Old and Used Book Market Georges Brassens

Last Updated on 3rd May 2022 by Sophie Nadeau

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A lively book market set against the backdrop of a gorgeous park, Georges Brassens is a little off the beaten path but is well worth visiting nonetheless, particularly if you want to pick up a unique souvenir of your trip. Here’s how to visit the Old and Used Book Market Georges Brassens and what to know before you go.

Old and Used Book Market George Brassens

Old Book Market in the 15th arrondissement

Known in French as the Marché du Livre Ancien et d’Occasion Georges Brassens, the book market has been in operation on a weekly basis since 1987. Previous to this, the location (a closed roof top with open sides pavilion dating back to the 19th-century) was used by butchers.

The building complex was constructed on former vineyards between 1896 and 1904 in the area of Vaugirard to be used as an abattoir for horses, cattle, and sheep. The abattoir was eventually closed in 1976 and now only three of the original buildings still stand.

Today, there are around 60 vendors selling everything from comic books to vintage maps and prints. As well as a fairly large selection of newer and more contemporary second-hand books, there is quite a substantial number of antiquarian books, as well as vinyls, and old posters. Many booksellers have a unique speciality.

Though most books are in French, there are a few books in other languages such as French. And while many of the books are sold for a good price, that doesn’t mean that the books are cheap! Some of the oldest books are priced at well over €300! Bartering is expected so don’t hesitate to bargain!

How to visit the Old and Used Book Market Georges Brassens

The book market is only open on the weekend; on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 AM – 6 PM. The closest metro is Metro Porte de Vanves, which is on line 13. If you happen to be visiting during the late spring, then be sure to check out the nearby cherry blossom in Parc Georges-Brassens.

Visiting the vintage book market is easily one of our favourite things to do in the 15th arrondissement. Most of the booksellers don’t accept card payments and so be sure to bring cash with you. There are two stands at the market which buy rare/ good condition vintage books.

Thanks to the fact that the book market is under a roof, it’s also a good rainy day activity in Paris. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our guide to the best offbeat things to do in Paris and for more brocantes, be sure to check out our guide to flea markets in Paris.