Saint Ouen Flea Market

The Saint Ouen Flea Market is the highlight of any trip to Paris. Next door to iconic spots like Sacre Coeur and Moulin Rouge, the market is one of the world’s biggest. You can find all sorts here, from antique jewellery to books, records and lots of vintage designer clothes and accessories!

The origins of the Saint-Ouen flea market can be dated all the way back to the Franco-Prussian war of 1870 when rag-and-bone men, known as “moonlight sinners,” were forced out of the city. When the sun set they would wander through the streets of Paris looking for discarded items to sell, eventually creating merchant villages in Saint-Ouen. However, the official opening of the Marché aux Puces flea market happened in 1885, with locals working to clean and secure the area, and merchants paid for the right to sell at Les Puces. After World War I, things really took off, leading to indoor markets and special heritage status. Over time the market gained popularity, especially on Sundays, attracting Parisians for leisure walks outside the city walls.

Opening hours

It’s better to get there as early as possible, also be aware that on the weekends it can get pretty packed. The market is open on most public holidays except for Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and May 1st.

Open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays: 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.