Flea markets are hugely popular and draw thousands of travelers from all over the world because they offer rare antiques, vintage clothes and jewelry at dirt cheap rates that you will never find in any other place. There is no limit to things one might find in a flea market, and the offerings are often on the verge of being intriguing or simply bizarre.
From old horse buggy carts and ancient TV sets to ornate accessories, all can be found in the flea markets. There are flea markets in almost every country and the goods sold at the stalls bear the hallmark of the unique native cultures. Variety of goods available at flea markets has encouraged die-hard shoppers to travel around the world for getting great deals on knick knacks. In the following seven, of the world’s best flea markets have been listed.
Petticoat lane flea market, England
Apart from the funny and enigmatic name, the Petticoat Lane Flea Market in Middlesex Street England has many other things of interest to offer. It is probably the only flea market where you will find vendors who boast of selling illegal, stolen products legally with a license.
The energetic flea market is quite like an on-road fair where you can get good bargains with little negotiation on antiques, jewelry and second hand goods. The street snacks sold here are yummy and it is the perfect place for a day out with your pals.
Le Marche Serpette, Paris
Paris has always been a trendsetter in fashion, art and luxury. If you want to get good deals on fashionable and trendy accessories and clothing with a Parisian aura then visit the Le Marche Serpette, which is considered as one of the trendiest flea markets of Paris. There are other flea markets too in this beautiful city, but none sell the latest items at such affordable rates like this one.
All you need to have is a sharp eye and the ability to sniff out best deals so that you can get your hands on the right products before others snatch them off.
Porta Portese Flea Market, Rome, Italy
Every Sunday, the gigantic flea market in Porta Portese opens early in the morning at 6.30 am, and shuts down by 12 noon. So make sure you are there in the morning. There are numerous products on offer at good prices if you know how to haggle and fight with a shopping hungry crowd. Beware of pickpockets while you roam this market, as many will be around. The variety of products in this market is what attracts thousands of shoppers with different cultural backgrounds to flock here.
Feira da Ladra, Lisbon, Portugal
Known also as the Market of Female Thieves, the Feira da Ladra is one of the best street shopping destinations in Portugal. In ancient days women thieves used to sell their hoists and plunders near the present marketplace. You can get beautiful antique jewelry, rugs, art pieces, clothes, vintage tiles and pottery here at pocket friendly prices.
Jaffa Flea Market, Israel
This market is located in the Old Jaffa in Israel and offers jaw dropping deals to all the shoppers who visit it. The antiques and goods found here is incomparable. You can buy musical instruments or colorful rugs without worrying about money. The colorful and boisterous market is also a visual treat.
The Maxwell Street Market, Chicago, US
This one is the perfect place for shoppers who want to have a relaxed and fun day out. There are plenty of things to see, eat and buy. The unique flea market amalgamates different cultures by showcasing a great variety of goods. Go there on Sundays to enjoy the Latino and Jazz music.
Chatuchak Market, Bangkok, Thailand
The variety of goods on offer in the huge 35 acres vast flea market in Bangkok is staggering. The deals can make chiseled shoppers scream with glee. It has gained the reputation of being one of the must visit places of Thailand.
Summary
There are many wonderful flea markets where you can get great deals and bargains. Some of them are legendary and work as a cultural binder for people of different ethnicities.