Saint-Leu Spring Flea Market

A flea market in the "little Venice of the North"

The Saint-Leu district of Amiens, often called the "little Venice of the North" for its canals drawn from the hortillonnages, is the oldest neighbourhood in the city. Its half-timbered houses, cobbled lanes and small bridges make it an exceptional backdrop. Each spring, rue Dame Jeanne and rue de la Dodane are transformed into an open-air bargain hunter's market.

Strictly private sellers only

What defines this flea market is its strictly private-sellers-only format. No professionals, no new items, only Amiens residents emptying their attics and cellars. Clothes, books, records, toys, crockery and small furniture at modest prices.

An exceptional urban setting

Bargain hunting in Saint-Leu also means enjoying one of the finest urban walks in Picardy. Canals plied by flat-bottomed boats, colourful facades carefully rebuilt after WWII, cafés along the quays: a village within the city.

An active district committee

The spring flea market is organised by the Saint-Leu district committee. Registration for exhibitors is compulsory, at €3 per linear metre (€2.50 for members). This controlled registration preserves the private-sellers-only spirit.

A morning of hunting in a postcard setting

From 7 am to 5 pm, the lanes buzz with early bargain hunters and Sunday strollers. No food stalls on site, so visitors stop in one of the district's many cafés.