The first flea market in France arose when Napoleon insisted that Paris be cleared of numerous merchants. Peasants who sold goods there from the sidewalk were suddenly forced to sell things from the erected shops, and they had to pay taxes.
Flea markets
Flea markets first appeared in Paris in the 18th century. Then the so-called entrepreneurs rummaged in the elite's garbage, hoping that they would find trinkets for sale. They did not sell their goods within the city walls, since they had to pay high taxes, instead, enterprising people organized Paris flea markets near the gates of the French capital. These markets work today. If you like antiques, vintage furniture, artwork, old clothes, jewelry, then head to the flea market!
St. Ouen Flea Market
Saint-Ouen in Paris is the world's largest and best flea market in France! It consists of 14 markets. Here you can find everything: dishes, furniture, vintage clothes.
This flea market in Paris has existed for more than two centuries. It was opened even when people swarmed in the garbage at night to find valuables for the purpose of further sale. They were called pickers.
The Saint-Ouen flea market in Paris was founded in 1885 and has gradually grown, now its area is more than 7 hectares. Approximately 180,000 visitors come here every weekend in search of exclusive vintage items. More than 5 million visitors come to the market every year! In 2001, it was officially recognized as a protection zone for architectural, urban and landscape heritage (ZPPAUP) due to its unique atmosphere.
Mondays are generally a calmer time to visit (and the best time to find good things)!
The flea market in Paris is located at Rue Jean Henri Fabre, avenue Michelet, rue Louis Dain, rue Saint-Ouen. You can get there by metro to the Porte de Clignancourt station (line 4) or by buses No. 85, No. 56, No. 95.
Opening hours of the flea market in Paris: Saturday: 9:00 - 18:00, Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00, Monday: 11:00 - 17:00.
Vanves Market
This flea market, hidden in a quiet corner of the city, is easy to reach, and it’s even easier to navigate it. This place is perfect for travelers. One reason is that most of the products sold here are very small and light, and they fit perfectly in any suitcase, bag or backpack.
This friendly little market (founded at the beginning of the 20th century) has about 350 sellers who sell quality exclusive goods at a very fair and reasonable price.
According to tourists, it is better to try to arrive at this flea market in Paris early in the morning (around 7:30), since quality things tend to leave quickly. Crowds of tourists, lovers of antiques begin to appear at about 9:00, so if you want to buy an original souvenir, you need to arrive early.
Most sellers in Vanves leave for a late lunch and often do not return. Therefore, after 14:00 on the market, almost no one will be found. Most sellers only take cash, so it is advisable to take care of cash withdrawals at one of the nearby ATMs.
With skillful bargaining, sellers usually lower prices by about 10-15%. Locals say that this may not be the largest, but one of the best markets here and trade at the most reasonable prices.
What does it specialize in?
Vanves flea market in Paris is a great place to find antique dishes, all kinds of items for collectors, old photographs, vintage clothes, furniture, trinkets, paintings, fabrics, glassware, watches, jewelry. The market invites all visitors to the world of dreams and emotions, right in the heart of Paris. Those who love authentic items should definitely visit it.
The market works every weekend from 7:00 to 13:00.
Address: Mark Sangier Avenue and 14 Georges-Lafenestra Avenue.
Montrea Flea Market
Discover the stands of the flea market in Port de Montreux in Paris 20th arrondissement - on the ring road between Paris and Montreux-sous-Bois. This is the perfect place to search for interesting trinkets on Saturdays and Sundays. Original and unusual goods are sold here, and it is also considered the largest antiques market in the world.
It is located in Port de Clignancourt. Here you can buy clothes, furniture of the Renaissance period, musical instruments, antiques and other goods. In the market you can buy a lot of goods at various prices: trinkets, vintage furniture, spices, books, sporting goods. Here is the most amazing and wide selection of small tools at low prices! You can also find carpets, clothes, underwear, bedding, shoes, etc.
This market is located at the exit between Porte de Montreux Avenue and the street of Professor Andre Lemiera 75020 Paris. You can get on the 9th metro line to the station "Port de Montreux".
Opening hours
- Saturday from 9:00 to 18:00.
- Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00.
- Monday 11:00 - 17:00.
Aligre Flea Market
Less charming and famous than Vanves and St. Owen, the Montreus flea market at weekends still remains aloof from the battered tourist route. This is not the best place in Paris to find exclusive trinkets. Forget about vintage clothing, 50s fixtures, antique toys, furniture, old and antique dishes advertised by some guides. If you are not looking for old tools, electric extension cords, designer t-shirts, then the market is not worth the time you have spent.
Aligre flea market in Paris is represented by approximately 40 sellers who sell various unusual things. In all small flea markets, it is highly recommended to rummage through old boxes. Here visitors can expect to find a vintage Polaroid camera of the 70s or a telephone of the 50s for less than 10 euros. Specialized stands in the center of the square are filled with beautiful antique illustrations, drawings and photographs in a fairly affordable price range.
Of course, you can (and recommended) to bargain. A crowd of visitors usually thins by noon. In general, this place is famous for its diversity, atmosphere and low prices.
Address: Place d'Aligre, 75012 Paris, France. You can get from the Ledru-Rollin metro station (line 8), walk along rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine and turn right onto rue Crozatier.
Opening hours: Tuesday - Sunday from 09:00 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 19:30; Monday is a day off.
Reviews of flea markets in Paris
Tourists say that in Paris flea markets you can find exclusive things for little money. The main thing is to go early, not be afraid to delve into the boxes and bargain with sellers. This is the key to good shopping.
Tips Before Visiting Flea Markets
- Plan a trip to the flea market of Paris in the morning, as it becomes a very crowded day there.
- Hide your wallet under a shirt or sweater.
- Grab money, as not all merchants accept credit cards.
- Do not bring your passport to the flea market or credit cards that you do not plan to use. There are many pickpockets, and there is a chance to say goodbye to your things forever.
- Haggle, you can get a big discount.