Things To Do
in Saint-Omer
Saint-Omer is a historic market town in northern France set along the Audomarois marshes. Its compact medieval center is anchored by the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the ancient Saint-Bertin Abbey, with charm found in winding lanes, timber-framed houses, and lively markets. The town serves as a serene gateway to the Audomarois wetlands, offering easy access to birdwatching, peaceful canals, and nature trails.
A culture-rich base for exploring Flemish influences, regional cuisine, and nearby coastlines, Saint-Omer rewards patient explorers who enjoy slow-paced towns with strong heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Saint-Omer and check into your charming accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic town center, enjoying the picturesque canals and medieval architecture. Stop by a local café for a traditional French breakfast of croissants and café au lait.
Visit the stunning Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saint-Omer, marveling at its gothic architecture and impressive stained glass windows. Afterward, explore the Jardin Public to unwind amidst the beautiful flowers and greenery. Capture photo memories while wandering through the quaint streets filled with artisanal shops.
Enjoy dinner at a local bistro where you can savor regional specialties like carbonnade flamande. After dinner, take a relaxed walk along the town's illuminated canals, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar.
Start your day with a visit to the Abbey of Saint-Bertin, an ancient Benedictine abbey that tells the story of Saint-Omer's rich past. Join a guided tour to learn about the abbey's history and the significance of its beautiful architecture. Spend some time in its peaceful surroundings, perfect for reflection.
Head to the Museum of Saint-Omer, where you can explore an impressive collection of local art and historical artifacts. The museum offers engaging exhibits that highlight the region's cultural heritage. Take your time to appreciate the fusion between historical treasures and contemporary art.
Dine at a restaurant featuring classic Flemish dishes, allowing you to indulge in the region's culinary delights. Savor a warm, comforting meal while listening to the gentle sounds of live music or local entertainers. End the evening with a stroll under the stars, getting a glimpse of the twinkling lights adorning the buildings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚶Public transport trip | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $90-140 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction ticket | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact historic center with easy navigation on foot
- Access to the Audomarois marshes and birdwatching
- Rich Flemish-influenced cuisine and markets
- Cultural sites like Notre-Dame Cathedral and Hôtel Sandelin
- Relaxed pace with opportunities for day trips to nearby coast and countryside
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale entertainment options
- Some attractions may have seasonal hours or be closed midweek
- Occasional language barrier in smaller establishments
- Can be rainy or damp; marsh trails require proper footwear and navigation
- Public transport options are decent but less frequent than big cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The check, please.
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like…
- "Pouvez-vous parler plus lentement?" - Could you speak more slowly?
Places to Visit in Saint-Omer
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic façade and spires set against the town skyline; a dramatic subject at dawn or dusk.
Renaissance courtyard and façade with refined details perfect for architectural photography.
Historic church ruins and surrounding grounds ideal for atmospheric shots and history-in-context imagery.
Cobblestone lanes and medieval walls along the canal-side paths; great for moody street scenes.
Architectural centerpiece of the market area offering geometric lines and lively street photography opportunities.
Boardwalks and hides overlooking wetlands; ideal for birds, water, and expansive landscape shots.
Food in Saint-Omer
Saint-Omer Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beer-braised beef stew common throughout northern France and Belgium; try it at a brasserie and pair with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
A rich cheese sauce served over toasted bread, a regional favorite in many Nord-Pas-de-Calais eateries.
A Flemish-inspired cold meat terrine often served with pickles and crusty bread; look for it in local brasseries.
Savoury meat patties that appear in many bistros in the region; great with potatoes or slaw.
Country pâté made with herbs and spices; widely available in markets and taverns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market experience near the historic center with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, bread, and local prepared foods to sample.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and use 'Madame/Monsieur' in shops. A polite, patient tone is appreciated.
Keep hands visible, use utensils properly, and avoid rushing meals in formal settings.
French is preferred; if you don’t speak much French, a few basic phrases help; speaking slowly and clearly is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Omer
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, tipping is discretionary. A 5-10% tip in restaurants for good service is common; many places include a service charge. Round up at cafés or leave spare change if service was satisfactory.
Cards are widely accepted (Visa/Mastercard, plus contactless). Cash is still useful for small purchases and markets. ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures, blooming streets, and active markets. Great for outdoor photography and canal walks.
Warm days with some humidity; outdoor cafés thrive. Expect longer daylight for late-evening strolls and sunset photos.
Cooler temps and colorful foliage; marsh landscapes take on moody tones—good for dramatic photography and quieter streets.
Chillier and often damp; architecture and interiors shine with warm light in the evenings; markets still operate with festive ambiance.
Saint-Omer at Night
Hiking in Saint-Omer
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate hikes along boardwalks with abundant birdlife and marsh views.
Gentle hillside hikes providing scenic vistas of the surrounding countryside; suitable for a half-day trip from Saint-Omer.
Flat, long-distance paths along historic canals ideal for day-long or multi-hour walks and bike rides.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Omer by plane.
Regional airport connected to French and some international destinations; roughly 70-100 minutes by road from Saint-Omer.
Belgian airport offering several European destinations; convenient for cross-border travelers to the region.
Small regional airport near Calais and Dunkerque; useful for domestic or low-cost connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of traditional families, long-time locals, and retirees who preserve the town’s heritage.
Nearby colleges and training centers contribute a youthful presence, especially in the city center.
Visitors drawn to the marshes, cathedral, and medieval ambiance in search of culture and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime in towns around Saint-Omer with local clubs and community fields.
Flat countryside and canal towpaths make cycling a favorite activity for locals and visitors alike.
City courts and club facilities are common for recreational play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Omer.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many brasseries can accommodate vegetarians with cheese dishes, veggie plates, or pasta. When ordering, say 'Sans viande, sans poisson' and ask for the chef’s recommendations.