The best antique and flea markets in Bologna

Maybe I was born old, but I've always been attracted to flea and antique markets.
At first it was Kinder surprises, then stamps, later vinyl and furniture.

Here’s my pick of the best flea markets and second-hand fairs in Bologna.

And since walking, browsing and digging are calories consuming activities, I suggest to you what and where to eat near the markets.

Mercato antiquario, Piazza Santo Stefano, Bologna

Night or day, Santo Stefano is the most beautiful square of Bologna.
Even covered with vintage stalls selling vinyl, antiques, jewelry, furniture and books, its allure remains untouched. Perfect activity for a Sunday in Bologna.

Info
Every month, on the 2nd weekend of August excluded
Piazza Santo Stefano, Bologna
Tel. +39 051 204111

What to eat
Santo Stefano Basilica, 7 churches, many religious symbols. The street nearby is called Jerusalem Street.

What's better than a pub called L'infedele (The unfaithful) to get a beer and harmonize with the environment?

Mercato delle Pulci, Piazza Lucio Dalla, Bologna

A brand new flea market under the covered Piazza Lucio Dalla.

This is for the ones who love vintage clothes, Hawaii t-shirts, Dr Martens and co.
Some stalls also sell books, vinyl, CDs and what their basement have to offer.

A good place to make good deals.

Info
On the 1st Sunday of every month.
Piazza Lucio Dalla, Via Aristotile Fioravanti, 37c, 40129 Bologna BO

What to eat
You are in the Bolognina neighborhood, a place to look for international cuisine.
Yuzuya is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Bologna, but you will find Greek, African, and Georgian restaurants.

If you're in the mood for pizza, at Bianco Farina you can find one of my best pizza in Bologna. Napoli style, of course.

Mercato del Collezionismo, Piazza VIII Agosto, Bologna

Piazzola Market in Piazza VIII Agosto is almost more traditional than tortellini in brodo.
But if you visit the square every Thursday you can find vintage stalls run by collectors' booksellers, specializing in old comics, magazines, satirical newspapers and old postcards.

Info
Every Thursday from 8:30 am to 5 pm
Piazza VIII Agosto, 40126 Bologna

What to eat
There's a magic combo just next door. Pizza&Gelato. Not one of our Bologna food tour, but another great one.
​
Forno Brisa and Galliera 49 are in front of each other. The first is a cool bakery to get squares of gourmet pizza.
The second serves one the best gelato of Bologna and a superior granita.

Mercato del vecchio e dell’antico, Savigno (Province of Bologna)

A good excuse to visit Savigno, the village of truffle, is its Sunday flea market.
​Go hunting for old porcelain, vintage furniture and memorabilia around the streets of the village.
And when you find your desired item make a hole in the heart of the seller to get a discount.

Info
Every second Sunday of every month from March to December.
Savigno

What to eat
Second-hand stuff is good, but the main reason to visit Savigno is the food. Amerigo looks like an old family tavern, but it's one of the few Michelin restaurants in Bologna.

Mercatino di Medicina (Province of Bologna)

One of the largest flea markets in Bologna area takes place in the village of Medicina.
+300 exhibitors under the porticoes, in the squares and gardens.

The key to scoring the best deals?
​Getting there as early as possible.

Info
On the first Sunday of every month, January, July and August are excluded.
Tel. +39 339 6288710

What to eat
The legend tells that Medicina took its name from Federico Barbarossa emperor.
Coming from Milan he felt sick and decided to rest in the village. Here he healed thanks to a snake fallen in his imperial soup.

Miraculous or not, the food in Medicina is pretty great.
Stop at Osteria di Medicina for a good dish of tagliatelle al ragù or at the stunning Locanda Pincelli if you'd like to have a Michelin-style experience.