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232 kmThings to do
2 days in La Rochelle
Day 1
- MorningClimb the medieval towers at the entrance to the Old Port.
- AfternoonVisit the large aquarium or wander the arcaded streets.
- EveningHave dinner on the harbour as the towers light up.
Day 2
Cycle over the bridge to the Île de Ré.
What to eat
A seafood platter with Marennes oysters.
Local tips
Make the most of La Rochelle
Beat the crowds
The Old Port is busy on summer evenings. Mornings are calm, and spring and autumn are lovely.
Best photo spot
The two medieval towers guarding the Old Port, especially at sunset or blue hour.
Getting there
Trains from Paris take about 3 hours. The centre is great by bike; there's a public bike-sharing system.
Don't miss nearby
Île de Ré, reached by a bridge, with white villages, salt marshes and bike paths.
Good to know
Climb the towers for the view over the port. In early July, the city hosts a big music festival.
Secret spots
1 secret spot near La Rochelle
Our most hidden places around La Rochelle: fewer people, same wow. Unlock them with a route in Google Maps and a PDF guide of La Rochelle to take with you.
lah xn le21 km awayAt a glance
Questions
La Rochelle: good to know
Is La Rochelle worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you like the coast, food and historic old towns. An old harbour guarded by medieval towers on the Atlantic.
How many days do you need in La Rochelle?
Plan 1 night. Our free 2-day plan above shows how to spend your time.
When is the best time to visit La Rochelle?
You can visit all year. The Old Port is busy on summer evenings. Mornings are calm, and spring and autumn are lovely.
How do you get to La Rochelle?
The nearest airport is La Rochelle Airport (LRH), about 4 km away. Trains from Paris take about 3 hours. The centre is great by bike; there's a public bike-sharing system.
What is there to see near La Rochelle?
Nearby hidden places include Nantes (122 km), Bordeaux (154 km) and Dune du Pilat (175 km).