7Thrifting, or shopping for secondhand treasures, has become a major trend in recent years. Beyond discovering unique and rare finds, this trend also promotes sustainable shopping to help reduce waste. In Europe, especially across Schengen countries, thrifting is also gaining popularity. So, where can you find the most popular thrifting markets in the Schengen area? Let’s find out!
Germany is one of the Schengen countries that hosts countless thrifting markets every weekend. One of the most popular is Trödelmarkt Marheinekeplatz, located on Bergmannkiez Street, right at Berlin’s city square.
The main items sold here include secondhand clothing, toys, and handmade crafts. You’ll also come across books, CDs, vinyl records, artworks, and antiques among the rows of stalls. This market is open every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Waterloopleinmarkt, or Waterlooplein Market, is the oldest thrifting market in the Netherlands. Located in the capital city of Amsterdam, this market has existed since the late 1800s and now features around 300 uniquely curated stalls. The most common items sold at this market are secondhand clothing and antiques.
Even though Waterloopleinmarkt is the oldest market, in recent years it has become closely tied to Dutch youth culture. No wonder this market is packed with trendy fashion, retro electronics, and quirky antique treasures waiting to be discovered! Waterlooplein Market is open six days a week from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
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Marché Aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, or the Saint-Ouen Flea Market, is one of the largest antique markets in the world, offfering a wide range of secondhand goods and antiques. The collection ranges from clothing and art to handmade crafts and antiques.
Established in 1905, it has been recognized since 2001 as part of Paris’s Architectural and Landscape Heritage Protection Zone. The market boasts over 2,500 shops spread across 15 smaller market sections. Some of the most famous ones include Vernaison Market, Vallés Market, Malik Market, Biron Market, and Dauphine Market. On Fridays, the market runs from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. On Saturdays and Sundays, it is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while on Mondays it operates from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Porta Portese is the most popular thrifting market in Rome, Italy's capital, and one of the largest in Europe. This market is deeply loved by locals and firmly rooted in Italian popular culture. Porta Portese is so popular that it has been featured in movies and traditional folk songs.
Located on the banks of the Tiber River near southern Trastevere, the market hosts around 1,000 stalls. Porta Portese is open every Sunday from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The collection here ranges from new and secondhand clothing to vintage furniture, antiques from each decade, jewelry, and much more.
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El Rastro de Madrid, or simply El Rastro, is the busiest and most beloved thrifting market in Madrid, the capital of Spain. This market is popular because it’s located in the city center and opens every day. Beyond its wide variety of goods, the market also features specialty shops, traditional bars, historic sites, and attractions like the Museum of Popular Arts.
This market features around 700 stalls selling everything from unique items and décor to handmade jewelry, antique clothing, old photographs, electronics, vintage memorabilia, and much more! Want to hunt for secondhand clothing or antiques here? El Rastro is open every day from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Which country’s thrifting market would you love to explore? Germany, the Netherlands, France, Italy, Spain, or maybe all of them? Whichever you choose, remember these handy thrifting tips for a smooth shopping experience in Europe!
Do your research: check opening hours, days of operation, and what items you can expect to find.
Bring cash: many thrift stalls don’t accept credit cards.
Carry a small bag: prepare your own shopping tote and keep your bag in front for safety.
Learn the local thrifting culture: haggling is common, but understand how it works in each country.
Get Travel Insurance: Schengen Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia is the perfect choice if you plan on thrifting in Europe.
That wraps up our guide to the most popular thrifting markets in Schengen countries, along with useful tips for your shopping adventures. Happy thrifting and safe travels!
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