Things To Do
in Saint-Denis
Saint-Denis is a suburb of Paris known for its rich history and cultural significance. It is home to the Basilica of Saint-Denis, the burial site of many French monarchs, making it a popular tourist attraction. The city has a diverse population and vibrant marketplaces showcasing a blend of different cultures.
Saint-Denis is also known for its strong sense of community and active engagement in social and political issues.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the stunning Basilica of Saint-Denis, the final resting place of many French kings. Take time to appreciate its Gothic architecture and rich history.
Enjoy lunch at a local café, trying some traditional French cuisine. After lunch, explore the nearby market for local crafts and produce.
Dine at a charming restaurant in the area, savoring authentic French dishes. End the evening with a walk through the vibrant streets of Saint-Denis.
Start your day at the Museum of Art and History, exploring various exhibitions and collections. Engage with local art scenes and learn about the cultural heritage of Saint-Denis.
Visit the Maison de la Culture, where you can discover theater and performance arts. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café before heading back to the museum.
Attend a cultural event or performance if available. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery, discussing your favorite discoveries of the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history with notable landmarks such as the Basilica of Saint-Denis.
- Diverse community with a mix of cultures and languages.
- Proximity to Paris, making it convenient for commuting and access to city amenities.
- Vibrant markets and local businesses offering a range of products and services.
- Developing infrastructure and urban renewal projects enhancing city living.
- Higher crime rates compared to other areas of the Ăle-de-France region.
- Some areas experiencing socio-economic challenges.
- Public transportation can be crowded and unreliable at times.
- Perception issues related to safety may deter some visitors or new residents.
- Ongoing development may lead to construction disruptions in certain areas.
Best Activities in Saint-Denis
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful park offering walking trails, open green spaces, and a peaceful ambiance for outdoor relaxation.
Featuring sports events and concerts, this stadium offers an exciting outdoor experience for sports enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Perfect for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, or picnicking along the scenic canal.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint-Denis with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint-Denis
Visit one of these nice places.
This historic basilica offers stunning views of Saint-Denis and its surroundings, as well as the opportunity to capture beautiful architectural details.
This park provides picturesque views of the basilica and its surroundings, making it a great location for photo opportunities.
The tranquil canal offers charming scenes and opportunities to capture the city's unique atmosphere.
Food in Saint-Denis
Saint-Denis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic French dish featuring braised chicken cooked with wine, lardons, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. Best enjoyed at Le Coq Hardi, a renowned restaurant known for its exceptional rendition of this dish.
Must-Try!
A savory pie made with a mixture of ground meat and liver, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. La Maison du Paté is a celebrated charcuterie in Saint-Denis known for its delectable Paté en Croûte.
A Provençal stewed vegetable dish originating from Nice. Chez Agnes, a charming bistro, serves a delightful rendition of Ratatouille that captures the essence of traditional French home cooking.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint-Denis better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a plethora of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local delicacies. Visitors can savor delectable street food such as crepes, galettes, and freshly-baked pastries while exploring the vibrant market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Saint-Denis, France, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, kiss on the cheek, or a simple 'bonjour' (good day) or 'bonsoir' (good evening). It's important to acknowledge people with a friendly greeting when entering shops, restaurants, and social gatherings.
In French culture, there is an emphasis on respecting personal space. When engaging in conversation, it's important to maintain an appropriate physical distance and avoid standing too close to others.
During meals, it's customary to keep your hands visible on the table and refrain from placing elbows. It's also polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat and to keep your hands on the table, rather than on your lap. Additionally, it's common to say 'bon appétit' before beginning your meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint-Denis with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Denis
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint-Denis, France, tipping is not obligatory as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, it is customary to leave a small amount of change or round up the total if you are satisfied with the service.
Cash is widely accepted in Saint-Denis, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payments are increasingly popular, and major cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller transactions and in case certain establishments do not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint-Denis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a popular time to visit Saint-Denis, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect crowds during this time, especially around popular attractions such as the Basilica of Saint-Denis and the Stade de France.
Summer in Saint-Denis brings warm weather and various outdoor events and festivals. It's a great time for exploring the city's parks and enjoying outdoor activities. However, be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds, particularly in popular tourist areas.
Fall offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to the summer months. It's a good time for sightseeing and enjoying the city's cultural events and museums. However, some attractions may have reduced operating hours during this season.
Winter in Saint-Denis is quieter with fewer tourists. While the weather is cooler, the city's festive decorations and holiday markets create a charming atmosphere. It's an ideal time to experience the local culture and cuisine with fewer crowds at popular restaurants and landmarks.
Saint-Denis at Night
Hiking in Saint-Denis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park not far from Saint-Denis, featuring diverse hiking trails, lush forests, and scenic views.
Located north of Paris, this forest offers a variety of trails amidst ancient trees, ideal for hiking and nature walks.
While primarily a science museum, the park surrounding it has great trails for a leisurely hike and appreciation of the open air.
A picturesque park with hills, waterfalls, and winding paths, perfect for casual hikes and enjoying the scenery.
A large urban park with walking paths and various attractions, combining nature and culture, making it great for a day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint-Denis through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint-Denis by plane.
The largest international airport serving Paris, located approximately 25 kilometers northeast of Saint-Denis.
The second major airport serving Paris, situated about 13 kilometers south of Saint-Denis.
An international airport located about 70 kilometers north of Saint-Denis, mainly serving low-cost airlines.
A historic airport primarily used for general aviation and business flights, located around 10 kilometers northeast of Saint-Denis.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population consists of immigrants, particularly from North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Saint-Denis has a high percentage of young people, with a large proportion under the age of 25.
The area is known for its working-class families, many of whom are employed in service and industrial sectors.
The city is home to diverse ethnic communities, including significant numbers of individuals from Arab, African, and Caribbean backgrounds.
There is a notable number of single-parent households, often led by women.
A considerable number of residents fall below the poverty line, with various social challenges.
With several educational institutions in the area, Saint-Denis has a notable student population.
The Soul of Saint-Denis
Discover the essence of Saint-Denis through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Saint-Denis, with local clubs and the famous Stade de France hosting various matches, including national and international games.
Rugby enjoys a strong following in Saint-Denis, with several local teams and a community that actively participates in the sport.
Basketball is another popular sport, with various recreational and competitive leagues available for all ages in the community.
Athletics is promoted through local clubs and events, encouraging participation in running, jumping, and throwing disciplines.
Volleyball has a growing interest in Saint-Denis, with both indoor and beach volleyball events attracting local players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Denis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Saint-Denis embraces vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, and many eateries offer a diverse selection of plant-based dishes that showcase the richness of French culinary traditions with a contemporary twist. Notable establishments catering to vegetarians and vegans include Le Potager du Roy and J'aime ma BiĂšre, which offer innovative and flavorful plant-based creations.
For those with gluten sensitivities, numerous restaurants in Saint-Denis provide gluten-free dining options, ensuring a delightful culinary experience without compromising dietary preferences. La Table d'EugĂšne and La Cantine du Voyage offer delectable gluten-free dishes tailored to meet the needs of gluten-intolerant diners.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint-Denis with these cultural adventures.
