Things To Do
in Saint-Ouen

Saint-Ouen is a vibrant suburb located just north of Paris, known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling markets. It is home to the famous Marché aux Puces, one of the largest antique markets in the world, attracting visitors and collectors alike. The area boasts a mix of historical architecture and modern development, creating a unique atmosphere.

With its close proximity to the capital, Saint-Ouen offers a delightful blend of Parisian charm and local authenticity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Markets
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, where you can browse through countless stalls filled with antiques, vintage clothing, and unique collectibles.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby café, explore the nearby Parc des Docks de Saint-Ouen, a modern park with art installations and walking paths.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local bistro, followed by a walk around the neighborhood to soak in the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Église Saint-Ouen, an impressive church known for its stunning stained glass windows and Gothic architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Musée de la Vie Romantique to learn about the Romantic era in French history and enjoy the beautiful gardens.

evening
:

Finish your day with a leisurely dinner at a restaurant offering traditional French cuisine, followed by drinks at a local wine bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🍷Glass of Wine$5-$10
🍔Fast Food Meal$10-$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and vibrant markets.
  • Close proximity to Paris while maintaining a local charm.
  • Diverse culinary scene with various dining options.
  • Can be crowded, especially during weekends.
  • Limited English-speaking in some local establishments.
  • Some areas may feel less polished compared to central Paris.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Saint-Ouen

Visit one of these nice places.

Marché aux Puces

Capture the vibrant atmosphere and eclectic mix of antiques and treasures.

Église Saint-Ouen

Photograph the stunning Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows.

Parc des Docks

A modern park with colorful installations and scenic views, perfect for outdoor photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Saint-Ouen

Saint-Ouen is a culinary delight, offering a mix of traditional French cuisine and international flavors. From bustling markets to quaint bistros, food lovers will find plenty of options to indulge in local delicacies.

Saint-Ouen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish made with chicken braised in red wine, mushrooms, and lardons.

Must-Try!

Ratatouille

A vegetable dish made with zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes, simmered with herbs.

Tarte Tatin

An upside-down caramelized apple tart, served warm with crème fraîche.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen

One of the largest antique markets in the world, where you can find food stalls offering local snacks and drinks.

Marché de Saint-Ouen

A local market with fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Saint-Ouen experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with average highs around 25°C (77°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with average lows around 3°C (37°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) bring mild temperatures, with rain possible throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet shopkeepers with 'Bonjour' when entering a store.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during meals.

Quiet Hours

Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas during the evening.

Safety Guide

Safety

Saint-Ouen is generally safe for travelers, but like any urban area, it is wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Pickpocketing can occur in tourist hotspots, so keep your belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Saint-Ouen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor explorations.

Summer

Warm weather attracts visitors, and outdoor cafes are bustling; be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Enjoy beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for walking tours.

Winter

Cold weather may limit outdoor activities, but festive decorations and holiday markets make the city charming.

Nightlife Guide

Saint-Ouen at Night

Saint-Ouen's nightlife offers a mix of bars, bistros, and live music venues. The atmosphere is lively, particularly around the markets and local squares, where you can find various options from casual pubs to more upscale wine bars. Many establishments host live music and events, making it a great place to experience the local culture after dark.

Hiking in Saint-Ouen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parc de la Courneuve

A large park offering walking and biking trails, ideal for a leisurely day outdoors.

Forêt de Montmorency

Located a short drive away, this forest features various hiking trails through lush greenery.

Airports

How to reach Saint-Ouen by plane.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Located approximately 25 km from Saint-Ouen, CDG is the main international airport serving Paris, offering extensive flight connections worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Saint-Ouen is highly walkable, particularly around the market areas and parks. Many attractions are within a short walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. Well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets enhance the walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals reside in Saint-Ouen due to its proximity to Paris and affordable housing options.

Families

The suburb attracts families looking for a quieter environment while still having access to urban amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is immensely popular, with local clubs and community games frequently held.

Basketball

Basketball has a strong following, with local teams and recreational leagues available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Saint-Ouen can be busy, particularly during rush hours, but public transportation options are extensive. The metro system and buses provide convenient access to Paris and surrounding areas. Biking is also a popular option, with dedicated lanes available in many parts of the suburb.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Ouen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional French cuisine includes bread and pastries, some restaurants provide gluten-free alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Saint-Ouen has access to several healthcare facilities, including clinics and hospitals. Emergency services are available, and it is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international medical care. Pharmacies are also readily available for minor health concerns.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide