les puces

We visited two flea markets (marchés aux puces) in Paris; one at Porte de Vanves and the other at Porte de Clignancourt (the latter is also known as Saint Ouen flea market). I had been to the one at Vanves on a previous trip but didn't have time to go to St. Ouen so I was really looking forward to checking it out this time around.

Vanves was still great - I like the ambience and friendly vendors and the fact that it's small enough to cover in a few hours. This is the one I recommend going to if you are short on time or don't want to be overwhelmed. Within walking distance is a small used and antique book market, too.

Le Marché aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves

my purchases

near closing time, I picked these up from boxes of free stuff on the sidewalk!

Le Marché du Livre Ancien et d’Occasion @ Parc George Bressens

St. Ouen is HUGE and made up of several different markets with a multitude of vendors in each one (here's a great site with useful tips for visitors). We got there early and walked through it pretty quickly since a lot of sellers weren't open yet or perhaps closed since the following two days were holidays. I liken the atmosphere at St. Ouen to an antique mall - the vendors I tried to negotiate with outright refused. Even though I spoke French to them, there's no question that I'm a tourist which made me wonder if they only or are more likely to haggle with locals. I'm glad I went and experienced it but don't think it will be my first choice on our next visit to Paris.

many vendors were closed

gorgeous chandelier

vintage designer handbags and luggage

beads being sold by the (small) cup for 16 Euros - about $22

vintage paper house

can't imagine where this would go in your house or yard
but it made me think of the statue from the show Lost :)

If you can't make it out to les puces or don't crave the thrill of the hunt, allow me to direct you to this fabulous little store full of vintage finds...Au Petit Bonheur la Chance (13, Rue Saint-Paul, 4th arr.; open everyday except Tuesday & Wednesday). It's packed full of goodies like kitchenware, old signs, paper ephemera, and more.

my purchases from au petit bonheur la chance