Plot: A sunny day, three early birds and a photograph. Playground? The weekend flea market at Porte de Vanves (Paris). Whether you’re a passionate collector or merely a lover of whimsical trinkets, a wander through one of Paris’ brocantes (flea markets) will always seduce and enthral. The Paris flea markets originated in the 18th-century when chiffoniers or rag-and-bone men resold goods and clothing found in aristocrats’ rubbish bins, setting up just outside the gates of Paris to avoid fees and taxes incurred within city walls.
If you want to know more about this wonderful weekly flea market, do not miss to read the full review we wrote of the Vanves Flea Market!
“The weekend flea market near the Porte de Vanves metro stop in Paris is one of the very best in France, in terms of size and the eclectic nature of its wares. On Saturday and Sunday (Saturday is perhaps busier) morning, more than 300 vendors set up here until around 1pm (though a small number stay later). Some display their goods attractively on tables, while others simply pile them on blankets on the ground. You can find just about everything here, from the many regions of France as well as elsewhere – not surprising given the international character of Paris. Expect to see paintings, ceramics, silver, art deco, 60s and 70s items, linens, books, militaria, kitchenware, and vintage clothing – among many other collectables – at prices that run the gamut. Not a very scenic spot, this is a market for people keen to buy rather than sight-see.” Sandy Price
