Saint-Ouen Flea Market

Photo by flickr user Waxy Dan

For lovers of flea markets, Saint-Ouen Flea Market is one of the best in the world. Here you can find over 2,000 stalls that are filled with everything eclectic, funky, and fabulous- both new and secondhand, including clothes, old radios, art, tin baths, and vintage jewelry. Don't get frustrated if at first, all you spy is junk. It might take time to uncover the rare goodies, but with a little bit of patience, collectors items, antique vases, authentic clothing from earlier centuries, and archaeological pieces have been found here. Located on the outskirts of Paris, it spans a remarkable 17 acres and draws between 120,000 and 150,000 shoppers a weekend. Whether you live in France or are spending time there on holiday, you can be sure whatever you find at Saint-Ouen Flea Market will be a one of a kind treasure.

Perusing the different markets for hours is sure to make even the most dedicated shopper tired. Consume the full Saint-Ouen experience by taking a break in one of the many outdoor cafes or picturesque restaurants that offer anything from light snacks to full course meals, before beginning the next part of your investigations.

From the center of Paris, take the Metro line to Porte de Clignancourt on Line 4 and head north through the unofficial stalls of the market. Although it may be worth glancing at the items sold here, many of them are very non-descript goods that are commonly found in regular stores. The reason you came to Saint-Ouen Flea Market is just up ahead, a little ways after you pass under the overpass.

Shop for: Ones of a kind, secondhand

Get here : Before noon to beat the crowds, especially on weekends

Cafe Stop: Chez Louisette

How to get here: Line 4

Written by  Mary Kate Alfieri.

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