Plaisir de Chiner - Saint-Maximin Flea Market

Var's biggest downtown hunt

Every year, Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume hosts Plaisir de Chiner, a large-scale flea market held along avenues Jean Jaurès and Maréchal de Saxe. Run by the town, it turns the downtown sidewalks into a long, lively shopping promenade. The 2025 edition ran on Saturday 14 June from 7am to 7pm.

Rather than a simple vide-grenier, the town blends private sellers and professional brocanteurs — you'll find both attic finds and proper antiques.

What to find

• Curios and art objects
• Second-hand and vintage clothing
• Antique and modern toys
• Books, records, comics
• Furniture and decor
• Bric-à-brac and curiosities

A hunt through the historic centre

Jean Jaurès and Maréchal de Saxe are two parallel streets in the historic core. Stalls spread over a long stretch, mingling with cafés, bakeries and local shops. Saint-Maximin is dominated by its superb Gothic Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene — perfect for a heritage break between stalls.

Tips

Comfortable shoes, a sturdy bag, cash and water are essential — June days get hot. Come early for the best pieces, return late afternoon for bargains. Use peripheral car parks as the centre is restricted.