Paris, of course, is not lacking when it comes to things to do. However, one of the most memorable Parisian experiences includes exploring the flea markets throughout the city.
Though there are many to choose from, here are the best flea markets you won’t want to miss during your time in Paris, France.
What is the most famous flea market in Paris?
Marché aux Puces de Paris Saint-Ouen, Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine
If you’re short on time, you have to be sure to visit the world’s most famous flea market. Spanning 20 acres, Les Puces de Saint-Ouen, also known as the Paris Flea Market, consists of five streets with stalls, including 12 official markets.
Many stalls include hidden upper floors or nooks that you won’t be able to see unless you go exploring. Not confident in your French? No problem. A simple bonjour and a smile is more than enough to get around.
This flea market is best known internationally for its vintage selections, but you will also be able to discover work by local French designers and artists, much of which cannot be seen elsewhere.
Though this market is known to be on the more expensive side, the perfect find may just be worth the cost so you can go back home and say, “Yes, I found it in Paris.”
- Opening hours: Sat & Sun, 10am-6pm; Mon, 11am-5pm (reduced activity)
- Metro: Porte de Clignancourt
Image Credit: Getty Images. Image Location: Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, Paris
Marché aux Puces de Vanves, 14th arrondissement
One of the best-known and most beloved flea markets in Paris is Les Puces de Vanves. After Les Puces de Saint-Ouen, Les Puces de Vanves is the next largest flea market in Paris and has been held every weekend since 1905.
Though none of the stalls are permanent, you will be able to explore the wares of almost 400 merchants. Considered a true flea market, you will discover everything from Art Deco to vintage furniture, vans, clothing, and antique books at this flea market.
Though this market is less curated than others you might find in the city, the prices are also more cost-effective than what you’ll see at Saint-Ouen, so your patience is likely to pay off!
- Opening hours: Sat & Sun, 7am-2pm
- Metro: Porte de Vanves
Marché aux Puces de Montreuil, between the 20th arrondissement and Montreuil
If you’re looking to find a treasure without having to navigate stalls with as many tourists, this is the market for you. Like Puces de Vanves, you’ll have to put in a bit more work to discover a great find, but with the right frame of mind, this market is a joy to sort through.
You’ll be able to find everything from vintage light fixtures and antique glassware to old toys, new and old clothes, cutlery, and even mechanical spare parts, surrounded by other junk and oddities that will cost you little, especially after bargaining.
Though this market isn’t as popular as Saint-Ouen, its off-the-beaten-track experience is worth it. Just beware of pickpockets unless you truly want to feel like you’re in a Parisian film.
- Opening hours: Sat, Sun, Mon, 8am-6.30pm
- Metro: Porte de Montreuil
Image credit: Getty Images. Image Location: Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen, Paris
Marché du Livre Ancien, 15th arrondissement
Book lovers and budgeteers, this flea market is for you.
Every weekend, Parisians and visitors alike take to the streets and head to a late 19th-century pavilion where they can discover a plethora of second-hand books and old maps of long-forgotten places.
If you also like comics, be on the lookout for original versions of The Adventures of Tintin. Most books you’ll see at this market will be in French, but you’ll also be sure to find relics and books in other languages.
After you find the perfect book, head to Parc Georges-Brassens close by with a pastry and coffee in hand for the perfect Parisian afternoon in the park.
- Opening hours: Sat & Sun, 9am-6pm
- Metro: Porte de Versailles or Convention
How to get to Paris flea markets by train
Now that you know where to find the most Parisian vintage wares, make your trip even more romantic by taking the train. Download the Trainline app now and let us help you find and book your train tickets so you can have the most authentic experience possible while visiting Paris. And don't forget to check out our article on perfect day trips from Paris by train.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images