The Canal Saint-Martin area is a distinctive part of Paris, offering a blend of restaurants, shops, culture, and everyday life.
The vibrant neighbourhood is a popular spot amongst locals, during recent years some tourists have discovered it as well. Still, it is usually far from crowded at daytime, always offering a genuine, hip and laid-back atmosphere. During the evenings, the area has a vibrant night life, as many young people come here to party.
Perfect for afternoon strolls, watching daily life
Personally, I always enjoy spending time close to Canal Saint-Martin. I can warmly recommend it if you love wandering around in quiet streets or sitting at a restaurant without anything special on the agenda. Just looking at people, enjoying the simple pleasures of daily life along the canal.
It was Napoleon Bonaparte who ordered its construction, this happened in 1802 due to the need for supply routes for food, fresh water, and other goods. The canal is has rustic, iron footbridges crossing the water, offering picturesque views and easy passages between the east and west bank. On each side, there is a green lunge with old, beautiful chestnut trees.
Art, vintage and books
The area is known for its cultural scene, and there are independent bookstores, art galleries, and theaters many places around the neighborhood. Events such as outdoor film screenings, live music performances, and pop-up markets are also common.
You can find everything from vintage clothing to contemporary fashion boutiques in the streets near the canal, as well as shops selling handmade crafts, books, and other unique items. The mix of old and new, traditional and modern, are at the core of what makes the neighbourhood unique and trendy.
Are there any good restaurants near Canal Saint-Martin?
The answer is yes. There are several dining options to explore in the area, spanning from traditional French bistros to wine bars and international cuisine.
Let’s start with the most famous one – Hôtel du Nord, known across the world from the film from 1938 with the same name. The building and etablissement have a rich history, today you can visit Hôtel du Nord for a meal at the bistro or in the restaurant. It is also possible to sit outside and simply enjoy a drink.
L’Archimede is well-known for its excellent food and service, and is another great choice for a high-quality dinner or lunch.
Would you like the 100 % authentic neighbourhood vibe? Go to Early June or Chez Babo, both lovely wine bars with few tables and a wonderful atmosphere. Early June has a reputation as one of the nicest places to eat and drink in all of Paris. Chez Babo serves a broad selection of wines, paired with delicious charcuterie and cheese.
If you feel like having something Asian, you can for example try the vegetarian restaurant Tien Hang, Cambodian at Le Cambodge or its sister restaurant Le Petit Cambodge. At Gros Bao, you get handmade bao buns and cocktails.
The flavours of Canal Saint-Martin
Often, specially during lunch hour and after work, people sit down by the water to eat or socialise. If you would like to do as the locals, buy food that you can take with you to eat at the bank of the Canal, there is a great market nearby that I would recommend to you visit. Marché Saint-Martin is one of five covered markets remaining in Paris, and has a lot of delicious products to offer. It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m., and 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Sundays.
Do you love food markets? Then I would highly recommend you to go to Marché des Enfants Rouges as well.
Two other recommendations for food to bring with you:
1. Épicerie La Pampara, offering Italian ice cream, cheese, lunch and high quality ingredients
2. Satio – the cutest greengrocery selling fresh fruit and vegetables.
Bon dégustation!
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