With its Roman ramparts and the statue of Ambiorix, which attracts the attention of passers-by, Tongeren offers an ideal setting for the sale of antiques. Every Sunday for more than 30 years, this charming town has hosted more than 350 exhibitors and around 40 antique shops, making it one of the largest weekly flea markets in Belgium.
To accommodate the large number of traders, the Tongeren flea market is spread over seven streets: Leopoldwal, Veemarkt, Maastrichterstraat, de Schiervelstraat, Clarissenstraat, Eburonenhal and the first floor of Julianus. This extensive layout contributes to the international reputation of the market, which attracts visitors from neighbouring countries such as the Netherlands, Germany and France, as well as from further afield, including the UK and the USA. The diverse crowd is a testament to the market's appeal, where you might hear an American haggling over an old Rococo chair or see an Italian haggling over the price of an Art Deco vase.
The appeal of the Tongeren flea market lies in its wide and varied selection of goods. Early risers can browse stalls full of antiques, brocante, vintage and retro finds, each with its own unique history. From old postcards and vinyl records to mannequins, crystal glassware, silverware, handmade furniture, vintage toys and rare collectibles, the market offers a nostalgic journey through time. These items not only serve as a bridge to the past, but also provide inspiration for modern interiors.
The origins of the market date back to August 1976, when seven local people organised the first Tongeren flea market. What began as a modest event has since grown into the largest antiques and second-hand market in the Benelux. The market buzzes with activity from dawn, making it a haven for collectors looking for rare treasures. Haggling is part of the experience, and respectful bargaining can lead to the acquisition of prized items at reasonable prices.
The weather is no deterrent for the Tongeren flea market, which takes place all year round, even in the typically unpredictable Belgian weather. A large part of the market is housed in the Julianus car park -1, providing a comfortable shopping environment regardless of the season.
For those who want to immerse themselves in the antique tradition, Tongeren offers the opportunity to become an antique dealer for a day. Locals and visitors alike can set up their own stalls, dust off family heirlooms and share their unique items with the market's discerning clientele. This hands-on experience adds another layer of charm to the already vibrant market scene.
Beyond the flea market, Tongeren itself is a town steeped in history. Walking through the historic centre, visitors can follow in the footsteps of the Romans, marvel at magnificent religious buildings and the remnants of medieval trade. The city's ambience is a blend of ancient and modern, where the latest trends coexist harmoniously with age-old traditions. This fusion creates a cosy and dynamic atmosphere, making Tongeren a must-visit destination for antique enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Marketplace Highlights
-
Art deco
-
Best of 2021
-
Free admission
-
Open weekends
-
Size: 120-400 stalls
-
Top 30 in the world
-
Top 50 in Europe
-
Vintage toys
-
Vinyl records
-
Glass & Ceramic
-
Silverware
-
19th century antiques
-
20th century antiques
-
Antique furniture
-
Antique mirrors
-
Bronze & Sculptures
-
Collectibles
-
Dinnerware
-
Mid-century modern
-
Jewelry & watches
-
Kitchenware
-
Lighting fixtures
-
Porcelain
Cathy Nichols
2nd May 2015 at 20:59I have read so many marvelous things about the antique market / flea market in Tongeren which is supposed to be the biggest one in Belgium. So we visited it last Sunday.
First of all: it is big and it is impressive. No doubt. But the atmosphere of flea markets (that I love so much) is simply not there. It is like a big exhibition of professional sellers of antique stuff, that happens to happen partly outside in the streets of a town, partly in halls and an underground level of a parking garage.
The sellers I experienced where not willing to negotiate on the price …which I think is the biggest part of the fun on a flea market. And a lot of times the supposedly antique stuff turned out to be new stuff which was just made to look old. So, at the end of the day my personal decision is:it was nice that we have seen that but I would not go there a second time.
My personal thoughts: for people who are looking for treasures (antique-vice + price-vice) this is not necessarily the place to be.
Klaas Hengo
2nd June 2015 at 02:51Der größte und schönste Antiquitätenmarkt in Benelux ist in der ältesten Stadt Belgiens, Tongeren – etwas westlich von Lüttich und Maastricht und gerade einmal 120 km von Köln entfernt. Jeden Sonntag von 7-13/14h öffnen ca. 40 Läden ihre Türen, ca. 400 Strände zeigen ihre Kostbarkeiten und drei große überdachte Hallen laden zum regensicheren Bummeln ein. Dazwischen gibt es in der Innenstadt entlang der Antiquitätenstände reichlich Restaurants, Hotels und Cafes.
Tipp: Früh anreisen und das Auto kostenlos am Bahnhof abstellen.
Elco Rielink
19th June 2015 at 19:05You never know what you’re going to find here, and I absolutely love it. The largest flea market I’ve ever seen, wrapped around a large part of the old city of Tongeren. The earlier you go the better! Plan on being there several hours, and end your day with a pile of french fries smothered in whatever you please at the end!
Jordan Wilkins
5th September 2015 at 08:52We have family in the antiques businesses, so this was not our first flea market. Overall, we loved the Tongeren market and spent an entire Sunday rooting around for treasure. We were out there at 6 am with flashlight and left after the last vendors packed up their stall around 1 pm. Our favorite part of the market was the basement of the parking garage and the adjacent basketball court building. Both of those locations had dealers that were willing to haggle and negotiate with you.
Since we love antiques, this flea market was the whole reason we went to Tongeren as part of our trip through Belgium. Bottom line, I’m so glad we went and will almost certainly come back in a few years to this fun market!
Kyle Owen
18th January 2016 at 03:08My wife and I love going to the European Antique Markets and this is one of the best, We looked all over Europe for Vintage Royal Albert Tea Sets and I found mine here and got an amazing deal, this place is worth spending a day exploring, do not miss your chance to find a treasure!
Traci Garner
26th March 2016 at 00:12I have gone multiple times with friends. Love looking for little trinkets and treasures. A great variety of items from antiques to near items. Most is outdoors but two sections of it is indoors. Most areas are big enough to take a stroller but wouldn’t really recommend taking kids here. This is definitely a fun trip to go on with your friends.
Ian Cameron
29th December 2017 at 17:19We have been to the Tongeren flea market on three occasions. The first was a bit dissapointing as the market had moved to another location due to a religious festival in the town. We have been back twice since and seen the full market in all its glory. Lots to see and buy. We stayed ìn the town and got into the market early – after couple of hours it was back to the hotel for breakfast and then out again for a second look. On our last visit we made a week of it visiting Tongeren first, a few days touring and then the flea market in Amiens the following Sunday . We found the Tongeren market a bit expensive however the traders will haggle and the prices get better as the day progresses.