11 amazing flea markets around the world
When it comes to shopping, few experiences can match the thrill of hunting through a treasure trove of vintage clothes and antiques. Each of these standout flea markets offers a window into the local culture of its respective city as well as some truly brag-worthy souvenirs.
Las Dalias Market, Ibiza
Long before its rise to full-fledged debauchery, the White Isle was a haven for laid-back hippies. Travellers can still catch the bohemian side of the Balaerics at this funky market to the south of the village of Sant Carles de Peralta. Soak in the good vibes while browsing for beachy cover-ups and handmade jewellery, as well as culinary souvenirs like Ibizan salt and olive oil.
Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, Paris
First-time visitors to the world's largest antiques market often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer scale of its 14 districts. Stopping by all 1,700-plus vendors in a day is utterly impossible, so be sure to plan your trip strategically.
Flohmarkt im Mauerpark, Berlin
Swinging through Mauerpark on a Sunday is obligatory for visitors to the German capital. This buzzing outdoor flea market is more about the scene the actual wares, though it's a decent spot to stock up on all-black accessories for dancing through clubs like Kater Blau and Sisyphos. Grab a currywurst to fuel up before singing your guts out at Bearpit Karaoke.
Portobello Road Market, London
As Angela Lansbury once sang in the cult classic musical Bedknobs and Broomsticks, “Anything and everything a chap can unload is sold off the barrow in Portobello Road.” London's bustling Saturday market has been an institution for generations. Whether you're searching for tchotckes or eclectic antiques, you'll find what you're looking for here as long as you have enough patience.
Mercantic, Barcelona
Ever since 1992, hip locals have been heading to the suburb of Sant Cugat on Sundays to stock up on vintage threads. People-watching is always superb here, but the first flea market of the month kicks things up to another level with live music, food vendors selling Catalan dishes, a play area for children, and more than 100,000 vintage books.
Brooklyn Flea, New York
Fashionable New Yorkers tend to eschew mainstream labels for less conventional attire. On Saturdays, you can expect to see in-the-know style mavens prowling for second-hand duds and jewellery alongside hand-made ceramics at this market's Williamsburg home. When blood sugar levels start to flag, head to the nearby Smorgasbord, a weekly street food fair.
Rose Bowl Flea Market, Los Angeles
Held on the second Sunday of each month, this flea market showcases more than 2,500 vendors selling all sorts of bric a brac. The one drawback is that it also reliably draws 20,000-plus shoppers, which is why some visitors shell out a little extra cash for VIP passes in order to cut the lines.
Feria de San Telmo, Buenos Aires
Roughly 270 vendors selling all manner of antiques cluster into the Plaza Dorrego in the Argentinian capital every Sunday. While the wares are often of high quality, the live orchestra performances and tango dancers often steal the spotlight.
Jeu de Balle Market, Brussels
The only flea market open every single day of the year, this spot derives its name from the fact that its grounds were once host to games of jeu de balle (Frisian handball). Often referred to colloquially as the Old Market, it offers everything from vinyl records to rare historic artifacts.
IJ-Hallen, Amsterdam
Europe's largest flea market boasts an astonishing array of goods. To visit IJ-Hallen, visitors must hop a free ferry to NDSM Wharf in Noord, a formerly industrial area that has morphed into the city's trendiest district over the last decade.
