10 of the most bountiful Bendigo markets

Stock up on the freshest of ingredients and one-of-a-kind statements at the most charming markets in Bendigo.

For a place that gives small-town energy, Bendigo bursts with things to do, including top-notch market days. Enveloped in a wave of tight-knit communities, the Victorian hot spot lures emerging creatives who seek refuge from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne, just 90 minutes’ drive north. Spanning artisanal pantry delights and farm-fresh seasonal produce, to beautifully handcrafted homewares and rare vintage collectables, the markets in Bendigo and its surrounds provide fascinating exploration for visitors of all ages. We’ve rounded up our favourite markets in Bendigo, below.

1. Bendigo Community Farmers Market, Bendigo

fresh apples in a plastic crate box, Bendigo Community Farmers Market — Find crates of seasonal fruits at Bendigo Community Farmers Market. (Image: Getty/krblokhin)

Where: Bendigo Foodshare, 227 Breen St, Golden Square

When: 2nd Saturday of every month from 9am to 12.30pm

Stock up on some of the freshest produce in Central Victoria at the Bendigo Community Farmers Market . Guaranteeing a minimum of 75 per cent of all stalls selling to you by growers themselves, this treasure trove of natural bounty is a sensory delight. Whether you’re on the hunt for fruit, vegetables, melt-in-your-mouth cheeses, olives, honey, craft beer from local stalwarts, silky smooth vino from the best Bendigo wineries or sauces and relishes, this is the place to unearth true deliciousness. Additionally, there’s hot food from regulars like Aranchini4All and Market Fresh Gözleme, plus the odd sweet treat from MQ Gelato Van and other speciality retailers.

2. Bendigo Showgrounds Market, North Bendigo

market stalls at Bendigo Showgrounds Market, North Bendigo — Explore the range of homewares for sale at Bendigo Showgrounds Market. (Image: Supplied)

Where: Prince of Wales Showground, Holmes Rd, North Bendigo

When: Every Sunday from 8.30am to 2pm

Love a good crawl through vintage and bric-a-brac collectables? The weekly Bendigo Showgrounds Market is a must-experience for pre-loved goodies spanning clothing, tools, homewares, toys, furniture, plants and even cosmetics. Throw in a scattering of new offerings, including homemade candles and soaps, plus food products and hot food vendors, and the atmosphere alone is enough to light up your weekend. It’s one of country Victoria’s largest weekly markets so expect crowds from far and wide eagerly clogging up the aisles alongside you.

3. Moonlight Market Bendigo, Bendigo

crowded market stalls at Moonlight Market Bendigo — Moonlight Market Bendigo buzzes with a collection of sensational stalls. (Image: Supplied)

Where: Hargreaves Mall, Bendigo

When: Select Saturdays throughout the year from 3pm to 8pm, so check the website for specific dates

Soak up the twilight vibrance of a night market flowing with hot food and street performances at the Moonlight Market Bendigo . Ramped up during the summer months (there’s often a few dates in November as Christmas looms) while remaining a steady fixture during winter, this Bendigo market buzzes with live music and art installations, food trucks and a collection of sensational stalls. Think arts and crafts, vintage homewares, condiments, jewellery, fashion and more. The market’s annual Easter and Christmas events are so popular that they’re staged during the day, so get there for a great selection of gifts no matter when you’re visiting town.

4. Kangaroo Flat Handmade Market, Kangaroo Flat

Where: 113 MacKenzie St West, Golden Square

When: 1st Saturday of every month from 9am to 2pm

Setting up shop in an all-new location during February 2025, the Kangaroo Flat Handmade Market strives to shine a light on the free flowing creativity coming out of this corner of the world. Whether they’re home cooks, budding fashion, homewares and jewellery designers or simply savvy entrepreneurs, this is the spot to sell the region’s cleverest wares and get brands out there. Shoppers are treated to an eclectic mix of it all, with no market day precisely mirroring another, making for a truly authentic portal into this supportive locale and, of course, one-of-a-kind retail therapy.

5. Castlemaine Farmers Market, Castlemaine

plants for sale at Castlemaine Farmers Market — Expect to see an abundance of plants and seasonal produce at Castlemaine Farmers Market. (Image: Sorell Wilson)

Where: Along Forest St, Castlemaine, but either at the Camp Reserve or Western Reserve depending on what day you visit

When: Either each Wednesday from 2.30pm to 5.30pm or the 1st Sunday of every month except January from 9am to 1pm

An untapped mecca of peak seasonal produce, cosmetics, fashion and seriously delicious homemade cooking, the Castlemaine Farmers Market is about 40 minutes’ drive from Bendigo and worth every bit of effort. Thankfully, it’s staged weekly in addition to monthly, so there’s more opportunity to visit when you’re in town, because you’ll want to sample these high-quality goods. Giant paella pans dishing up authentic Spanish flavours? It’s there. Local cheeses and cured meats to rival fancy upmarket restaurant charcuterie? You’ll find it. Olive oil and stone fruits are also hot picks so get there early to nail your grab-list.

6. Wesley Hill Community Market

the Wesley Hill Community Market in Bendigo — The iconic market showcases houseware and bric-a-brac stalls. (Image: Mountain Alexander Shire Council)

Where: Wesley Hill Hall, 149 Pyrenees Hwy, Castlemaine

When: Every Saturday from 9am to 1pm

Explore Victoria’s oldest continuously running market each week, just 40 minutes’ journey from Bendigo. The Wesley Hill Community Market is a must for locals in the area, showcasing central Victoria’s finest artisanal bread, seasonal produce, clever confectionery, native plants, vintage wares, pre-loved books, good coffee and more. Convenient parking off the main road (the market’s located on the highway) is found at the car park on Wallace St, less than a minute away, but you’ll need to arrive early because it fills up fast.

7. Maldon Market, Maldon

a basket filled with vegetables, Maldon Market, Bendigo — Fill your basket with fresh veggies at Maldon Market.

Where: Maldon Neighbourhood Centre, 1 Church St, Maldon

When: 2nd Sunday of every month from 9am to 1.30pm

Venture about 30 minutes from Bendigo to discover a group of locals who thrive come market day. The Maldon Market is a collective of talent who showcase their unique skills once a month on a Sunday. You’ll comb the handiwork of makers, bakers, growers and sewers as free tastings and interactive displays snake you right around the cool, leafy grounds that house the Neighbourhood Centre. Once you’re done stickybeaking the stalls, wander further towards Maldon’s historic Main St (it’s within walking distance) to check out the preserved beauty of Maldon, Australia’s first Notable Town according to the National Trust in 1966.

8. Kangaroo Flat Market, Kangaroo Flat

Where: 10 Camp St, Kangaroo Flat

When: The last Saturday of each season from 8am to 1pm so check the website for upcoming dates

If rummaging a car boot never gets old, you’ll delight in what’s on offer at the Kangaroo Flat Market four times annually. A bustling hub of stalls and open boots, it’s trash and treasure central so you’ll be jostling thick crowds to find whatever grabs you. From handy household items to clothing, tools, books, toys, arts and crafts and shoes, digging for spoils is an adventure every time. Additionally, there’s plenty of homemade cakes and slices up for grabs, plus a sausage sizzle and live music to keep you bopping along. A fun day out, rain, hail or shine.

9. Castlemaine Artists Market, Castlemaine

bush bags for sale at Castlemaine Artists Market, Bendigo — Peruse the unique artisan items on display. (Image: Rachel Pilgrim)

Where: Western Reserve, Forest St, Castlemaine

When: 4th Saturday of every month from 10am to 2pm

A long-standing gathering of the region’s most creative of types, the Castlemaine Artists Market is guaranteed to offer something you’ve never set eyes upon. The scene is cheery and festive as music and varied performances entertain crowds wandering the grounds for arts and crafts, jewellery, screen-printed items, ceramics, leather goods, clothing, timber masterpieces and more. Food vendors also show up in spades, so it’s a great spot to sit back and bask in community spirit while indulging in some grab-and-go morning tea.

10. Inglewood Lions Country Market, Inglewood

Where: Inglewood Recreation Reserve, corner Grant St and Calder Hwy, Inglewood

When: 2nd Saturday of every month from 9am to 1pm

Less than 40 minutes in the car from Bendigo, the Inglewood Lions Country Market is a low-key occasion serving up artisanal creations and beautiful farm-fresh produce. It’s a magnet for smaller suppliers and emerging farmers, so BYO reusable bag as the temptations run rife. You’ll also find garden art, arts and crafts and hot food vendors.

Discover the best places to stay in Bendigo

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.