Flea market enthusiasts who wish to see a different side of Rome should head to this mammoth flea market located behind the Porta Portese in Trastevere. Hosting hundreds of stalls, vendors at Porta Portese flea market sell everything from rare books, vintage phones and chandeliers to spare bike parts and DVDs. This traditional Sunday market in Rome is usually crazily busy and a lot of fun. The Porta Portese mercatino sells everything you can possibly imagine.
Be aware, however, that Porta Portese flea market does not have the most amazing antique section compared to other flea markets in Rome, particularly if you've been spoiled by the impressive selection and quality of the antiques sold Via dei Coronari. But, if you are lucky and get up early, you might find brash brass, noisy clocks, and old paintings capturing local imagery from times that have long gone by. Whether you bring home treasures or not, there is something distinctly Italian about the whole experience you’ll get at the Porta Portese flea market. Even if you don't find a hidden gem, you can at least enjoy the bustling and lively atmosphere of this typical market in Rome.
One last point about the Porta Portese flea market, and not the least important: be prepared to haggle with the vendors! If you have been impressed by the haggling skills in places like Spain or Morocco, the Italian’s put them both to shame. Try and engage with vendors by using some of the useful phrases below, and remember: hold your ground, because if you show sign of weakness you might miss out on the bargain that your heart is set on purchasing.
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