Flea-bitten by Belfort
If you love antique markets, hop in the car and drive to Belfort, France this Sunday, September 3. The Belfort Marché aux Puces (Flea Market) is billed as “the largest flea market in the east of France.”
Held on the first Sunday of every month, from March to December, the outdoor market features more than 200 vendors, with offerings that range from antique glassware, mustard pots and linens to furniture, vintage tins - and much, much more.
I’ve found everything from heavy, handblown water goblets and elegant, white ceramic pitchers to antique, rush-seated Proveçal armchairs and beautiful oak desks.
While prices aren’t the cheapest, the quality tends to be excellent and on a sunny morning the atmosphere is magnifique. Even if you don’t buy a thing, it is worth the hour-long trip just to stroll around the bustling square or sit and watch the action while enjoying some café au lait - and maybe a fresh, warm waffle (gaufre).
The market is held in the center of the “Old Town” (follow yellow signs for the Marché aux Puces). Things start pretty early and close up by noon, so make sure to head over early.