MARKETS- the only way to shop abroad
With the exception of eating, my favorite thing to do when traveling is to seek out both antique and artisan markets. Whether its a piece of pottery, an old book, a painting from a local artist or some other unassuming little knick-knack, I love finding special little pieces I can bring home. Not only do they add an element of history and storytelling to my home, but they also remind me of that place in time when I discovered it and put a smile on my face. Other than unavoidable essentials, almost everything in my home has been collected and curated from markets and vintage shops or found around my family’s farm. My grandfather shared my enthusiasm for antiques and interesting pieces.
Here is a list of some of my favorite markets to visit as well as a few that I hope to soon explore for the first time.
PARIS - LES PUCES DE SAINT-OUEN
Considered a MECCA for designers and design enthusiasts, this market located in Paris started in 1870 and it is open year round from Friday to Monday. Spanning almost 20 acres, you could spend DAYS exploring this market and I recommend doing so if you are going with the purpose to actually shop. The first time I went, I saw my design icon Kelly Wearstler and might have followed her around (from a distance) to see what vendors she was visiting. There are also noteworthy cafes within the market so you can stroll and then enjoy lunch and a glass of wine. You can find their website here for more detailed information.
L’ISLE-SUR-LA-SORGUE- SUNDAY MARKET
Considered to be the “Venice of Provence”, this village is second only to Paris as the antique epicenter of France. On Sundays you will find over 300 stalls of antique, food and artisan vendors in the center. They also do a larger market at Easter and Mid-August.
FLORENCE - SANTO SPIRITO
A smaller market, but one close to my heart as this was once a neighborhood I called home. This market takes place every second Sunday (except July & August). This Piazza is also home to my favorite restaurant in the city, Osteria Santo Spirito, they have a truffle cream gnocchi that will change your life. The streets surrounding this piazza are also known for being lined with exquisite antique shops and artisan studios for everything from goldsmiths, engravers, bookbinders and leather workers.
FLORENCE - OTHER NOTABLE MARKETS
SANT’ AMBROGIO- Indoors there are food stalls and in the mornings outdoors you can find some vintage finds like books and military apparel.
FORTEZZA DI BASSO- Situated in the gardens of this old military fort this one is every third weekend of the month. You can find vintage furniture historical artifacts and other collectibles.
IL MERCATALE- First Saturday of the month (except January, July & August) this one focuses on farmers and aritsans selling from salami to honey
CHRISTMAS MARKETS- Christmas all over Europe is quite magical with its markets. There are several in Florence, but a few of note are in the Piazza Santa Croce and the old train station Stazione Leopolda..
AREZZO ANTIQUES FAIR
A smaller village market, but not to be missed. Held on the first Sunday of every month with over 500 vendors and you can find rare objects, collectibles art. old fashioned linens, fabrics and more.
BOLOGNA - MONTAGNOLA VINTAGE MARKET
This one is a must for vintage clothing lovers. Held every Friday and Saturday, you will find everything from vintage designers, furs, cultural clothing, punk and styles from many other eras
MEXICO CITY- EL BAZAR SABADO
A lovely market that happens every Saturday full of artisan made items from jewelry to rugs and art.
MEXICO CITY - LA LAGUNILLA MARKET
Another favorite of design enthusiasts, this one is open every Sunday. You can find an abundance of vintage goods and furniture.
LONDON - ALFIES ANTIQUE MARKET
A little different from the rest in that this one is a permanent indoor market open Tuesday to Saturday. Located in a four story, art deco building this market has a little bit of everything and even hosts workshops on occasion. You can check out their instagram here.
LONDON - MODERN SHOWS
A market dedicated specifically to mid-century modern. They host pop up shows in different locations. You can sign up for ther newsletter via their website here to get notified of upcoming markets.
AMSTERDAM- NOORDERMARKT
Established in 1623 (yes, you read that correctly. This market has been in existence for over 400 years) this market is open every Monday 9-1 and Saturday 9-4. Check out their website here for an index of vendors.
BARCELONA- ELS ENCANTS
Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. This market dates back to the 14th Century where it began as a place to auction the belongings of the deceased to pay off their debts. Here you will find a good mix of art, furniture and jewelry.
MADRID- EL RASTRO
Another market with over 400 years of history, this one is often lauded for its organization with streets dedicated to particular items. Located in the La Latina neighborhood this market takes place on Sundays and many holidays.
There are SO many incredible markets out there that this isn’t even scratching the surface, but this is where I will leave you for now. If you are traveling to any of these places and would like any help planning around visiting these markets or would like information on markets in other locations please feel free to email me at lesliann.nemeth@fora.travel
