Last weekend my aunt took my niece and me out to visit flea markets in Brussels, and to explore the city. Last year we went to Leuven, but weren’t very lucky in the town itself. Brussels made up for that. So here is a small guide if you go to Brussels for the flea markets.
Vossenmarkt
The most famous flea market in Brussels. A square filled with stuff. A lot of China or other decorative items but also very nice dresses and if you search well you will find some gems. Definitely husstle the price down, they start with ridiculous high prices!
Every day from 06.00 until 14.00, in the weekends until 15.00
Closeby at one of the corners there is a nice coffee place. Go upstairs, there you have a nice and light area. Do not order a large coffee, then you will receive a bowl like the one in the picture above.
Grote Zavel
Every weekend at the Grote Zavel there is a market. I cannot really call it a flea market: It’s a very posh market in a fancy neighborhood. The stalls consist of a tent and a table, all very chique. However there are some real gems there.
For example: I found this horse brooch. I payed 5 euros for it. Another stall (actually next to the one I purchased it!) also sold it, for 20 euro (!!!)
My thrifted brooches from de Vossenmarkt and Grote Zavel.
Passage 125, Blaasstraat
This is not a real flea market but a large shop, located in some kind of former church. It reminds me a bit of the Antiek Centrum Amsterdam. There is a huge variety of wonderful items. From lamps to brooches: You will find it all. And I even spotted a entire room that was for sale.
This is more for watching then actually buying, but maybe you are searching for a specific item. Chances are you will find it here.
Koninginnegalerij
Not a flea market actually, but a really nice passage with shops that look like they have been there a while.
Marjolaine, Magdalenasteenweg 7
Opposite to one entrance of the Konginnegallerij there is a very small shop with a lot of very nice items. From vintage items to ribbons in the back.
The Best flea market , close to Brussels: Waterloo
If you have a car you must go to the flea market located at Waterloo. At the park space from the Carrefour there is a HUGE flea market. Trust me, this is a must. Also confirmed by the article The Guardian’s list of best European flea markets!
The market is every Sunday from 06.00.
Where to eat?
By accident we ended up eating in La Marée. Take the subway to St. Cathelijne, have a beer at one of the lovely squares and take a small stroll to La Marée. And do order the Mussels!
La Marée, Vlaamsesteenweg 99
Where to sleep?
B&B Nomades is a perfect house with very friendly hosts. It’s located in a very multiculti neighborhood but it’s super close to the Zuid Station. And the Art Deco room is decorated with vintage items the owners found at flea markets like Waterloo. Very suitable while visiting flea markets in Brussels to stay in a room in Brussels that carry thrift finds!
