The Rocks is undoubtedly one of Sydney‘s most beautiful areas. Follow George Street until the very end and it’s almost like you’ve stepped back in time—there are cobblestones under your feet, quaint stores to browse, and great pubs to visit. One of the best experiences you can have in Sydney is to visit the Rocks Markets, especially on Friday nights during spring and summer for the Rocks Markets by Moonlight. The warmer months in Sydney are the most exciting; pair them with all the beauty of the famous Harbour Bridge, Opera House and this historic hub and you’ve got the best version of this amazing city. There are stalls offering everything from handmade gifts and sweets to unique jewelry and fashion, but the atmosphere is set off by all of the other quirks that you would never have expected—puppeteers and magicians roaming the crowd, dozens of people young and old wearing headphones and dancing at a silent disco, musical performances and pet displays with some of the most enormous cats and rabbits you’ve ever imagined. All of this set among historic buildings and Sydney’s oldest sites makes for a truly unique experience indeed.
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For Shoppers and Sightseers Alike
The Rocks is undoubtedly one of Sydney‘s most beautiful areas. Follow George Street until the very end and it’s almost like you’ve stepped back in time—there are cobblestones under your feet, quaint stores to browse, and great pubs to visit. One of the best experiences you can have in Sydney is to visit the Rocks Markets, especially on Friday nights during spring and summer for the Rocks Markets by Moonlight. The warmer months in Sydney are the most exciting; pair them with all the beauty of the famous Harbour Bridge, Opera House and this historic hub and you’ve got the best version of this amazing city. There are stalls offering everything from handmade gifts and sweets to unique jewelry and fashion, but the atmosphere is set off by all of the other quirks that you would never have expected—puppeteers and magicians roaming the crowd, dozens of people young and old wearing headphones and dancing at a silent disco, musical performances and pet displays with some of the most enormous cats and rabbits you’ve ever imagined. All of this set among historic buildings and Sydney’s oldest sites makes for a truly unique experience indeed.
Explore Sydney's Weekend Markets
The thing I miss the most about living in Sydney are the weekend markets! If you’re traveling solo, it’s a great way to explore the city and pick up a few gifts. My favorite is the Paddington Market (Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.), which started in 1973 in the trendy part of town. It features over 150 stalls with quirky fashion designers, jewelry makers and handmade chocolate! Be sure to stop by the Australian Made section. Many artists start out at this market before getting famous. The best place to buy souvenirs and Sydney-themed crafts liked boomerangs and wooden kangaroos is The Rocks Market (Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) located on the cobblestone roads in the oldest part of the city. Stop by on Fridays for The Rocks Foodies Market with fresh fruit, bread and olive oil for sale from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. For antiques and collectables, don’t miss the Rozelle Markets on Saturdays and Sundays 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
