Bric a brac in DÜSSELDORF
For those that enjoy the hunt for eclectic and old items, bric-a-brac, Trödel, and flea markets, Trödelmärkte, in Düsseldorf are excellent places to find unusual and useful stuff for the home. Germans adore them as much as many other nationalities.
Somebody’s junk can always be somebody else’s treasure. Düsseldorf offers great alternatives for in-person hunting for a special curiosity, a bargain or vintage treasure.
Since many flea markets are outdoors, friendly chats with stallholders can be combined with a breath of fresh air while learning a little more about any purchases.
Car boot sales in and around Düsseldorf offer everything from antiques and antiquities, furniture large and small, new and second hand clothes, books, records, old toys as well as new articles of everyday use such toothpaste, batteries or smaller household goods. Special flea markets for children’s wear and toys are very popular in Düsseldorf too. At several venues, hundreds of stands are run by private individuals or families as well as professional dealers. The enormous variety of items on offer is phenomenal.
Charity shops such as Cash & Raus and Oxfam as well as smaller second hand stores selling varied items can be found in the city.
TRÖDEL & SAMMLERMARKT
The Trödel und Sammlermarkt Düsseldorf Messeparkplatz P1 is by far the largest in the city, has a decades long tradition and takes place a few times every year. Up to a thousand stands offer true junk, antiques, upmarket second hand clothes yet very little new produce.
The experience includes a good selection of nourishment such as grilled, smoked or fried fish, soups, cheeses as well as exotic dishes. Beverages of all kinds include wines, juices and various blends of coffee. All in the open air located on the car park at the trade fair.
RADSCHLÄGERMARKT & ULMENMARKT
Two flea markets are organised in Düsseldorf at one location, the Radschlägermarkt, cartwheel market, as in the symbol of the city and the Ulmenmarkt named after the street. The first is held periodically up to once a month, the second normally takes place every other Saturday afternoon but is presently on hold.
So-called lifestyle markets, they offer antiques and antiquities, brick a brac, design and vintage clothing as well as other items such as fruit, vegetables, plants and flowers. Food and drinks are also available in numerous varieties throughout the day.
AACHENER PLATZ TRÖDEL & ANTIKMARKT
The most traditional flea market in Düsseldorf is the Trödel & Antikmarkt am Aachener Platz. Excellent bric a brac can be found on Saturdays from six until mid-afternoon. Centrepiece is a large permanent marquee with antique dealers and the big attraction of Café Sperrmüll, where live bands perform mostly jazz or blues. Regulars enjoy the friendly atmosphere.
Surrounding outdoor stalls large and small run by professionals or amateurs. From boxes on the ground to fancy displays, old and new, dilapidated or polished vendors all vie for the attention of punters on the hunt for something unique, special or cheap.
Germans, on the whole, love and respect pets and are especially friendly to dogs. Keeping a pet on a leash is a must apart from inside official, special pens in the city. Surprisingly for some, dogs are also permitted on public transport and inside restaurants unless otherwise stated.
