Whether you’re a lover of street eats, vintage clothing, pre-loved goods, rare collectibles or you simply enjoy soaking up the vibes, markets are a fantastic way to spend a weekend in Sydney and there are countless to explore during your free time. To help you fit a couple (at least) into your itinerary, here are our picks for the top weekend markets in the Harbour City in no particular order.
One of Sydney’s most renowned markets and a staple of the inner west. Here you’ll find countless racks of quirky vintage clothing, locally designed pieces, handcrafted jewellery and other various knick knacks. There’s free music from 12-3pm, so be sure to split your time at Glebe Markets between browsing stalls and watching local performers put on a relaxed show.
When: Saturdays, 10am - 4pm
Where: Glebe Public School, Glebe
Carriageworks Farmers Market may be a go-to for its abundance of fresh produce, but it’s as much about treating your taste buds on the spot as it is about stocking up your pantry. Here you’ll be neck deep in fruit, veg, bread, wine, condiments, nuts and more along with a broad selection of divine eats. Prawn toast, bacon and egg rolls, steamed buns and truffles are just some of the delights to dig into. Anyone else hungry?
When: Saturdays, 8am - 1pm
Where: Carriageworks, Everleigh
Talking about satisfying appetites, Bondi Farmers Markets are another must for any self-respecting foodie. This Sydney institution brings fresh produce, meats, flowers, bread, cheese, hot food and much more to Bondi Beach Public School right by the water. Be sure to get yourself some breakfast pho – don’t knock it till you try it!
When: Saturdays, 9am - 1pm
Where: Bondi Beach Public School, Bondi Beach
Now that you’ve eaten enough food to last you a week, it’s time to get back to shopping. A day after the Bondi Farmers Markets, the same school hosts the Bondi Markets where trendsetters flock to pick up retro clothing, jewellery, records, furniture and other treasures, many of which are handmade by local designers.
When: Sundays, 10am - 4pm
Where: Bondi Beach Public School, Bondi Beach
La Perouse is a bit more of a journey than the inner city, but it’s well and truly worth it. Blak Markets feature genuine Indigenous arts, crafts, homewares, jewellery, gifts and food with all proceeds put back into the community. There’s also live music, dancing, art workshops and a smoking ceremony, giving you plenty of opportunities to learn about Indigenous culture, pick up a souvenir and explore the secluded beaches nearby.
When: Every three months (next market on Sunday 3 May)
Where: Bare Island, La Perouse
Big, bustling, centrally located and open five days a week, Paddy’s Markets have been operating in Sydney for over a century. Shop here for just about everything including fresh produce, seafood, takeaway, clothing, electronics, books, bags, toys, souvenirs, homewares and general knick knacks. It’s less trendy pop-up stalls and more traditional market: expect budget-friendly knock-offs over boutique goods.
When: Wednesday to Sunday, 10am - 6pm
Where: Market City, Haymarket
Sydney Fish Market is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and a memorable experience even if you’re in no need of fresh seafood. Join a public tour or rise early for the rowdy morning fish auctions and encounter the real, raw and riveting side of market trading. There are also deli stuffs, bread, wine and other goods to browse, and restaurants serving the freshest seafood bought right there at the market.
When: Daily, 7am - 4pm
Where: Corner Pyrmont Bridge Rd and Bank St, Pyrmont
The ultimate market for pre-loved goods, collectors items and other hidden treasures. Rozelle Collectors Markets is the place to be when you’re in the mood to hunt through a trove of used items without knowing exactly what you’re looking for. Get in early, because there’s guaranteed to be some absolute steals every single weekend.
When: Saturdays and Sundays, 9am - 4pm
Where: Rozelle Public School, Rozelle
Manly Marketplace isn’t just an amazing place to pick up artisan goods, handcrafted jewellery, vintage threads, original artwork, fresh produce and just about anything else; it’s also the perfect start to a day trip given it’s next door to one of Sydney’s best beaches and a stack of top notch bars and restaurants. Head there on a ferry for bonus views along the harbour.
When: Saturdays and Sundays, 9am - 5pm (September to April) 9am - 4:30pm (May to August)
Where: Sydney Road, Manly