Nothing says “weekend road trip” like a visit to a farmers’ market. Packed with local flavours, fresh produce, and regional treats, these markets are the perfect excuse to hire a car and explore Australia’s food culture at your own pace. Whether you’re chasing artisan cheeses, farm-fresh fruit, or gourmet street eats, these markets are worth the drive.
ACT – Capital Region Farmers Market, Canberra
When: Every Saturday, 7.30am – 11.30am
Where: Exhibition Park, Canberra
Canberra’s Capital Region Farmers Market is a foodie institution, boasting over 100 stallholders every week. From fresh berries and olives to specialty meats and Yass Valley mushrooms, it’s the perfect Saturday morning adventure.
Road trip tip: The drive from Sydney takes just over 3 hours – ideal for a weekend getaway. Stay a night or two and check out the National Gallery of Australia, Parliament House, or the Australian War Memorial. Still hungry? The Old Bus Depot Markets (Sundays, 10am–4pm) are another must-visit.
NSW – Mudgee Farmers Market
When: Third Saturday of every month, 8.30am – 12.30pm
Where: St Mary’s Catholic Church, Market St, Mudgee
There’s nothing better than grabbing a bacon and egg roll, a hot coffee, and listening to local musicians while browsing stalls of fresh, regional produce. Everything sold here is grown, baked, smoked, or made by locals within 100 miles.
Road trip tip: Mudgee is about 3.5 hours from Sydney, with scenic routes over the Blue Mountains or via Bells Line of Road. Hire a car, drive up Friday, enjoy the market Saturday morning, then spend the afternoon wine-tasting in Mudgee’s award-winning vineyards.
QLD – Eumundi Markets
When: Wednesdays 8.00am – 1.30pm, Saturdays 7.00am – 2.00pm
Where: Eumundi, Sunshine Coast
Colourful, eclectic, and bursting with flavours, the famous Eumundi Markets are a must for foodies. Beyond gourmet treats, you’ll find arts, crafts, and live entertainment.
Road trip tip: Just over an hour north of Brisbane or 20 minutes from Noosa, Eumundi is the perfect stop on a Sunshine Coast road trip. Park your rental car nearby and spend the day soaking it all in.
SA – Kangaroo Island Farmers Market
When: First Sunday of every month, 9.00am – 1.00pm
Where: Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island
From artisanal cheeses and organic yoghurt to crayfish and handmade condiments, Kangaroo Island’s markets are as spectacular as the scenery around them.
Road trip tip: A self-drive holiday here is unbeatable. Hire a car in Adelaide, take the SeaLink ferry from Cape Jervis (about 2 hours south of Adelaide), and explore Kangaroo Island’s mix of wildlife, wineries, and food havens.
TAS – Farm Gate Market, Hobart
When: Every Sunday, 8.30am – 1.00pm
Where: Bathurst Street, Hobart
Farm Gate Market is a showcase of Tasmania’s finest: sparkling seafood, stone fruits, game meats, and artisan breads. It’s a Sunday ritual for locals and visitors alike.
Road trip tip: Hobart makes a perfect base for a Tasmanian self-drive holiday. Pick up your rental car, explore the Salamanca precinct, then head off around the island for more gourmet discoveries.
VIC – Talbot Farmers Market
When: Third Sunday of every month, 9.00am – 1.00pm
Where: Talbot, VIC
One of Victoria’s top farmers’ markets, Talbot offers everything from organic produce and honey to wine and locally pressed oils. Over 100 stallholders fill the town with aromas and flavours each month.
Road trip tip: Talbot is just 90 minutes from Melbourne, nestled in the historic Goldfields region. While you’re here, take a short drive to Avoca – gateway to the Pyrenees Wine Region. A weekend away has never tasted so good.
WA – Fremantle Markets
When: Saturdays 9.00am – 5.00pm, Sundays/Public Holidays 10.00am – 5.00pm (Fridays also open 9.00am – 9.00pm)
Where: Cnr South Terrace & Henderson St, Fremantle
From gourmet cheeses and seafood to coffee, spices, and fresh produce, Fremantle Markets are a West Australian icon. Grab a snack as you wander, enjoy the market bar, and soak up the atmosphere of this heritage-listed site.
Road trip tip: Fremantle is just 30 minutes from Perth. After the markets, drive down the famous Cappuccino Strip or visit one of WA’s craft breweries. It’s an easy and delicious day trip in your hire car.
Ready to hit the road?
Whether you’re travelling interstate or exploring your own backyard, Australia’s farmers’ markets make the perfect road trip pit stop. Hire a car, plan your foodie adventure, and discover the flavours that make each state unique.
Bon Appétit – and safe travels!