1. Overview of Canal Saint-Martin
Discover the charm and engagement offered by the Canal Saint-Martin area, known for its picturesque scenery and recreational options.
2. Orientation and Transport
Learn about the neighborhood’s location and main streets that navigate around the canal.
3. History of Canal Saint-Martin
Uncover the historical significance of the area, from its inception under Napoléon I to its contemporary recreational appeal.
4. Boat Tours and Activities
Explore the fun and unique experiences available through boat tours along the canal and its waterways.
5. Dining and Shopping Experiences
Get insight into some of the best places to eat, drink, and shop in the Canal Saint-Martin area.
In the spring and summer, locals come in droves to the banks of the Saint-Martin Canal to picnic, strum guitars waterside, and bask in the lazy long evenings as dusk settles over the photogenic area. Cafes and quirky boutiques flank the water and iron footbridges. On Sundays, two streets running parallel to the canal, Quai de Valmy and Quai de Jemmapes, are reserved for pedestrians and cyclists—offering the perfect opportunity for renting a bike and seeing the city from a fresh angle. Moreover, a boat tour of the canal provides an alternative way to absorb the beauty of this charming locale.
Orientation and Transport
The Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood is nestled between Gare du Nord and Republique in Northeastern Paris, in the 10th arrondissement. The canal connects to the Seine River in the south and the Bassin de la Villette and Canal de l’Ourq in the north.
Main streets around the canal: Quai de Valmy, Quai de Jemmapes, Rue Beaurepaire, Rue Bichat.
Nearby: République, Belleville.
Getting There and Metro Stations
- Gare de L’Est (Lines 4 & 7)
- Republique (Lines 3, 5, 8, 9 and 11)
- Goncourt (Line 11)
- Jacques-Bonsergent (Line 5)
History of the Area, in Brief
Napoléon I ordered the construction of the Canal Saint-Martin in 1802. Initially, it was built to link to the Canal de l’Ourq, providing fresh water to the city.
In the 19th century, the area was primarily occupied by working-class laborers. Recently, however, it has started to attract affluent professionals eager to reside in apartments overlooking the canal. Consequently, it has become known as a hotspot frequented by bohemian individuals; new restaurants, cafes, and fashion boutiques are continually emerging in the neighborhood.
The canal and its surroundings were completely reconstructed for Marcel Carné’s 1938 film, Hôtel du Nord. A restaurant and bar of the same name stand at 102 Quai de Jemmapes.
Boat Tours of Canals and Waterways
Consider exploring the Canal Saint-Martin through a cruise of its underground waterways for an unforgettable experience. Of particular interest are the canal’s lock systems, which fill segments of the canal with water at remarkable speeds, allowing boats to navigate through otherwise low-lying areas.
Eating, Drinking, and Shopping around the Canal Saint-Martin
Hôtel du Nord
102 Quai de Jemmapes
Phone: +33(0)140 407 878
Filmmaker Marcel Carné immortalized the Hôtel du Nord by reproducing its facade for his 1938 movie. Originally built in 1885 as a hotel serving mostly manual laborers, it has now transformed into a vibrant bar and restaurant.
Ambiance: A zinc bar, velvet curtains, low lamplight, and an extensive upstairs library give the former hotel a distinctly 1930s charm.
Highlights: Enjoy a drink on the garden patio, engage in chess, browse the library, or savor a meal prepared with fresh ingredients by celebrated chef Pascal Brébant. This location guarantees a sense of nostalgia.
Lunch: around 15-25 Euros (approx. $16-26).
Dinner: Between 18-30 Euros (approx. $19-$32).
Chez Prune
71 Quai de Valmy
Phone: +33(0)142 413 047
Ambiance: Chez Prune attracts trendy young Parisians looking to socialize. This cheerful plum-colored bar and restaurant buzz with energy, featuring quirky decor made from recycled objects. Additionally, a large terrace offers stunning views of the canal during the spring and summer.
To eat: Chez Prune’s bistro-style menu is delicious and includes artful salads, quiches, cheese plates, and daily specials, though it can be slightly pricey.
Drinks: 4-10 Euros (approx. $4-$11)
Lunch: around 15-20 Euros (approx. $16-$22) per person.
The Pink Flamingo
67 rue Bichat
Tel.: +33(0)142 023 170
Enjoy a delicious neighborhood favorite: pizza delivered right to the canal! Co-owned by a Franco-American couple, the Pink Flamingo serves up stylish, New York-style pizza.
The bonus: Order your pizza to go, grab a pink balloon as proof of purchase, and relax on the banks of the canal—your pizza will find you via the balloon!
Prices: Around 10-15 Euros (approx. $11-$16) per person.
Antoine et Lili
95 Quai de Valmy
Tel.: +33(0)142 374 155
This quirky fashion boutique boasts a bright yellow and pink facade and is celebrated as an icon in the area. Antoine et Lili is a must-visit for the latest in kitschy urban fashion and campy “ethnic” threads. The “village” also includes a restaurant, bakery, and tearoom.
Please note that the prices and descriptions cited here were accurate at the time this article was published and updated, but may change at any time.
