What is the cancellation policy for this tour?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How long does this tour take?

This tour lasts approximately 2 hours and a half.

Where does this tour start?

This tour starts at: - Bassin de la Villette (métro Jaurès) 13 quai de la Loire.

France

Guided Cruise The Old Paris on Canal Saint Martin

★★★⯨☆ 3.8

2 hours and a half

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Overview

This unusual 2.5-hour cruise invites you to discover the hidden side of Paris as you glide along the peaceful waters of the Canal Saint-Martin, lined with century-old trees and elegant footbridges. Along the way, hear the history of these authentic Parisian neighborhoods.
You will pass the mysterious and spectacular Bastille vault, where the changing light creates a unique atmosphere. The cruise also takes you through four double locks with swirling waters and two swing bridges, offering a fascinating glimpse into the canal’s engineering and charm. You will enjoy views of the lively canal banks, with their pretty boutiques and retro-style cafés. The route also passes through the Bassin de la Villette and near the Parc de la Villette, home to the Cité des Sciences, La Géode, the Philharmonie de Paris, and themed gardens.
Arsenal departure: Canauxrama, 50 Bd de la Bastille, 75012 Paris, France
Villette departure: Canauxrama, Bassin de la Villette, 13 Quai de la Loire, 75019 Paris, France

Gallery

Guided Cruise The Old Paris on Canal Saint Martin — photo 1

Guided Cruise The Old Paris on Canal Saint Martin — photo 2

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Guided Cruise The Old Paris on Canal Saint Martin — photo 4

Guided Cruise The Old Paris on Canal Saint Martin — photo 5

Guided Cruise The Old Paris on Canal Saint Martin — photo 6

Guided Cruise The Old Paris on Canal Saint Martin — photo 7

What's Included

✓ Included

Live comments (English/ French)
Bar on board
Pass through 4 double locks and 2 swing bridges
2h30 cruise on the canal saint martin
Whichever departure point you choose, you’ll enjoy a wonderful and relaxing cruise experience.

✗ Not Included

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities

Itinerary

Stop 1

Stop 2

Enter the long underground tunnel of the Canal Saint-Martin, a vaulted passage beneath the city. As daylight fades and reappears through openings above, the atmosphere becomes uniquely calm and immersive. Emerge from the tunnel near Place de la Bastille, where the contrast between the underground canal and the lively historic square creates one of the most striking moments of the cruise.

Stop 3

Navigate through the Écluse du Temple, another key lock on the Canal Saint-Martin, where the slow rhythm of the water reinforces the peaceful nature of the cruise.

Stop 4

Enter the heart of the Canal Saint-Martin, famous for its tree-lined banks, elegant iron footbridges and timeless Parisian charm. This is one of the city’s most picturesque waterways, loved by locals and filmmakers alike.

Stop 5

Pass by the Écluses des Morts, a series of locks whose name recalls the canal’s long and sometimes dramatic past, adding a touch of mystery to the journey.

Stop 6

Glide through the peaceful Bassin Louis Blanc, where the canal blends seamlessly into the surrounding neighborhood, creating a calm and intimate atmosphere away from the city’s bustle.

Stop 7

Experience your first lock as the boat passes through the Écluse de la Villette. Watch the water level gently rise or fall as the lock gates open and close, offering a captivating glimpse into the canal’s engineering.

Stop 8

Cruise along the Canal de l’Ourcq, originally built to supply Paris with fresh water. Lined with former warehouses and modern residential buildings, this stretch reveals a quieter, more authentic side of the capital.

Stop 9

Sail beneath the iconic lift bridge of rue de Crimée, one of the last operational lifting bridges in Paris. Watching the bridge rise above the boat is a rare and fascinating moment that highlights the city’s living industrial heritage.

Stop 10

The boat reaches the Bassin de la Villette, one of the largest open water basins in Paris. This lively yet relaxed area marks the gateway to the city’s historic canal network, where urban life slowly gives way to calm waterways and a more local Parisian atmosphere.

Meeting & End Point

📍

Meeting Point

- Bassin de la Villette (métro Jaurès) 13 quai de la Loire

🏁

End Point

accès piétons face au 50 boulevard de la Bastille - 75012 PARIS / Métro : BASTILLE Port de l'arsenal

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Good to Know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Arsenal departure: Canauxrama, 50 Bd de la Bastille, 75012 Paris, France
Villette departure: Canauxrama, Bassin de la Villette, 13 Quai de la Loire, 75019 Paris, France