On the hunt for treasure in Umbria: flea and antique markets

Our beloved region of Umbria offers an abundance of natural beauty, medieval towns and a rich history. But behind the lush hills and charming villas lies another fascinating attraction: a world of second-hand and antique markets with a history all its own. From major antique fairs to second-hand markets in small towns, these hidden gems offer you a treasure hunt full of unique finds and cultural experiences.

An overview of second-hand and flea markets in Umbria

Ready to enter a world full of antiques and vintage treasures? Umbria's market scene has it all. We're talking stalls packed with everything from outdated furniture and rare works of art to sparkling old jewelry and classic vintage threads. Trust me, it's not just about the stuff you can buy, it's also about the stories that go with it. Every item you encounter has a story to tell, a piece of Italian history woven into the fabric. And imagine negotiating these items in quaint medieval streets, with breathtaking countryside views as your backdrop. It's not just shopping – it's a great cultural immersion. So whether you're a seasoned collector, a history buff or simply someone with an eye for the unique, Umbria's second-hand and antiques markets have something in store for you.

Where to find: the best markets in Umbriaa

You're probably wondering where the best places are to go treasure hunting (and I'll give you a comprehensive overview at the bottom of this blog). Most markets can be found on Sundays, ideal if you arrived on Saturday: you can start looking for them the next day already! Starting in Perugia, the heart of Umbria. Here you will find the Antiques Fair in Piazza Italia every last weekend of the month – a must-see for quality finds. But if you fancy something cozier and more intimate, head to the Mercatino dell'Usato of Città di Castello, or the Sunday market in Todi 

For the avid bibliophile, a stop at the Torgiano antique book market is an absolute must. This market, held in the picturesque streets of the city, is a true paradise for lovers of old, rare books and manuscripts. If it is antique jewelry and vintage fashion that fascinate you, then the antique and modernist market in Città di Castello is your ideal meeting point. A wealth of historic clothing, antique trinkets and beautiful jewelry awaits you here. The cozy Mercatino dell'Usato in Spoleto is known for its wide range of second-hand goods and antiques.

The pièce de résistance is perhaps the Fiera Antiquaria di Arezzo; every first Sunday of the month the center turns into one of the largest antique markets in Italy. Admittedly, Arezzo may be located in Tuscany, but it is still quite close and is worth mentioning because of its great fame.

Have you now found the perfect piece of antique and you are ready to bargain? Awesome! Know how to get the best deal in Umbria's markets. Start with a little homework. Know what similar items cost so you have a good idea. Keep in mind that the seller's initial price is only a starting point for negotiation, so don't be shy about offering a lower price. Keep your negotiations friendly and respectful, because at the end of the day it's not just about scoring a deal, it's also about building relationships and enjoying the experience.

Turn your finds into souvenirs

Okay, so you've pulled out some extraordinary finds from the markets of Umbria. What now? The next step is to make these unique pieces part of your home as a valuable memento of your Italian adventure. Small treasures such as vintage jewelry and clothing or quirky works of art can easily be stored in your suitcase. But if you're bringing home a significant piece of antiques, you may be able to enlist the help of an international parcel service. Or, here's an exciting idea: why not give your item a local facelift before taking it home? There are plenty of skilled craftsmen in Umbria who will be happy to help you add a personal touch to your treasure. The possibilities are endless.

Saturday markets in Umbriaa

• Second hand and antique markets in the historic center of Terni, on the 2nd Saturday of the month. The telephone number for information is 0744 549775
• The Orvieto Market in the Largo Giuseppe Mazzini area takes place on the 1st Saturday of the month (8am to 8pm) of every month. Stands and stalls with handicrafts, antiques, used items and second-hand goods. Info 389 3472919
• “Art and Antiques in Orvieto” takes place every second Saturday of the month in Piazza Duomo. For information, telephone 346-1735016
• “Traders in the Square” in Foligno takes place every 2nd Saturday of the month in the streets of the historic center. More than eighty exhibitors from all over Italy will come with antiques, modern antiques and valuable collectibles.
• Market exhibition for antiques and collectibles in Perugia. The event takes place every last Saturday of the month and involves between 60 and 80 street vendors between Piazza Italia, Largo della Libertà and the Carducci Gardens.

Sunday markets in Umbria

First Sunday of the month

• In Pissignano di Campello (PG) an antiques fair takes place on the first Sunday of the month, in the historic center of town. More than 200 exhibitors. Information: Friends of Pissignano, tel. 0743 521048.
• The Orvieto Market in the Largo Giuseppe Mazzini area also takes place on the 1st Sunday of the month (8am to 8pm) of every month. Stands and stalls with handicrafts, antiques, used items and second-hand goods. Info 389 3472919

Second Sunday of every month

• Briciole market (antiques and handicrafts). Takes place every 2nd Sunday of the month in the historic center of Spoleto (Piazza della Libertà, Corso Mazzini, Piazzetta degli Abeti, via Brignone, Piazza Fontana). To participate tel. 0743 218454. For tourist information tel. 0743 218620 / 21.
• “Anticamente Todi”, in via Menecali, near the Tempio della Consolazione, easy to reach by car. Info at 339 3047910
• Second hand and antique markets in the historic center of Terni on the second Sunday of the month. The telephone number for information is 0744549775.
• “Art and Antiques in Orvieto” also takes place every second Sunday of the month in Piazza Duomo. For information, telephone 346-1735016

Third Sunday of every month

• The Città di Castello Retro Market takes place on the third Sunday of the month in the historic center of Città di Castello in Piazza Matteotti, Piazza Fanti and Piazza Gabriotti from 8am to 8pm with about 100 exhibitors. For information telephone 075 8529417 – 075 8529346

Fourth Sunday of the month

• The interesting Trevi market is organized every 4th Sunday of the month. Trevi's two main squares host a flea market and a farmer's market, offering small antiques as well as local agricultural produce, giving you a great insight into what is produced and harvested in this area. The flea market takes place in Piazza Garibaldi from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm, with stalls set up by antique dealers, second-hand dealers, collectors (jewelry, watches, vintage clothes…) and “real” artisans. The farmers market “Farmer's Market” takes place in Piazza Mazzini from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm with stands of Umbrian producers of vegetables, oil, wine, legumes, jams, growers of aromatic plants and flowers. Also recommended if not everyone in your group is interested in second-hand.

Last Sunday of the month

• Market exhibition for antiques and collectibles in Perugia. The event also takes place every last Sunday of the month and involves between 60 and 80 street vendors between Piazza Italia, Largo della Libertà and the Carducci Gardens.
• “Antiques under the walls”, Amelia (TR). Collectibles and antique market in Viale dei Giardini, close to the Roman walls of the town of Amelia

Blog written with help of Anyword AI