The Complete Guide To The Jeu De Balle Flea Market In Brussels

The Jeu de Balle Flea Market, also known as the Old Market, is surely the most famous flea market in Belgium’s capital city, and is is the world’s only antique and flea market that is open 365 days a year. Embark on a unique journey to the heart of time and treasure hunt among antiquities and unique pieces.

Location and History

The Jeu de Balle Flea Market is located in the heart of the Marolles district, which has a long history when it comes to its location and its function. In the 17th century, it was intended for the sale of rags (second-hand clothes) and was located south of the city, on the left side of the river Seine. This had a negative impact on the development of the central boulevards, so, the town council decided to create the Place Anneessens in place of this market and to move the old market towards the Marolles.

The Place du Jeu de Balle was established in 1854, at the same time as the rue Blaes. It went by the name Renard (fox), because it was situated near Renard Street and it was originally intended to serve as a playing field for jeu de balle (Frisian handball). Officially in 1873, the merchants settled on Renard and they have been working there since 1919. Thus, the old market situated at Place Annessens became the forerunner of the flea market we know today.

What can you find?

The Jeu de Balle Flea Market is a sociological representations of the area. It gathers antique lovers, collectors, occasional visitors and people who are simply headed out for a stroll. Here you can find almost everything and anything you’ve ever wanted in a lively and entertaining atmosphere.

The market is composed of dealers selling pieces strewn out on blankets and sheets or off the back of their trucks and cars. There are also stands crammed with objects, from antique porcelain and pictures to 19th-century crossbows and tiny tin objects made from the 20th century, parchment, fabric, vintage clothes, etc. Most of these stands offer a variety of different objects, but here and there you can find sellers dedicated to only one specific kind of treasure.

For music and book lovers, there are boxes full of old vinyl records and rare books, so dig in – you may find some good old stuff. While you are passing through the aisles of antiquarians, pay close attention, as each object could hide an interesting story.

Tips and tricks on how to make the most of your time at the market

This is a place full of everything, from junk to some rare pieces, so be patient. If you want to find real gems, dig in — don’t just scratch the surface. When you find your treasure, don’t hesitate to bargain for a good price.

The best days to visit the market as regulars are Thursdays and Fridays, but on Saturdays and Sundays, you might discover some more specific or rare items that are usually available only on the weekends.

In the surrounding streets (Rue Haute, Rue Blaes and Place du Grand Sablon) you can also discover antique dealers and second hand shops, and if you want a break from treasure hunting, don’t hesitate to visit some of the cafes and restaurants in the area.

Jeu de Balle Flea Market/Courtesy of Ana Stambolic

The Flea market, Place du Jeu de Balle, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

Monday-Friday: 6am – 2pm

Weekends: 6am – 3pm

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.