Your Guide to Hobart's Best Markets and Local Finds
Credit: Tourism Tasmania
Hobart is a treasure trove of local flavours, handcrafted goods, and authentic Tasmanian experiences, and there's no better way to discover the city's unique character than through its diverse markets. From fresh farm produce to artisanal crafts and twilight festivities, Hobart's market scene offers something for every visitor.
Why Are Hobart's Markets a Must-Visit?
Hobart’s markets provide an authentic glimpse into local life that you simply can't experience in shopping centres or tourist attractions, connecting visitors with local producers, artists, and the wider community. These vibrant hubs offer a genuine taste of Tasmania's renowned food culture, with the island's pristine environment yielding some of Australia's most celebrated produce.
Beyond the food, Hobart’s markets showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of Tasmanian artisans, from woodwork and jewellery to textiles and ceramics. And with the backdrop of Hobart's stunning harbour or historic streetscapes, market day becomes a perfect adventure into the city's unique atmosphere.
Where to Find Hobart's Most Authentic Markets
While Salamanca Market might be the most famous, Hobart's lesser-known markets offer equally rewarding experiences with fewer crowds and more opportunities to interact with locals. Here's our guide to exploring the city’s most authentic market experiences, complete with all the local secrets!
Farm Gate Market: Fresh Produce, Artisan Foods, and Authentic Hobart Flavours
Credit: Tourism Tasmania
Every Sunday morning, the Farm Gate Market transforms Bathurst Street into a celebration of Tasmania's agricultural bounty. Operating rain, hail or shine from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm, this producer-only market follows a simple but powerful philosophy: "You make it, bake it, grow it or catch it."
Location
Bathurst Street, Hobart CBD
What makes it special
Unlike many farmers markets, Farm Gate has a strict policy that stallholders must be the actual producers—meaning you're buying directly from the people who grew, raised, caught or created what you're purchasing. This direct connection creates a genuine paddock-to-plate experience.
Must-try local foods
- Freshly-shucked Bruny Island oysters
- Small-batch seasonal jams and preserves
- Award-winning Tasmanian cheeses
- Freshly baked sourdough from local bakeries
- Rare heritage apple varieties (seasonal)
- Small-batch craft ciders
Artisan & handmade goods
The market focuses primarily on food, but you'll find natural body products, handmade soaps, and fresh-cut flowers from local growers.
Live entertainment
While more subdued than some markets, the bustling energy and conversations between farmers and shoppers create a lively Sunday morning atmosphere. Local musicians often provide subtle background tunes as you shop.
Twilight Markets: Evening Strolls, Live Music, and a Laid-back Atmosphere
Credit: Hobart Twilight Market
As the sun begins to set, Hobart takes on a magical quality, and the city's twilight markets capture this special atmosphere perfectly. The most popular is the Hobart Twilight Market, running from 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm on select Fridays from October through April.
Location
Long Beach, Sandy Bay (during summer months)
What makes it special
The waterfront setting creates a festival-like atmosphere as the evening progresses. With kunanyi / Mount Wellington as the backdrop and the Derwent River lapping nearby, the market combines stunning scenery with a relaxed, community vibe.
Must-try local foods
- Gourmet food trucks offering everything from authentic Tasmanian scallop pies to Sri Lankan curries
- Boutique Tasmanian gin and whisky tastings
- Wood-fired pizzas featuring local ingredients
- Innovative vegan and plant-based options
Artisan & handmade goods
- Hand-poured soy candles with Tasmanian-inspired scents
- Upcycled and sustainably crafted homewares
- Tasmanian timber products and woodcraft
- Small-batch skincare featuring local botanicals
Live entertainment
One of the market's highlights is its curated selection of local musicians, from acoustic solo artists to small jazz ensembles. The relaxed setting encourages visitors to grab a drink, sample some food, and enjoy the entertainment as the evening unfolds.
Salamanca Market: An Icon Worth Exploring
Credit: Tourism Tasmania
No market guide would be complete without mentioning Hobart's most famous market. Operating every Saturday from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm, Salamanca Market has been a Hobart institution since 1972 and remains a must-visit hotspot for tourists.
Location
Salamanca Place, adjacent to the historic waterfront
What makes it special
With over 300 stalls set against the backdrop of Georgian sandstone warehouses, Salamanca creates a uniquely Tasmanian atmosphere that blends history, culture, and commerce. While popular with visitors, it still maintains authentic local connections.
Must-try local foods
- Tasmanian black truffle products (seasonal)
- Fresh berries and stone fruits from the Huon Valley (seasonal)
- Leatherwood honey and honey products
- Wallaby burritos and other native game treats
- Cool-climate wines from nearby vineyards
Artisan & handmade goods
- Huon pine woodcraft
- Hand-blown glass
- Local photography and artwork
- Tasmanian wool and textile products
- Handcrafted jewellery featuring local materials like Tasmanian myrtle
Live entertainment
Salamanca features a diverse array of buskers and performers throughout the market area. From didgeridoo players to string quartets, the performers add to the lively atmosphere that makes Salamanca more than just a shopping destination.
Coffee Spots to Check Out After the Market
After exploring Hobart's markets, you'll likely be ready for a quality coffee break. Hobart's coffee culture rivals its market scene, with several excellent cafés within walking distance of the main market locations:
Pilgrim Coffee
Located at 48 Argyle Street, this specialty coffee shop serves exceptional brews in a heritage building just a short walk from Farm Gate Market. Their seasonal single-origin offerings rotate regularly, and their selection of pastries and light meals pairs perfectly with your post-market coffee.
Villino Espresso
Situated at 30 Criterion Street, this café is just a stone's throw from Farm Gate Market and has developed a reputation as one of Hobart's premier coffee destinations. With an in-house roastery (Zimmah Coffee), Villino offers both espresso and filter options, showcasing Tasmanian and international beans.
Machine Laundry Café
This quirky establishment at 12 Salamanca Square combines a functioning laundromat with one of Hobart's most beloved cafés. While your clothes spin in one of the washing machines lining the wall, you can enjoy expertly crafted coffee and generous brunch options. Their coffee comes from Melbourne roaster Genovese, and the café's fun, unpretentious atmosphere makes it a local favourite.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Market Day
Credit: Tourism Tasmania
- Arrive early: Especially for the Farm Gate Market, where the best produce often sells out quickly.
- Bring cash: While many stallholders now accept cards, having cash on hand ensures you won’t miss out on smaller vendors.
- Pack light: Consider bringing a reusable shopping bag or backpack for your purchases.
- Talk to the stallholders: They’re passionate about their products and can share preparation tips, provenance stories, and recommendations.
- Plan for weather: Hobart’s climate can be unpredictable, so layers and sun protection are advisable year-round.
Plan Your Hobart Market Experience
After a morning exploring Farm Gate Market or an afternoon wandering through Salamanca's treasure trove of stalls, you'll want a comfortable place to retreat with your market finds. The Hotel Grand Chancellor offers the perfect accommodation for market enthusiasts, with its central location placing you just minutes from all the market action.
The spacious accommodation gives you room to relax and enjoy any treats you've purchased during your market adventures, while the in-house Restaurant Tasman serves locally sourced Tasmanian cuisine, allowing you to continue your culinary exploration even after the markets close.
Ready to discover Hobart's vibrant market culture? Book your stay at Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart today and immerse yourself in some of Tasmania's most authentic local experiences.