A stroll and picnic along the Canal Saint Martin

We strongly recommend that you take a walk along the Canal Saint Martin! In the morning, with a croissant in hand, or at the end of the day for a picnic by the water, you’ll enjoy the unique and charming ambiance of this bucolic Parisian neighbourhood.

Walks for all preferences

It's summer, the sun is shining ... so why not take the opportunity to stroll, ride a bike or rollerblade along the banks of the Canal Saint-Martin and enjoy this most picturesque of Parisian locations? You can enjoy the fresh air and scenery offered by a route that runs beside a 6.7 kilometre stretch of waterway flowing from the Parc de la Villette and the Canal de l'Ourcq in the northeast of the capital to empty into the Seine at the Quai de la Rapée. This lovely, shade dappled, tree-lined waterway with its iron footbridges and trendy shops is at the heart of the 19th arrondissement. If the distance involved in this particular walk along the length of the canal is a little too much, you can try one of the small circular routes of about a kilometre between locks.

Enjoy the exercise, then take it easy

The good weather and the fresh air on your canal-side stroll will give you an appetite and put you in the mood for a picnic. The banks of the Canal Saint-Martin and the Ourcq are among the most popular spots in the city for an aperitif or lunch outdoors amidst delightful surroundings. Tables are provided but you might prefer to bring along a blanket to spread out on the grass. Nearby épiceries will supply all you need to fill your picnic basket.