A Vintage Lover’s Guide To Budapest

The Hungarian capital is a treasure trove of fashion finds...if you know where to look

For savvy thrifters, Buda is a goldmine of vintage treasure; filled with underground boutiques and crowded flea markets, even the most experienced of shoppers can easily become overwhelmed. For the top places in town, follow our vintage Budapest guide and uncover some of the city’s best-kept secrets.

Ecseri Piac

1194 Budapest, Nagykőrösi út 156

One of the biggest flea markets in Central Europe, the mammoth sprawl of Ecseri Piac shouldn’t escape your notice. There’s nothing in the world you won’t find here – from Soviet army watches to priceless artworks and gentlemen’s top hats. Early birds get here first thing on Saturday mornings to catch their worms.

Iguana Retro Fashion

1088 Budapest, Krúdy Gyula utca 9

With rails upon rails of suede, leather and velvet items from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, Iguana Retro is a great place to start your vintage shopping pilgrimage. Peruse the clothing section alongside discerning regulars, or ask the friendly staff for a hand picking out the perfect piece.

Cydonia Vintage

1064 Budapest, Hajós utca 43

Much like the costume cupboard of a famous film starlet, Cydonia offers everything from retro cosmetic brands to authentic vintage designer clothing. Other highlights include shelves of floral teacups, a trunk of silken scarves, and glittering heaps of costume jewellery.

Retrock

1063 Budapest, Anker köz 2

Staking its claim as the largest vintage shop in Budapest, Retrock is entirely in a league of its own. In addition to hordes of kitsch and old-fashioned glamour, this place specialises in restyling and modernising second-hand pieces. Don’t miss a visit to their popular sibling store, Retrock Deluxe, which offers an extraordinary wealth of vintage designer items.

Pesca Flea Market

Arena of the open-air stage at Petfi Csarnok

Probably the best-kept secret in all of Buda, you’ll find Pesca Flea Market cloistered within the leafy surrounds of City Park. One man’s trash really is another man’s treasure here, judging by the eclectic collection of bric-a-brac, costume jewellery, and well-thumbed second-hand books. The market is open on weekends from 7am, but get there early for the best vintage finds in Budapest.

Jajcica

1074 Budapest, Dohány utca 94

Stumble down a flight of narrow, inconspicuous steps on Dohány Street and you’ll find Jajcica. An Aladdin’s cave of vintage Budapest goodies, you’ll easily lose an hour or several exploring the hidden corners of this basement lair. Plough through stacks of old-school leather jackets and plush fur coats, and discover hidden rooms filled with vintage wedding dresses.