The capital of Reunion Island is often rushed through on the way from the airport to the cirques. Yet Saint-Denis deserves a stop: Creole houses, places of worship from every culture on the island, gardens and a seafront that are easy to explore on foot in a day. Here are our ten must-sees, chosen by the Hôtel Select team.
1. The Barachois seafront
Saint-Denis’ iconic promenade runs along the Indian Ocean, with its cannons facing the sea and the statue of aviator Roland Garros, who was born in Saint-Denis. Perfect for a late-afternoon stroll as the light fades over the water. Read more: The Barachois seafront.
2. The Jardin de l’État
This historic botanical garden, laid out in the 18th century, is home to trees and plants from all over the Indian Ocean. At the far end, the Natural History Museum presents the wildlife of Reunion and its neighbouring islands. A cool haven right in the city centre.
3. Rue de Paris and its Creole houses
Rue de Paris is lined with some of the city’s finest Creole houses, with their verandas (varangues), lace-like lambrequins and gardens. Maison Carrère, one of the most remarkable, hosts the tourist office: a good place to start.
4. The Noor-e-Islam Mosque
Built in the early 20th century on rue Maréchal-Leclerc, it is often described as the oldest mosque in France, a reminder of the long-standing Muslim community on the island.
5. The Kalikambal Tamil temple
Its colourful façade and sculptures of Hindu deities make it one of the most photographed places in town, reflecting the strong Tamil culture of Reunion.
6. The Guan Di pagoda
More discreet, the Chinese pagoda recalls the history of Reunion’s Chinese community. Just a few streets from the mosque and the temple, it completes a walk that perfectly illustrates the island’s way of living together.
7. Saint-Denis Cathedral
Built in the 19th century, the cathedral and its shady square are one of the historic hearts of the city, close to the shops of rue Maréchal-Leclerc.
8. The Grand Marché
Under its metal structure, the Grand Marché gathers Malagasy and Reunionese crafts, basketry, spices, vanilla and souvenirs. The place to find a gift to take home.
9. The Petit Marché
Tropical fruit, vegetables, fresh juice, chillies and samosas: the Petit Marché is where locals buy fresh produce, about a 15-minute walk from the hotel.
10. The Léon Dierx Museum
Saint-Denis’ fine-arts museum shows modern and contemporary art collections and temporary exhibitions. A good idea for a rainy day.
Practical tips
Most of these visits can be done on foot in the city centre. Bring water, a hat and comfortable shoes: it is warm for most of the year. Check opening hours of museums and places of worship, and dress respectfully to visit them. The city centre is about a 12-minute walk from Hôtel Select and Roland Garros airport is 8 minutes away by car.
Where to stay in Saint-Denis?
Hôtel Select welcomes you in Saint-Denis, 8 minutes from Roland Garros Airport: 24/7 reception, free covered parking, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms and a breakfast buffet from 6 am. Our team speaks French, English, Creole and Hindi and is happy to help you plan your outings.