When the warm weather returns, what a pleasure it is to stroll through a market, find that rare pearl on a designer's counter or bargain-hunt at a flea market! If you're looking for one-off pieces, bargain-priced clothes or an infallible decorating weapon, find out more about the best addresses in Tours and the surrounding area.
Late-night craft market
Night crafts market, seen from the sky
If you're looking for ethical objects or an out-of-the-ordinary gift, this is the place to go. Every Friday in July, some 30 local artisans present their creations from Place Châteauneuf to Place du Grand Marché in Tours. Stroll through the stalls to choose from natural cosmetics, artworks, leather goods and gourmet stalls.
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Grande braderie de Tours
In Tours, the Grande Braderie has become an institution. On the first weekend of the new school year, several hundred exhibitors set up stalls and stores open their doors to sell off their wares. For the occasion, part of the city center is closed to traffic, and there's no shortage of bargains to be had: designer clothes at 50% off, comics for €2 or retro telephone decorations, take your time to look around and unearth some nuggets. For a comforting break, boulevard Béranger is also home to a number of gourmet stalls.
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Flea markets, places to bargain in Tours
Now more than ever in vogue, flea markets and garage sales have found their place in the city center. Twice a week, the "Puces de Tours" take over the Place de la Victoire, at the gateway to the Quartier des Arts. You'll find professional second-hand dealers, as well as antique books and vintage clothes. On Boulevard Béranger, every last Sunday of the month, professional exhibitors offer their nuggets on their open-air stands. Solid wood furniture, 70's lamps, porcelain tableware, recycled toys... a touch of nostalgia hangs in the air.
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Marché de Loches