Things To Do
in Saint-Quentin

Weekly markets and an indoor covered market offer local produce, cheese, charcuterie and baked goods—perfect for sampling seasonal items and assembling a picnic.

Small crêperies and street-food stalls near the canal and main squares serve crêpes, sandwiches and local snacks—great for lunch on the go.

Politeness matters: begin interactions with 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir' in the evening) and use 'Monsieur'/'Madame'. A simple 'Bonjour, monsieur' goes a long way in shops and cafés.

Keep hands visible on the table, wait to be invited to start eating if someone else is present, and don’t expect loud casual behavior in modest dining venues—pace and manners are appreciated.

WWI sites and memorials are treated with solemnity; behave respectfully, avoid loud behavior and follow any site rules.

While many people may understand basic English, attempting a few French phrases is appreciated and shows respect for local culture.

Service is typically included in restaurant bills (‘service compris’), but leaving small change or rounding up for good service is appreciated. For taxis and hotel porters, a few euros for helpful service is normal.

Cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, though small markets, cafés and rural vendors may prefer cash. Carry some euros for small purchases; contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common.

Warmest and busiest season with pleasant temperatures for canal walks, cycling and outdoor terraces; expect more local events and longer daylight hours. Occasionally hot spells can occur—light clothing, sunscreen and a water bottle are recommended.

Crisp days, colorful foliage along the canal and in nearby forests; great for photography and hiking. Some attractions move to reduced hours and rain becomes more likely—bring layers and a waterproof jacket.

Chillier and quieter, with fewer tourists; some smaller businesses may close for winter hours. Occasional frost or snow can create beautiful scenes but dress warmly and be prepared for shorter daylight.

Blossoming parks and milder weather make it an excellent time for outdoor activities and visiting markets; unpredictable showers mean packing a light umbrella and layers.

Gentle, mostly flat towpath suitable for walking and cycling; passes locks, small bridges and scenic canal-side spots—good for half-day outings.

Shaded forest paths offering varied routes through woods, streams and clearings; ideal for longer hikes, birdwatching and picnics.

Historic ridgeline with trails linking WWI memorials and viewpoints across rolling countryside—mixes history with open-air walking.

Numerous short loops around surrounding villages for gentle countryside walks, farm vistas and experiencing rural Picardy life.