Marche Aux Puces

We are going to the Marche aux Puces tomorrow, Sat., and wonder the following:

Best way to get there from Champs-Elysees, Metro or taxi?

Safety concerns all over or only in certain areas?

Toilettes in the area?

Since it is so big what is the best area for smalls,and posters, books.

Is it in general %26quot;cash only%26quot;. Thanks so much.

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Hi Diamondsgirl:

We went to the Marche aux Puces in Cligancourt last summer, and took the Metro. We picked up the Metro at the Pont Neuf, only to find out coming back, that if we%26#39;d used a different Metro station, we would have not had so many stops. -(We were staying near the Louvre) The key is to check the Metro maps before hand to find the simplest route.

We had been forewarned of pickpockets, so we kept a tight rein on our wallets and purses. We had no problems nor did we see anyone assaulted or bothered, but maybe we were lucky. There was a toilet in the permanent stall area, but it cost about 20 cents or so...

I bought a piece of pottery from an antiques dealer in one of the permanent stalls. He would only take cash. However, I was able to bargain with him, and so received a good price. My friend bought an antique rug, and was able to use his credit card. Again, he bought it from a dealer with a permanent stall.

Bon chance!

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Thanks so much. Is it obvious where the permanent stalls are?

My husband probably won%26#39;t last as long as I can, so would you say the permanent stalls are the best to go to?

How long did you spend there?

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There is a bathroom in the main building with signs. You may also stop at KFK and buya snack or drink and use the upstairs bathroom.

There is a very good resto in the area also.

I just take the metro and walk across the two streets ( there is setup little area of street market shops with sov. and junk) until you get to the flea market area.

I usually bring small bills- cash and to not pull out your wallet.

I saw one guy run up and grab a wallet out of a customers hand as he was trying to pay! Be careful around the %26quot;shell game players%26quot; as it is a distraction which pickpockets take advantage of also.

I usually ask the security guy for directions .... I always go for the antique postcards and I usually forget the address. ( The place is huge with over 2000 stalls and lots of walking!)

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I love the hardware store there with all the different copper and metal items and the antique buttons etc.

Have agreat time!

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Hi Diamondsgirl:

The permanent stalls are in an actual building. Before getting there, you pass by temporary stalls. Just keep walking! All will become clear.

We spent about 5 hours at the flea market. However, an hour or so of that time was spent having lunch at a pretty good pizzeria near the main building. (It also has toilets.)

Have a great time!

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