Montpellier's Most Notable Flea Markets and Thrift Stores

| © Hemis / Alamy Stock Photo

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

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.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

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.

Culture Trip Spring Sale

Save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

X
Edit article