Queen Victoria Market

Queen Victoria Market is a large historic open-air market in central Melbourne, Victoria, spanning seven hectares at the corner of Queen and Victoria Streets. Operating since 1878 on the site of the former Old Melbourne Cemetery, it is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere and is heritage-listed. Known for fresh produce, specialty foods, clothing and souvenirs, it features heritage sheds, a food hall and seasonal night markets, serving as a major visitor and local shopping destination.

Visitors can expect a sprawling open-air market with heritage-listed sheds, open produce aisles, a enclosed Dairy Hall and Meat and Fish Hall, and general merchandise areas. Stalls sell fresh fruit and vegetables, deli goods, seafood, baked goods, clothing, souvenirs and handicrafts. The setting is busy and vibrant with food stalls, cafes and buskers. Visitors can explore covered sheds and open walkways, sample street food, join guided food tours, and attend seasonal Wednesday night markets with extended food and entertainment offerings.

Established in 1878 and built on part of the former Old Melbourne Cemetery (1837-1854), Queen Victoria Market is the oldest continuously operating market in Melbourne. It was developed as a wholesale and retail produce market to serve the growing city, with heritage sheds constructed in stages from the 19th century. It is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and the National Heritage List for its historical and architectural significance.

A central community and cultural hub for Melbourne, the market reflects the city's multicultural food traditions with traders and produce representing diverse communities. It functions as a daily shopping place for locals and a major visitor attraction, hosting food events, festivals and seasonal night markets that showcase local produce and street food culture.