Visiting Sydney 's array of markets is a pastime favoured by both knowledgeable locals and curious tourists. The city is bursting with lively markets so whether you delight in hunting down the bargain of the century or simply enjoy strolling amongst the bustling stalls, there is something to tempt everyone!
Pick the right market on the right day and you'll find yourself overwhelmed with offers of sparkling hand-crafted jewellery; unique, colourful clothes; fresh food and drink produce and distinctive works of art. Here's a guide to some of the best markets to help you be in the right place at the right time!:
Your first stop has to be Paddy's Market in Haymarket, a Sydney institution in its own right, which takes place every week from Thursday to Sunday. Entering the huge market building you'll be greeted with the rowdy din of hundreds of people buying and selling everything from souvenirs, Ugg boots, clothes and cosmetics! You can find just about anything at this market, all at rock bottom prices. I'd specifically recommend some of the clothes stalls for some astonishing bargains on things you know no one will be wearing at home. The enormous market building also houses a fruit, vegetable and seafood market so you can buy all your supplies at the same time! If you haven't tired of shopping after a few hours (or if you have any spare arms left!) pop upstairs and you'll discover a shopping mall and food court just waiting to tempt you to part with even more of your cash!
If you find yourself at a loose end on a Saturday, venture slightly out of the city centre to the fashionable suburb of Paddington. The number 380 bus will take you there from Circular Quay. Here you'll discover 250 stalls and an array of treasures that catch the eye at the Paddington Bazaar . The crowds that hoard to this market are enough evidence of its quality! This is the perfect place to uncover distinctive pieces of jewellery, funky vintage fashion, soothing holistic treatments and extraordinary pieces of art. Weary shoppers will be drawn to the delicious smells drifting from the café area. Here you can take the opportunity to rest your worn-out feet and deliberate between the sampling the Thai curry or sushi. My suggestion: Have both! The market opens at ten and closes at four (or five in summer months); get there early to pick up the best stuff!
If you've still got some energy (or cash!) left, try Bondi Market . You might have thought that Bondi was the perfect place for sunbathing or catching some waves, well it is! However, every Sunday it offers that little something extra and provides eager shoppers with their every desire. Getting there couldn't be easier: just hop on the 380 bus from Circular Quay. You can't find a better location for a market; the stalls are set out on beachfront school grounds. Tear yourself away from those views and you'll find exotic imports, hand-made jewellery, retro furniture and vintage clothing just waiting to be packed into your suitcase. Those in the know visit this market to find up and coming designers; for those not in the know, it's certainly a spot to watch the beautiful people! Make sure you get there early as this market is incredibly popular; you'll definitely need to make the most of your elbowing skills to grab the best finds!
