Blågårds Plads might have a bad reputation amongst many Copenhageners. The square is after all in the middle of a neighbourhood described by Berlingske as the “black diamond” of crime. But there’s more to it than that. Anyone looking for vintage clothing, a good bargain of any kind, or – better still – both at the same time, is likely to find a small piece of shopping paradise here.

BlågårdsPlads Flea Market: During the summer months, Blågårds square becomes the centre of the most cheerful transactions in Nørrebro. Each Sunday, neighbours take over the place to sell their own goods, in a lively and friendly fashion. The crowded square is turned into a chaotic bazaar where all kinds of curious objects – furniture, cutlery, zippo lighters second-hand clothes and shoes, spare parts for bicycles, and even the odd book in English – are piled next to each other. Everyone is likely to find what they like in this heterogeneous display. Sellers are happy to get rid of quite a lot of these objects, so prices can sometimes be unexpectedly good. A special trick would be to avoid getting there either too early – some of the vendors lose the will to haggle for too long as the day drags on, or too late – good stuff goes quickly. Midday is a probably the best time. Hurry up though, the market only runs until August 25.

BlågårdsPlads; Open Sundays 10:00-16:00

KK Vintage : Looking like you’ve come straight out of the 1950s seems to be back in fashion. At this charity shop run by the Church of Denmark, you’ll find all kinds of knitted pullovers, hats and other anachronistic accessories. And if you wish to add a touch of eccentricity to your purchase, the association will get one of their volunteer designers to modify it for you. They’re currently selling many articles at half-price – and it’s all for a good cause. 

Blågårdsgade31C; open Tue-Fri 12:00-18:00, Sat 11:00-15:00

CirkelinesÆske: The end of summer can leave a hole in the pockets of parents of kids returning to school, but help is at hand from the charity shop CirkelinesÆaske, which specialises in second-hand clothes and toys (lots of old classics) for 0-12 year olds. Much like KK Vintage, this recycling-passionate shop also donates part of its profits to charitable causes, and it also finances programmes for the homeless and recovering drug addicts.

Blågårdsgade 31C; open Mon-Fri 13:00-17:00, Sat 11:00-14:00; www.cirkelinesaeske.dk