Saint-Ouen is a vibrant city located in the northern suburbs of Paris, France. Known for its rich history, lively flea market, and cultural attractions, Saint-Ouen offers visitors a unique and diverse experience. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Saint-Ouen:
1. Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen (Saint-Ouen Flea Market)
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This world-famous flea market is a treasure trove for antique lovers and bargain hunters. Spanning several hectares, it offers a vast array of vintage furniture, clothing, art, and collectibles. Exploring the market is an adventure in itself, and you can spend hours browsing through the stalls and uncovering hidden gems.
2. The Hôtel de Ville
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The beautiful town hall of Saint-Ouen is worth a visit for its stunning architecture. The building showcases an elegant blend of different architectural styles and serves as a symbol of the city’s heritage. Take a stroll around the square to admire the facade and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
3. Église Saint-Ouen
This charming church is a must-see for history enthusiasts and art lovers. The Église Saint-Ouen dates back to the 12th century and features intricate Gothic architecture. Inside, you’ll find remarkable stained glass windows and a serene ambiance that invites reflection and contemplation.
4. Le 6b
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If you’re interested in contemporary art and creative spaces, Le 6b is a must-visit. This vibrant cultural center houses artist studios, exhibition spaces, and hosts regular art events. It’s a great place to interact with local artists, discover innovative artwork, and experience the thriving artistic scene of Saint-Ouen.
5. Les Docks de Saint-Ouen
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Located along the banks of the Seine River, Les Docks de Saint-Ouen is a revitalized industrial area that now houses various recreational activities. You can find restaurants, bars, music venues, and even a floating swimming pool. Enjoy a leisurely stroll by the river, savor delicious cuisine, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
6. Parc des Docks
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Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in the serene Parc des Docks. This urban park features green spaces, walking paths, and recreational areas where you can enjoy a picnic, play sports, or simply unwind. It’s an ideal spot to recharge and soak up the natural beauty of Saint-Ouen.
7. La Manufacture Design
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If you have an interest in design and home decor, don’t miss a visit to La Manufacture Design. This concept store showcases a curated selection of furniture, lighting, and decorative items from both established and emerging designers. Explore the showroom to discover innovative and stylish pieces that reflect the latest trends in interior design.
8. Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace (Air and Space Museum)
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Located near Saint-Ouen in Le Bourget, the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace is a fascinating attraction for aviation enthusiasts. The museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft, including historic planes, helicopters, and even spacecraft. Explore the exhibitions to learn about the history of aviation and space exploration through interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
9. Canal Saint-Denis
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Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike along the picturesque Canal Saint-Denis. This waterway runs through Saint-Ouen and offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you walk along the towpaths, admire the charming bridges, and observe the boats gliding by. It’s a great way to connect with nature and experience a different side of Saint-Ouen.
10. Les Puces de Saint-Ouen Market
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In addition to the famous Marché aux Puces, Saint-Ouen is home to other markets within its vicinity. Explore Les Puces de Saint-Ouen Market, which consists of smaller markets such as Paul Bert Serpette, Vernaison, and Malik. These markets offer a diverse range of vintage clothing, books, artwork, and unique finds. It’s a paradise for antique enthusiasts and a great place to hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures.
11. Street Art
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Saint-Ouen is a hub for street art, and the city’s walls are adorned with vibrant and thought-provoking murals. Take a street art tour or simply wander the streets to discover impressive graffiti and urban art pieces. The artwork adds an extra layer of creativity and color to the city’s atmosphere.
12. Les Éboueurs
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For a unique and entertaining experience, consider attending a performance by Les Éboueurs. This theater troupe specializes in “poubellologie,” or “trashology,” where they create humorous and imaginative shows using recycled materials and trash cans. Prepare to be amazed by their creativity and talent as they transform ordinary objects into extraordinary works of art.
13. Seine-Saint-Denis Archives
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History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Seine-Saint-Denis Archives in Saint-Ouen. This modern archival center houses a wealth of historical documents, photographs, and records that provide insight into the region’s past. Explore the exhibits and delve into the rich heritage of Saint-Ouen and its surrounding areas.
14. L’Atelier Renault
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Car enthusiasts should make a stop at L’Atelier Renault, located in nearby Paris. This interactive showroom and exhibition space showcases the latest models and technological innovations from the renowned French automobile manufacturer. Discover the history of Renault, admire concept cars, and participate in interactive activities that offer a behind-the-scenes look at the automotive industry.
15. Parc de la Butte-du-Chapeau-Rouge
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For outdoor recreation and relaxation, head to Parc de la Butte-du-Chapeau-Rouge. Located on the outskirts of Saint-Ouen, this park provides a peaceful escape with its green spaces, walking trails, and picnic areas. Take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature in this serene setting.
16. Les Petits Ruisseaux
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Indulge in a culinary experience at Les Petits Ruisseaux, a cozy and charming restaurant in Saint-Ouen. Known for its farm-to-table concept, this establishment offers seasonal and locally sourced dishes prepared with passion and creativity. Enjoy a delightful meal in a warm and inviting atmosphere, and savor the flavors of the region.
17. Cité du Cinéma
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Film enthusiasts can visit the Cité du Cinéma, located in nearby Saint-Denis. Founded by renowned French filmmaker Luc Besson, this sprawling film studio complex offers guided tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the world of cinema. Explore soundstages, see props and costumes, and learn about the filmmaking process in this immersive cinematic experience.
18. Saint-Ouen Cemetery
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Pay your respects to historical figures at the Saint-Ouen Cemetery. This tranquil resting place is the final resting ground for notable personalities, including artists, writers, and politicians. Take a reflective walk through the cemetery and appreciate the serene ambiance while admiring the beautifully designed tombstones and mausoleums.
19. Les Jardins de l’Impératrice Joséphine
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Discover the botanical beauty of Les Jardins de l’Impératrice Joséphine, a lovely garden located in Saint-Ouen. Named after Empress Joséphine, the garden features a variety of plant species, manicured lawns, and picturesque pathways. It’s a serene and enchanting spot to unwind, enjoy nature, and take in the fragrant blooms.
Places and Things To Do
