Shopping gems down under that are value for your money
Here's the lowdown on some great places to get the best shopping deals in Australia's major cities.
Who doesn't love a bargain when it comes to shopping? If you’ve got lots of presents to buy, or just want to get yourself a new wardrobe, head to Australia’s outlet centres and markets as they offer plenty of great deals. Add these sweet shopping spots to your must-visit list:
Birkenhead Point Outlet Centre, Sydney
Birkenhead Point Outlet Centre, Sydney, New South Wales © Tourism Australia
Shop til’ you drop at the largest outlet centre in Sydney, with over 120 premium brands all under one roof. Located in the inner-city suburb of Balmain, hop on board the Hello Sydney! Shopper Hopper, a direct ferry service from Circular Quay or Darling Harbour that will take you past iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House. Stop by the Centre Concierge Desk on level two of the centre to get your free Hello Sydney! discount card and enjoy even more savings while shopping.
Outlet shopping tour, Melbourne
Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, Melbourne, Victoria © Visit Victoria
Want to know where the locals shop for a great bargain in Melbourne? Join the Bargains and Bubbles Tour. Discover back street warehouses, pop-up sales, affordable fashion, vintage bag and shoe boutiques, hard-to-find warehouse sales, and streets known for their discount clothing outlets. You can join the tour solo or book a private group tour. Need to fuel up? A café style lunch and a drink is also included in the price.
Harbour Town, Gold Coast and Adelaide
Harbour Town Shopping Outlet, Gold Coast, Queensland © Tourism Australia
If you are holidaying in the Gold Coast or Adelaide, Harbour Town is a great option for affordable shopping. These outlet stores stock big brand names such as Victoria's Secret, Calvin Klein and Coach. Aside from fashion items, shop for homewares, lifestyle, outdoor and sporting equipment. As a tourist, you are entitled to VIP treatment through the complimentary Tourism Club Card for special discounts and access to the Tourism Lounge with its complimentary refreshments, free taxi phone service, luggage and parcel minding, free stroller and wheelchair loans and prayer room.
Salamanca Market, Hobart
Salamanca Market, Hobart, Tasmania © Tourism Tasmania
A stalwart of picturesque Hobart, rain, hail or shine, every Saturday all year round, Salamanca Market is here for you to browse. Unwind and enjoy the buskers at this outdoor market while exploring the 300 stalls which feature a good mix of vintage finds, traditional crafts and fresh produce. You are bound to find lots of souvenirs and gifts from woodwork to jewellery, glassware and ceramics. Open from 8.30am to 3pm, once you are done shopping, drop by the nearby galleries or take a break at one of the surrounding cafes or restaurants.
Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne
Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne, Victoria © Tourism Australia
Indulge in fresh organic produce such as bread, cheese and coffee at this foodie paradise, a short walk from Melbourne's city centre and bounded by Peel, Franklin, Victoria and Elizabeth streets. If you are overwhelmed by all the choices, join The Queen Vic Market Ultimate Foodie Tour, a guided walking tour of the market, including five tasting sessions, a shopping voucher, as well as complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Vic Market, as it’s fondly known, also has an impressive array of other merchandise. Browse through clothing, accessories, fabric, electronic gadgets and handicrafts as well as one-of-a-kind Australian souvenirs. Do note the market’s closed on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Fremantle Markets, Fremantle
Fremantle Markets, Fremantle, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia
Established in 1897, the Fremantle Markets have a historic novelty factor. Join the ‘Heritage Trail’ to stroll through the area, located just 30 minutes by car from Perth’s city centre and learn more about its rich heritage. Enjoy the eclectic selection of stores filled with fresh produce and locally made goodies, then browse through the often one-of-kind souvenirs, artwork and fashion. Get your fortune read, dig into food from the four corners of the Earth and enjoy the vibrant busking scene and hum that only a bustling market can provide. Open from Friday to Monday and on public holidays.
