Cairns Night Markets
A bustling indoor market in Cairns, alive with diverse Asian cuisine, unique souvenirs, and local crafts, perfect for an evening of exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, all stalls open
Cairns Night Markets
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, all stalls open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling indoor market in Cairns, alive with diverse Asian cuisine, unique souvenirs, and local crafts, perfect for an evening of exploration.
"The Cairns Night Market was a fun and lively experience! It’s the perfect place to wander in the evening."
Cash is Handy
While many vendors accept cards, having some cash can speed up transactions. :moneybag:
Explore All Stalls
Don't rush! Wander through all the aisles to discover hidden gems and unique finds. :mag_right:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Asian-Inspired Food Court
Central Food Hall
Indulge in a diverse array of delicious Asian dishes, from noodles to skewers. A foodie's paradise!
Souvenir Shopping Galore
Various Stalls
Find unique local crafts, tropical-themed gifts, and mementos to remember your Cairns adventure.
Local Artisan Crafts
Stalls throughout the market
Discover handmade treasures and unique art pieces from talented local creators.
Glass Blowing Demonstrations
Specific vendor stalls
Witness the mesmerizing art of glass blowing and perhaps find a unique piece to take home.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Evening Hours & Atmosphere
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cash is Handy
While many vendors accept cards, having some cash can speed up transactions. :moneybag:
Explore All Stalls
Don't rush! Wander through all the aisles to discover hidden gems and unique finds. :mag_right:
Try the Food Court
The food court offers a huge variety of delicious and reasonably priced Asian-inspired meals. :ramen:
Undercover Comfort
The market is fully undercover, perfect for a rainy day or a break from the tropical heat. :umbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
Cash is Handy
While many vendors accept cards, having some cash can speed up transactions. :moneybag:
Explore All Stalls
Don't rush! Wander through all the aisles to discover hidden gems and unique finds. :mag_right:
Try the Food Court
The food court offers a huge variety of delicious and reasonably priced Asian-inspired meals. :ramen:
Undercover Comfort
The market is fully undercover, perfect for a rainy day or a break from the tropical heat. :umbrella:
Souvenir Bargains
You can find many souvenirs here, but some items might be a bit overpriced. Compare prices! :shopping_cart:
Viral Treats
Look out for popular treats like the viral Dubai chocolate from Candy Lane! :chocolate_bar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Cairns Night Markets are a lively indoor hub offering a fantastic array of Asian-inspired food and a wide variety of souvenirs and local crafts. Visitors praise the vibrant atmosphere, generous food portions, and reasonable prices, making it a great spot for an evening out. While parking can be a challenge and some souvenir prices are noted as high, the overall experience is highly recommended for its diverse offerings and energetic vibe.
"Cairns Market Night is located right in the heart of the city and comes alive, especially at night. It’s an excellent spot for dining, with a wide variety of restaurants and food stalls offering something for everyone. The market also features several shops, making it a great place to browse and pick up souvenirs.
One of the best parts is its proximity to the beach,just a few minutes’ walk away. A perfect evening might include enjoying a delicious dinner at the market, followed by a relaxing stroll along the beach.
The only challenge can be parking, as it tends to fill up quickly in the evening. Still, the lively atmosphere, food variety, and nearby beach make it a fantastic place to hang out and unwind."
Yasser Jamal
"The Cairns Night Market was a fun and lively experience! It’s the perfect place to wander in the evening, with a great mix of local stalls, souvenirs, and tasty food options. I enjoyed browsing through the variety of items — everything from handmade crafts to tropical-themed gifts.
The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, with friendly vendors and a nice mix of tourists and locals. The food court had plenty of choices, especially if you’re in the mood for Asian cuisine or sweet treats.
It’s not a huge market, but it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in Cairns and want to soak up the local vibe after dark. A great spot to grab a bite, pick up a few souvenirs, and enjoy the night energy of the city!"
subas subedi
"Cairns Night Market is the place to explore locally made art, clothes, and food. Plus you can buy plenty of souvenirs. You can also stop for a massage or get your tarots read. It’s a great mix of options all in one place."
Steph Bee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cairns Night Markets are centrally located on Abbott Street in Cairns City. If you're staying in the city center, it's an easy walk. Public transport options are available, and taxis or rideshares can drop you off directly. Parking can be difficult during peak hours, so consider walking or public transport if possible.
Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly, especially in the evenings. There are several parking stations and street parking options, but be prepared for potential challenges and costs.
Yes, the Cairns Night Markets are just a short walk from the beach, making it easy to combine a market visit with a stroll along the waterfront.
The Cairns Night Markets are typically open daily from around 4:30 PM to 11:00 PM, with most vendors open during these hours.
Yes, the Cairns Night Market is an indoor market, offering a comfortable shopping and dining experience regardless of the weather.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Cairns Night Markets is free. You only pay for the food you eat or the items you purchase from the vendors.
There are no admission fees to enter the Cairns Night Markets. It's a public space for shopping and dining.
The Cairns Night Market generally opens its doors around 4:30 PM each day and stays open until late evening, typically around 11:00 PM.
Yes, there is an ATM located within the Cairns Night Market if you need to withdraw cash for your purchases.
While not a daily occurrence, keep an eye out for special events like fashion markets or other community gatherings that might be hosted at or near the markets.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You can find a wide variety of souvenirs, including local crafts, tropical-themed gifts, clothing, jewelry, and unique art pieces.
Some visitors find that souvenirs can be a bit overpriced, so it's a good idea to compare prices across different stalls before making a purchase.
Absolutely! The Cairns Night Markets are a great place to discover locally made art, handmade crafts, and unique creations from Queensland artists.
Look for items like boomerangs, Aboriginal art, pearl jewelry, local skincare products, and unique fashion accessories.
Many vendors do accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases or if a vendor prefers it.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The food court offers a wide variety of Asian-inspired cuisine, including Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian dishes. You can also find seafood, burgers, and sweet treats like bubble tea and ice cream.
While the focus is largely on Asian cuisine, many stalls offer vegetable-based dishes or can adapt meals to be vegetarian or vegan upon request. It's best to ask the vendor directly.
Food prices are generally reasonable, with many meals costing around A$15-A$20. You can find cheaper options like skewers for under A$10.
Reviews are generally positive, with many visitors praising the quality and variety of the food, especially the Asian dishes.
Yes, bubble tea is a popular offering at the Cairns Night Markets, perfect for a refreshing drink.
📸 📸 Photography
The market is most photogenic in the evening when the lights are on and the atmosphere is lively. Golden hour just before sunset can also offer beautiful lighting.
Capture the vibrant food stalls, colorful souvenirs, artisan crafts, and the general bustling atmosphere. Look for unique details and candid moments.
Street photography, urban photography, and capturing the vibrant city life and market scenes are popular.
Yes, you can photograph the glass blowing demonstrations, but be mindful of the heat and safety precautions.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, always be respectful of vendors and other visitors, and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Culinary Delights at the Night Markets
While the market is heavily influenced by Asian flavors, you can also find other options like burgers and snacks. If you have dietary restrictions, it's always best to communicate with the vendors directly, as many are happy to accommodate vegetarian or vegan requests. The lively atmosphere of the food court, combined with the diverse culinary offerings, makes it a must-visit for any foodie exploring Cairns.
Shopping for Treasures and Souvenirs
While the market is a great place to pick up gifts, some reviewers suggest that prices for souvenirs can be a bit on the higher side. It's advisable to compare prices across different stalls and perhaps practice your bargaining skills if you're looking for a deal. Keep an eye out for unique items like locally made soaps, essential oils, and handcrafted art that truly represent the region. The market is also a place to find services like massages or tarot readings, adding another layer to the shopping experience.
The Vibrant Atmosphere and Local Vibe
It's a place where locals and tourists mingle, creating a genuine sense of community and local flavor. Whether you're looking for a casual dinner, some last-minute souvenir shopping, or just a pleasant evening stroll, the Cairns Night Markets offer a quintessential Cairns experience. The market's central location also makes it a convenient spot to visit before or after a walk along the nearby Esplanade.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit