Car Boot Market

A British-style car boot sale in the heart of Rome

The Car Boot Market brings a classic British concept to the Italian capital: the car boot sale. Forget professional stalls or commercial vendors; this is all about private citizens parking their cars, popping the trunk, and transforming the cargo space into a display area, often with a small table for more delicate or valuable items. It is one of the most original additions to the market calendar in Rome, Lazio.

Where: Città dell'Altra Economia in Testaccio

The setting is no coincidence. The market takes place at the Città dell'Altra Economia, in Largo Dino Frisullo, within the repurposed spaces of the former Testaccio Slaughterhouse—a complex of 19th-century industrial architecture now dedicated to fair trade, organic products, and sustainable practices. It is hard to imagine a more fitting venue for an event rooted in the idea of giving things a second life.

How it works

• Seller access: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, to park and set up.
• Public opening: 10:00 AM until sunset, with free admission.
• Stall fee: A symbolic amount, approximately 20 euros per car and 5 euros for the Scooter Boot Market.
• Booking is mandatory for sellers via the official website or WhatsApp, as spots are limited.

The Scooter Boot Market

Rome is the city of scooters, and the market has adapted accordingly: those without a car can still participate in the Scooter Boot Market section, displaying small items from their top case or seat. This uniquely Roman twist has significantly contributed to the event's charm.

What you will find

The beauty of the Car Boot Market is its unpredictability. Since there is no professional selection of goods, every trunk is a small surprise. You will typically find second-hand clothing and accessories, vintage items, books and comics, vinyl records, toys, small appliances, homeware, decor, prints, and modern antiques. Prices are those of a private market, and haggling is part of the fun.

Reuse, environment, and community

Behind the fun atmosphere lies a clear message of circular economy: every item that changes hands is one less piece of waste and one less new purchase. The cultural association Opificio delle Arti, which organizes the market alongside the Città dell'Altra Economia, has always emphasized this dual focus on sustainability and neighborhood connection. Many families use the event as an opportunity to involve children in their first selling experience.

A recurring event

The Car Boot Market is not a one-off event but a series of Sundays throughout the year, with peak activity in spring, autumn, and the pre-Christmas period in December. The updated calendar is published on the official website and the Car Boot Market ROMA Facebook page: it is always worth checking the date before heading out.

Why it is worth a visit

For those visiting Rome, the market is also a great excuse to discover Testaccio, one of the city's most authentic neighborhoods, home to the Monte dei Cocci, the local market, and historic trattorias. It is easily accessible on foot from the Piramide station, and the Città dell'Altra Economia complex offers plenty of bars and dining options for a break between browsing.