Marché aux Puces
The largest flea market in Paris is the Marché aux Puces, also called the “Puces”. For lovers of brocante and antiques, this bustling flea market is a true paradise. Where should you go? And where are the hidden gems? I will take you through the maze of streets of this famous flea market in this article.
ACCESSIBILITY
The Marché au Puces is located just outside Paris, in Saint Ouen. The market can be reached by subway, bus, bicycle or taxi. If you go by metro get off at Porte de Cilgnancourt (line 4). Follow the signs to the Marché au Puces in the subway to get to the right exit. While it’s not dangerous, it’s advisable to be cautious with your belongings. You’ll traverse a slightly less attractive area en route to the market, passing under the highway, the Périférique, to reach the beginning of the market at Rue des Rosiers. Marché aux Puces is also accessible via subway line 13. If you opt for line 13, disembark at the Garibaldi stop, which takes you to the opposite side of the market. Line 4 requires a bit less walking. For a direct arrival at the market, take bus 85 and disembark at the Paul Bert stop. A Velib station is also nearby for those who prefer to cycle.
LAYOUT
The Puces consists of several parts. All parts are around Rue des Rosiers. There are 5 major markets Marché Dauphine, Marché Vernaison, Marché Serpette Paul Bert, Marché Biron and Marché Jules Vallès.
MARCHÉ DAUPHINE
The Puces consists of several parts. Marché Dauphine is a covered section of the market. Here you will find antiques, vinyl, prints, furniture and much more. Looking for delicious coffee? Head to Noir in the Marché Dauphine for the tastiest lattes and matchas (shop 18 on the first floor).
MARCHÉ VERNAISON
The oldest part of the market is Marché Vernaison. Wander among the stores and search for your treasures in this historic area. Near the exit, on rue des Rosiers is the Atelier 55 gallery. This gallery also has a shop in the 7th arrondissement of Paris (Rue des Saints-Pères). A haven for designer furniture and objects
MARCHÉ BIRON
For the more exclusive antique stores, Marché Biron is the place to be. If you’ve seen Lupin, you definitely recognize this part of the market.
MARCHÉ SERPETTE PAUL BERT
Serpette Paul Bert is also a more upscale part of the Puces, featuring galleries and designer furniture, as well as antique and curiosity shops.
MARCHÉ JULES VALLÈS
Around the Marché Jules Vallès, you’ll find slightly more affordable items. Be sure to explore the antique shops on Rue Jules Vallès as well, and you will be surprised at how far back the shops extend, with enormous storage spaces filled with old cabinets and antique items.
LIVE JAZZ AT LA CHOPE DES PUCES
End your day with a glass of wine at the not-to-be-missed bar, La Chope des Puces, where live jazz music graces the atmosphere during weekends. La Chope des Puces, 122 Rue des Rosiers, 93400 Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine.
