A lively village market and treasured landmark, South Melbourne Market has been an integral part of the inner-city community since 1867. It’s an informal gathering spot for dining, drinking and socialising. It’s also an excellent place to pick up fresh produce, seafood, handmade artisan wares, second-hand books and local honey and confections.

Dozens of cafes, tea shops, pubs and eateries beckon both day and night along the market. You’ll also find buskers, performance art and street music at every twist and turn. Sign up for workshops and classes to develop skills in sewing, rubber stamping and ceramics.

Take a guided tour of the market on the third Saturday of each month, where you can sample goods, meet traders and hear tales about the market’s past. In summer, don’t miss the South Melbourne Night Market’s array of street food, live music and pop-up eateries.

Getting there

South Melbourne Market starts at the corner of Coventry and Cecil streets, with trams available from Federation Square. You can cycle to the market on a bike-share rental, with two major bike routes running past between the city centre and St Kilda neighbourhood. Parking is available on market days.