The Flea Market of Vanves (Paris, France)

Flea market lovers of all inclinations, rejoice! Paris has got you. The flea markets of Paris range from the organised world-famous Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen to the take-your-time-looking-through tables, blankets, and bins of knick-knacks type of markets. The Marche aux Puces des St-Ouen, an expansive seven-acre establishment boasting the world's largest concentration of antiques and second-hand dealers, is tourist-loved and located in the north of the city. On the opposite end of Paris and not as famous is Les Puces de Vanves. This flea market is my favourite in the city. Here is why.

Les Puces de Vanves, located in the south of Paris in a residential area within the 14 arrondissement, is not an Instagrammable place but offers something else that gives it an edge over the other flea markets in Paris. What is that? Les Puces de Vanves is more budget-friendly, mysterious and inclusive of different shopping personalities. In addition the sellers are more jovial.

You never know what you will find at Les Puces de Vanves where second-hand items such as glassware, ceramics, furniture, jewelry, art, and vintage clothing, and quirky items can be found.

It is not surprising to find a vendor selling the leg of a mannequin and a nightmare-inducing looking old doll next to a vendor selling crystal glassware and trinkets or furniture from the 20th-century. These items may be attentively laid out on a table, arranged on a blanket, leaned against a tree trunk, or thrown in big bins. However the items for sale are presented, it's a must to physically interact with and inspect them to decide whether to accept the price offered by the seller, make a counter-offer of at least 20% less, or 'merci beaucoup' it and move on. Bargaining is highly recommended here and is expected.

The market is open on Saturdays and Sundays all year round from seven am to two pm and is located a stone's throw away from the Porte de Vanves metro stop accessible by the line 13th metro and the 58 and 95 buses. Keep in mind that the main form of payment at the market is cash; it’s extremely rare to find a seller who has a card machine. No need to worry about securing cash before heading to the market, a Société Générale ATM is accessible near the entry/exit of the Porte de Vanves metro station.

Happy searching for that hidden gem at a bargain price!