Le Canal Saint-Martin

Winding all the way from the Canal d’Ourq into the River Seine, the Canal Saint-Martin is the focal point for much of the city’s best eating and drinking. Sit out at one of the canal’s many bars (Chez Prune, 36 rue Beaurepaire, is a firm favourite), catch a film at MK2 Quai de Seine, a concert at Point-Ephémère (200 Quai de Valmy) or buy a praline escargot pastry from Du pain et des idées (34 rue Yves Toudic) and eat it with your legs dangling towards, but not in, the water. To the north end of the canal the banks are flanked by terrains, grey sandy areas used for pétanque, and you can head to one of the crêperie boats for a pancake and beer while watching the old Parisians battle it out for money. Alternatively buy a drink at Bar Ourq (68 Quai de la Loire), a beautiful blue corner-bar, pick up one of the pétanque sets by the door and have a go yourself.

Image Credit: Falcon Photography, Flickr