I traveled from Sydney to Melbourne to go and experience the Queen Victoria Markets as many people had suggested this is the heart of Melbourne's greatest.

Let's just say I have seen better markets in my day... Queen Victoria markets are very over priceded on things like hand bags $30.00- $200.00 definitely not a market bargin in my books.

The markets tend to get very over crowded and smelly. Way overpriced for some items in particular stores. I advise have your eye out espically when purchasing a product look at it carefully as you may walk away with a faulty product as I did I had purchased a bag for $20.00 and only used it for not even half a day the handle broke off...

Don't get me wrong there are some stores that sell a bargain but they are hidden away.

Overall I really did not take a liking to Queen Victoria Markets it was nothing like i had of expected I did walk away with a few items as follows 1 large brown Handbag Market price $48.00 dropped price to $43.00 1 large red Handbag $20.00 dropped price to $17.00 2 Lucky Buddha's $10.00 dropped price to $9.00 lollies $5.00. Defenitly not a bargin most stores are only willing to drop $5.00 off a product I always thought markets are for bargains.

Only good experience I had at the Queen Victoria Markets is the customer service was outstanding very helpful and nice though they all should be more up for offering a customer a better bargain since it is the markets after-all. As for the fresh fruit and meat again way over priced. Is much cheaper at coles or woolies.

Overall I would not recommend Queen Victoria Markets for someone looking for a bargain. Be careful if you are going to take your kids they will get lost.

Approximate cost: $2.00- $200.00

Lovely fresh fruit and veg - shop around the different stalls for the best price ;)
Great snacks, I highly recommend the spinach and cheese boreks and the bratwurst... mmm....
The meat and fish are the best and cheapest you will get in Melbourne. Make sure you bring a trolley or some green bags.
The stall where you get 3 dips and crostini for 10 bucks is amazing... and the cheeses and olives are divine from anywhere here. Saturday there are more fruit and veg stalls, but it's easier and cheaper to park on Sundays so it's a toss up when to go!

The Night Market is fantastic - really cute and quirky jewelery, plants, clothing that you would never see at the normal market. This is on Wednesday nights through summer. The food at this is amazing too - try the paella, swordfish pies, and lots of nice wine :)

Approximate cost: $n/a

I go there for all my Organic Fruit and Vegetable shopping. Great prices and there is a large selection so i will find whatever i am looking for. they also have Organic popping corn and flours, nuts and grains. Totally fantastic!

Go on Saturday for the bargain fruit and vegetables out the back section. Enrol in their occasional cooking classes online. Try the night markets in summer. Ask the fruiterers and butchers for recipes (if you strike a quiet moment). And sample sample sample your way through the delicatessen section. My only beef is outdoor area where you drink your coffees/ rest your tired feet. It's pigeon heaven (Yuk).
Open: Tuesday: 6am - 2pm
Thurs: 6am - 2pm
Fri: 6am - 5pm
Sat: 6am - 3pm
Sun: 9am - 4pm

http://www.qvm.com.au

There's nothing like this place. A tourist must-visit. I head there a few times a month to pick up excellent value meat and fruit and veg. Car parking can be a problem after 10am, but if you get there early, it's a breeze.

There really is nothing more traditional than getting up at the crack of dawn and heading to the ole Queen Vic Market...with dodgy trolley (that has a mind of its own!). Don't let the loud butchers and grocerers deterr you, it all just adds to the atmosphere. Rows of bargains, with fresh fruit aplenty, be prepared to serve yourself at some stores, but most of the staff are friendly and helpful. The meat market is quite a bit confronting so early in the morning, but its your chance to get the prized piece of eye fillet. Great bargains. Then, on the way back to your car, you can stop off at the deli to get some dips and other gourmet goodies. Also a large variety of coffee shops, just what you need after all the market excitement. There is usually car parking on the side streets at this time of day for free.

The rating is in relation to food only. the Victoria market is a Melbourne Icon and institution. I go nearly every week for the great value and freshness of the prodcts. Store holders are generally friendly and helpful and rarely have I had a problem with any sub standard produce.

Approximate cost: $0-$200

For interesting food the deli is outstanding. The fruit and meat sections meet expectations but the general stalls are predictable and the goods seem to lack quality.

Love the music and atmosphere. Why lack of books and music ?

Would expect more individualism in the market. Vendors seemed bland

Approximate cost: $good value

Queen Vic Market is a great spot for a city shop. Lots of bargains and lots to see. Fresh fruit and veg is also excellent and great value for money. Parking at the actual market carpark if you're going to make a day of it is excessively priced so best to avoid. I tend to visit the market on a Sunday and in most cases get lucky with free parking a few streets away. The market is also easily accessible by public transport. I find some of the sales people a bit pushy and in-your-face, but there really is lots to see and something for everyone - great for Christmas shopping this time of year!!

The Vic Market still has one of the best selection of food stories in Melbourne. With a huge deli, meat, fish and fruit and veg sections you can find just about anything you want you want. My top three are the French Cheese shop int he deli section, the Chicken pantry and the donut van at the back of the meat section.