The Schedule: When is the Prague Flea Market at U Elektry?

The Flea Market at U Elektry is the largest of its kind in the Czech Republic. It is located in the Vysočany district. Many people still refer to it by its old name, Kolbenova. Knowing when to go is vital for the best experience.

The market is open every Saturday and Sunday throughout the year. It does not matter if it is summer or winter. You can visit from 6:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Most vendors start packing up around noon, so early arrival is best.

There is a small entrance fee to pay at the gate. It is usually around 50 CZK per person. Make sure to bring small coins for the entry. You can find more details on the official city tourism portal for any holiday schedule changes.

10 Best Prague Vintage Stores and Thrift Shops

Prague offers a diverse range of second-hand experiences. From massive outdoor markets to cozy basement boutiques, there is something for everyone. Here are the top ten spots to visit during your trip.

1. Name: Blesí trhy U Elektry Type: Flea Market/Experience Why go: It is a massive, authentic experience with thousands of items. Best for: Antiques, tools, and weird collectibles. Where: Prague 9, Vysočany. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: 50 CZK entry; item prices vary. Getting there: Tram 8 or 25 to the U Elektry stop. Tip: Go before 8:00 AM for the rarest finds.
2. Name: Náplavka Flea Market Type: Market/Viewpoint Why go: Enjoy great river views while browsing curated vintage goods. Best for: Retro clothing and porcelain. Where: Rašínovo nábřeží (Riverbank). Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free entry. Getting there: Walk from Palackého náměstí metro station. Tip: Check the schedule as it happens on specific Saturdays.
3. Name: Letná District Type: Neighborhood/Experience Why go: This area is home to the best secondhand clothing shops in Letna district. Best for: Hipster fashion and cool cafes. Where: Prague 7. Time: Half day. Cost: Free to explore. Getting there: Tram 1, 8, or 12 to Letenské náměstí. Tip: Visit the nearby beer garden after shopping.
4. Name: Lula Vintage Prague Type: Vintage Store Why go: It offers high-quality, hand-picked fashion from different decades. Best for: Women's vintage dresses and accessories. Where: Vinohrady. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: Metro line A to Jiřího z Poděbrad. Tip: Follow their social media for new arrivals.
5. Name: Bohemian Retro Type: Vintage Store Why go: A quirky shop filled with colorful items from the 1950s to the 1980s. Best for: Unique jewelry and retro hats. Where: Žižkov. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Tram 5, 9, or 15 to Lipanská. Tip: Ask the owner for the history of specific items.
6. Name: Textile House Type: Thrift Shop Why go: It is a reliable chain with many locations across the city. Best for: Affordable everyday clothing. Where: Various (Karlovo Náměstí is a large one). Time: 30-60 minutes. Cost: Very cheap. Getting there: Metro line B to Karlovo Náměstí. Tip: Look for "Happy Hour" signs for extra discounts.
7. Name: Prague Thrift Store Type: Thrift Shop Why go: This shop supports local charities and has a wide variety of goods. Best for: Books, kitchenware, and English-speaking staff. Where: Vinohrady or Letná. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Metro line A to Náměstí Míru. Tip: You can donate your own items here too.
8. Name: Mint Market Type: Design Market/Experience Why go: It features local designers and high-end vintage curators. Best for: Modern Czech design and sustainable fashion. Where: Often at Holešovice Market. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free entry. Getting there: Tram 1, 14, or 25 to Pražská tržnice. Tip: Check their website for event dates.
9. Name: National Museum Type: Iconic Sight/Indoor Why go: Take a break from shopping to see Czech history in a stunning building. Best for: Architecture and historical context. Where: Wenceslas Square. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Approx 250-350 CZK. Getting there: Metro A/C to Muzeum. Tip: Buy tickets online at the National Museum site to skip lines.
10. Name: Mala Sarka Charity Shop Type: Unique Experience Why go: A hidden gem located in a residential international community area. Best for: High-quality brands at very low prices. Where: Prague 6, Nebušice. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Bus 161 or 312 from Bořislavka metro. Tip: Combine this with a walk in the Divoká Šárka nature reserve.

Expert Tips for Prague Second-Hand Shopping

Shopping for vintage in Prague requires some strategy. Most flea markets like U Elektry only accept cash. It is wise to carry Czech Koruna in small denominations. Many smaller shops in best neighborhoods in Prague beyond Old Town are now taking cards.

Bargaining is expected at outdoor flea markets. However, it is not common in fixed-price vintage stores. Be polite and start by asking for a small discount if you buy multiple items. Locals appreciate it when you try a few words in Czech.

Always check the quality of items carefully. Vintage electronics may not always work with modern voltages. For clothing, sizes in the Czech Republic can be different from the US or UK. Most stores have small changing rooms for you to try things on.