Discover the best markets in Australia and New Zealand

Ready to sample your next destination? For a taste of local food, culture and craftsmanship, a bustling farmers market is one of the best ways to experience it. You’ll not only discover places to buy fresh produce or handmade goods, you’ll explore cultural hubs that reflect the unique character of their communities. Here, we explore some of the best markets in Australia and New Zealand, each with its own distinctive charm and personality.

Affectionately known as Queen Vic or the Vic Markets, the Queen Victoria Market is a Melbourne institution. Established in 1878, it’s not only the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere, it’s an intrinsic part of Melbourne's character and a mouth-watering source of fresh produce, meats, dairy products and specialty foods.

Beyond groceries, the market is also known for its vibrant array of artisan goods, clothing, and souvenirs. The Night Market, held weekly on Wednesdays, is a midweek highlight, featuring live music, street food and a festive atmosphere. Whether you're a foodie, bargain hunter or visitor, Queen Victoria Market is one of the best markets in Melbourne.

Where to stay

Enjoy a relaxing stay at the stylish Alto Hotel on Bourke, a boutique hotel in the heritage-listed former Australian Railway Union building built in 1914. A great place for diving into the night market Vic market is famous for.

Courting over 150 years of history, Paddy's Market in Sydney is famed for being one of the best markets in Sydney. Located in the inner city Haymarket area, right beside Chinatown, you’ll find a huge range of seasonal produce and freshly-caught seafood, as well as local and imported gifts, clothing, gadgets and souvenirs. Jammed with stalls offering products from around the world, buskers and street performers also add to the lively atmosphere on weekends.

Further west you’ll also find a Paddy’s Market in Homebush, with a fresh produce market on Fridays, a Swap and Sell market on Saturdays and the popular Night Food Markets on the first Saturday of every month. The Night Markets are an inclusive family-friendly event with a jumping castle for the kids, and a monthly auto show of cars and motorbikes for car enthusiasts.

Where to stay

After you enjoy the hustle and bustle of a true market experience, relax in modern and stylish accommodation at the Quality Inn Sunshine Haberfield.

On Australia’s sunny west coast, Perth’s Fremantle Markets have been operating from a grand Victorian building since 1897. You can almost hear the sound of horses and carts arriving at the market loaded up with fresh fruit and vegetables. Today, the market offers over 150 colourful stalls offering everything from gourmet goodies to handmade crafts, fashion and homewares.

Open every weekend and Monday public holidays, the market is committed to supporting local artisans and farmers, making it a great place to find unique, locally made products. It’s also a hub for live music and entertainment, creating a lively atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists. Explore the Fremantle Markets ‘Heritage Trail’ and discover the fascinating history of the markets, including heritage-listed stables, cottages and a ghost story or two.

Where to stay

Visit these vibrant markets in Fremantle by staying at The Comfort Inn & Suites Goodearth Perth - a magnificent location by the Swan River, views from the rooms and a restaurant and bar.

Situated in the sun-kissed coastal hub of Wollongong, Crown St Markets is a twice-weekly event in the Crown St Mall. Open Thursday nights and Friday, the market is a haven for independent growers, food producers, designers, makers, artists and creative entrepreneurs. You’ll find everything from organic produce to artisanal breads, cheeses and condiments.

Enjoy the diverse range of fresh local and national street food including vegan-friendly options and sweet treats as well as unique and one-of-a-kind gifts by local makers, artisans and designers. The market’s relaxed, community-focused atmosphere makes it a great place to spend a Sunday morning, browsing, sampling and soaking in the coastal vibes of Wollongong.

Where to stay

The Comfort Inn Towradgi Beach is only five minutes from the CDB and a short 10 minute walk to the beach.

Mooloolaba Markets, Sunshine Coast

Take the trip north to Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, where the Mooloolaba Sunsets Markets make the most of the spectacular setting on the famous Mooloolaba Esplanade. This vibrant outdoor market is held on the first and third Saturday evening of the month, drawing a happy crowd of locals and visitors alike. 

Enjoy the electric atmosphere, with a huge range of global street food, artisan stalls, entertainment and live performers. After browsing the stalls, unfurl a picnic blanket on the beach and watch the sunset, or take a twilight stroll along the beautiful Mooloolaba Beach. There’s plenty of fun for the kids too at the new Foreshore playground.

Where to stay

Explore the sunset market and the nearby seafood markets by staying in modern resort-style apartment accommodation at First Light Mooloolaba or Breeze Mooloolaba.

Across the Tasman, New Zealand offers a unique and exceptional choice of markets packed with local artisan delicacies. The Riverside Market in Christchurch on the South Island is an award-winning standout. In the heart of the CBD, on the banks of the Avon River, this vibrant indoor farmers market is open all week for local produce, meat, seafood, baked goods, coffee and more. 

A bustling community hub, the market offers a unique inner-city market dining experience that champions local produce - and it’s quickly become a favourite destination for locals and visitors. Explore the market while feasting on dishes that use local ingredients and sip on locally-produced wine, beer, and cocktails. 

Where to stay

Christchurch is home to places to stay that match every taste and budget, from hotels amongst manicured rose gardens to options in the heart of town and close to the Christchurch markets.

Launched by Italian-style delicatessen Buono, the Parnell Markets is the perfect place for foodies to enjoy local spoils in Auckland. Take a seat at the outdoor tables or in Buono’s café, enjoy an expertly-made coffee and soak in the authentic community energy of the market. You’ll find quality deli products and seasonal produce, where you can top up on weekly essentials or indulge in a well-earned weekend treat.  

Where to stay

You’ll find modern, spacious accommodation at the Quality Hotel Lincoln Green, a scenic drive from the beautiful west coast beaches and sporting the popular Good Home Gastro Pub.

Napier Urban Farmers' Market

The Napier Urban Farmers' Market is a beloved weekend market held every Saturday in the heart of Napier, a city known for its beautifully-preserved -and world-famous - Art Deco architecture. Follow the aroma of freshly-roasted coffee and find the very best local seasonal produce, preserves, baked goods and artisan products.

The market’s friendly, laid-back atmosphere makes it a great place to meet the producers and learn more about the food and products on offer. Treat yourself to a market breakfast, chat with growers, and soak up the relaxed market vibes. Support local and discover the best the community has to offer. Open every Saturday 8.30am - 12.30pm.

Where to stay

The Quality Inn Napier is centrally located and an ideal option for exploring the town’s charms. Close to Westshore Beach, The Comfort Inn Westshore Beach is another great option situated near Ahuriri Estuary Wildlife Reserve.