Visit the Cairns Markets, Cairns

Experience the vibrant shopping culture of Cairns, Australia during the Weekend Markets.

Overview

Experience the vibrant shopping culture of Cairns, Australia during the Weekend Markets. Start your day at the Cairns Esplanade Market on Saturdays to find handmade crafts and unique gifts. Dive into the bustling hub of Rusty's Market, open Friday through Sunday, to taste fresh local produce and gourmet foods. As dusk settles, don't miss the Night Markets along the Esplanade, where you can haggle for the best deals on a range of goods. With the addition of street performers and live entertainment, this shopping experience becomes an immersive cultural event.

Highlights

  • Explore the famous Cairns weekend and night markets for unique souvenirs and local produce
  • Browse handcrafted items, jewelry, and clothing at the Cairns Esplanade Markets every Saturday
  • Visit Rusty's Market on Sheridan Street for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and local delicacies during the weekend
  • Enjoy nightly shopping at Cairns' night markets on the Esplanade available from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
  • Experience live music, magic shows, and other performances by local street performers at the market.

Know before you go

Recommended for
All ages
Group
Self guided

What you'll do

Explore the vibrant market culture of Cairns, Australia, over the weekend, which is an integral part of the local lifestyle. Savor the experience of shopping for handcrafted souvenirs, relishing local delicacies, and soaking up the tropical atmosphere. This excursion will immerse you in the thrilling weekend hustle and bustle of Cairns, offering an authentic local experience.

Begin at the Cairns Esplanade Markets that take place every Saturday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Here, you'll have the chance to browse a wide variety of stalls selling handmade crafts, unique jewelry, fashionable clothing, and exquisite artwork. This market is the perfect spot to pick up one-of-a-kind gifts and keepsakes to remember your trip by. The location along the picturesque Esplanade adds an extra layer of charm to your shopping experience.

After the Esplanade Markets, head over to Rusty's Market on Sheridan Street. Open from Friday to Sunday, Rusty's Market is a hub of activity where you'll find fresh produce, gourmet foods, and local delicacies. Try some of the region's tropical fruits, sample exotic snacks, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. The market is a feast for the senses with its array of colors, captivating aromas, and the hum of eager shoppers.

In addition to the daytime markets, Cairns also hosts lively night markets along the Esplanade. Open daily from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, these markets offer a different shopping experience under the star-lit sky. Here, you can find a wide range of goods, from stylish clothing to handcrafted items. Haggling with the friendly vendors is part of the fun, so put on your bargaining hat and aim for the best deals!

The Cairns markets are often complemented by street performers and buskers, contributing to the cheerful ambiance. Enjoy live music, watch magic shows, and be entertained by a variety of performances while you explore the market stalls. These performances add a touch of local flavor and provide great entertainment while you shop.

This weekend exploration of Cairns' waterfront and markets is not merely a shopping trip. It's a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the relaxed tropical atmosphere that makes Cairns a beloved destination for visitors. It's a unique combination of retail therapy, food tasting, and cultural immersion, all set in the enchanting surroundings of Cairns.

Like what you see?

Chat with our local specialists and let us help you customize your trip with experiences like this.

Get started

Like what you see?

Chat with our local specialists and let us help you customize your trip with experiences like this.

Get started