BROWSE TRAVEL GUIDES
VISIT OUR TRAVEL BLOG

Canal Saint Martin

You enjoy Canal Saint Martin, you might also be interested in :

Guides : Garden and water in Paris,
Geographic : europe, france, paris,
Thematic : garden-and-water, canal,

One of the most romantic places, characteristic of Paris, often captured on film, most lately in "Amélie Poulain". One can appreciate the peaceful atmosphere when strolling along its quays. The canal which crosses a part of Paris, is 4.5 kms long, of which 2 kms are underground. It links the Bassin de la Villette with the Seine, with a difference in water level of 25 metres. The canal numbers no fewer than 9 locks. It was with a view to providing the town with water, particularly Roman-styled fountains, that the canal was created. At 102, Quai de Jemmapes, is the Hôtel du Nord, which reminds one of Arletty's reply to Louis Jouvet in the film of the same name: "Atmosphère, Atmosphère. Est ce que j'ai une gueule d'atmosphère?"

Things to see:
The canal itself
The locks on the canal, always in operation

Things to do:
Stroll along the quays (restricted to pedestrians and cyclists on Sundays)
Have a drink in one of the popular bistros along the canal
Visit the canal on small boats, starting from La Villette or Bastille ( Arsenal harbour)

Nearby:
Jemmapes Quay
The Place du Colonel Fabian
The Rotonde de la Villette (Villette Rotonda)

Canal Saint Martin Informations:

Paris, France
See Canal Saint Martin on the map