Shopping in Queen Victoria Market, Australia

If the world is a big stage play, then Australia is the hippest character of the play. You’ve got to love everything about Australia, their food, their down-to-earth society, and the essence of being stress free on their land. There’s one more thing which you’ve got to adore about Australia and that’s the way they shop!

Shopping in Australia is vibrant and delightful. You’ll find everything over here from small markets to huge malls, street side shopping etc. One of the amazing markets of Australia is Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne. The name itself sounds royal and the shopping experience feels like royal too. It’s one of the largest open-air markets in Australia bustling with people of all cultures.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Queen Victoria Market is a historic landmark of Australia. Its architecture is mixed with a touch of old and modern style both. It’s literally like a maze of shops. It’s a combination of a market and a carnival with so many different colors. Only cash is accepted at this market and you have to take your own bags because the market has banned plastic bags for environmental concern.

It’s been here for 125 years with over 600 vendors. It’s an epic tourist destination and sells a variety of items from food produce to clothing, handicrafts etc. The market is especially known for its jam donuts which are sold on a hot doughnut van. It’s at its full swing on Sundays with special events and fun rides for children. Vendors also offer discounts on various items on Sundays.

Victoria Market is divided into the following sections: Deli Hall, Elizabeth Street Shops, F Shed Laneway, Vic Market Place Food Court, Fruit and Vegetables, The Meat Hall, Organics, General Merchandise, Victoria Street Shops and the Wine Market. On weekdays, it’s open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 6 am to 2 pm except on Friday its open from 6 am to 5 pm. On Saturdays, the timings are from 6 am – 3 pm while on Sundays, it’s open from 9 am to 4 pm.

Seafood

You need at least 3 hours to visit the entire market, you’ll find great gifts for your friends back home. These include things like imported clothes, household goods, Australian wares, paintings, pets, toys, travel goods etc. The food and the cafes in the market is beyond delicious. A wide variety of food is served in the market from vegetarian to sushi, Italian, fish etc. You can also grab a quick snack while you explore the market.

The most exciting part of the market is that it hosts live performances in the night in summers where you can enjoy while having something to eat. There are also different 200 stalls especially for the night where you can find clothing, antiques, prints, plants, and jewelry. These night markets are called Suzuki Night Markets and are a part of the Queen Victoria Market. The night market starts from 5.30 pm to 10 pm.

Fresh Vegetables

If you define local shopping in Australia then that would truly be Queen Victoria Market which has to be on your list when you visit Australia.

Have you been to Queen Victoria Market? Feel free to share your tips and recommendations.

Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Fresh Fruits by WordRidden/ Seafood by a.meins/ Fresh Vegetables by Los viajes del Cangrejo