Things to do in Saint-Denis, Réunion: must-sees and where to stay

In short: Saint-Denis is where most travellers arrive in Réunion. Before setting off to explore the island, ideally by car, enjoy the Barachois, the Creole houses of Rue de Paris, the Jardin de l’État, the covered market and the places of worship of every community. Swimming: only in the lagoon and supervised areas.

The Barachois

The city’s seafront, the Barachois and its cannons facing the ocean are where locals go for a stroll, especially in the late afternoon.

Rue de Paris and the Creole houses

Rue de Paris lines up beautiful Creole houses, with verandas and carved lambrequins, showcasing the island’s architecture.

The Jardin de l’État

At the top of Rue de Paris, the Jardin de l’État, an old botanical garden, holds Indian Ocean plants and a natural history museum.

The covered market and Creole food

Spices, vanilla, crafts and fruit: the big market is a good stop. Try Creole food: carris, rougails, samosas and bouchons.

A mixed city

Cathedral, mosque, Tamil temples and pagoda: the places of worship of every community, often a few streets apart, tell the story of the island’s mixed heritage.

Day trips from Saint-Denis

• The Salazie cirque and the village of Hell-Bourg, the closest to Saint-Denis.
• The Mafate cirque, reachable only on foot or by helicopter, and Cilaos.
• Piton de la Fournaise, via the Route des Plaines.
• The west coast and the Saint-Gilles lagoon.

Getting around

• On foot in the centre.
• A car is almost essential to explore the island.
• From Roland Garros airport, in Sainte-Marie, about fifteen minutes by road from the centre, shuttles and taxis run to town.

All our tips for the country: Travel in Réunion.

Where to stay in Saint-Denis?

• Town centre. Shops, restaurants and beautiful Creole houses, near Rue de Paris. Ideal for: first visit, budget.
• Barachois. The seafront, its cannons and sunsets, a short walk from the centre. Ideal for: couples, seafront.
• The hills (Le Brûlé, La Montagne). Cooler and calmer, with views of the city and the ocean; a car is needed. Ideal for: quiet, nature.

The areas and useful services are on our Saint-Denis page.