My Top 5 Antique and Flea Markets in Belgium

Belgium is a haven for antique and flea market enthusiasts. Nearly every Sunday, markets are held across the country. In Brussels, there’s even a daily flea market, while some others take place only once a year.

Here are my personal favorites:

Antiekmarkt Tongeren

The Tongeren Antiques Market is the largest of its kind in the Benelux region. It takes place almost every Sunday from 7 AM to 1 PM, surrounding the Leopoldwal in the city center. Two large covered areas – the upper hall of the Julianus underground parking garage and the Eburons sports hall – provide additional shelter for the market.

You’ll find mostly classic antiques, furniture, collectibles, and curiosities. The market features around 350 stalls, 40 specialized antique shops, and charming cafés along the way.

Parking options are excellent: the Julianus underground parking garage (Clarissenstraat 41) is located right in the market area and is easily accessible.

Prices are generally moderate, which is why many antique dealers from neighboring countries shop here early in the morning. Bargaining is common, typically for a 10–20% discount.

Brocante du Marché Couvert de Battice

The flea market in Battice, a district of Herve, is held in a fully covered hall that is used during the week for cattle trading. It takes place every Sunday from 7 AM to 1 PM, after a thorough cleaning.

A wide variety of items are sold here: knick-knacks, decorations, furniture, collectibles, and tools. It’s not uncommon to discover awesome unusual rarities among the 200 stalls.

There’s a large parking lot directly in front of the hall.

Prices are very low, and the atmosphere is rough but friendly. Bargaining typically results in a 10–20% discount.

Brocante de Spa

Traditionally held in a picturesque setting around the Royal Galleries in the town center, this flea market has suffered due to the renovation of the galleries and the impact of COVID-19. Nevertheless, I include it here in the hope that it will soon regain its former size and charm. The renovations should be nearing completion.

The market takes place every Sunday from 7 AM to 2 PM. Items sold include second-hand goods and antiques. Parking can be challenging, and prices are moderate.

Marché aux puces du Jeu de Balle, Brussels

This flea market is an absolute highlight and takes place daily from 9 AM to 2 PM at Place du Jeu de Balle.

You’ll find second-hand goods and antiques at around 350 stalls. While the market itself has become very touristy, it’s situated in the heart of the fantastic antiques district between Marolles and Sablon. This area is home to dozens of antique shops – some small, some as large as department stores – ranging from affordable to luxurious. You’ll also find rustic pubs and stylish cafés in the neighborhood.

For parking, the underground garage at Place Poelaert is ideal. From this elevated square, you can take an elevator down to the Marolles district.

Prices can often be quite high, but bargaining is common and usually extensive.

Brocante de Temploux

The flea market in Temploux (near Namur) is highly esteemed among collectors and takes place once a year in August (Saturday and Sunday) in the streets of the village.

The market focuses primarily on collectibles, with many specialized stalls. There are around 1,200 stalls spread over a 6-kilometer route, along with food stands and a lively program, including fireworks.

Plenty of parking is available, mostly on fields prepared by local farmers.

Prices are generally moderate to low, with bargaining typically resulting in a 10–20% discount.

The market can get extremely crowded, especially in good weather, but it is exceptionally well-organized, from parking to restrooms. Half the village pitches in to help!

Temploux is my favorite. Unfortunately, the market only takes place once a year.