Paris: Cool Kitsch Rules at Paris Fleas

All Kitshy at Porte de Vanves Photos by Theadora Brack

Bargain shopper with a cause

By Theadora Brack in Paris

Hello, Kitty, goodbye heart! My recently acquired plaster cat was found in a large wooden crate at the Porte de Vanves Flea Market in Paris.

Cost? Two euros. Hypnotic experience? Priceless.

History in the taking

Thank the notorious “rag and bone men” (today’s “dumpster divers”) for getting the flea market party started in the late 19th century. At today’s Paris flea markets and brocantes, you’re likely to find anything from kitschy trinkets to classic French antiques.

Collection? Eclectic. Range? Giant!

State your mission!

There’s a great deal for your little eye to spy, so I recommend arriving with a “quest” in mind and a list in hand.Visualization will narrow your hunt while increasing your chances of finding the objects of your desire.

Give that dog a bone

Can’t get enough?

Here’s a tip for the road! The 95 bus connects the two best fleas in the city: the Marché aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves and the Marché aux Puces St-Ouen de Clignancourt.

It’s one of the most scenic bus lines in the city (even cuts through the Louvre), so pack your camera!

Happy Hunting!

Marche aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves, Paris
Métro: Porte de Vanves, 14th arrondissement
Open every Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Theadora Brack is the Paris Correspondent with the travel website, Eurocheapo.com.