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A Day at Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne, Australia

Queen Victoria Market is a must for all tourists to Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is more than just a shopping destination for souvenirs. Here you will experience a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere within this historic site. I believe all Melburnians feel a special link to this place that had been a historical landmark for over 130 years. In my opinion this market is much better the equivalent of Sydney Hay Market and the Perth Market. It is an open-air market that the locals as well as tourists love to frequent.

When I was there, I witness the friendly competition between the various butchers trying to sell their produce. It was very interesting indeed. This kind of atmosphere provides a kind on human entertainment to shoppers in this thriving lively market. I believe this is what gives the Market its Old World charm and thus draw millions of visitors each year.

The Queen Victoria Market is probably best known to the locals for its huge variety of fresh produce.

Almost 50% of the Market area is dedicated to the sale of fresh produce, including fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, chicken, seafood and delicatessen products. I believe the prices here are cheaper than in the shops, if not fresher.

The remainder of the Market is used for variety and speciality goods, with Sundays being the most popular day for this category. On Sundays, the hustle and bustle of the weekday Market gives way to a more relaxed and leisurely family day. Queen Street is closed and converted into an outdoor cafe area, with children’s rides and other activities.

I was there on a Saturday and it is just as vibrant and busy with musicians ready to entertain shoppers.

The Market is divided into a number of Market Precincts; the Deli Hall, Elizabeth Street Shops, F-shed laneway, Food Court, Fruit and Vegetables, The Meat Hall, Organics, General Merchandise, Victoria Street Shops and the Wine Market.

As with most markets, it is a great place to have breakfast or lunch there. I believe the food is as fresh as it comes.

There is a doughnut van that makes fresh doughnuts inside the van. Looks yummy but alas I was already full.

Don’t forget plastic bags are now banned from the Meat Hall and Dairy Hall so remember to bring your re-usable bags when shopping at Queen Victoria Market.

The market is open on weekdays as well, but I was told it is not as vibrant as on a Sat or Sunday. Car parks are free if you parked and depart before 10am. That is to mainly cater for restaurateurs who buy their fresh produce here daily.

Weekdays hours are:
Tuesday: 6am – 2pm
Thursday: 6am – 2pm
Friday: 6am – 5pm (general merchandise to 4pm)

Weekends hours are:
Saturday: 6am – 3pm
Sunday: 9am – 4pm

If you happen to use the The Melbourne City Tourist Shuttle, Queen Victoria Market is on Stop 8. The Flagstaff Gardens are also just a short walk away.

The Melbourne City Tourist Shuttle is a great way to see Melbourne’s attractions, and it’s free!

There is also an artist alley nearby, selling interesting goods.

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