If you haven’t yet heard of the Queen Victoria Market, this is your chance to learn about the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Named after the legendary Queen Victoria, this famous market is located in Melbourne, Australia, and continues to attract millions of tourists each year.
The history of Queen Victoria Market is an interesting one. It began as a small bazaar in the 1850s, when the average Queen Victoria Market stall only featured a small selection of fresh fruits and vegetables. It was also built right on top of the old Melbourne Cemetery, which caused quite a stir at the time.
Now the Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne residents are proud to say, is the only 19th century market still alive and thriving within the Melbourne central business district. Market vendors sell everything from fruits and veggies to meat, seafood, and deli foods. There is also a wide selection of beautiful non-food items, including jewelry, crafts, and clothing.
The open hours of the market vary from day to day, so remember to check the schedule carefully before you leave. When you arrive at the market, parking is available in a car park near the entrance, or you can also travel to the location by bus, tram, or train.
The markets are closed on Mondays and Wednesdays, but there is a glitzy night market held on Wednesday evenings all throughout the summer. These events feature a number of rowdy bars, dancing, dining, and live entertainment, which makes them a great source of nightlife in Melbourne.
Don’t be fooled into thinking that the market is just about shopping. A number of special Queen Victoria Market tours are available to newcomers to show you all that the market has to offer. These 2-hour guided tours include themed trips for foodies, large groups, and style addicts, and can help you decide how to spend your time while in Melbourne.
If you’re interested in improving your skills in the kitchen, you may want to consider taking some cooking classes. These courses are available through the market’s Electrolux Cooking School, and can teach you how to make everything from Thai and Peruvian dishes to easy meals that teenagers can cook at home.
Overall, the Queen Victoria Market is a great place to spend the day – or the week! Its large number of attractions and activities help to make the market a bustling locale that continues to draw eager tourists year after year.
3
Friday:
![]()
Light Rain Late. Mostly Cloudy. Mild.
5 - 18
Saturday:
![]()
Heavy Rain. Mostly Cloudy. Mild.
12 - 18
Sunday:
![]()
Showers Early. Morning Clouds. Cool.
9 - 15