A guide to Sydney's markets

Sydney is an outdoor city, so it makes sense that market shopping is one of the big attractions. Why spend the day indoors when you can soak up the sunshine at markets all over the city? Just like a suburb, each market is known for having a unique vibe so whether you’re looking for one-off artisan goods, great second-hand designer clothes or produce straight from the farm, there’s a market that fits the bill.

Highlights

Inner city markets

On the weekend, head to The Rocks, the oldest part of Sydney. In between a boulevard lined with colonial-era sandstone buildings you’ll find The Rocks Markets, with stalls by talented artisans selling fashion, jewellery, textiles, art and more.

From The Rocks, head down George Street to arrive at bustling Paddy’s Markets. It dates back more than 150 years and has hundreds of stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, sporting goods, toys, electronics and more, from Wednesday to Sunday.

Paddy's Markets at Haymarket, Chinatown, Sydney

Markets around Sydney

Fashionistas have two great options. Saturdays are all about Paddington Markets where budding, big-name designers such as Dinosaur Designs, By Johnny and Zimmerman got their start. The other chic launch-pad is the beach-side Bondi Markets on Sundays, where Lover, Samantha Willis and Sass & Bide first sold their wares.

Markets at Glebe, Glebe

Neighbourhood markets are also plentiful and a great way to discover an area. Inner Sydney is home to the popular Rozelle Collectors Market, which are held on Saturdays.

Over the harbour there are two popular markets held all weekend. Manly Marketplace boasts stalls along the Corso, just steps from the beach. The Kirribilli Markets are another North Shore favourite and is known for its fantastic collection of stalls selling second hand, designer fashion at fabulous prices.

Farmers Market in Centenary Square, Parramatta

Food & produce markets

Don’t miss all the action of the Sydney Fish Market, the largest market of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Eat your fresh fish and chips by the water or treat yourself to fresh oysters, prawns and more from the market. In 2024 a brand-new development of the market will open next door – but the current fish market is fully operational until then.

Selection of oysters and prawns at Sydney Fish Markets, Pyrmont - Credit: James Horan

The Friday Foodie Market in The Rocks is a great place to stop for lunch from the myriad of pop-up stalls and food trucks. As a bonus, there’s also live music.

The Rocks Friday Foodie Market along Playfair Street in The Rocks

Pick up some delicious fresh produce and gourmet treats at one of the city’s many farmers markets. Try Cambridge Markets EQ in Moore Park, Carriageworks Farmers Markets in Redfern, the Kings Cross Organic Food Market and Bondi Farmers Market.

On Saturdays, head for Western Sydney and try the Liverpool Growers & Foodies Market, Castle Hill Farmers & Fine Food Market and Camden Fresh Produce Markets.

Food products available for sale at the Carriageworks Farmers Market, Eveleigh

Blak Markets

Purchase a variety of goods produced by Aboriginal communities at the Blak Markets. These take place quarterly at both the Rocks and Bare Island, La Perouse. You’ll find authentic and unique gifts, including Aboriginal artworks, beauty products, jewellery and unique homewares as well as bushfoods. There is the opportunity to experience Aboriginal culture through dance, singing and weaving workshops along with a cultural performances and Welcome to Country. The markets are 100 per cent Aboriginal owned and operated, which means the profits go back into Aboriginal communities and you have the guarantee of Authenticity.