Summer is a great time to explore Europe. The flea markets are full of unique treasures, the stores have unexpected finds and museums help visitors expand their education and discover their next collection.

First stop, Paris. We went to the Centre Georges Pompidou, commonly shortened to Centre Pompidou, for a retrospective on the work of artist César Baldaccini (1921-1998) most noted for his full-size car compressions. We were excited when we came across a series of collectible objects encased in Plexiglas, and even an exploding vintage teapot.

Next, we went to Musée des Arts Décoratifs (MAD). The museum has an artist jewelry show until July 8 featuring the incredible jewelry of some of the most important 20th century artists who occasionally created pieces of wearable art. It’s beautifully presented and worth a visit.

While exploring Paris department stores, we observed that reproduction spatterware is back in style. Although we didn’t have room in our luggage, we really liked the special 200th Anniversary Veuve Clicquot Rosé Champagne in special “Bucket Cake” packaging.

Since we were so close, we decided to take a train through the Chunnel to London. We stopped at the newly redone Design Museum. Its permanent collection walks you through important contemporary design icons and their work. You will see common household items – like an iPhone – that set innovative design standards. Admission is free. We also went from seeing well-designed everyday objects to 20th century antiques and collectibles in the venerable Victoria and Albert Museum. Highlights ranged from the “open storage” room, where you can view collections stacked on open shelves; style rooms that showed the materials and techniques used in furniture construction; and even displays of such objects such as early tin containers.