Saint-Nicolas Flea Market Hyères

A Var chinage institution

While most flea markets in the Var run only once or twice a month, the Saint-Nicolas puces open their aisles every Saturday, Sunday and public holiday, right through the year. Tucked in the Ourlèdes area between central Hyères and the road to La Londe-les-Maures, they have become a weekly meeting point for coastal bargain hunters.

A proven formula

Stands are a flat 10€, open equally to private sellers clearing a cellar and to working brocanteurs. The 6 AM opening keeps faith with the old chinage tradition : the best finds go early, at the cool of dawn, when professionals scan the fresh arrivals. Closing around 2 PM leaves the afternoon free, precious in summer.

What you find

Vintage and period furniture, Provençal tableware and glassware, linen, old clothing, books, records, old toys, bric-a-brac, postcards, small tools. Seasoned dealers rub shoulders with occasional sellers clearing an estate, a balance that keeps stock turning over.

The Salins district

Ourlèdes belongs to north-east Hyères, on the road toward the salt pans and the Giens peninsula. The RN 98 frontage between Toulon and the Maures coast brings in hunters from the Toulon basin, the hinterland and the Saint-Tropez gulf. The atmosphere is popular and low-key, with none of the tourist gloss of La Capte or the town centre.

Tips

Arrive early, between 6 and 8 AM, for the cool air and first pick. Carry small cash. Repeat visits pay off : stock changes constantly.