Let Those Coins Jingle: The Best Flea Markets around the World!

I’ve travelled far and wide, and I’m always taken aback at the dearth of time when it comes to shopping in a new place. It is almost like taking back a tangible piece of travel home to savour forever. And no, I’m not just talking bottle openers and fridge magnets. I’m talking about relics from times gone by, and those from cultures of far-off lands. Shopping during travels is a sentiment, and we’ve put together a list of the best flea markets around the world, to help you make the most of your globetrotting. Read on!

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, Paris

Situated in North Paris, some distance away from Sacré-Cœur Basilica and Moulin Rouge, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is the largest flea market in Europe and one of the largest in the world. If you’re the kind who like their luxury, and like it cheap, this is your go-to place. This market boasts of over 2500 stalls, divided into 15 marchés, with each marché specializing in a different set of goods – ranging from Asian art, to hip clothing, to dated furniture from the 17^th century!

What you should buy: Vintage records, furniture, olds books and antique jewellery

Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok

Bargain hunters, you’ve found your paradise! In the heart of Bangkok, over the weekends, Chatuchak is the best place to pick up almost everything that you can think of. Whether you’re looking for home décor, hip cotton clothes, handicrafts, antiques, books, ceramics or art, chances are, Chatuchak will have it. When you’re too tired from walking around the humongous street market, you can find one of the local Thai masseurs offering foot massages for a nominal fee. Use your best bargaining skills and come armed with extra bags to take all your newfound treasures home.

What you should buy: Fairy lights for your room, cotton clothes and antiques on a bargain

Portobello Road Market, London

Located in West London, Portobello Road Market is one of the biggest flea markets in London city with a history dating back 150 years. Although the market is active all days of the week except Sunday, Friday and Saturday are particularly busy with the stalls and streets bustling with shoppers. One can find artsy knick-knacks like sculpted cutlery, bohemian coats and shrugs, umbrellas and ceramics.

What you should buy: Clothes, posters, DVDs to perishables like fresh fruit and bread!

Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

One of the first to be called a “shopping mall” in the world, the Grand Bazaar is an antique collector’s Holy Grail! Find lac lanterns and beautiful glass paintings of the highest order, to silver and gold jewellery, funky hand embroidered boots, belly dancing outfits (YES!) and more. The look and feel of the market feels like a throwback to Ottoman times and easily takes the cake for being one of the most visually appealing flea markets in the world.

What you should buy: Painted glass lanterns and funky boots to jazz up your winter wardrobe several notches!

Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market, New York

Brass knick knacks, antique pottery items, jewellery and crafts –Hell’s Kitchen has all this and much more! It is one of those few bargain-friendly places in NYC, and brilliant as a Saturday afternoon spree. The best part is, there are food trucks going around the market offering great New York style street food to recharge between shopping sessions!

What should you buy: Handbags, cotton shirts for that hot summer day, and upholstery with Bohemian prints

Colaba Causeway Market, Bombay

Colaba Causeway, one of most sought after markets of Mumbai, is a paradise for bargain seekers and trinket hoarders. Buy cotton stoles and dupattas, objet d’arts, and antique goods at very reasonable prices, after bargaining your way to your rates of choice. Hop into the Kala Ghoda arts district for a hit of art and cultural extravaganza! End your day with a chilled beer and a plate of chilli cheese toast at Café Mondegar, a must visit place when in town.

What you should buy: Junk jewellery and semi-ethnic dupattas and shawls

Paddy’s Market, Sydney

More of a sentiment than just a market for both locals and visitors, Paddy’s has over a 1000 stalls in two huge markets (Haymarket and Flemington). The market looks like a huge amphitheatre which houses fresh fruits, meats, seafood and vegetables, ceramic goods, glass and brass curios, winter clothes and electronic gadgets. Some goods are available on a bargain and some not, so choose carefully before you slash 50% off the price quoted!

What should you buy: Woollens, ceramics and souvenirs to take back home. Do buy fresh seafood if you’ve got an option to cook where you’re staying!