Paris might be widely considered the city of love, but for designers, it’s fast become the city of antiques, offering an incredible variety of styles, eras, and prices that you just can’t find anywhere else.
And it’s not just the antiques themselves, but the whole atmosphere of shopping and spending time makes you even more inclined to jump on the decorating with antiques train.
Which begs the question: Is Paris the best city in the world for antique shopping?
I’ve asked interior designers who have travelled from the States to experience the French capital’s antiques shopping district to find out why it’s so special and their favorite spots to shop.
(Image credit: Elena Jiang/Unsplash)
Every city has its ‘hotspots’ for vintage and antiques lovers, but few are quite as renowned as Paris. From the markets to the hidden stores selling the best worldly finds, it’s little surprise designers and homeowners travel halfway around the world to experience it.
‘It is great fun to go antique or vintage shopping in Paris, whether you are browsing the streets of Saint Germaine or at a smaller Brocante,’ says Christine Markatos Lowe, Santa Monica-based interior designer and founder of Christine Markatos Design.
‘You’ll typically find a larger variety of items that originate from more regions and periods, and there is so much to learn about the decorative arts. It’s a great way to train your eye,’ she adds.
And while we all love variety when it comes to antique shopping, that’s something you can get from some of the big antique sales and markets in the US. So, what really sets Paris apart?
‘As a designer, I’m always looking for pieces that tell a story, and Paris is a city steeped in history and charm,’ says Savannah-based interior designer Leah Bailey.
‘The appeal of antique and vintage shopping there is the romance of the find. You never know what you’ll discover, but you can count on craftsmanship, patina, and soul. Whether it’s an 18th-century mirror or a perfectly aged bistro chair, these pieces add depth and authenticity to a space that can’t be replicated with something new.’
Interior designers’ favorite places to buy antiques in Paris
The antique and vintage scene in Paris is huge, so visiting them all in one short trip is nearly impossible, especially if you want to spend time searching for unique pieces that you can’t find back home.
‘As an interior designer who splits my time between Paris and the United States, I find that Paris offers incredible access to artisan products which provide a certain uniqueness to the designs we can create,’ says Chloe Legras, owner and principal designer at Boxwood Avenue.
To help you choose a few of the best antique shopping places in Paris, we’ve asked interior designers for their top picks and what makes them so special. Spoiler alert: flea markets seem to be the favorite.
1. Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
If you’re visiting Paris (especially as an antiques aficionado), there’s one must-visit spot to add to your list. Les Puces de Saint-Ouen is the city’s largest flea market and it’s one designers love, too.
‘The Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is a favorite. It’s one of the largest flea markets in the world and feels more like a treasure hunt than a shopping trip. The mix of high-end antiques and quirky vintage finds makes it endlessly inspiring. I love exploring the different stalls, especially ones with old lighting, art, and carved wood furniture,’ says Leah.
‘Here you’ll find everything from bric-a-brac to 15th-century antiques and mid-century originals. You’ll want to go early and come prepared with measurements if you’re shopping for something specific,’ says Chloe.
Located in the North of Paris, this market boasts 12 covered markets and even more vendors filling the streets. Open Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays, it’s a must-visit while you are in the city, even if you’re not searching for anything in particular.
2. Vanves Flea Market
For something less grand, on the outskirts of Paris, you will find smaller markets where you are more likely to see locals perusing the stalls. While you might not find the rare, highly sought-after antiques here, you will find unique, affordable pieces.
‘If you’re more of a collector and don’t have anything particular in mind, I also love Vanves, which is located outside the city in the opposite direction (to the south),’ says Chloe.
‘It’s much more casual, and while you won’t find as many high-end antiques, you’ll score major deals on smaller pieces, which, as a tourist, are easy to bring home for memories of your travels,’ she explains.
Vanves Flea Market is held every weekend from 7:00 am until 2:30 pm; however, many dealers only stay until lunch, so it’s best to get the bright and early if you want to find the best hidden gems among the vendors.
3. Michele Aragon
‘I always have a wonderful time visiting Michele Aragon’s shop on Rue Jacob, which holds a feast of vintage and antique tabletop and accessories,’ says Christine.
The second half of the year always lends itself to hosting, whether you host summer dinners, Thanksgiving celebrations, or the Christmas festivities. Tableware is always at the heart of these events, so finding the best place to buy vintage wares is always a lovely idea when you’re in Paris.
Located at 21 Jacob Street, Paris 75006, this store is filled with quirky finds from a range of styles and eras. From beautiful wooden tables to brass candleholders and pretty teacup sets, it’s the perfect place to pick up small vintage items that are easy to transport.
4. Paul Bert Serpette
While some designers enjoy the variety of a bountiful market and all of the surprises they have to offer, others return to particular stalls and shops. It’s a great way to create a good relationship with dealers, and sometimes gives you an in to source the best pieces.
‘Paul Bert Serpette is definitely my favorite spot to shop in Paris. The dealers always have unusual things that have a story behind them,’ says interior designer Garrett Carter.
‘I’ve learned that nobody really owns anything in this world. We’re all just renting the things we love that eventually get passed down or resold to someone else. I find it very cool to be part of history like that.’
Found on 110 rue des Rosiers, Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine 93400, its location is an antiques hotspot, so a visit here can lead to a full day of vintage shopping! ‘Arrive at Paul Bert Serpette early in the morning, around 9:00 am on a Friday or Saturday, to start shopping. This way, you can be the first to reserve something special,’ he suggests.
Antiques and vintage shopping in Paris is a wonderful experience, but it can also be a little overwhelming. With so many places to visit and the different cultures, there are a few things you should know and prepare for before you visit.
Ask questions and negotiate
Whenever you are dealing with vintage and antiques (unless we’re talking about the fine, rare, expensive kinds), it’ always good to chat with the dealer to find out more about the pieces.
‘Be curious and patient. Some of the best pieces are tucked away behind stacks or hidden in back rooms. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or negotiate a bit – dealers usually expect it,’ says Leah.
Arrive prepared
While a casual peruse around the markets is a lovely way to spend the day, there’s nothing worse than arriving unprepared. Have a clear vision for the rooms in your home you are shopping for, and make sure you have an idea of the space you have for them.
‘Always take measurements before you go; it’s easy to fall in love with something only to realize it won’t fit your space,’ says Leah. ‘I also recommend bringing photos of your home or client projects with you – it helps vendors understand your style and sometimes leads them to show you pieces you wouldn’t have found on your own.’
Take a large but comfy bag
For most people, a trip to Paris’s antiques markets and shops is for the experience and to pick up smaller trinkets and decor items. But it’s still important to think about how you will carry them around with you, especially if you’re using public transport.
‘If, however, you’re more of a browser, be sure to bring a large tote bag and don’t be afraid to dig into the nooks of different booths, that’s where you’ll often find overlooked treasures,’ says Chloe.
Organize shipping
‘Be sure to ask about shipping services at the time of purchase. Most dealers can recommend companies that can come collect larger pieces and help with the organization of export,’ says Christine.
It’s quite normal to sort out delivery as you buy when visiting antiques sales in the States; however, it’s quite different in Paris. Pre-arranged delivery is usually a must, especially if it’s being transported overseas.
‘If you’re visiting to buy furniture, it’s important to work with a shipper ahead of time. I like EDET or Canard – get in touch before shopping to prepare for pickups, etc,’ advises Chloe, while Garrett suggests contacting Soraya at The Packengers for a seamless shipping process.
If you’re not travelling to Paris anytime soon, here are a few French antique and vintage pieces you can buy online:
Blue & White French Toile Pillow
Toile is back on-trend, and nothing is more authentic that an original design from France. This vintage pillow features a scene in blue and white – a total classic.
Vintage French Restaurant Bowls
If you’ve fallen in love with H&M’s latest bistro collection, this one is for you. This set of 6 vintage French restaurant bowls is the perfect buy to add character to your kitchen.
Vintage French Wicker Wine Bottle Holder
While this vintage wicker basket would have originally been used to carry wine, it would look totally charming as kitchen storage to elevate a functional feature.
Whether you’re looking to furnish an entire home or simply want a couple of small decor pieces to commemorate your trip and add character to your space, Paris is one of the best cities for it.
‘Shopping for antiques and vintage home decor and furniture in Paris is one of the most incredible experiences! The city is a hub for collectors and dealers and provides designers and home decorators direct access to one-of-a-kind pieces that simply can’t be found elsewhere,’ says Chloe.
And while you can buy antique furniture online, nothing beats the experience of a flea market and seeing the items in person. Plus, these large, bustling sales are the perfect place to learn from the experts if you’re planning to start an antiques collection.
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