French Rivera Antique Markets
- May 18, 2023
A trip to Europe is never complete for me without cruising the local vintage and food markets because it is more than just a place to wander around – it’s where people gather to observe life, indulge in local cuisine , listen to local music and a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture.
The famous Cours Saleya Brocante is in the heart of Old Town Nice, France and is nestled behind the beaches near the Promenade de Anglaise. It is surrounded by all the colorful streets lined with charming Niçois cuisine, shops, and cafés.
Even though Paris has the largest Brocante markets, I believe the Cours Saleya in Nice is one of the best antique markets in France because of its proximity – Cannes and Antibes is to the west and Monaco is to the East – you get the idea. There are some of the most extravagant and expensive villas and castles in the world occupying this area, so when the aristocrats want to purge, you will see some extraordinaire discoveries. This is a known hot spot for collectors that come from around the world, so be ready to compete for your coveted finds as most items are one of a kind.
The Cours Saleya is full of personality so expect to travel through time as you will come across everything from vintage chandeliers, antique art from the 1920’s, elegant Christofle flatware and sterling silver dishes, estate jewelry, mid-century dining tables, Chrystal glassware, French linens, and the list goes on.
What really caught my eye was the locked glass cabinets dripping with one of a kind Hermès scarfs, YSL bags, and to die for Chanel and Dior jewelry – the items looked brand new instead of used so as with anything – the higher the quality, the higher the price.
Some other luxury steals are a great selection of Louis Vuitton duffle bags for travel and LV vintage trunks that would look très chic as a coffee table in any large space.
Photography and edits by Moi
When I lived in Nice in the summer months, I loved strolling through all three markets when I had the chance. They all take place in Cours Saleya on the following days:
Marché aux Fleurs & Food Market – Tuesday- Sunday
Antique Market vendors take place on – Mondays only
Marché artisanal nocturne (Evening Artisan market) – Summer months only from Tuesday to Saturdays 6pm-12:30am
Enjoy your search of treasure troves at any of the markets you visit in the French Riviera because any French gem you acquire will spark a fresh dose of Parisian style to any space you love.
Now it’s time to seek out one of Nices’ brilliant bistros for a glass of rosé and al fresco dining.
