Parisian Flea Markets

Image credit: Flickr/parissharing
A vintage-lover's wonderland.

Parisian's love for the old is noticeable in their art, streets, style, and their flea markets. From the moment you walk into the market you can sense a nostalgic feeling in the air. The eccentric antiques take you back into a different time and place by hosting a stunning diverse inventory of vintage gems. The flea markets are considered a heritage treasure since 2001, making them one of the most visited destinations in the France. Les puces date all they way back to 1870, where a strong presence of rag-bone (people who gathered objects from the garbage and sold them for a living) appeared in Paris. The ambulant sellers had to relocate around the fortifications of the city, because of resident's complaints of disturbing noise at night. Another major reason was the advantage of its zero-rated lawless area, which meant they did not have to pay taxes, because they were located beyond the Parisian toll-house. Gradually, rag-and-bone men established themselves in what we now know today as Poissonniers to Montmartre. Parisian flea markets are also a great way to discover the French capital, and they have even attracted celebrities such as A$AP Rocky and Kendall Jenner.

Currently, France hosts the biggest antiques market in the world. It boasts nearly five million visitors per year, including tourists and locals. The year-round secondhand sales tend to be at their busiest during April and May. You can expect people from all walks of life; from professional vintage sellers, to regular people just trying to get rid of their old stuff. There are also markets, cafes, restaurants, and even live music to enjoy whilst shopping. There is also an extensive range of unique items to choose from; like old fashion suitcases, tea sets, vintage jewelry, furniture, and Polaroid cameras - all waiting to be discovered. It is a wonderland destination for the vintage-lover.

Marche aux Puces de St-Ouen, 

Image credit: Flickr/Elsie Esq

Commonly known as Clignancourt, this is the biggest flea market in Paris. It covers seven hectares with fifteen different sections. It has an extensive range of products, primarily antiques. However, you can also find things from the seventieth century such as baroque art, or a vintage leather jacket. Get there early if you want to see the entire place, and don't forget to bargain (in French of course).

Marche aux puces de la Porte de Vanves

Image credit: Flickr/parissharing

This is a smaller sized market compared to Clignancourt, and more accessible to explore. It is friendlier place to go if it is your first time at a flea market. In Las Puces de la Porte de Vanves you can find a wide variety of things from different periods and countries. Get lost in their silk scarves, flapper dresses, Paris vintage postcards, and classic hats. 

  • Address: Avenue Marc Sangnier and avenue Georges Lafenestre, 75014 Paris.
  • Opening hours: Sat & Sun: 7:00-14:00.
  • Website: http://www.pucesdevanves.fr
Written by Stephanie Alex

Venezuelan/American living in Paris interested in cultures, traveling, art and food of course. Find her at a cafe reading some novel while having way too much coffee.