10 of the World’s Most Interesting Flea Markets
There are so many routes you can take when planning your next adventure. Maybe you want to circle the globe and eat *tons* of food, or maybe you’re looking to log another exciting excursion in your personal travel journal. Thankfully, there are lots of helpful travel tips and nifty products out there for the modern-day nomad. In that spirit of adventure, we’ve come up with a globe-trotter’s guide to exceptionally amazing flea markets. Come along for an antique-filled, food-saturated, lively flea market trip around the world!
1. Otavalo Market in Otavalo, Ecuador: Grab a colorful handmade blanket (or three!) from this flea market known for its traditional Ecuadorian textiles. Enjoy the handcrafted goods and extraordinary charm of the locals. (Photo via Getty)
2. Portobello Road in London, England: Solely dedicated to all things antique, Portobello Road will brighten your day with its colorful facade and leave your belly full of tasty treats. (Photo via Getty)
3. Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey: Known for its hand-painted ceramics and gorgeous rugs, this place simply WOWs its visitors. Shop like the Turks and visit the two mosques the market houses for a memorable cultural experience. (Photo via Getty)
4.Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena, California: Come one, come all to the flea market of the stars! Notorious for its frequent visits from Hollywood celebs, this place is sure to have what you’re looking for, given its 2,500 vendors. (Photo via Richard Hartog/Los Angeles Times/Getty)
5. Les Puces de Saint-Ouen in Paris, France: Put your walking shoes on for this 17-acre stretch of wonderful French finds. Its claim to fame is being the largest flea market in the WORLD, with up to 180,000 visitors each weekend. (Photo via Jeff Greenberg/UIG/Getty)
6.Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Damnoen Saduak, Thailand: World-famous for its “floating” quality, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market might just be the best way to immerse yourself in an authentic Thailand experience. You’ll find yourself weaving along the busy canal to visit vendors selling handmade goods and local foods. (Photo via Getty)
Brooklyn Flea in Brooklyn, New York
Every weekend from April to October you can find over 100 local vendors at the trendiest flea market around. Drool-worthy fresh food along with things old and new can be found in this urban treasure hunt. (Photo via Brooklyn Flea)
Mercantic in Barcelona, Spain
Designed for “lovers of vintage,” Mercantic has been dubbed the Vintage Village of Spain — and for good reason. Surround yourself with artists in the market’s unique Creative Space, or indulge in its local Spanish eats while listening to live music. (Photo via Mercantic)
9. Monastiraki Flea Market in Athens, Greece: Take your time wandering through the lively streets of Avissynias Square. You’ll find one-of-a-kind handmade goods, delicious traditional Greek cuisine, and fascinating entertainers. (Photo via Ed Norton/Getty)
Colaba Causeway in Mumbai, India
Termed the “Culture Square” of Mumbai, Colaba Causeway is home to just about everything fascinating, from eateries to bookshops to jewelry. Put your bargaining hat on for some stellar deals! (Photo via Christer Fredriksson/Getty)