In the old town center of the city of Prague, the Klementinum antique market is beautifully but rather secretively located, waiting to be discovered. Once a week, this hidden, ivy-covered courtyard becomes a veritable treasure trove of antique items and bargains. It is well worth looking it up on a map and making sure of a visit during a trip to Prague.

The Klementinum antique market is not the type of flea market where any old person can throw down a blanket and sell off unwanted goods from their homes. Rather, this charming flea market is hosted by the owners of the antique and vintage shops in the area. These professionals arrange their tables and set out their wares in this intimate courtyard for the discerning shoppers and antique enthusiasts to seek quality, well-priced vintage items.

The setting is wonderful as the Klementinum antique market is within a few steps of the spectacular Klementinum library, perhaps one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe. Therefore, the stage is wonderfully set for the antique sellers and buyers at the market. It is also just a stone’s throw from the Vltava river, so after an early visit to the Klementinum antique market there are many other sights to see, cafes to stop in and lovely places to walk.

Though the Klementinum antique market is small, it still holds a surprisingly large variety of goods. There are antique glass pieces, costume jewelry, soviet memorabilia, ceramics, antique books and works of art to be found. Stallholders are almost always happy to banter and bargain with shoppers, though goods are usually very reasonably priced at outset.

There is a small fee of 30 kc (just over €1) to enter the Klementinum antique market, though children are welcomed for free. It is certainly worth it, for those who want to enjoy the ambiance and for determined antique hunters alike.