A Guide to the Amiens Brocante Market
Tucked away in the northern heart of France, the brocante market in Amiens is one of those events that seasoned antique hunters mark in their calendar months in advance. Held annually (this year on the 13th of April), it's known as the biggest antique market in the country—and after one visit, it's easy to see why.
While official listings might tell you the market starts on Sunday, those in the know will arrive much earlier. On Saturday afternoon, the professional antique dealers begin setting up their stalls and, in true brocante style, sleep beside their treasures to guard them overnight. These are the stalls with the finest finds, and yes, the prices are steeper—but you’re paying for quality, history, and the chance to nab that perfect garden set before anyone else.
By Sunday morning, the atmosphere shifts. Locals set up their stands with everything from vintage enamel pots to charmingly worn bistro chairs. The streets begin to fill quickly, and by 11:00 a.m., they are absolutely heaving with visitors. If you’re planning on bringing a stroller, be warned: mobility becomes something of a fantasy after mid-morning. The ambiance turns from relaxed treasure-hunting to a full-on people-watching parade—still lovely, but decidedly less serene.
That said, Sunday also brings the best bargains. While Saturday is for collectors and designers on the hunt for rare pieces, Sunday morning is when you might stumble upon a porcelain pitcher for a few euros or a whole set of vintage flatware being sold by someone clearing out their attic. The charm is in the mix: antique dealers next to families with one-time stalls, and treasures waiting for a second life.
If you’re visiting, here are a few tips to make the most of your day:
Park wisely: Aim to park along the lower side of the ring road that circles the city. This allows you to drop off finds mid-hunt without hiking back to the car every time you fall in love with another cast iron urn.
Bring a cart: It might not be chic, but it’s a lifesaver. Hauling treasures by hand will quickly lose its romance.
Buying big? If you decide on a large item like a full garden set or farmhouse cupboard, most vendors will happily hold it for you if you pay and promise to return with your car. Just ask.
Mind your manners: Even if your French is rusty, a warm "bonjour madame/monsieur" before asking for a price goes a long way. It’s not just polite—it often softens the price, too.
Expect plenty of French antiques (think Louis-style chairs, woven baskets, and rustic pottery), vintage treasures, and quirky decor pieces. The variety is staggering, and there’s truly something for every taste and budget.
And finally, don’t forget to soak in the atmosphere: the early morning bustle, the scent of coffee and croissants, and the delight of finding something unexpected. The Amiens brocante is not just a market—it's a ritual, a feast, and one of the best ways to spend a spring weekend in France.
Planning your visit
When: Annually in April (in 2025: April 13th)
Where: Amiens city centre, France
How: Drive in early and park near the lower ring road.
Bring cash, a cart, and your curiosity.
Happy hunting!