Paris stands out for countless reasons, from the illustrious high fashion boutiques of Place Vendôme to the
impeccable art museums, not to mention the excitement building around the 2024 Summer Olympics for sports enthusiasts. However, there's one quintessential attraction that resonates with all, regardless of their passions: the city's iconic flea markets.
Known as a premier city for antiquing, Paris's flea markets are naturally overflowing with a diverse array of treasures that span various eras and styles. These vibrant bazaars offer a little something for everyone, from one-of-a-kind furnishings and lighting to archival clothing and jewelry pieces to antique silverware and striking glassware.
Whether you are a seasoned thrifter or just along for the experience, navigating the start of your treasure hunt in The City of Light can be a challenge. So, we've compiled a list of flea markets that our editors never miss when visiting Paris. Among them is the renowned Saint-Ouen market, as well as a lesser-known treasure in Faubourg Saint-Antoine. Happy treasure hunting!
Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
Regarded as the grand dame of flea markets, the Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen is said to be the largest vintage and secondhand market in the world, featuring thousands of vendors across twelve covered markets. Founded in the 1870s, the flea market sits on the northern edge of Paris, opposite the 18th arrondissem*nt. You'll find vendors selling a wide array of items sprawling across seven hectares, from vintage high fashion and jewelry to neoclassical and mid-century furnishings, as well as antique books and artwork. Prices can be a little steep since the market tends to draw avid collectors; however, you may be able to strike a bargain by paying with cash.
Address: Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, France
Hours of operation: Friday from 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Marché Paul Bert Serpette
One of the covered markets within the Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen, Paul Bert Serpette stands out all on its own for its array of pedigreed antiques, fine art, high jewelry, luxe fashion, and rare tableware. The market is home to nearly 350 different dealers, many of whom are young, each specializing in various styles from Greco-Roman to Scandinavian. Designers and even celebrities are known to flock to this particular market in search of unique treasures for their homes and wardrobes. Paul Bert Serpette may not be the place to find a bargain necessarily, but it is the best place to discover investment pieces that you'll treasure for years to come.
Address: 96 and 110, Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, France
Hours of operation: Friday from 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday from 12 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Marché aux Puces de Vanves
For those wanting a more relaxed and smaller flea market experience, head over to Marché aux Puces de Vanves located on the fringes of the 14th arrondissem*nt. Founded in the early 20th century, the market plays host to around 350 vendors selling eccentric collectables, vintage clothing, and loads of unique bric-à-brac worth digging through.
You may be able to score a few Neoclassical or Art Deco furnishings hidden among the countless stands, but Puces de Vanves is a treasure trove for smaller finds like French linens, colorful glassware and antique ceramics. Pro tip: Most of the vendors only take cash, so make sure you stop at an ATM before you go.
Address: 16-18 Av. Georges Lafenestre, 75014 Paris, France
Hours of operation: Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Marché aux Puces de Montreuil
Les Puces de Montreuil, established in 1860, is among Paris's most historic flea markets. It stretches from the Porte de Montreuil to the Porte de Bagnolet in the city's eastern quarter, boasting approximately 500 stalls brimming with treasures. Though you can unearth petite furniture items and charming lighting fixtures, the true gems of this market are the vintage clothing and textiles. Shoppers can discover everything from luxurious fur coats to rare pre-war accessories, alongside an array of elegant carpets and delicate linens. Seasoned bargain hunters will note that the most experienced dealers are often found at the end market's alley, near the periphery known as the "périphérique" in French.
Address: 6 Av. du Professeur André Lemierre, 75020 Paris, France
Hours of operation: Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Brocante de la place d'Aligre
You may have heard of the renowned open-air Marché d'Aligre located in the heart of the Faubourg Saint-Antoine, with its diverse selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as fresh bread and cheese. However, just outside in the square, 40 vendors set up offering a carefully selected and impressive collection of antique and vintage finds. In the center, you'll find stalls specializing in antique illustrations, drawings, accessories, and textiles, often at more affordable prices than at some other flea markets on our list.
Address: Pl. d'Aligre, 75012 Paris, France
Hours of operation: Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sarah DiMarco
Associate Editor
Sarah DiMarco (she/her) is the associate editor at VERANDA, covering all things design, architecture, art, gardens, jewelry, travel, wine and spirits. She also manages social media for the brand.
