If you’re a foodie looking for a vibrant, bustling market experience, Queen Vic Market in Melbourne is the perfect destination for you.
This iconic market has been a fixture of the city for over a century and has evolved into one of the world’s most exciting and diverse culinary destinations. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, or exotic spices, you’ll find it all and more at Queen Vic Market.
History of Queen Vic Market
Queen Vic Market was established in 1878, and it quickly became the go-to destination for Melburnians looking for fresh, high-quality produce. The market was originally known as the Melbourne Wholesale Market and was located at the current site of the Queen Victoria Women’s Center.
However, the market quickly outgrew this location, and in 1877 the Melbourne City Council purchased a larger site on the corner of Elizabeth and Victoria Streets.
The market was officially opened in 1878 by the then Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VII. Over the years, the market has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, and today it covers over seven hectares, making it the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere.
What to Expect!
When you first enter Queen Vic Market, you’ll be struck by the vibrant atmosphere and the sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. The market is divided into several sections, each with its own unique character and offerings.
The fruit and vegetable section is the heart of the market, where you’ll find some of the city’s freshest and most flavorful produce. The stalls here are piled high with colorful fruits and vegetables, and the air is thick with the scent of ripe peaches, juicy oranges, and fragrant herbs.
Taste the freshest produce, find unusual ingredients, get buying and culinary ideas, hear about the Market’s history, and meet some of our favorite vendors.
A two-hour guided walking tour with copious tastings, a Market shopping bag, and a $5 Market ticket is included. The tours cost $89 per adult on Fridays and Saturdays.
Every Market day, specialist shopping begins at 9 a.m. and includes locally created art, clothes, homewares, jewelry, cosmetics, plants, books, pet supplies, and flowers.
The market is proudly free of plastic bags and straws. Reusable bags may be purchased if you forget to bring your own bag or basket. Hired shopping trolleys are also available!
If you can’t make it to the market, purchase online fresh fruit delivered same-day to more than 150 areas. Click and collect is also an option.
The deli hall is another must-visit section of the market, and it’s a cheese-lover’s paradise. Here you’ll find an incredible array of artisanal cheeses from around the world and cured meats, olives, and other gourmet treats.
If you’re a coffee connoisseur, you’ll want to head to the market’s specialty coffee section, where you’ll find some of the best beans in the city.
And if you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift, the market’s souvenirs and gifts section is the place to be. You’ll find everything from locally-made crafts to Melbourne-themed t-shirts and other memorabilia here.
Special Events at Queen Vic Market
In addition to its day-to-day operations, Queen Vic Market hosts several special events throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Summer Night Market, which takes place on Wednesday evenings from November to March. The market comes alive after dark, with live music, traditional food stalls, and a festive atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends.
Another popular event is the Winter Night Market, which takes place on Wednesday evenings from June to August. This market celebrates winter with hearty comfort foods, warm drinks, and cozy fires to keep you warm on chilly Melbourne nights.
Whether visiting Queen Vic Market for its day-to-day offerings or one of its special events, you will surely have a memorable experience. This iconic market is a testament to Melbourne’s vibrant culinary scene, and it’s a must-visit destination for any food lover visiting the city.
Read more blog posts about Food in Melbourne
Conclusion!
Queen Victoria Market is a food lover’s paradise that has been a fixture of Melbourne’s culinary scene for over a century.
With its vibrant atmosphere, diverse offerings, and special events, this iconic market is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. You will find it all if you’re looking for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, or unique souvenirs!
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