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Montpellier's Most Notable Flea Markets and Thrift Stores

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France is known for its flea markets, or brocantes and vide-greniers, and Montpellier doesn’t disappoint with its weekly avenue markets and hidden second-hand gems. We’ve rounded up eight of the best flea markets and thrift stores dotted about the charming streets of this southern French city. Who knows what you’ll uncover…

Les Dimanches du Peyrou

This is the most popular and well-known flea market in Montpellier. Between 40 and 60 antique dealers set up stalls each week on the impressive Esplanade du Peyrou with their collections of homewares, toys, vintage clothing and everything in between. The morning atmosphere here is great. If you’re coming by car, there is free parking available during market hours near the Arceaux.

Marché du Lez

Open every day of the week, Marché du Lez is practically its own village within the city of Montpellier, perched on the banks of the river Lez on former industrial and agricultural land. Under strings of fairy lights, browse up to 30 antique dealers’ treasures including furniture, posters, ceramics and more. There are cool (of course) eateries on-site as well.

Marché aux Puces de la Paillade

This is the oldest and the biggest flea market in Montpellier and every Sunday, as many as 400 merchants gather here with their goods. Among the hordes of ‘stuff’, there are always some real gems to be found. A French flea market in the true sense of the word, be sure to have an early start to get your hands on the best finds.

Le Grand Bazar

Twice a year – in the spring and in autumn – Montpellier plays host to a city-wide market called Le Grand Bazar. In the streets and alleys, stalls are erected by shopkeepers and artisans selling everything from fashion to furniture and food. It’s hard to miss if you’re in Montpellier at the same time and it’s worth keeping in mind if you’ve yet to set a date for your city break here.

Chic et Boheme

Located in Montpellier’s chic and artsy Beaux-Arts district, Chic et Boheme is a must-visit. You won’t be able to find the real surprise items here (like you can in the Mossom flea market) but you can’t beat it for an overall thrift store experience. Grab a bite to eat at the Salon de Thé in the cute courtyard and while you’re there, be sure to stroll and explore one of Montpellier’s hottest neighbourhoods.

Le Coin Brocante du 6

This small thrift store is located in the southwest of Montpellier a little off the beaten track. Don’t let its size fool you – this shop is packed to the rafters and whether you’re searching for a mirror or something you didn’t even know you wanted yet, give this brocante an hour of your time.

Marché des Beaux-Arts

This is a quaint little market in the sought-after Beaux-Arts neighbourhood of Montpellier. There is just a handful of stalls in this local affair and what makes it even better are all the cafes surrounding it. Do a spot of shopping and then, find a table for a morning coffee.

Marché aux Livres

Each Saturday, one of Montepellier’s large avenues is taken over by second-hand bookstalls selling a little bit of everything. Located under the plane trees, it’s a very attractive location for a bargain read. Of course, it features mostly French titles, but some English language reads are available as well.

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About the author

Holly is a freelance writer based in Béziers, South of France. From London to a life in the Languedoc, she has written for French Property News and Living France among other titles and covers travel, lifestyle and culture. She can be followed at: www.lostinthelanguedoc.com

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