Flea markets and antique fairs in Hauts-de-France France | Hauts-de-France Tourism

Northern France _ Lille _ flea market © Maxime Dufour - Office de Tourisme de Lille — ©Northern France, Lille, flea market |Maxime Dufour - Office de Tourisme de Lille

Flea markets and antique fairs in Hauts-de-France France

If you love the thrill of a good find, Northern France is a true playground for antiques lovers. From spring through autumnn and often beyond, flea markets and brocantes animate towns and cities across the region almost every weekend, offering endless opportunities to browse, barter and bring home something with a story.

Across the Nord, Pas-de-Calais, Somme, Aisne and Oise, these markets are far more than places to shop. They’re social gatherings, living traditions and joyful expressions of local life, where generations meet over boxes of old books, vintage crockery and delightfully eccentric objects.

A regional tradition rooted in history

Did you know? The French word brocante (or réderie) comes from the Picard language, spoken historically in this part of France. Flea markets are deeply embedded in the culture of Hauts-de-France, with the very first recorded events dating back to 1909. Today, more than 3,000 flea markets take place here every year.

Alongside antiques dealers, you’ll find car-boot sellers, collectors and curious wanderers — all united by the pleasure of passing objects on and giving them a second life. It’s bargain-hunting with a sustainable soul.

The must-see flea markets in Northern France

Amiens flea market

One of the largest flea markets in Northern France, Amiens hosts its famous market twice a year, in spring and autumn. Around 2,000 stalls take over more than 50 streets, attracting tens of thousands of visitors from across Europe and beyond. A vast, friendly treasure hunt in the heart of the city.

Montreuil-sur-Mer flea market

Held on Bastille Day, this atmospheric market blends bargain-hunting with national celebrations. Set within a medieval town that inspired Victor Hugo, the day ends with fireworks from the citadel — a flea market with a real sense of occasion.

Lille flea market

Taking place on the first weekend of September, Lille hosts the largest flea market in Europe. With around 10,000 exhibitors and streets filled from early Saturday to late Sunday, it’s a truly epic event — and an unforgettable city-wide experience.

Le Touquet flea market

Stylish and elegant, the Puces du Touquet are perfect for those seeking vintage French chic. A lovely stop if you enjoy seaside escapes paired with refined antiques and decorative finds.

Arras flea market

Set against the remarkable architecture of Arras, the Puces-à-Bidasse in August are a highlight of the summer. A smaller-scale market with plenty of charm — ideal for combining cultural discovery with relaxed browsing.