The open-air markets of Geneva offer an escape from the expensive environment of the exquisite shopping malls. They also give you the chance of interacting freely with the local citizens. Bargaining is highly recommended, usually for non-edible items. Some of the leading flea markets around Geneva are:
1.Plainpalais Flea Market:
Location: Plainpalais.
Timings: Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays – 0800-1700.
This is the largest of all flea markets, comprising of stalls owned and operated by local citizens. Stalls contain antiques, vintage clothing, paintings, utensils and cooking sets, and records. Prices here are subject to change at random, so be sure to haggle around before buying, but do so politely and preferably in French, as this will generally result in a better deal.
2. Place de la Fusterie:
Location: Fusterie, Geneva.
(i) Handicrafts Market
Timings: Thursdays only – 0900-1700
(ii) Fruit and Vegetable Market
Timings: Wednesdays and Saturdays – 0630-1800
The local flea market here offers fresh fruits and vegetables at very cheap prices.
3. Geneva Organic Market
Location: Between Chemin Francois-Furet and Avenue De-Gallatin.
Timings: Thursdays – 1600-2030
This organic food market offers, apart from fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, bread, cheese, and wine.
4. Flower Market
Location: Place du Molard.
Timings: Daily, 0800-1800.
Offers an exotic variety of flowers, floral products and decorative elements.
5. Clothes and Books Market
Location: Place de la Madelaine.
Timings: Daily during spring and summer – 0900-1800
6. Gourmet Food Market:
Location: Halles de Rive
This market offers edible delights from all around Switzerland, and from France and Italy.
7. General Market:
Location: Place du Marche, Carouge.
Timings: Wednesdays and Saturdays – 0630-1400.
Ideally located in the largest public square in Carouge, this market sells general produce and local goods.
