Exploring Vintage Treasures: Thrifting Adventures in Dublin and Beyond

Thrifting during layovers has become one of my favorite ways to explore new cities. Instead of just slam clicking on my layovers, I dive into local thrift and vintage shops to uncover unique finds and experience the culture through its secondhand treasures. Recently, I spent some time thrifting in Dublin, a city rich with history and character, and it reminded me of other memorable thrift adventures I’ve had in places like Edinburgh, London, and Zurich. Each city offers a distinct vibe and selection, making every visit a fresh experience.

This post kicks off a series where I’ll share my thrift and vintage shopping journeys from around the world. For now, let me take you through some of the highlights from Dublin and a few other cities I’ve explored. Along the way, I’ll share tips, what to look for, and why thrifting is such a rewarding way to travel.

Thrifting in Dublin: A Blend of History and Style

Dublin’s thrift shops are a treasure trove for anyone who loves vintage fashion and quirky finds. The city’s rich history reflects in the styles and items you can discover. From classic Irish wool sweaters to retro accessories, the shops offer a mix of old-world charm and modern trends.

Where to Go in Dublin

• The Vintage Market Dublin

Located in the city center, this market gathers several vintage vendors under one roof. It’s perfect for browsing a wide range of items, from clothing to home decor.

• Siopaella

This shop specializes in vintage and retro clothing with a focus on quality and style. It’s a great place to find unique pieces that stand out.

• Oxfam Bookshop and Vintage

Combining books and vintage clothing, this spot offers a cozy atmosphere and a constantly changing selection.

What to Look For

• Irish wool sweaters and scarves

• Vintage denim and leather jackets

• Retro jewelry and accessories

• Classic vinyl records and books

  
  

Dublin’s thrift shops often have friendly staff who love to share stories behind the items, adding a personal touch to your shopping experience.

Edinburgh’s Vintage Charm

Edinburgh’s thrift scene has a slightly different feel, influenced by its medieval architecture and artistic community. The city’s shops often carry a mix of traditional Scottish items and eclectic vintage fashion.

Notable Shops in Edinburgh

• Armstrong’s Vintage

A large store with a wide selection of vintage clothing, from casual wear to formal pieces.

• https://www.facebook.com/share/r/14Kdz47KwVp/

  Oxfam on Hanover Street

Known for its well-curated collection, this shop is a favorite among locals.

• The Edinburgh Vintage

A boutique-style shop focusing on high-quality vintage pieces and accessories.

Unique Finds in Edinburgh

• Tartan skirts and kilts

• Vintage tweed jackets

• Handmade jewelry and crafts

• Old postcards and prints

  
  

Edinburgh’s thrift shops often feel like stepping back in time, with many items reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage.

London’s Eclectic Vintage Scene

London is a mecca for vintage lovers, offering everything from high-end designer pieces to quirky thrift finds. The city’s diversity means you can find almost any style or era represented.

Must-Visit Vintage Spots in London

• Brick Lane Vintage Market

A bustling market with dozens of vendors selling everything from clothes to antiques.

• Beyond Retro

Known for its vast selection and well-organized stores, this chain is a go-to for vintage shoppers.

• Rokit

With several locations, Rokit offers a curated collection of vintage and retro clothing.

What Makes London Special

• Designer vintage pieces at reasonable prices

• Wide range of styles from different decades

• Vintage furniture and homeware

• Rare vinyl and music memorabilia

  
  

London’s vintage shops often host events and pop-ups, making the shopping experience lively and social.

Zurich’s Hidden Vintage Gems

Zurich might not be the first city that comes to mind for thrifting, but it has a growing vintage scene with some hidden gems. The shops here tend to focus on quality and sustainability.

Recommended Shops in Zurich

• Caritas Secondhand

A charity shop with a good range of clothing and household items.

• Vintage Shop Zurich

A boutique offering carefully selected vintage fashion.

• Stoffwechsel

Known for its sustainable approach, this shop features vintage and upcycled clothing.

What to Expect in Zurich

• Clean, well-organized stores

• High-quality vintage fashion

• Sustainable and eco-friendly options

• Classic European styles

  
  

Zurich’s thrift shops offer a quieter, more refined shopping experience compared to the hustle of bigger cities.

Tips for Thrifting While Traveling

Thrifting on layovers or short trips requires some planning to make the most of your time and budget. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the experience:

• Research ahead

Look up thrift shops near your layover airport or city center to plan your visit.

• Set a budget

It’s easy to get carried away, so decide how much you want to spend before you start.

• Bring a reusable bag

Many shops don’t provide bags, and it’s better for the environment.

• Check opening hours

Some shops close early or are closed on certain days.

• Be open-minded

Thrifting is about discovery. You might find something unexpected that becomes a favorite.

• Inspect items carefully

Check for damage, stains, or missing buttons before buying.

Why Thrifting Adds Value to Travel

Thrifting connects you to the local culture in a way that typical shopping doesn’t. Each item has a story, and the shops themselves often reflect the community’s character. Plus, buying secondhand supports sustainability by reducing waste and promoting reuse.

Exploring thrift shops also gives you a break from tourist crowds and lets you see neighborhoods from a different perspective. It’s a chance to meet locals, hear their stories, and bring home something truly unique.

What’s Next in This Series

I’ll be sharing more thrift and vintage shopping adventures from other cities around the world. Each post will highlight the best shops, what to look for, and how to make the most of your thrifting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or just curious, there will be plenty of inspiration and practical advice.

Keep an eye out for upcoming posts featuring thrift shops in cities like Paris, Tokyo, New York, and more. I’ll also include videos and photos to bring these places to life.