Discovering Hidden Treasures: Antique Markets of Piemonte
Beautiful collection at a table on the market
Let’s find some Treasures
Are you looking for antique furniture, unique finds, or just curious about where to find the best antique markets in Piemonte? In this blog, I’ll share my favorite markets, handy tips on how to negotiate like a pro, and how to prepare for a successful day out. Plus, I’ll give you a few Italian phrases that will come in handy during your market visit. Whether you have a home in Italy or are here on holiday, these markets are a must for anyone who loves characterful items.
We are still exploring ourselves, strolling through market streets and wandering between the stalls, searching for beautiful finds that bring a piece of Italian history into our home. Visiting these markets isn’t just a chance to find something unique, but also to experience local life and witness Italian craftsmanship up close. Each item tells a story, and before you know it, you’re bringing a piece of Italian culture back home with you.
“What I truly admire is that Italians are much less inclined to throw things away. They value quality and preserve items that last generations.”
My Favorite Antique Markets (2025)
Nizza Monferrato (Favorite!) – One of the most popular markets in Piemonte, held every third Sunday of the month, year-round. In addition to the antique market on the main square, there’s also a market with delicious local specialties in the streets of Nizza. For example, our neighbor is there with the best mozzarella ever (and completely natural)!
Ovada (Favorite!) – A charming market winding through the town center on special dates:
Pasqua - April 21st
Festa dei Lavoratori – May 1st
Festa della Repubblica – June 2nd
Ferragosto – August 15th
First Sunday of October – October 5th
All Saints’ Day – November 1st
Feast of the Immaculate Conception – December 8th
Cherasco (Favorite!) – A picturesque town with a special antique market:
April 13th (major event)
May 11th
September 14st (major event)
October 12th
December 14th (major event)
Casale Monferrato – Every second Sunday of the month.
Bene Vagienna - Is there a 5th sunday in the month? Than you can find a nice market in this village.
Alessandria – Every first Sunday of the month.
Bistagno - New since 2025 and not very big yet, more a little fleamarket. Every first Sunday of the month.
Pavia – Every second Sunday of the month, year-round (except August).
Santo Stefano Belbo, Asti & Acqui Terme – All three host markets every fourth Sunday of the month, year-round (Asti excepted in August).
Turin:
Gran Balon – Borgo Dora, every second Sunday of the month, year-round. The smaller Balon is every Saturday.
Crocetta Più (clothing) – Largo Cassini, every second Sunday of the month, year-round.
Antiquariato Minore – Piazza Abba, every fourth Sunday of the month (except January and August).
Mercatino Eccellenza Artigiana – Piazza Palazzo di Città, every third Sunday of the month (except July and August).
Bonus: Milan Navigli (Favorite!!) – Along the canal, every fourth Sunday of the month, with specials on:
May & September (art specials)
April 6th & October 6th (flower and plant special)
“Decide what you’re willing to pay in advance—your gut feeling usually knows best.”
Why Visit an Antique Market and Our Finds
For us, the atmosphere alone is reason enough to visit an antique market. The markets are often held in beautiful, picturesque villages full of charm. What I find truly admirable is that Italians are much less inclined to throw things away. They value quality and preserve items that last generations. But to be fair, you sometimes have to look past the clutter because everything gets saved and offered!
Another thing that stands out is Italians’ love for handmade items, especially wooden furniture. Many farmhouses were filled with handcrafted furniture, and you see that reflected in the markets. As long as you don’t overcrowd a room with too many pieces, an Italian item can really add atmosphere to your home.
Markets are also a great excuse to start your day with a good cappuccino and a brioche (di crema, my favorite!). Around lunchtime, many vendors disappear for a bite to eat, so it’s the perfect time for you to enjoy a focaccia or farinata with a glass of wine.
Our finds so far? A handmade bowl, two old wine barrels that now serve as planters, and a few beautiful bowls for the kitchen. Our house was also full of old wooden furniture. A fresh coat of paint later, and they make great temporary pieces!
The wooden barrels that are in our garden now.
Need Help Furnishing Your Home?
Finding the right pieces to bring your space together can be challenging. If you’re looking for guidance in selecting furniture, colors, materials, or Italian antiques, we can help! We’ll create a personalized design book tailored to your taste and your home. Ready to make your vision a reality?
Tips for Negotiating and Buying at the Market
Here are a few tips to score the best items and get the right price:
3 Tips for Finding the Best Items:
Block out the clutter around the item and focus on the piece you love.
Always check the boxes that initially seem full of junk; sometimes, the best things are hidden there.*
Use Google Lens if you’re considering a pricey item like vintage design to check if it’s authentic and what a reasonable price is.
3 Tips for Getting the Best Price:
Decide in advance what you’re willing to pay for an item; you usually have a gut feeling.
Don’t stare too long at the item and definitely don’t pick it up; casually ask about the price of something next to it instead.*
You can always negotiate at the market (unless prices are clearly marked as fixed). Offer a price below your maximum and be firm. Buying multiple items? Negotiate a good set price. Or go later in the day for the best deal, as vendors won’t want to pack everything up again! *
* I learned from Inge, a true antique market expert in the region. She has incorporated so many beautiful finds into her charming B&B. If you love beautiful interiors and Piemonte, her B&B is a must-visit! www.casadormeviglia.com
* I learned from a client I toured the markets with to furnish his holiday home with unique items. He’s originally from Peru, where negotiating is second nature, so he did it without hesitation. Super insightful!
“Italians love it when you try to speak their language—it makes the whole experience just that bit more fun and personal!”
Speak Like a Local: Handy Italian Phrases for the Market
When strolling through a market in Piemonte, it’s super handy to have a few Italian phrases up your sleeve. Most vendors don’t speak English, so with these phrases, you’ll be prepared. And trust me, Italians love it when you try to speak their language—it makes the whole experience just that bit more fun and personal!
At the market:
"Quanto costa?" – How much does it cost?
"È possibile fare uno sconto?" – Is it possible to get a discount?
"Posso lasciarlo qui e lo prendo più tardi?" – Can I leave it here and pick it up later?
"Devo prelevare contanti, torno subito." – I need to withdraw some cash, I’ll be right back.
In the café (for that delicious cappuccino):
"Vorrei un caffè/cappuccino, per favore." – I’d like a coffee/cappuccino, please.
"Prendo una spremuta d’arancia." – I’ll have a fresh orange juice.
"C’è ancora una brioche di crema?" – Do you still have a brioche with cream?
"Posso pagare?" – Can I pay?
General phrases:
"Buona giornata!" – Have a nice day!
"Altretanto!" – Same to you!
"Buon giro!" – Enjoy your stroll!
Often you can find pretty prints
BONUS tips
Didn’t find what you were looking for? Don’t panic! There are also thrift stores where you can find similar items, such as in Asti. Super efficient if you need to furnish your house quickly.
Don’t forget to reserve your lunch spot in advance. Sunday is the day Italian families go out en masse, so you don’t want to miss out!
Ciao!
Meet the Writer
This blog was written by Jennifer Kenters—architectural engineer, designer, and renovation expert—helping others bring historic homes in Italy back to life.
While furnishing and renovating homes in Piemonte, I spent countless weekends searching for unique antiques and vintage treasures. I quickly realized how difficult it was to find a comprehensive list of the best antique markets in the region. That’s why I created this guide—bringing together the most charming and worthwhile markets for antique lovers, interior enthusiasts, and second-home owners.
These days, I (together with my partner Boy) help homeowners in Italy with interior styling, renovation advice, and sourcing unique pieces to create spaces that feel both timeless and personal. Combining my background in high-end restoration with my passion for design, I specialize in transforming historic properties with a balance of authenticity and comfort.
Looking for help furnishing or renovating a home in Piemonte? I share insights, design inspiration, and renovation tips on Instagram—come say hi!
