Montreuil-sur-Mer flea market | Hauts-de-France Tourism

Montreuil-sur-Mer flea market

A Bastille Day tradition for all the family

On Bastille Day, the medieval town of Montreuil-sur-Mer comes alive with one of Hauts-de-France’s most anticipated flea markets. Less than an hour south of Calais, just off the A16, it’s an easy and rewarding stop for families crossing the Channel — especially if you’re travelling with extra boot space to spare.

Far more than an antiques fair, the Montreuil-sur-Mer flea market is a joyful celebration of summer, curiosity and local life, woven into France’s national day festivities.

A treasure hunt through history and imagination

With more than 500 stalls spread through the streets, the market offers plenty to explore at every pace. Stallholders from across France — and from neighbouring countries such as Britain, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany, create a lively mix of accents, stories and surprises.

Children are often the most enthusiastic explorers, drawn to boxes of old toys, games and quirky objects that spark the imagination. Parents can take their time browsing, chatting and gently haggling, enjoying the relaxed, friendly atmosphere that defines flea markets in Northern France.

Arriving the evening before is well worth it. On the eve of Bastille Day, families can join the lantern procession through the town, a magical moment for younger visitors, before the celebrations continue the next day.

Fireworks, festivities and a historic setting

As night falls, the day reaches its crescendo with a fireworks display launched from the Citadel, lighting up the sky around 10.30pm. It’s the perfect finale to a long, happy day spent wandering, discovering and sharing simple pleasures.

Montreuil-sur-Mer itself adds to the charm. The town famously inspired parts of Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables, and its Citadel ramparts offer an easy, panoramic walk that children love, with views stretching across the surrounding countryside.

An easy-going family escape

The town is ideal for a short family break, with welcoming hotels, B&Bs and characterful places to stay — from old coaching inns to beautifully restored historic buildings. There’s also no shortage of family-friendly restaurants, alongside some standout dining addresses for those looking to linger a little longer.

A festive, sociable and wonderfully accessible event, the Montreuil-sur-Mer flea market combines the pleasure of bargain-hunting with the joy of celebrating Bastille Day — all in one of Northern France’s most charming towns.

Find out more about the Montreuil-sur-Mer flea market and plan your Bastille Day break