Local markets are a great place to take the local pulse, and whether it's the city or the country, Australia has plenty to offer. At any one of these markets you'll be entertained, as well as intrigued by the goods on display, and of course there's the chance to go home with a souvenir bought straight from the maker.

Paddington Markets
New Age meets suburban chic at Sydney's favourite, fashion-conscious churchyard bazaar, where the range of goods includes crystals, tribal silver, plants or just slinky socks at knockdown prices.

Seafront sensation
Held every Sunday, St Kilda's arts and crafts market is a browsers delight, with 220 stalls crammed with glass, books and clothes, drawing a colourful cast of characters to this bohemian beachside suburb.

Country fair
"Make it, Bake it, Grow it, Breed it" is the motto of the monthly Red Hill Market on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula, which rekindles the atmosphere and home-made produce of a country fair.

Hobart's bayside bazaar
Salamanca Markets brings a dash of excitement to the historic stone warehouses on the Hobart waterfront every Saturday with a dazzling array of craftwork by some of Australia's finest artisans.
Rainforest market
Under siege from the surrounding rainforest, the north Queensland village of Kuranda has a flourishing market - the place to go for arts and crafts, fashions, and a range of exotic rainforest products.