The tranquil, 4.5km-long Canal St-Martin was inaugurated in 1825 to provide a shipping link between the Seine and the northeastern Parisian suburbs. Emerging from below ground near place République, its shaded towpaths take you past locks, metal bridges and ordinary Parisian neighbourhoods. It’s a great place for a romantic stroll or cycle.

Note that many neighbourhood shops and bistros here are closed on Sundays and Mondays.