesdays.

Parking: There is metered parking on Queen Street or you can enter Queen Victoria Market car park from Franklin or Queen Streets, it is open from 5am to 7pm. Free parking is available on market days from 6am to 9pm.

3. Prahran Market

Foodies will be in heaven at this market. From fruit and vegetables to poultry, game and seafood. There is something to suit all tastes here. There are also delis, eateries and butchers and coffee stands. Don’t miss the organic produce, speciality food and beverages plus general merchandise and flowers.

Where is it? 163 Commercial Road, South Yarra VIC 3163

When is it? Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 7am to 5pm and Sunday: 10am to 3pm.

Parking: Undercover parking is available on Elizabeth Street, behind the market. Plus, on surrounding streets you’ll find one hour spaces.

4. The Rose Street Artists’ Market

Artists and designers are selling their handmade items at this arty market. Browse, purchase or commision everything from jewellery and paintings to furniture. You’ll be able to pick up unique handmade piece for your home, that will be the envy of your friends.

Where is it? 60 Rose Street, Fitzroy in between Brunswick and Nicholson Streets.

When is it? Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 4pm

Parking: Car park open all day on Rose Street

5. St Kilda Esplanade Market

There are more than 250 stalls at this market selling arts and crafts. There are new stalls added all the time, so it’s well worth a visit even if you have been before. From the market you can enjoy views of St Kilda Beach and after wandering around the stalls for a few hours, take the short walk over there to relax and soak up the sun.

Where is it? Situated on Upper Esplanade beside Luna Park, located between Fitzroy St and Acland St.

When is it? Every Sunday from 10am to 4pm (5pm during summer)

Parking: Triangle car park, Sea Baths car park, and The Prince car park are all located nearby. Now you know where to go, you’ll be sure not to miss out on Melbourne’s best markets.

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