The best flea market in Lisbon. Feira da Ladra (Santa Clara Market)
A brief overview of one of the most interesting flea markets in Portugal, with plenty of photos
History and Opening Hours of Feira da Ladra
Feira da Ladra, which translates from Portuguese as "Thieves' Market," is one of the oldest and most famous flea markets in Lisbon. Its history dates back to the 12th century, when the market was held in various parts of the city. The name likely originated from the questionable goods sold at the market during those times. The current location of Feira da Ladra in the Alfama district was established in 1882, and since then, the market has become an integral part of the city's cultural and commercial life.
Feira da Ladra operates twice a week: on Tuesdays and Saturdays, from early morning until midday. The market usually opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM. It’s the perfect place for a morning stroll and to immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Lisbon, full of noise, haggling, and interaction.
How to find it?
Just type "Feira da Ladra" or "Santa Clara Market" in Google Maps, and it will show you the location.
Link to map
What can you find at the market?
Feira da Ladra is famous for the wide variety of items that can be found here. For example, wooden figurines, like those in the photo, can be bought for around 25 euros. Kerosene lamps, beautifully decorated and full of vintage charm, are sold for prices ranging from 10 to 20 euros. The assortment is so diverse that you can find anything here: from dishware to icons and religious figurines.
A special place on the market is taken by vinyl records. One of the most famous vinyl sellers is a mustached man named Nuno Efe (pictured in a striped t-shirt). He can always be found in the same spot. He is happy to help you choose a record to suit your taste and even invites you to his vinyl party @analogicarroios, where you can enjoy the atmosphere of analog music and meet like-minded people.
You can also buy traditional Portuguese azulejos (decorative ceramic tiles), known for their beautiful patterns and bright colors. However, due to the popularity of these tiles, the market has been affected by dishonest individuals who steal them from historical buildings in Lisbon to sell them at the market. This damages the city's architectural heritage and raises concerns among locals and authorities.
A special place on the market is taken by vinyl records. One of the most famous vinyl sellers is a mustached man named Nuno Efe (pictured in a striped t-shirt). He can always be found in the same spot. He is happy to help you choose a record to suit your taste and even invites you to his vinyl party @analogicarroios, where you can enjoy the atmosphere of analog music and meet like-minded people.
You can also buy traditional Portuguese azulejos (decorative ceramic tiles), known for their beautiful patterns and bright colors. However, due to the popularity of these tiles, the market has been affected by dishonest individuals who steal them from historical buildings in Lisbon to sell them at the market. This damages the city's architectural heritage and raises concerns among locals and authorities.
Covered market with unique items
A journey through Feira da Ladra begins at the square, where numerous vendors offer a wide variety of goods. Here, you can find real treasures while wandering through rows of antiques, vintage clothing, jewelry, books, and much more. However, most of the items are very old belongings from someone’s home, not possessing high value, but rather aesthetic beauty.
As you continue your walk, you’ll reach a street with a beautiful covered market. Along this street, vendors select only the most interesting and unique items. For example, here you can find vintage posters priced around 200 euros and truly antique furniture that would be a highlight in any interior. At the very end, there’s also a store with luxury vintage clothing, retro brand signs, and much more.
As you continue your walk, you’ll reach a street with a beautiful covered market. Along this street, vendors select only the most interesting and unique items. For example, here you can find vintage posters priced around 200 euros and truly antique furniture that would be a highlight in any interior. At the very end, there’s also a store with luxury vintage clothing, retro brand signs, and much more.
Local artisans and continuation of the walk
Inside the covered market, there are rows of stalls featuring products from local artisans. Here, you can find unique and original items: from edible products to jewelry, tea from Madeira, and much more. The prices for these goods are quite reasonable, making them accessible to a wide range of customers and adding a special charm to shopping at this market.
Continuation of the walk
After visiting the covered market, you’ll find yourself on a street with various vendors. Here, you can discover many interesting items, such as film cameras. For example, the popular Canon A-1 can be purchased for 150 euros, which is comparable to prices on eBay, and sometimes even higher.
Continuation of the walk
After visiting the covered market, you’ll find yourself on a street with various vendors. Here, you can discover many interesting items, such as film cameras. For example, the popular Canon A-1 can be purchased for 150 euros, which is comparable to prices on eBay, and sometimes even higher.
Feira da Ladra is not just a market, it's a unique place where you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of Lisbon, find unique and interesting items, enjoy the atmosphere of the city, and have an unforgettable time.
