Queen Victoria Market

This Victorian market (hence the name) in Melbourne has been trading for 125 years and is said to be the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere with over 1000 stalls. Previously a cemetery and then a livestock market, Queen Victoria Market now sells fresh vegetables and fruits but is especially known for its separate meat and delicatessen halls which specialise in foods from Greece, Poland and Italy. However, perhaps more exciting than the market produce and grand structure that make the building a historic landmark is the Suzuki night market which takes place every night between the end of November and the end of February (Australian summer). In the evenings, over 30 stalls prepare dishes from all around the world and you can taste the local vineyard’s best crus at one of the licensed bars on the premises. There is also entertainment, showcasing local talent on two different stages and whilst this is all going on, you can continue shopping from stalls that offer a selection of Victoria’s regional fare, such as chutneys, mustards, olive oils and even fudge. The night market also has a health and harmony area, where you can have a massage, get your aura read and visit a reflexology practitioner. On Sundays, the bustling market transforms into a more relaxed affair, with one of the main streets closed off and transformed into a café utopia with fairground rides for children and the specialist wine market for the grown-ups.