Navigating the Saint Ouen Flea Market in Paris
Welcome to a labyrinth of treasure, otherwise known as the Marché aux Puces de Saint Ouen. This market is the largest antique market in the world and can be very overwhelming for first-timers. I’ll try to break it down for you. The easiest way to get there is on the metro line 4, getting off at the last station, Porte de Clignancourt. Follow the exit signs for “Marché aux Puces.” It’s about a 10-minute walk from here. Follow the signs and don’t get distracted along the way. You will see a large area of white tents full of mostly fake merchandise. Keep walking, going under the highway overpass (this is actually the Périphérique, the highway which encircles Paris). Turn left onto Rue des Rosiers, and you are in! From here, you can access all of the markets.
What to know before you go
Bring cash.
Beware of pickpockets. Hide your wallet.
Prepare to spend the day.
Go in the morning.
Bargain.
Friday from 8 am to 12 pm
Saturday, Sunday & Monday 10 am to 6 pm (many dealers are closed on Mondays)Have lunch at Le Paul Bert, 20 rue Paul Bert
Marché Biron, 85 Rue des Rosiers
You can walk the red carpet through this market of almost 200 vendors featuring everything from lights to furniture from the 17th through the 20th centuries. Lots of Louis XV and XVI pieces.
Marché Paul Bert, 96 Rue des Rosiers
Marché Serpette, 110 Rue des Rosiers
Expect lots of furniture from the 1950’s and 1960’s. I could furnish an entire dream house from these two markets. Serpette is very high-end and a joy to discover.
Marché Vernaison, 99 Rue des Rosiers
This is the oldest section of the market and the most affordable. Expect about 300 vendors selling toys, glassware, antiques, furniture, textiles, paintings… This is a good place to start, especially if you are looking for smaller treasures to bring home. Have fun getting lost wandering the many alleyways.
Marché Dauphine, 140 Rue des Rosiers
This is the largest covered market with about 150 dealers under a glass roof. Expect records, jewelry, vintage fashion, cool shoes, books, and art galleries.
Marché Jules Vallès, 7-9 rue Jules Vallées
This market is inside. Expect furniture, posters, books, and smaller objects.