14 Best Travel Destinations for Antiquers

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Antiquing is a completely different experience than regular shopping. It requires a keen eye, a treasure-hunting spirit, a spontaneous mindset, and an appreciation for an item’s past.

Scrolling through antiques online will never give you the same thrill of finding an extraordinary piece in a tiny shop. If you live for these wondrous moments, we have a few must-visit destinations for you.

These are the best places around the globe to find splendid antiques that you can cherish forever.

Kyoto, Japan

People love to praise Tokyo, but Kyoto is one of the most sensational Japanese cities to visit, especially for antiquers. You can find vintage kimono shops, jewelry, hand-painted art, trinkets, and more.

It’s the perfect place to shop if you love the intricacy of Japanese art and the beauty of their fashion. Many Japanese art and decor pieces also have a cheeky quality, with exaggerated characters or funny images that we find enchanting.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City has a wide array of charming antique shops with everything from old sombreros to antique coins. If you love vibrant colors and flashy items, you can find some dazzling antiques in Mexico.

The city regularly hosts flea markets where you can find rare items. It’s ideal for antiquers who enjoy small collectibles and Mexican decor. We recommend this destination for tiny antiques you can fit in your carry-on bag.

London, UK

For those addicted to elevated antiques, few places are as wonderful as London. You can find classy antiques, like tea cups, lamps, clocks, and small statues.

However, it’s one of the best places in the world to find exquisite antique furniture. We know shipping furniture internationally is tough, but it might be worth it if you find the perfect piece.

Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv has no shortage of enticing markets where you can buy stunning antique jewelry, trinkets, clothing, and more. It’s a marvelous place to find one-of-a-kind art that captures the vibrant spirit of the city.

Look for the lesser-known antique shops where many antique gems go unnoticed. You’ll find special antique items, like detailed silverware, jewelry boxes, watches, and more.

Sicily, Italy

Many Italian cities call to antiquers, but we recommend Sicily. The city has an abundance of small antique shops with hidden treasures mixed in. Some fabulous Sicilian antiques include lace, ceramics, straw bags, necklaces, and more.

The artistry of these Italian items is unparalleled and will take your breath away. In addition to the beautiful antiques, the locals are also delightful and usually willing to help you find nearby shops and treasures.

Boston, Massachusetts, US

As one of the most historically rich cities in the United States, Boston is a must-visit for antique enthusiasts. There are many colonial items hidden in shops around the area.

Throughout the city, you can find small vintage and antique stores with enticing items. Boston often has lovely antique furniture, glassware, kitchenware, tiny figurines, and lamps.

Písac, Peru

When it comes to pottery, Pisac, Peru, is one of the most incredible places to visit. It’s easy to find antique vases, bowls, pots, plates, and other pottery pieces at the local markets and shops.

Most of these items are handpainted with lively scenes or thoughtful geometric designs. It’s also an excellent place if you want colorful antique rugs, scarves, and fabrics.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh, Morocco, is known for its robust street markets and bazaars. Unsurprisingly, these are marvelous places to find unique and gorgeous antiques to take home.

Jemaa el-Fnaa is one of the most famous bazaars and a haven for antique lovers. Some of the best antiques are kaleidoscope-painted pottery, captivating theater masks, small metal trinkets, handmade purses, and wooden furniture.

Oslo, Norway

Oslo is another one of our favorite places to find distinct antique furniture. The Norwegian city has rotating flea markets where you can find a vast array of antique and vintage items.

Aside from furniture, Oslo also offers striking jewelry, vinyl records, military pieces, and clothing. Find everything your antiquing heart could desire, from old maps to traditional tea sets and beyond.

Madrid, Spain

Madrid has a weekly flea market called El Rastro, which draws antiquers from all over. It’s one of the longest-running and largest antique markets in the world.

You can find impeccable handcrafted items, jewelry, home decor, and more in Madrid. Antique wine glasses, mirrors, rings, paintings, bowls, and small kitchen items are particularly beautiful and easy to find here.

Lisbon, Portugal

The Lisbon antique scene is an interesting one, offering some of the most unusual and pleasantly surprising items. It’s hard to say exactly what you might find here, but some examples are antique telescopes, ashtrays, tiles, keys, and postcards.

Supposedly, the city’s bi-weekly market, Feira da Ladra, has been a tradition since the 12th century. You can find some fascinating antiques at this market, which is an antique in itself and shows the city’s longtime love for classic collectibles.

Arles, France

Yes, you can always go to Paris for antiques, but Arles is a hidden gem full of old treasures. The city has a strong artistic vibe and many collectors venture here from around the world to find special items.

The area has an authentic aura, so finding antiques is a breeze. Popular antiques in Arles include household goods, pottery, books, furniture, and elegant Parisian jewelry.

Pasadena, California, US

Pasadena hosts an iconic flea market once a month called the Rose Bowl Flea Market. This is a spectacular place to find riveting antique artwork, furniture, baskets, knick-knacks, clothing, accessories, and other goodies.

Aside from this flea market, Pasadena also has many antique shops — and not just shops. The city is home to antique malls, centers, and annexes where you can search the shelves for hours.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

One of the most interesting aspects of Amsterdam’s antique scene is how young it is. Rather than haggle with dealers nearly as old as their antiques, you can embrace the youthful and refreshing vibes of new-wave antiquers in Amsterdam.

The unique culture in Amsterdam means the antiques are truly special, capturing the peculiar energy of the city. Find eccentric mirrors, funky furniture, compelling artwork, and other rare items at the many antique stores.

Featured Image Credit: Nd3000 and Depositphotos.