Visit the Saint-Martin Canal
- Admin
- Jul 20
- 4 min read
The Canal Saint-Martin region we have selected for this post is ideal for a very pleasant afternoon or a few hours.
It is a very popular area among Parisians and increasingly explored,
also by visitors.
The banks, surrounding green spaces, and streets bordering the canal exude a special atmosphere and invite relaxation. It exudes both a nostalgia found in other parts of the city and a romanticism that reinforces the desire to savor every moment and the dream of being there, at that precise moment, in Paris.
Saturday and Sunday business starts late, almost late morning, and continues until evening, as is the case in most stores.
To enjoy the place, it is enough that it does not rain, but the truth is that sunny days give a special shine to this region and allow for beautiful photos...
In any season, you can explore the magnificent iron bridges, tall trees, and benches scattered along the path. Just avoid rainy days. Even a sunny day has its charm. But if you prefer more intense activity, spring or summer are undoubtedly the best times, when the place is more lively and vibrant.
In summer, Paris hosts the highly anticipated "Paris Plages" (more information on our website) from July to early September, offering a variety of activities. The latest addition to this event is the inauguration of three swimming pools in the Bassin de La Villette (near the Canal Saint-Martin). If you're visiting during this period, consider extending your visit.
The metro provides access to the canal. Three stations serve this area:
Gare de l'Est - lines: 4, 5 and 7
Jacques Bonsergent - line 5
Republic - lines: 3, 5, 8, 9
Our route begins at the Gare de l'Est metro exit. Choose the exit next to the Sephora store at the station. Cross Rue du Faubourg Saint-Martin and walk through the Jardin Villemin.
Your walk begins here! The garden is a pleasant green space, very popular on sunny days.
You cross the garden and soon see the canal. From there, the possibilities are endless: stroll along the banks, browse the shops along the promenade, stop at one of the many bars and restaurants, take a boat ride, have a picnic in the square or by the canal, or even a bit of both. Yes, it all makes for a lovely afternoon!
The boat trip is very popular, but not everyone is a fan. Some find it original and interesting, while others find it a bit long. The entire trip takes 2.5 hours, from the Port de l'Arsenal (Bastille) to the Bassin de la Villette. It depends on your preferences and time, as the service offered is reliable and reputable. For more information, visit the Canauxarama website.
So, from the channel, what are the highlights of our trip and
What can you benefit from?
- On the edge of the canal:
You can stroll along the canal, watch the people come and go, sit on the benches along the banks, watch the bridges open and close to let the boats pass, cross the magnificent iron bridges, or buy a snack to share this moment with the many people sitting on the banks of the canal.
- Bakeries, Bars, Bistros or Restaurants
Don't forget to visit one of the many highly recommended bars, bistros, or bakeries we've highlighted along the way.
- Shops, Bookstores, Workshops
You'll likely pass by some of the addresses we've selected that deserve a special mention in this neighborhood. Locate the points of interest marked on the map below and create your own itinerary based on your time and preferences.
The route isn't long; you'll walk about 700 meters between point A (Jardin Villemin) and point G (Canal Saint-Martin - Pont d'Amélie), indicated on the map. If you're short on time, choose a few options from those indicated, but leave time for a snack or meal. This area is full of renowned bakeries, small wine bars, bistros, and restaurants. Most are very welcoming and offer delicious food, making this a must-do part of the experience... not to be missed!
Addresses shown on the map above:
Point A - Villemin Garden
Point B - Square des Récollets, 86 Quai de Valmy
Point C - Hotel du Nord, 102 Quai de Jemmapes (restaurant)
Point D - The Stolen Glass, Rue de Lancry (restaurant)
Point E - Artazart, 83 Quai de Valmy (bookstore and stationery store)
Point F - Chez Prune, 36 Rue Beaurepaire (restaurant)
Bridge G - Canal Saint-Martin Amélie Bridge, Quai de Valmy
Point H - Bridge to cross the canal - near number 64, Quai de Jemmapes
Bridge I - Bread and Ideas, 34 Rue Yves Toudic (bakery)
Point J - Magenta Blvd (metro)
Other good addresses near the course:
The Cake Factory (pastry shop)
34, rue des vinaigriers
Gravity bar
44, rue de vinaigriers
Cerido (restaurant)
7, rue de Lancry
House of the 3 Brothers (pastry shop)
23 rue de Lancry
Lancryer (stationery)
34, rue de Lancry
The Creamery (wine bar)
41, rue de Lancry
The Glasses Gallery (eyeglasses)
27, rue Yves Toudic
Antoine and Lili (clothing and accessories)
95, Quai de Valmy
The Gateway (restaurant)
48 bis, quai de Jemmapes
Shopping center (clothing)
2, Rue de Marseille
The Lost Children (restaurant)
9, rue des Récollets
Photographic Library Le 29 (bookstore)
29, rue des Récollets
The Showers (photo gallery)
5, rue Legouvé
Since this area is easily accessible by metro, you can, like many visitors, combine this route with other nearby attractions. Some of the best options include:
- The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (visit our page) , perhaps the most romantic of Parisian parks;
- Parc de la Villette , a large space offering numerous possibilities for relaxation and entertainment;
- You are also close to the Père Lachaise Cemetery (visit our page) - The most famous and most visited cemetery in the world, with its winding avenues, is a park that invites us to contemplation.
Comments