Queen Victoria Market

Overview

Queen Victoria Market — known as "Vic Market" or "Queen Vic" — is Melbourne's largest and most beloved open-air market. Spanning two city blocks, it has been the city's primary fresh food and goods market since 1878.

Highlights

• Food Halls: Deli halls packed with artisan cheeses, cured meats, olive oils, and specialty ingredients from Melbourne's diverse communities.
• Night Market: The popular Summer and Winter Night Markets (Wednesday evenings) transform the market into a street-food and live-music festival.
• Fresh Produce: Early-morning fruit and vegetable vendors calling out bargains, especially during the famous end-of-day sell-off.

History

The market has operated since 1878 on the site of Melbourne's first cemetery (some 10,000 graves remain beneath the car park). It is one of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere and is heritage-listed.

Visitor Tips

• Closed Days: The market is closed Monday and Wednesday (except Night Market nights) — plan around this.
• Morning Visit: Arrive before 8 AM for the freshest produce and smallest crowds.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.