There are few pleasures more delightful than a day spent antiquing in Paris. For those who love the hunt, the city offers a unique blend of history, charm, and discovery. Each market and brocante tells a story, with treasures waiting to be found among the stalls. Here are five of my favourite spots for finding antiques in Paris.
1. Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
This famous market just outside of the city gates is a paradise for antique lovers. Its maze of alleys holds everything from gilded mirrors and chandeliers to vintage linens and art. Every visit reveals something different. Dealers welcome conversation, and browsing feels like a step back in time.
2. Marché aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves
Smaller and more intimate than Saint-Ouen, this weekend market is perfect for a relaxed morning of antiquing in Paris. You’ll find cutlery, embroidered linens, vintage jewelry, and small furniture pieces. It has a friendly, neighborhood atmosphere that keeps collectors coming back.
3. Village Saint-Paul
In the heart of the Marais, this hidden network of courtyards is filled with antique shops and galleries. It’s quiet, peaceful, and full of character. Shop owners take pride in curating their collections, and the focus is on true craftsmanship and timeless design.
4. Foire de Chatou
Chatou is one of my treasured events for antiques in France. Dealers travel from across the country with furniture, art, ceramics, and garden pieces. It takes place twice a year, in March and in September, for ten days each time. The atmosphere feels festive, and each stand reflects the personality of the seller. It is a wonderful place for anyone who enjoys a slower, thoughtful approach to antiquing in Paris.
5. Place Saint Sulpice
This well-loved brocante takes place twice a year and fills the square with beautiful antiques and vintage pieces. The setting in front of the church adds charm, and you are guaranteed to find high-quality items. You can stroll from stand to stand and speak with dealers who know their craft. I love the mix of fine objects and everyday treasures, all gathered in the heart of Paris. It is a perfect event for anyone who enjoys the seasonal rhythm of a brocante life in France.
Each of these markets reflects a different side of Parisian brocante culture. From grand galleries to hidden stalls, the joy lies in the search itself. Antiquing in France is about curiosity, connection, and the pleasure of finding beauty in the past.
I always enjoy hearing about the places others love for antiques in France. Share your favourite brocante in the comments below!
If you’d like to experience this for yourself, join me in March 2026 for our Paris Antiques and Hidden Treasures Tour. Together we’ll explore my favorite markets, meet local dealers, and uncover the true art of French antiquing.
4 comments
I love all things old and with beautiful pasts. Such lovely places you get to enjoy.
Thank you for sharing.
Linda
Small walk in the Village Saint-Paul, a quiet and charming corner in the Marais. You go through courtyards, cobbled streets, it’s peaceful and a little out of time. There are galleries, small shops, second-hand shops… the atmosphere is relaxed, away from the noise of the main streets. It’s a perfect place to stroll aimlessly, just for the pleasure of discovering.
To chyba najbardziej znany pchli targ w Paryżu i jeden z największych na świecie. Składa się z wielu mniejszych targów i stoisk, Bloodmoney z ogromnym wyborem antyków, mebli, dekoracji, winyli i innych wyjątkowych przedmiotów.
Antiquing in Paris truly sounds magical—each market has its own rhythm and personality. Whether it’s the grand **Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen** or the cozy charm of **Porte de Vanves**, every corner offers a glimpse into the city’s timeless beauty.
If you ever want a break from treasure hunting, you can unwind with a quick round of skribbl io — a fun online drawing game that brings out your inner artist (and maybe even helps train that antique-hunting eye!).