Seine-Saint-Denis Holiday Guide
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Seine-Saint-Denis - a small department but full of interest
The department of Seine-Saint-Denis lies to the north and east of the city of Paris, making it a great location for a short break. It's a very small department, yet one which is rich in interest, having history, heritage and an unusual culture due to the diversity of ethnic nationalities living there.
The department of Seine-Saint-Denis is also notable for its state of the art stadium, the Stade de France, home to the top football and rugby matches and also to numerous prestigious concerts and other events. The flea market is also widely recognised as being one of the best in the country.
Top 5 things to see and do in Seine-Saint-Denis
1. The Stade de France
There is little like the atmosphere of a football or rugby game played in the Stade de France! If you get a chance - and a ticket - don't miss this experience. It's a great venue for concerts too. Failing that, you can take a guided tour to get all the information about this superb stadium.
2. Visit Saint Ouen's flea market
France's most famous flea market is held here at Saint Ouen. It has a fantastic atmosphere and is attended by collectors and enthusiastic amateurs from all over the world.
3. The Air and Space Museum
This brilliant museum is sure to appeal to the men of the family, and has a dedicated children's section too, making it a really good family day out with a difference. It is found in the town of Le Bourget.
4. Canal d'Ourcq
The Canal d'Ourcq runs through the department, and has a six-kilometre walking trail along the towpath, complete with information boards to keep you interested and informed along the way. There are many events that take place on and round the canal too, at various times of year, and it is always a lively place to watch Parisian life pass by.
5. Parc La Villette
Parc la Villette is a futuristic fun park built on the site of the old Paris meat markets, on the border of Seine-Saint-Denis and Paris, and has some very unusual and fun activities to keep the younger members of the family entertained. Its themed gardens also appeal to all ages, and there are numerous cultural events and performances taking place there.
Top 5 towns and cities in the Seine-Saint-Denis
1. Bobigny
Bobigny is Seine-Saint-Denis's capital city, and it's a hive of fascination. Old streets and houses form a backdrop to a lively arts and cultural scene, with great theatres and performance venues in addition to an eclectic mix of restaurants, cinemas and museums.
2. Montreuil
Montreuil offers a rich heritage and many interesting things to see and do. Take a look at the Eglise Saint Pierre Saint Paul, one of the oldest of the Parisian churches, and a fine example of the Gothic style. There's also an excellent Museum of Living History and several lovely parks and gardens.
3. Noisy le Grand
Noisy le Grand is a truly vibrant town with bags of heritage and a lively cultural side to life. The Christmas markets are delightful, and there are plenty of other events going on throughout the year. Noisy le Grand has good facilities for tourism, with a variety of hotels and restaurants. There is a large African community here, and the cultural life reflects this with a thriving African music scene.
4. Pantin
Pantin is quite different from most of the towns around Paris. It lies on the Canal d'Ourcq, and has an intriguing heritage dating mainly from the 19th century Industrial Revolution. It is also the site of some of the best markets and flea markets in the Paris area.
5. Montfermeil
If you are seeking a haven of peace and greenery yet still within a short distance from the capital, Montfermeil is the perfect place for you. The town is set among beautiful parks and gardens, and has a 17th century historic centre with some remaining original buildings in addition to some very modern ones.
Food and drink in Seine-Saint-Denis
As the department is home to a large number of immigrants with a truly diverse mix of nationalities, the gastronomy reflects this and is also quite diverse. There is a strong African and North African influence which makes the cuisine quite different from that of other departments nearby.
How to get to Seine-Saint-Denis
Flying into Paris is a very easy way to get to Seine-Saint-Denis, but it is also very simple to take the Eurostar rail service to the capital.
