Belgium is one of the best places in Europe for flea market shopping, attracting antique lovers and curious collectors to its brocantes all over the country every weekend.
With the return of the summer season, more and more markets are popping up across Brussels' 19 municipalities. Promoting conviviality, reuse and social ties, they enable local residents to clear out their attics while bringing them together on a social level too. Whether you have an eye for spotting treasures at vintage markets or are simply looking for a day of shopping in the sun, there is something for everyone on offer.
Here are some of the brocantes in store this summer, with a couple of extras available all year around.
July and August
Saint-Gilles town hall - Saturday 5 July and 9 August
Any Saint-Gilles locals will be familiar with the flea markets outside the municipality's town hall. On 5 July and 9 August, the much-loved brocante will be making a return, attracting keen bargain hunters, local families and curious passers-by.
Credit: Martine Van Elewijck
With 195 exhibitors selling all kinds of vintage items, books, crockery, second-hand clothes, small items of furniture and toys, this is the ideal place to stroll around, find a bargain or simply enjoy the atmosphere of a typical Saturday in Saint-Gilles.
From 09:00 until 17:00 at Place Maurice Van Meenen. Find more information here.
Brocante de la Cerisaie - Sunday 6 July
Heading up to the north of Brussels, La Cerisaie is organising its annual brocante in Schaerbeek on the same day as Saint-Gilles, with plenty of trinkets, books and hidden gems on offer.
From 09:00 until 16:00 on Avenue Britsiers 11. Find more information here.
Auderghem 27th Pinoy mega flea market - Sunday 6 July
Auderghem is inviting locals and tourists alike to a bumper weekend of fun on Place Pinoy, with a huge open-air music event from 20:00 to 01:00 on Saturday and its mega flea market featuring 550 stall-holders on Sunday.
From 08:00 to 16:00 on Place Pinoy and surrounding streets. Find more information here.
Brussels Summer Flea Market, Sunday 6 July and Sunday 3 August
Brussels Retro Market and Jardin Hospice are once again holding their series of flea markets on the first Sunday of each month.
Credit: Jardin Hospice
Hunt for treasures, stroll in the sunshine, and take in the buzzing atmosphere in the beautiful green surroundings.
From 10:00 to 16:00 on Rue du Grand Hospice 7. Find more information here.
Koekelberg flea market - Sunday 13 July and 10 August
The municipality of Koekelberg has been holding its local flea market on Place de Bastogne every second Sunday of the month since April, and will continue to do so throughout the summer.
This market has a more intimate feel, with just 60 stalls. But what it might be lacking in size, it certainly makes up for in charm and character.
From 08:00 to 16:00 on Place de Bastogne. Find more information here.
Uccle Fort Jaco flea market - Sunday 24 August
On the last Sunday of August, Uccle will hold its annual colossal Fort Jaco market, stretching along Chaussée de Waterloo, between Avenue Alphonse XIII and Avenue Van Bever. Some 500 stallholders will be in attendance, ready to display their wares.
Credit: Brocante Fort-Jaco
As well as hunting for treasures, this market also offers bouncy castles, duck fishing, a carousel and bungee jumping, as well as food and drink stalls – making it the perfect day out for all the family.
From 06:00 until 17:00 on Chaussée de Waterloo. Find more information here.
All year round
Forest flea market - every Sunday
Several food markets and a flea market bring the neighbourhoods of Forest to life every week, offering residents and visitors a wide range of products.
The flea market traditionally takes place on Place Saint-Denis, but has moved to the forecourt of Forest station while work is being carried out.
From 06:00 to 13:00 on the forecourt of Forest station. Find more information here.
Place du Jeu de Balle - every day
Although the Jeu de Balle, located in the heart of the Marolles district, was established in 1853, its iconic flea market only came into existence 20 years later. This market is a must-visit for fans of authentic shopping and Brussels folklore, made world-famous by Tintin, who notably procured the Unicorn Boat there.
Brussels flea market on Place Jeu de Balle. Credit: Orlando Whitehead
In 2023, the market celebrated its 150th anniversary – a particularly symbolic moment for the market's traders. "Most of us grew up here and took over the businesses from our parents or even our grandparents. We are the world's greatest recyclers, giving second life to objects, and we are proud to continue the tradition of this beautiful market that supports numerous families," Nathalie Lefebvre, a trader at the market, said at the time.
From 09:00 to 14:00 on Monday to Friday and from 09:00 to 15:00 on weekends on Place du Jeu de Balle. Find more information here.
