Fall is the perfect season for flea marketing in Paris—though, let’s be honest, it’s always flea market weather here! With incredible options available year-round, you’re never far from a hidden gem. However, fall is my favorite time: the seasons change, everyone back from summer vacations bundled in stylish scarves and hats, and you can enjoy a warm hot chocolate or a delicious vin chaud (mulled wine) as you stroll through the markets. Mulled wine at 10 AM? Gotta love Europe!
After seven years in Paris indulging in this pastime, I’ve learned a lot. Let me help you maximize your flea market experience with my simple tips and tricks. You don’t have time to waste—the markets have fixed(ish) hours, and you have a town to explore and shopping to do! C’est Parti! (Let’s go!)
And if you are looking for more things to do when in Paris, you can check out the Paris Guide by Astrology articles here.
The Best Paris Flea Markets
Paris flea markets are a delight, with options available every weekend, rain or shine. There are also pop-up markets at rotating locations throughout the city. However, be mindful of the hours: some markets start at sunrise and close by 1 PM, while others operate from Friday to Sunday, with Friday hours kicking off after lunch. In some cases, the action doesn’t really start until 11 AM—typical France!
Puces St. Ouen
Hours: It says on the site it’s open Friday through Monday but I only go Sat and Sun when I know it will be fully open. It’s France lol.
Location: The Flea Market circa 1870 is the world’s largest —huge, amazing, but, yes, costly. Don’t expect deep discounts or to find little hidden treasures from someone’s old chateau. Or rather, when you do they are priced like it. This market attracts film shoots (Midnight in Paris) and major brands photo shoots, so you won’t find many bargains here. I once splurged on some expensive dish towels that remain my favorites, so of course you will still love it and find gems, just know it’s not about the bargaining as some other places.
While you may stumble upon a unique piece of art or a vintage army jacket, keep in mind that the vendors are savvy to tourist behavior, and the atmosphere can be a bit jaded. On your way walking in from the metro or corner where your Uber leaves you off, you will pass other markets filled with newer items, but I suggest heading straight to Vernaison. It’s what you came for after all.
The size of the market is misleading since it’s in a city: it’s many football fields big. So, one area like Vernaison does not bely all the others around. Pace yourself, and if looking for something in particular, like a chandelier or lamp or piece of furniture, do ask store owners for their suggestions. Being friendly and sincere gets you a long way, especially here.
For dining here, I love the charming old spots around Vernaison. One of the best places for jazz is La Chope des Puces. It’s my go-to for good food at lunch featuring incredible improv afternoon jazz musicians, that play all afternoon Saturday and Sunday. It’s where you can engage with locals about neighborhood changes and new buildings—remember, not all change is progress. C’est la vie!
Puces de Vanves
Location: Open Saturday and Sunday year-round.
My personal favorite! The market operates from sunrise until around 1 PM, though most stalls start closing by noon. It’s community-focused and vibrant. The food truck in the center is run by a lovely woman who serves the best French fries and some of the finest mushroom soup in winter. Don’t miss her cappuccino—it’s one of the best in Paris!
Puces de Montreuil
Location: On the eastern end of the city, accessible via train, at La Porte de Montreuil.
This market is not overwhelming and offers some fantastic finds. I’ve discovered porcelain plates and regrettably passed on a beautiful piece of art here. You can score new, high-quality, major-brand clothing for as little as €3! While it leans more toward contemporary items than antiques, it’s a great spot for cool inexpensive, stylish seasonal gear. Old work jackets and the like are always here.
There isn’t much noteworthy food nearby though, so I usually do a quick walk-through—about 45 minutes—and then head elsewhere for a meal.
Vide Greniers and Brocantes
Your New Best Friends!
These pop-up markets are more frequent than you might think! People sell everything from items pulled from their attics to antique treasures. Each weekend, various pop-ups occur around Paris, especially in picturesque locations like Montmartre in front of Sacré-Cœur and Place des Vosges.
To discover weekly pop-ups in Paris (and throughout France), visit videgreniers.org. The site is in French, but it’s user-friendly. Just input the town or region you’re interested in, along with your preferred date, to see times, locations, and the expected number of booths. This means you can easily plan your visits for future trips!
Happy Flea Marketing!
I wonder what the astrology sign for flea markets is 🙂
Don’t forget to tag me in your Instagram finds! Enjoy exploring the charm of Parisian flea markets.
Wants to know. Has some questions. Very Sag. Always up for pizza. Planning several trips. Big fan of joy. Wants to talk about it. All of them. Is sure we can figure out this whole living thing. Is rooting for you.
