Guided Cruise The Old Paris on Canal Saint Martin

3.8 (82 reviews) Paris, France
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Duration2h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, French
Group sizeUp to 149 travelers

Overview

This unusual 2.5hour 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.
Bastille 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

Options

Bastille-Villette 9:45am

Starting point:
50 Bd de la Bastille, 75012 Paris, France

(2) Bastille-Villette 2.30pm

50 Bd de la Bastille: Departure: 50 Bd de la Bastille, 75012 Paris, France

Starting point:
50 Bd de la Bastille, 75012 Paris, France

(1) Villette-Bastille 2.30pm

13 Quai de la Loire: Departure: Bassin de la Villette, 13 Quai de la Loire, 75019 Paris, France

Starting point:
Bassin de la Villette, 13 Quai de la Loire, 75019 Paris, France

What's included

  • Live comments (English/ French)
  • Bar on board
  • Pass through 4 double locks and 2 swing bridges
  • 2h30 cruise on the canal saint martin
  • Two Options (1) or (2) With different departure point
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Gratuities

What to expect

  1. Capitainerie du Port de l'Arsenal de la Bastille
    Pass by
    .
  2. Place de la Bastille
    Pass by
    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.
  3. Pass by
    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.
  4. Canal Saint-Martin
    Pass by
    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.
  5. Pass by
    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.
  6. Pass by
    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.
  7. Pass by
    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.
  8. Canal de L’Ourq
    Pass by
    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.
  9. Le Pont Levant de Crimee
    Pass by
    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.
  10. Bassin de la Villette
    Pass by
    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 and pickup

Meeting point

Option (2) accès piétons face au 50 boulevard de la Bastille - 75012 PARIS / Métro : BASTILLE Port de l'arsenal

Meeting point

Option (1) - Bassin de la Villette (métro Jaurès) 13 quai de la Loire

End point
End point

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • (Option 2) Arsenal departure: Canauxrama, 50 Bd de la Bastille, 75012 Paris, France
  • (Option 1) Villette departure: Canauxrama, Bassin de la Villette, 13 Quai de la Loire, 75019 Paris, France

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

3.8 (82)
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€32.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
Operated by France Tourisme · Booked through Viator
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