The largest flea market in France is the Marche aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, located just outside Paris. It is the largest and oldest flea market in the world, with over 2,000 stalls selling everything from antiques and collectibles to furniture and clothes. The market dates back to the 14 t h century, when it was known as a place where second-hand goods were sold. Today, it attracts around 200,000 visitors each week.
March aux Puces de Clignancourt (Paris St-Ouen flea market)
March aux Puces de Clignancourt is the largest and most well-known flea market in France. It is located in the north of Paris in the 18 t h arrondissement, and extends into the neighbouring communes of Saint-Ouen, Aubervilliers and Pantin. The market dates back to the late 19 t h century, when it first started to develop around the edges of the then-rural Clignancourt area.
Nowadays, March aux Puces de Clignancourt is a massive open-air market comprising around 2,500 stalls, spread out over 12 hectares. It attracts between 120,000 and 150,000 visitors each week (including many tourists), who come to browse its wares which include everything from antique furniture and vintage clothes to bric-a-brac and second-hand books.
The market is open all year round (except for a brief closure in January), but it is at its busiest (and most atmospheric) on weekends – particularly Sundays. If you’re planning on visiting March aux Puces de Clignancourt, it’s best to get there early (around 8am) as many of the best bargains tend to go quickly!
Paris’ Puces de Vanves Flea Market
The market originally started as a gathering of farmers who would sell their wares outside of the city walls (hence the name “Puces” which means “fleas”). Eventually, as Paris grew and expanded, the market relocated to its current location. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris, with people coming from all over to peruse its wares.
The market sells everything from antique furniture to vintage clothing, and is especially well-known for its art deco pieces. If you’re looking for a unique souvenir from your trip to Paris, or simply want to browse through some interesting items, Puces de Vanves is definitely worth a visit!
Montreuil Flea Market
The market began in the early 19 t h century, when a group of local merchants started setting up stalls along the boulevard to sell their wares. Over time, more and more vendors joined them, until the market grew into its current size. Today, there are over 2,000 stalls selling everything from clothes and antiques to books and furniture.
Despite its large size, the Montreuil Flea Market has a very relaxed atmosphere. It is a great place to find bargains on second-hand goods, as well as to enjoy some traditional French food from one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area.