THE 10 BEST La Rochelle Tours & Excursions

La rochelle tours.

  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Walking Tours
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Cultural Tours
  • Private Tours
  • Segway Tours
  • Skip-the-Line Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
  • Ports of Call Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

tours in la rochelle

1. La Rochelle : Private Custom Private Walking Tour With a local

tours in la rochelle

2. La Rochelle Heritage Segway Tour

tours in la rochelle

3. 3 Hour La Rochelle Private Tour

tours in la rochelle

4. La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour

tours in la rochelle

5. La Rochelle Grand Format Segway Tour

tours in la rochelle

6. La Rochelle Lighthouse at the end of the world Segway Tour

tours in la rochelle

7. 1.5 Hour Guided Tour in Poitiers

tours in la rochelle

8. La Rochelle Towers Entrance Ticket

tours in la rochelle

9. PREMIUM Electric Scooter Rental - Day

tours in la rochelle

10. La Rochelle: Private Walking Tour

tours in la rochelle

11. Gems of the Port Outdoor Escape Game in La Rochelle

tours in la rochelle

12. Escape at sea, private experience for your tribe

tours in la rochelle

13. Private Transfer from La Rochelle Cruise Port to Nantes Hotels

tours in la rochelle

14. Private Transfer from La Rochelle Port to Nantes Airport (NTE)

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

tours in la rochelle

Escapes Games outdoor The Magic Portal On The Ile De Re

tours in la rochelle

Prestige Tour and Cognac Tasting

tours in la rochelle

The Gabarres river route

tours in la rochelle

Private tour Cognac House in Segonzac with tasting

tours in la rochelle

Discovery kayak 17 3-hour getaway

tours in la rochelle

retro road trip/ Méhari, 2CV & Burton in Rochefort, La Rochelle

tours in la rochelle

Discovery Kayak 17 Family Sea Kayak Trip

tours in la rochelle

Aux Sables d'Olonne Bike rental, e-bike, all-terrain scooter

tours in la rochelle

Sea trip around the Cordouan Lighthouse

tours in la rochelle

Sea Fishing Trip around the Cordouan Lighthouse

tours in la rochelle

Seafood Tasting near the Cordouan Lighthouse

tours in la rochelle

e-Scavenger hunt Cognac: Explore the city at your own pace

tours in la rochelle

3-Hour Private Painting with Cognac

tours in la rochelle

150-minute VIP visit of a vineyard in Segonzac with cocktail break

tours in la rochelle

Cognac Masterclass with a certified Educator

What travelers are saying.

Grace W

  • La Rochelle : Private Custom Private Walking Tour With a local
  • La Rochelle Heritage Segway Tour
  • Gems of the Port Outdoor Escape Game in La Rochelle
  • La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour
  • 3 Hour La Rochelle Private Tour
  • Croisières Navipromer
  • Croisieres Inter-iles
  • Aldabra Yacht Charter Catamaran
  • Mobilboard La Rochelle
  • Association La Voile Pour Tous

Français

Visit La Rochelle: Top 15 things to do and see

Things to do in la rochelle: all highlights and activities.

You’re planning to visit La Rochelle during your next trip to France?

Great idea!

To help you discover the best places in the city, I have written this guide of La Rochelle , with all the points of interest.

I will start with the top 15 things to do and see in La Rochelle and continue with itineraries to visit La Rochelle in 1, 2 or 3 days.

If you are wondering where to stay and where to eat , I have also selected for you the best accommodations and restaurants in the city. You will find them at the end of the article.

So, what are the best places to visit in La Rochelle? Where to stay?

1. Old port of La Rochelle

2. towers of la rochelle, 3. visit la rochelle old town, 4. st-louis cathedral of la rochelle, 5. les halles de la rochelle – city center market, 6. charruyer park, 7. aquarium la rochelle, 8. la rochelle museums, 9. la rochelle beaches, 10. la rochelle festivals, 11. do a boat trip from la rochelle, 12. the marais poitevin, 13. saint-jean-d’angle castle, 14. puy du fou, 15. the futuroscope, 16. bonus – visit the wineries around la rochelle, la rochelle city pass, what to do in la rochelle for a day, what to do in la rochelle in 2 days, what to do in la rochelle in 3 days, where to stay in la rochelle , where to eat in la rochelle , renting a boat in la rochelle, tourist map la rochelle, what to do in la rochelle with your family, what are the best things to do in la rochelle when it rains, where can i go walking around la rochelle for a bit of fresh air, you’re traveling in france these articles will help you.

I will start this list of must-see attractions with the Old Port of La Rochelle , for me the most beautiful place in the city.

The old port has been playing an important role in the development of the city since the Middle Ages, thanks to the infamous triangular trade (slave trade).

Today, it’s a marina where you can enjoy strolling along the quays . The Quai du Carénage, Quai Duperré and the Cours des Dames are very lively and touristic in summer, with many street painters and street shows.

You can also just relax and have a drink, sitting at one of the numerous terraces on the quays

Visit the Old Port in the evening to admire the lighting of La Rochelle. It’s a great time for strolling through the stalls of the craft market on the quays.

The most fun way to visit La Rochelle is for sure to opt for a Segway guided tour! You will see, the guide is amazing.

To book your guided Segway tour of La Rochelle, simply click on the button below:

And if you prefer to visit on foot, 75 minutes guided walking tours of La Rochelle are also available here:

La Rochelle Old Port

If you started your visit of La Rochelle by the Old Port , you couldn’t miss the 3 emblematic towers that mark the entrance and exit of the harbor:

  • The Lantern tower , a former lighthouse which also served as a prison
  • The Chain Tower , before used as an entrance gate to the port. A t night, a big chain was strung between it and Saint-Nicolas Tower to close the port
  • The Saint-Nicolas tower , the biggest one, which was linked to the Chain Tower to protect the city from dangers and invasions by the sea.

Built in the Middle Ages to protect the city, these towers are now classified as Historic Monuments . You can visit the 3 towers with a single ticket.

These 3 imposing ladies will allow you to learn more about the history of La Rochelle and above all, to discover a magnificent panorama of the city when climbing to the top. If you need to do only 1 paid visit, theses towers are the best places to visit in La Rochelle.

All the information can be found on the the 3 towers official website .

Voyage Tips Advice Good to know: the visit is free for people under 18 years old and for EU citizens between 18-25 years old.

La Rochelle Towers

After strolling along the water’s edge and getting your breath back after climbing the towers, I advise you to take a walk in the old town of La Rochelle.

It begins at the junction of the quai Duperré and the cour des Dames . The entrance is symbolized by the Big Clock Gate (“porte de la Grosse Horloge” in French), which serves as a passage between the port and the city center.

You will discover the famous arcaded streets , which give the city a typical charm. In the past, merchants were spreading their goods there in order to protect them from bad weather, but had to pay a fee for doing so.

Also worth seeing in the historic center of La Rochelle:

  • The numerous private mansions with wooden or carved stone facades
  • The town hall , with its Gothic walls and facade adorned with gargoyles and sculptures, looks like a fortified castle
  • The House of Henri II , a Renaissance style building. Free visit of the court.
  • The “hôtel de la bourse”
  • The courthouse (“palais de justice”)

To learn everything about La Rochelle’s old town, you should opt for a guided tour.

There is nothing better to discover the old town and benefit from historical explanations than to choose a guided tour .

This 75-minute small group walking tour is in my opinion the best option!

The Big Clock Gate, in La Rochelle Old Town

Close to the the Henri II house in the old town, you can visit the Saint-Louis cathedral of La Rochelle .

Don’t be fooled by its quite basic exterior aspect, the interior is worth a look for its paintings and magnificent stained-glass windows.

If you are in the historic centre, don’t hesitate to give it a go, it won’t take you a long time and you will learn a bit more about the city’s history thanks to the  explanatory panels in the cathedral.

You’re going to La Rochelle?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting La Rochelle on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in La Rochelle.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in La Rochelle, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in La Rochelle!

St Louis de La Rochelle cathedral

For the foodies and awesome local products lovers, I recommend you go to “Les Halles de La Rochelle”.

Every morning , these 19th century market halls host a covered market . Ideal for filling up with fresh produce and tasting local flavours. With the proximity of the sea, fish and shellfish lovers will fore sure have a great time there!

On Wednesdays and Saturdays morning, the big market days, the stalls even overflow the entire square and the surrounding streets.

Halles de la Rochelle market

In the heart of La Rochelle, is the Charruyer park , a large public garden of 40 hectares and 2 kilometers long.

Crossed by a canal and lined with trees, it’s an ideal place for a nice stroll away from the stress of the city . You can walk or cycle along the bike path that crosses it.

It is also a good idea for a family trip because the Charruyer park has a children playground and a small animal park that will delight the youngest. Among other things, they will be able to observe goats, geese and donkeys.

Charruyer Park La Rochelle

Another good idea if you’re traveling with your family is the Aquarium of La Rochelle , which is located in front of the Old Port, not far from the Saint-Nicolas tower.

It is one of the most visited tourist sites in Poitou-Charentes region and one of the largest aquariums in Europe. Since its opening in 1988, it quickly became one of La Rochelle top tourist attractions.

You will have the opportunity to admire nearly 12,000 different species coming from all over the world, as the Aquarium is split in various sections: the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Caribbean and tropical rainforest. Don’t miss the jellyfish Ballet or the shark aquarium .

It’s a great learning place for kids and older people alike, with detailed and clear explanations. It’s also a good idea of thing to do, if unfortunately the weather is not that great during your stay in La Rochelle. The visit of the aquarium takes about 2 hours.

Official information, prices, timetables, can be found on the official website.

Aquarium La Rochelle

If you enjoy visiting museums to discover the history of a city , you will not be disappointed in La Rochelle.

Here are some you might like:

  • The maritime museum: through models, engravings and numerous objects, you can discover the maritime history of La Rochelle from the year 1000 to the contemporary ports. You can also visit several ships in the water, including a sailboat, trawlers and a tugboat.
  • The Natural History Museum , which presents nearly 10,000 objects
  • The Museum of Fine Arts and its collection of European paintings from the 15th to the 20th century
  • The New World Museum , which is about France’s relations with the Americas and the Caribbean
  • The bunker of La Rochelle : a real bunker occupied by the German commanders during the Second World War, it will allow you to discover La Rochelle history from 1939 to 1945.
  • The Automatons and scale models Museum (“musée des automates et modèles réduits”), with more than 300 moving automatons and several reproductions of old boats.

A boat of La Rochelle Maritime Museum

After all these walking tours during your trip to La Rochelle, you will probably want to relax a little and enjoy being at the beach.

Hopefully, there are 3 beaches in La Rochelle:

  • The “Plage de la Concurrence” is a 5-minute walk from the city center and is well equipped for a day with children. Please note that there is also an access ramp for disabled people.
  • The Chef-de-Baie beach , the furthest from the center but probably the most pleasant because it is protected from the wind by a sea wall. A large lawn area above the beach allows children to play in complete tranquillity.
  • The beach of Les Minimes , is the largest in La Rochelle with its shops and restaurants. Also equipped with disabled access ramps.

In La Rochelle, you can also enjoy many nautical activities . For more information and to book, simply click on the links below:

  • A 4-hour sailing course to learn the basics of navigation at sea
  • Flyboarding and hoverboarding (I loved it!)
  • A kiteboarding course in small group, with a certified instructor
  • Jet ski rental – Starting from 80€ for 45 minutes
  • A jet ski tour to discover Ile de Ré or Fort Boyard!

Throughout the year, La Rochelle hosts many festivals , including the Francofolies , which is the most famous. The festival, an essential part of the French music scene, takes place every year in July.

La Rochelle is also renowned for its festivals celebrating cinema with the:

  • Festival International du Film de la Rochelle (La Rochelle International Film Festival)
  • Festival de la Fiction TV (TV Fiction Festival)
  • Festival International du Film d’ Aventure (International adventure Movie Festival)

Finally, La Rochelle, a port city, also organizes one of the largest international boat shows, the Grand Pavois .

The Francofolies of La Rochelle

From La Rochelle , a must-do activity is to take one of the many mini cruises offered by local tour agencies.

It’s possible to take a full tour of the region’s maritime attractions:

  • Ile de Ré (Ré island): it’s also possible to go there by car via the Ile de Ré bridge.
  • Oléron island , which is also connected to the mainland by a bridge.
  • The small island of Aix (Île-d’Aix), accessible only by boat. You can then do a walking tour or rent a bike there.
  • The famous Fort Boyard , located between the island of Aix and the Oléron island.

You can also choose to visit an island only and stop by during the day or half day.

Here is my selection of the best boat trips from La Rochelle:

The sailboat cruise to Fort Boyard needs to be booked by clicking on the button below:

A catamaran cruise from La Rochelle – Click on the button below for more info:

And if you’re on a romantic trip to La Rochelle , you can opt for the sunset boat trip:

And if you’re looking for something more sporty, you can do the same itineraries as the boat trips, but with a jet ski tour!

And if you prefer to enjoy a VIP experience, there are 2 other options that will allow you to discover La Rochelle surroundings by boat, away from the other tourists:

1) Book a private boat trip from La Rochelle

In my opinion, this is the best way to make the most of your day at sea in La Rochelle!

You will rent a boat with an experienced skipper that will take care of showing you the most beautiful places of the surroundings

Motorboat, sailboat, catamaran or even yacht: choose the boat you want to spend a dream day!

As you can imagine, this type of VIP day at sea is extremely popular, so you should rent your boat with skipper as soon as possible. It would be a shame to miss this day because all boats are already rented!

You can find all boats with skipper in La Rochelleby clicking on the button below:

2) Rent a boat to discover La Rochelle’s surroundings

If you have a boat license, your second option for a great day at sea is simply to rent a boat!

To do so, it’s very simple: you just have to click on the button below:

Aix Island cove, with a little Mediterranean look!

Best things to do around La Rochelle

There are a lot of things to do around La Rochelle. If you are wondering were to go, here is a list of my favorites!

Less than an hour’s drive from La Rochelle is the must-see nature excursion in the area.

The Marais Poitevin (Poitevin Marsh), a unique site in Europe, is the ideal place for many family activities such as hiking, fishing and cycling . But the best way to discover the Poitevin Marsh is undoubtedly a boat ride.

If  you choose a trip without guide , you will be given a map of the canals and you will be able to to row and find your way around freely.

Another option is to take a boat stroll with a guide who will row (much less tiring!) and tell you the history and legends associated with the Poitevin Marsh.

Poitevin Marsh

The Saint-Jean-d’Angle Castle is located at a 45 minutes drive from La Rochelle. As soon as you arrive, you will be able to dress up for free and discover the castle through puzzles games and quizzes, a great way to learn while having fun.

It’s really a perfect place to visit if you have children.

Saint Jean d’Angle Castel official website

Saint Jean d Angle Castle

At 1h30 from La Rochelle , you will find the Puy du Fou , the famous historical theme park with shows.

The park is recognized worldwide for its originality and creativity and has received since 2012, numerous prizes and awards among the most prestigious in the world.

The Puy du Fou offers several shows based on historical themes such as circus games and Vikings. Don’t miss the great Cinescénie show , the biggest night show in the world: 1h40 of show, 2 000 actors and nearly 24 000 costumes, no doubt that it will blow your mind!

Inside the park you will also find historical reconstructions of villages from different eras , with of course restaurants and hotels.

The park is also easily accessible from the city of Nantes . It’s really one of the best tourist attractions in France.

As the Puy du Fou is extremely famous, there is always a huge waiting line to buy tickets at the entrance of the park. To save a lot of time, you should thus book your tickets in advance!

They need to be bought by clicking the button below:

Puy du Fou

The Futuroscope is another park located at 1h30 from La Rochelle, near the city of Poitiers this time. The park offers more than twenty attractions to immerse you in fantastic worlds and make you experience unique sensations.

Embark on a world tour, dance with robots, become a Minimoy, all thanks to the magic of technology and giant screens. You will love it!

Le conseil Voyage Tips You want to visit the Futuroscope?

To avoid waiting at the entrance to get your tickets, you should really buy your skip the line tickets in advance online:

Futuroscope

La Rochelle is located near Cognac and its famous vineyards.

You will find the list of wineries to visit around La Rochelle by clicking on the green button below:

And the best part is that some visits are free!

In Cognac, the visits of the big wineries are quite popular, I particularly recommend (click on the orange links to book):

  • The Hennessy House, the world leader in Cognac, offers tasting tours for only 20€ to discover its history and know-how.
  • The House of Martell: the oldest of the Great Cognac Houses offers a great thematic tour ending with a tasting
  • The House of Rémy Martin , which has been producing cognac for nearly 3 centuries.

During your stay in La Rochelle , I strongly recommend that you take the City Pass . From 24 to 72 hours, for a price ranging from 28 € to 48 €, it will allow you to save a lot of money.

With the City Pass La Rochelle , you will get:

  • Free and unlimited access to all public transport s in the city: bus, TER, bicycle, “bateau passeur” and sea bus.
  • Free visit of the La Rochelle must-see attractions , they are all included in the free visit list!
  • And as a bonus, guided tours of the city are also included, such as the “parcours des saveurs” (“Flavour Trail”) or “La Rochelle à vélo ” (“Bike tour La Rochelle”).

Visit the City Pass website (in french) to discover all it’s advantages! You can even simulate the savings you will make, and thus choose the pass that will fit your stay the best.

If you only have 1 day in La Rochelle , I suggest you the following itinerary to make the most of your day. You will focus on the main points of interest!

  • Start your day by the Old Port, maybe for a breakfast in one of the restaurants
  • Climb to the top of the 3 towers of La Rochelle
  • Continue your day with the discovery of the the historical center, its arcades and mansions.
  • Lunch break at “Les Halles de La Rochelle” (the city market) or in a restaurant
  • A bucolic walk in the Charruyer Park
  • And if possible, finish the day at one of the 3 beaches of La Rochelle

Must see La Rochelle

In 2 days in La Rochelle , in addition to the previous program, you can do:

  • In the morning, you can do a sea cruise to discover the famous Fort Boyard, the island of Oléron and Ile de Ré on a boat or catamaran.
  • Lunch break
  • Visit one of the many museums of the city
  • End your 2nd day in the city by discovering the Aquarium of La Rochelle

In 3 days in La Rochelle , in addition to the itineraries of the 2 previous days, you will have time to visit one of the attractions around the city! You can:

  • Spend the day in one of the 2 theme parks known all over the world and both located at 1h30 from La Rochelle: the Puy du Fou or the Futuroscope . If you have children this is the best option.
  • Or, if you are a nature lover, discover the Poitevin Marsh , through a magnificent boat ride.
  • Résidence New Rochelle : Hotel located 5 minutes walk from the beach and 2 kilometers from the La Rochelle aquarium. Studio equipped with kitchenette from 50€ per night. Strong points: you can cook your own food, the swimming pool, the quiet location.
  • Hôtel de la Paix : In the heart of the old town, comfortable and well decorated room from 62€ per night, breakfast at 10€. Strong points: located in the city centre, very warm welcome, copious breakfast.
  • Hôtel Les Brises : Situated 10 minutes walk from the beach and 2 kilometers from the Old Port. Nice decorated room with sea view from 80€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the superb view, the geographical location and free parking. It’s my favourite hotel in La Rochelle for its exceptionnal value for money!
  • Novotel La Rochelle Centre : Located at 10 minutes walk from the beach and the old town. Large modern double room starting at 105€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: The swimming pool, the calm, the location.
  • St. Nicholas Hotel: Located 500 meters from the Saint-Nicolas tower. Modern and elegant double room from 130€ per night, breakfast at 14.95€. Strong points: the location, the calm, the private parking.
  • Le bistrot de Mémé : Located in La Rochelle market district. Vintage ambiance, great dishes prepared with local products , very copious meals.
  • Les Pérot-Quais: Located in a street parallel to the Cour des Dames, very close to the Old Port. It is the trendy restaurant of La Rochelle with an original concept. No starters here, but you will have the choice between several plates (“océane, parisiennes, pérot-quai”) made up of various kinds of meat or fish and equally copious.
  • L’Atelier des cousins : Located in La Rochelle old town . This restaurant run by 2 cousins offers delicious dishes based on fresh and plancha cooked products. The value for money is excellent!

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your stay in La Rochelle, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in La Rochelle? 😊

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I have made for you a  tourist map of La Rochelle, listing all the best places to visit I talked about in this guide. You can display the legend of the map by clicking on the top left button with a small arrow.

FAQ – I answer your questions about La Rochelle

If you are planning to visit La Rochelle with your children, I recommend you to:

  • Visit the aquarium , the must-do family outing in La Rochelle!
  • Take a walk in Charruyer Park and its small animal park (free access)
  • Go to the beach
  • Take your kids to the natural history museum of La Rochelle or to the museum of automatons
  • Go on a boat trip to see Fort Boyard.

If unfortunately it’s raining during your visit to La Rochelle , you can:

  • Visit the museums (and there are many!): the maritime museum, the bunker, the New World museum… You have the complete list in point 8 of this article!
  • Go to the aquarium
  • Have some fun at Casino Barrière La Rochelle
  • Discover the covered market halls and taste local products
  • Go shopping under the arcades of the city center
  • Opt for a cocooning day in a spa

For a great day out around La Rochelle, you should visit the island of Ré!

To get to the island of Ré from La Rochelle, you can take your car, the bus or the boat.

Once you will arrive, you can rent a bike to ride the 100 km of cycle tracks. It’s the best way to discover the island’s beautiful beaches as well as the nature reserve of Lilleau des Niges, refuge of many migratory birds.

France travel Guides

  • Buy the Lonely Planet France guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
  • Buy the Rick Steves France guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all our articles about France: All Voyage Tips articles about France are listed here.

  • Honfleur: Top 15 things to do and discover
  • Nice: 15 things to do and see
  • Strasbourg: Top 25 things to do

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Visit la Rochelle

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 2 comments.

Patricia Pappas

Lots of great info here, THANKS! You indicated a map link, but I cannot find it? We are on a Celebrity cruise in Sept and I’m sure we are doing the hop on /hop off, and thought your map would be handy. “Tourist map La Rochelle To help you visualize the city a bit better, I have made for you a tourist map of La Rochelle, listing all the best places to visit I talked about in this guide. You can display the legend of the map by clicking on the top left button with a small arrow.” If I hover over that section, or choice words, nothing lights up. Is there a link? Much appreciated

Vincent

Thank you very much! I’m glad my article about the best things to do in La Rochelle is helping you organise your visit.

We had a problem with the blog and all our maps disappeared. We’re putting them back as we go along. I’ve just put back the map of La Rochelle.

Enjoy your cruise and your visit to La Rochelle!

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Discover La Rochelle

Discover La Rochelle - english speaking guided tours

Discover La Rochelle logo with discover written in white and a red map pointer as the o as well la rochelle in light blue

Premium English Speaking tours of La Rochelle

tours in la rochelle

Discovery Walking Tour

An in-depth tour into the heart of La Rochelle’s soul!

TripAdvisor

The Discovery Walking Tour is great for those who are curious and want a deep discovery of the unique culture of La Rochelle! Packed full of food and drink advice as well as tips and tricks to make the most of your time here in LR, we cover all the must see sites with interesting history and amusing anecdotes  – we even stop for a few tasters on the way round!

Free Walking Tour

A great introduction to La Rochelle’s fascinating culture!

The Free Walking Tour is a great way to get a quick overview of the city of La Rochelle, perfect for those on a budget or strapped for time! We cover some of key sites to see in La Rochelle along with a few great tips on what to see and do here in lovely La Rochelle!

**Free tour is postponed until further notice due to COVID-19 restrictions – Sorry!!!!**

tours in la rochelle

Private Tour

For a more unique experience, book a personalised private tour!

A Private Tour is perfect for individuals, couples or families who want to have a tour all to themselves and perhaps focus on a particular topic. Private Tours are also popular with larger groups who want to manage their own itinerary and make the tour bespoke to them.

Top Tours in La Rochelle, France

La rochelle tours.

  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Walking Tours
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Cultural Tours
  • Private Tours
  • Segway Tours
  • Skip-the-Line Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
  • Ports of Call Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
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tours in la rochelle

1. La Rochelle : Private Custom Private Walking Tour With a local

tours in la rochelle

2. La Rochelle Heritage Segway Tour

tours in la rochelle

3. 3 Hour La Rochelle Private Tour

tours in la rochelle

4. La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour

tours in la rochelle

5. La Rochelle Grand Format Segway Tour

tours in la rochelle

6. La Rochelle Lighthouse at the end of the world Segway Tour

tours in la rochelle

7. 1.5 Hour Guided Tour in Poitiers

tours in la rochelle

8. La Rochelle Towers Entrance Ticket

tours in la rochelle

9. PREMIUM Electric Scooter Rental - Day

tours in la rochelle

10. La Rochelle: Private Walking Tour

tours in la rochelle

11. Gems of the Port Outdoor Escape Game in La Rochelle

tours in la rochelle

12. Escape at sea, private experience for your tribe

tours in la rochelle

13. Private Transfer from La Rochelle Cruise Port to Nantes Hotels

tours in la rochelle

14. Private Transfer from La Rochelle Port to Nantes Airport (NTE)

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

tours in la rochelle

Escapes Games outdoor The Magic Portal On The Ile De Re

tours in la rochelle

Prestige Tour and Cognac Tasting

tours in la rochelle

The Gabarres river route

tours in la rochelle

Private tour Cognac House in Segonzac with tasting

tours in la rochelle

Discovery kayak 17 3-hour getaway

tours in la rochelle

retro road trip/ Méhari, 2CV & Burton in Rochefort, La Rochelle

tours in la rochelle

Discovery Kayak 17 Family Sea Kayak Trip

tours in la rochelle

Aux Sables d'Olonne Bike rental, e-bike, all-terrain scooter

tours in la rochelle

Sea trip around the Cordouan Lighthouse

tours in la rochelle

Sea Fishing Trip around the Cordouan Lighthouse

tours in la rochelle

Seafood Tasting near the Cordouan Lighthouse

tours in la rochelle

e-Scavenger hunt Cognac: Explore the city at your own pace

tours in la rochelle

3-Hour Private Painting with Cognac

tours in la rochelle

150-minute VIP visit of a vineyard in Segonzac with cocktail break

tours in la rochelle

Cognac Masterclass with a certified Educator

What travellers are saying.

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  • La Rochelle : Private Custom Private Walking Tour With a local
  • La Rochelle Heritage Segway Tour
  • Gems of the Port Outdoor Escape Game in La Rochelle
  • La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour
  • 3 Hour La Rochelle Private Tour
  • Croisières Navipromer
  • Croisieres Inter-iles
  • Aldabra Yacht Charter Catamaran
  • Mobilboard La Rochelle
  • Association La Voile Pour Tous

The Good Life France

Everything You Want to Know About France and More...

10 best things to do in La Rochelle

  • Janine Marsh
  • Poitou-Charentes

Boats in the port of La Rochelle, tall stone towers in the background

La Rochelle is a historic port town in the west of France, off the Atlantic coast in the department of Charente-Maritime. It’s the perfect little city for a weekend break and a great base from which to explore the area. Rich in culture, architecture and gastronomy, there’s loads to see and do here…

Top things to do in La Rochelle

La Rochelle’s state-of-the-art Aquarium is one of the most beautiful in Europe. It’s one of the top ten provincial tourist attractions in France and a must see when you visit. It holds three million litres of water and is home to more than 12,000 marine animals. Sharks, jelly fish, and pouting fish of all sorts keep the whole family entertained. They also have a thriving turtle population and specialise in treating sick turtles bought here specifically for the turtle team’s expertise. When the turtles are well, they’re released back into the sea with a GPS tracker attached and you can follow their progress via the Aquarium website: www.aquarium-larochelle.com

Marché de la Rochelle in the Saint Nicolas district

Market stall piled high with fish at La Rochelle market

Don’t miss a visit to the daily market (Wednesday is the biggest market day) in a 19 th century building in the former fishermen’s district, quartier Saint Nicolas. You’ll find it between the train station and the Vieux Port, an area of cobbled streets and ancient arcaded buildings. Apart from the fabulous display of fresh produce, this market has an “à table” local producers scheme. Basically you get a plate at the market, buy some bread, wander round and choose what you want from the stall holders from fresh succulent oysters, scrumptious cheeses, paté, charcuterie, seasonal fruits etc and then enjoy your lunch onsite.

Towers of La Rochelle

Bike parked at the side of the port at La Rochelle, the sky cloudy, the water bright blue

You just can’t miss the famous Towers of La Rochelle. Looking out to the Atlantic, the Tour Saint-Nicolas (14th century), the Tour de la Chaîne (14th Century) and the Tour de la Lanterne (12th and15th century) are the remains of a great fortification building campaign undertaken in the City of La Rochelle from 1199. The “Tour Saint Nicolas” and “Tour de la Chaine” form the majestic gateway to the Old Port and for ten centuries formed the key defensive bastions to the city. The Tour de la Lanterne, the oldest lighthouse on the Atlantic coast, was once a navy prison and contains over 600 examples of graffiti carved into the walls by prisoners in over 3 centuries. Climb the towers to get fabulous views over the city, port and sea. www.tours-la-rochelle.fr/en

Enjoy an aperitif on a boat

Glass of wine reflects the flags of a boat

Not many visitors discover one of the locals favourite bars but of course I’m going to share it with you! Head to the Maritime Museum and next to it is the France I, a former meteorological ship. It’s now a bar and restaurant. It’s the perfect place for an aperitif with a simple plancha (snack), oysters or seafood platter. I loved that there are no plastic cups or straws onboard, only reusable eco cups. Watching the sunset from the wooden deck, you really feel as if you’ve cast off and escaped. lefrance1.com

Discover a bar with a secret courtyard

L’Imprevu is in a lovely square lined with bars and restaurants the locals love. The staff are welcoming, the beer and wine are good, plus it has a great cocktail list. Sit out on the terrace or the romantic secret courtyard of this former mansion and simply enjoy the moment. Address: 1 bis Rue de la Fourche

Visit a museum

Discover the history of La Rochelle and the area with a visit to La Rochelle’s museums. The museums of Art and History of La Rochelle bring together two municipal museums – the Museum of the New World and the Museum of Fine Arts. La Rochelle was one of the major trading ports and emigration points to the new world. The port of La Rochelle was the last sight thousands of emigrants saw before setting sails for the Americas and Antilles. The museum of the new world explores the relationship between France and the Americas and its collection include paintings, sculptures, ancient maps and decorative arts as well as eighteenth-century French furniture and rare American colonial furniture.

There’s also the Museum of Natural History and the Maritime Museum.

Small pleasure boat passes before the grand old tower of La Rochelle

Pop to the tourist office when you’re in La Rochelle to get boat ride details as schedules change with the seasons. Address: 2 Quai Georges Simenon

Relax on the beach

Spread your towel on the sands at Plage de la Concurrence, a short walk from the Vieux Port. Behind the beach is the Parc Charruyer which is great for families with an animal park, mini golf, and a big park.

Take a detour – to the Ile de Ré

Cross the Pont de l’Ile de Ré and visit one of France’s most beautiful islands. You have to pay (on the way in only) and it’s a busy crossing at peak times but when you get there it’s an island paradise. Just 30km long and 5km wide but with long sandy beaches, vineyards, beautiful villages of whitewashed villages, salt marshes and oyster beds. You can take the bus which leaves each hour from La Rochelle train station (lesmouettes-transport.com). Or take a 40 minute boat ride to St Martin en Ré (April to October), one of the prettiest villages on the island. iledere-larochelle.fr/

Dine with the locals

Small square with a leafy tree and a tiny restaurant with people eating at tables on a terrace in La Rochelle

There are lots of touristy type restaurants around the waterfront – many of them very good, some of them excellent (André’s). But if you want to go where the locals go for a taste of authentic La Rochelle rue St-Jean-du-Perot is locally known as the ‘food street’ of La Rochelle. The street is home to top restaurants serving classic French cuisine as well as world cuisine. Just minutes from the old port but often overlooked by visitors it’s a great place to enjoy nightlife with lots of bars and clubs. It’s a friendly, festive streets.

See here for our review of where to eat out in La Rochelle

www.larochelle-tourisme.com; What to see and do in Les Charentes: Charente and Charente-Maritime: www.atlantic-cognac.com

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  • La Rochelle

30 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in La Rochelle

things to do in La Rochelle, France

Nestled along the scenic shores of the Bay of Biscay, La Rochelle stands as a mesmerizing testament to France’s maritime glory. This coastal gem, with its iconic Old Port guarded by majestic medieval towers, beckons travelers from all over with promises of maritime mysteries and historical adventures.

La Rochelle buzzes with life as the Atlantic breezes carry tales from centuries past – from the salt merchants of ancient Rome to the grandeur of its 12th-century free port status. Every cobblestone, every timeworn facade, tells a story, from the tumultuous Wars of Religion to the prosperous trading days with the distant Americas.

Delve deep into the heart of the old town, where the harmonious blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture awaits the eager explorer. Or perhaps let the winds guide you across the bay of Pertuis d’Antioche, revealing nature’s treasures on idyllic islands.

Boasting attractions like a world-class aquarium to captivate young and old, and adrenaline-pumping water sports to challenge the adventurer in you, there’s no end to the discoveries this beautiful city offers.

And as the sun sets, find your spot on a quaint terrasse, and toast to the day with the local ‘Pineau des Charentes’, letting its sweet notes encapsulate the essence of La Rochelle.

So, let’s set sail on this journey and explore the top fun things to do in La Rochelle !

1 – Gaze up at the iconic Towers of La Rochelle

Towers of La Rochelle

At the entrance to the Old Port visitors can come across two towers from the 14th century, the Tour Saint-Nicolas and the smaller Tour de la Chaîne. These towers were originally constructed for defensive purposes in order to protect the harbor.

The Tour Saint-Nicolas is often nicknamed the French Tower of Pisa due to its slight tilt. The leaning aspect is probably due to the fact that it was constructed upon unstable and unleveled ground back in the 14th century.

The name of the Tour de la Chaîne derives from the large chain that stretched across the entrance to the harbor to control the boats coming in. This chain can still be seen nowadays at the foot of the tower.

The Tour de la Lanterne was built in the 15th century and is the oldest lighthouse on the Atlantic coast. It was used as a navy prison and has 600 different graffiti pictures and lettering marked over its walls from former prisoners. Taking in the stunning panorama from the top of the tower has to be one of the top things to do in La Rochelle!

  • Towers of La Rochelle tickets

2 – Soak up the lively ambiance of the Vieux Port

Vieux Port, La Rochelle

Enjoy some top quality seafood in many of the restaurants surrounding the Old Port of La Rochelle. Tuck in to a tasty seafood chowder of a platter of crab, shrimps and clams.

Many visitors also gather in the Old Port to take a ferry to the nearby Île de Ré. On the island of the Ré there are several villages with picturesque white washed houses with green shutters.

Taking a stroll along the quayside and admiring the colorful buildings is one of the essential things to do in Rochelle! Throughout history many famous painters such as Corot and Vernet have painted the iconic scenes from the old harbor.

In the past the Old Port was also a place of shipbuilding and the quay was lined with warehouses. The 18th century was a particularly dynamic period for the Old Port of La Rochelle where goods such as wines, salt and brandy were exported. La Rochelle also saw a lot of goods coming in from the French colonies for example sugar, coffee and tobacco.

3 – Browse the food stalls of the Marché du Centre Ville

Marché du Centre Ville, La Rochelle

The food stalls of the Central market are full of freshly caught fish, fresh fruit and vegetables, excellent selections of local cheeses and olives and honey. One of the local specialities that is worth looking out for is the juicy and sweet Charentais melons. These melons appear in the market during the summer period until the beginning of the autumn.

Sample some of the oysters straight from the seafood stalls or purchase a freshly baked pastry to enjoy for a morning snack.

The market building was built during the 19th century and it is open every morning. On Wednesdays and Saturdays the market extends and spills along into nearby streets.

4 – Hop on a boat tour and experience the salty ocean breeze

boat tour in La Rochelle

Embark on board a maxi-catamaran and set sail to the legendary Fort Boyard! Fort Boyard was built between 1801 and 1857 under the rule of Napoleon Bonaparte. The aim of the Fort was to protect French ships from potential British naval attacks. Later the Fort was readapted from the military fortress to serve as a lighthouse.

On a boat tour visitors can get up close to Fort Boyard and admire its unique circular design! Fort Boyard has become famous due to the French television game show where contestants have to complete different challenges from within the fortress walls.

Other sailing boat experiences take visitors out into the bay of Pertuis d’Antioche past the enormous harbor of Les Minimes. Visitors can admire the vast stretch of water, the gentle waves and the cries of common seabirds such as seagulls, common terns and cormorants.

  • boat tours in La Rochelle

5 – Learn fun facts during a segway tour

segway tour in La Rochelle

Visit all the main monuments and landmarks of La Rochelle during a fun guided segway tour! Traveling through the city on a segway will allow visitors to cover more ground than on a typical walking tour with minimal physical strain! La Rochelle is a fantastic setting for learning how to use a segway due to the flat terrain of the city and the many well maintained bicycle lanes.

Some of the segway tours take visitors all the way to the ‘Phare du Bout du Monde’ or lighthouse at the end of the world! This lighthouse that can be seen from the Port de Minimes was inspired by a lighthouse in Patagonia.

There are also many different elecric scooter tours to choose from. Electric scooters have the benefit of being silent, easy to use and an environmentally friendly. Why not zip around the city during the electric scooter tours whilst participating in a trivial pursuit Quiz game? Alternatively opt for a guided electric scooter experience along the Atlantic coast for some incredible views of the islands of Ré and Oléron.

  • segway tours in La Rochelle

6 – See some sea turtles and rays at the Aquarium La Rochelle

Aquarium La Rochelle

The  Aquarium La Rochelle is home to 12,000 different sea creatures and has an amazing amphi-theatre aquarium where visitors can see many surgeon and trevally fish. The aquarium has a Caribbean Coral Reef and an Indian Pacific room so visitors can see some tropical exotic fish.

Get up close to some sharks at the shark lagoon and let yourself be mesmerized by the graceful pulsating jellyfish in the jellyfish gallery exhibit. A visit to the Aquarium La Rochelle is definitely one of the top things to do in La Rochelle for those wanting to learn more about sea creatures and discover some new marine species. Kids will love the interactive touch pools where they can gently touch the tanks to understand more about star fish, sea urchins or sea cucumbers.

There is also a café within the aquarium with great views over the harbor. The modern building that houses the aquarium is cleverly designed to resemble a ship!

7 – Explore some of the best museums in La Rochelle

best museums in La Rochelle

The Musée du Nouveau Monde focuses on the relationship between France and the Americas since the 16th century. The Musée du Nouveau Monde displays different paintings, sketches, maps and artifacts from French settlers, merchants and American Indian tribes. Learn about how former merchants from La Rochelle established trading connections with the Americas and reflect upon the dark history of slavery.

Take a walk though the 32 rooms of the  Museum d’histoire naturelle de La Rochelle with a diverse variety of collections on display ranging from archeology and ethnography to geology, botany and zoology. The Museum d’histoire naturelle de La Rochelle displays some scientific instruments such as a hydrometer or a Thermoscope among many others!

At the Musée Maritime de La Rochelle visitors can set eyes on the shipwreck of Calypso that was used as a laboratory of oceanography by Jacques-Yves Cousteau before it sunk in the Port of Singapore in 1996! Visitors can also set foot on board the ship ‘France 1’ which is a weather station vessel. At the Musée Maritime de La Rochelle visitors can learn more about the seafaring heritage of the city and admire the collection of boats such as the sailing ketch ‘Joshua.’

In 1940 the Germans built a bunker adjacent to the Hôtel des Étrangers for protection during potential allied bombing raids on La Rochelle. Nowadays visitors can finally visit this space that has remained in tact since World War II at the Musée Le Bunker de La Rochelle.

Walk around the bunker that consists of two large rooms that could accommodate 62 U-boot officers, 2 individual rooms for the admirals, a bar and an office. At the Musée Le Bunker de la Rochelle learn more about the German occupation, resistance and liberation.

After learning about the history of La Rochelle, let yourself be enchanted by the magical moving characters and animated scenes of the  Musees des Automates. The Musees des Automates has 300 different automatons and railway circuits with a small scale reconstruction of Montmartre in Paris!

8 – Look at the motorboats and yachts at the Port de Plaisance des Minimes

Port de Plaisance des Minimes, La Rochelle

The Port de Plaisance des Minimes is the largest French marina for pleasure boats with a capacity for over 4,500 boats! The name of ‘Minimes’ derives from the fact that there used to be a convent of the ‘Order of the Minimes Brothers’ on the site during the Middle ages.

Around this area visitors can come across lots of sailing schools or schools offering water sports such as kayak, paddle boards or jet skis.The Port de Plaisance des Minimes also hosts various nautical regattas or boating competitions.

One of the biggest nautical events is ‘Le Grand Pavois La Rochelle’ which is an international boat show with exhibition areas for the latest trends in the boating industry.

After watching the boats in the port, relax on the sand at the Plage des Minimes. The beach is the perfect location for watching the sun set or strolling along the boardwalk.

9 – Relax to the melodies of a candlelit concert

candlelight concert in La Rochelle

Sit back after a long day sight seeing to enjoy tribute music of legends such as Ludovico Einaudi, Coldplay or Hans Zimmer. A concert with a backdrop of hundreds of flickering candles produces the perfect peaceful and romantic ambiance for a relaxing evenings entertainment.

The candlelit concerts take place in unforgettable locations such as the Église Notre-Dame-de-Cougnes. This historic church with Romanesque and Gothic architecture dates back to the 12th century! Other locations include the Aquarium so you can enjoy music whilst watching different fish and sharks swim by in the underwater tunnels providing a mesmerizing spectacle!

  • candlelight concerts in La Rochelle

10 – Unleash your adventurous side in a helicopter tour

helicopter tour in La Rochelle

Enjoy some spectacular views in a thrilling helicopter ride. From La Rochelle there are many different helicopter tours on offer. Take a ride over Toulouse to marvel at the beautiful Garonne river.

Other helicopter flights include discovering the Regional Natural Park of the Pyrenees Ariégeoises to marvel at some mountainous terrain. Alternatively fly over the Lake of Pareloup and the Millau Viaduct (arguably one of the most innovative engineering projects of the 21st century)!

On a gyrocopter flight you discover the Vendée coast where you can look back at the Ile de Ré, La Rochelle, the Bay of Aiguillon and La Tranche-sur-Mer from a birds eye perspective! The  gyrocopter flight  is accompanied by an experienced pilot so you can feel ease while soaring above the beaches and harbors.

  • helicopter tours in La Rochelle

11 – Take a ride on ‘La Grande Roue’, the giant ferris wheel of La Rochelle

La Grande Roue, La Rochelle

La Grande Roue can be easily spotted opposite the two towers in the Old Port.  La Grande Roue is set up every year at the start of April and it continues until January. The wheel that measures 40 meters high provides stunning views over la Rochelle and the bay beyond.

There is even the possibility of selecting a VIP cabin for those who are celebrating a special event like wedding proposals or anniversaries! Take some memorable photos and watch the people walking around in the harbor below. Why not take a ride of the ferris wheel at night to watch the city illuminated with lights!

12 – Get to know the coast through a kayaking trip

kayaking in La Rochelle

Take a kayaking trip around the Isle of Aix and Fort Boyard! Other kayak experiences involve visiting the oyster beds along the Fouras coast! Kayaking is a great family fun activity, the perfect opportunity to stay active and breathe in some fresh ocean air.

Whilst kayaking you may spot some interesting seabirds, fish or maybe even some seals or dolphins! The Isle of Aix also has captivating history since it was the place that Napoleon Bonapart spent his last days on French soil before being exiled to Saint Helena.

There are opportunities to do stand up paddleboaring on the Ile de Ré or along the Fourasian coast. You can give stand up paddleboarding a go for just 2 hours or opt for a full day rental. From Fouras paddle down to the mouth of the Charente river to take a closer look at Fort Vasou. Fort Vasou was built in 1672 and it was badly damaged by English sailors in 1757. Later it was used as an artillery shell storage depot.

  • kayaking tours in La Rochelle

13 – Escape to the green oasis of Parc Charruyer

Parc Charruyer, La Rochelle

Walk for 2 kilometers along the shaded tree lined walkways in the Parc Charruyer, right in the heart of La Rochelle. There are some running streams throughout the park fed by the rivers of Lafond and the Fétilly.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or relax and have a picnic on the lawn. Kids will enjoy feeding the ducks and watching the peacocks who roam around freely. The park is particularly picturesque during the autumn with falling colored leaves.

The park also has a zoological zone known as the Parc Animalier Charles-Edouard Beltrémieux. The access to this animal zone is free and animals include local Poitou goats,  donkeys as well as cows.

14 – Power around the bay in a jet ski

jet ski in La Rochelle

The islands of Ré, Oléron and Aix help protect the bay against large swells coming in from the Atlantic, providing excellent conditions for jet skis!

Pick up speed and glide across the waters surface with the help of a certified instructor. Experiment with different accelerations and turns and splash around in the water!

A jet ski is the perfect way to discover the scenery of the Ile de Ré which is nicknamed ‘the pearl of the Bay of Biscay.’ Zip past the sandy beaches, salt marshes and dunes of the Ile de Ré. Some jet ski tours pass by the second longest bridge in France, the Pont De L’ile d’Oleron which spans 2926.5 meters!

  • jet ski tours in La Rochelle

15 – Walk around the Cathédrale Saint-Louis

Cathédrale Saint-Louis, La Rochelle

The Cathédrale Saint-Louis is a Catholic church built in the 17th century with an imposing classical façade and a bare and luminous interior. Upon entering visitors can admire the cupola painted by the artist William Bouguereau.

Attached to the cathedral, visitors should make sure to look up at the medieval Gothic bell tower that used to be attached to the Church of St. Barthélémy. Unfortunately the Church of St.Bathélémy was destroyed in 1568 during the Wars of Religion.

Nearby visitors can find the Place de Verdun. It was here that there was a former Protestant place of worship but when the Catholics managed to defeat the Huguenots in 1628, they decided to build a Catholic Cathedral near the same site.

The Verdun square is where the first Port of La Rochelle once existed. Nowadays the square hosts a food market on Friday afternoons. From the underground parking, visitors can see some old ruins of the Vauclerc castle. The castle was built by Henry II of England during the 12th century!

16 – Go for a refreshing dip at the Plage de la Concurrence

Plage de la Concurrence, La Rochelle

The Plage de la Concurrence is the city beach in La Rochelle, near to the Tour de la Lanterne and the park Charruyer.

Situated near to the Old Port, it is fun to sit on the sand and watch the boats leave and enter the marina. Watch the boats from the sailing schools practice their navigational skills.

It is important to note that swimming is only really possible during high tide because when the tide goes out there can be some sharper rocky pebbles. There are toilets and showering facilities as well as a restaurant and snack bar. During the winter many locals walk along the beach with their dogs.

17 – Take a break in nature on a fun scooter tour

scooter tour in La Rochelle

Jump on a scooter and ride alongside the Canal de Rompsay. The canal is also known as the Canal de Marans à la Rochelle and after leaving the city it stretches along for 24 kilometers. Arriving at Dompierre-sur-Mer the ride along the canal with the beautiful shaded trees and tranquil waters is a lovely excursion for those wanting to disconnect for a relaxing couple of hours.

One of the top fun things to do in La Rochelle is to take a scooter tour around the Ile de Ré! Scooter all the way along to the Phare des Baleines, a lighthouse made out of limestone from the 19th century! The tower of the lighthouse has 257 steps and from the top visitors can admire the stunning coastal views!

  • scooter tours in La Rochelle

18 – Travel back in time at Puy Du Fou

Puy Du Fou, France

Nestled in the heart of the Vendée region, not far from La Rochelle, lies the extraordinary Puy Du Fou, a theme park unlike any other. Instead of the typical roller coasters and rides, Puy Du Fou transports visitors through time with its epic historical shows and re-enactments.

From the fierce battles of Vikings to the grandeur of the Roman Empire, the park brings history to life with impeccable detail, captivating performances, and state-of-the-art effects. The reconstructed villages, complete with artisans practicing age-old crafts, add another layer of authenticity.

As the evening falls, the Cinéscénie, the world’s largest nighttime show, paints a mesmerizing tableau of Vendée’s history with over 2,000 actors on a grand stage. A visit to Puy Du Fou is not just entertainment—it’s a journey through time.

When in the vicinity of La Rochelle, ensure you set aside a day to be enthralled by the magic of this award-winning historical theme park.

  • see price and reviews

19 – Use your team skills to solve an escape room challenge

escape room in La Rochelle

Put your problem solving skills to the test in a 60 minute escape mission full of excitement. At Escape Yourself players can choose from 6 different themed missions for example the Jade Dragon, the Pharaoh, Interned in a psychiatric hospital, Voodoo, Disco Night Fever, Harlequin, Dracula or La Malle Viking.

At Escape Yourself, there is a theme that will suit all types of players from adventure seekers to horror enthusiasts to those just looking for some light hearted fun! The Escape room is situated o the Rue des Gonthières in the outskirts of the centre.

20 – Glide across the waters during a windsurfing class

windsurfing in La Rochelle

The tour operator Manawa offers windsurfing classes on the beach of du Peu Ragot on the Ile de Ré. The beach of du Peu Ragot offers an optimal breeze and the sea surrounded the Ile de Ré tends not to be too rough therefore ideal for learners!

Learn how to successfully catch the wind and to propel your windsurf across the waters. Windsurfing provides a good full body workout as it requires upper body strength to manage the sail and improves body balance! For those who already have experience windsurfing, Manawa also offer windsurfing rentals.

If you already can master windsurfing why not try something new such as  kitesurfing ! Manawa offers kitesurfing lessons on the Châtelaillon-Plage, just south of La Rochelle. Learn how to manage speed and control in this exhilarating and dynamic water sport!

  • windsurfing in La Rochelle

21 – Watch Stade Rochelais play a rugby match

Stade Rochelais, La Rochelle

The Stade Rochelais is the professional rugby union club of La Rochelle with their distinctive team colors of black and yellow. The club plays at their home stadium, the Stade Marcel-Deflandre. Stade Rochelais is often nicknamed ‘Les Maritimes’ due to the maritime heritage of La Rochelle. The rugby club has a huge local fan base in La Rochelle!

Their popularity has grown even further in recent years since they have won the European championship several times! They succeeded in beating Leinster in both the 2022 and the 2023 finals!

22 – Take in some breathtaking scenic views on a microlight flight

microlight flight in La Rochelle

Float high in the sky in a thrilling flight in a ultralight plane! Microlight flight experiences last from approximately 20 minutes to 40 minutes. The tour operator Yumping offers several different experiences with microlight flights over Fort Boyard, the Vendée Bay or the Ile de Ré.

They also offer a flight over the beautiful Poitevin marsh, the largest marsh on France’s Atlantic coast! The western part consists of dry marshes used for agriculture and the eastern part has been nicknamed ‘the Green Venice’ due to the maze of crossing canal streams.

The tour operator Manawa offers a sunset microlight flight above La Rochelle. Watch as the different colors change over the horizon as the sun dips and illuminates the coast below with dancing shadows.

  • microlight flights in La Rochelle

23 – Pass under the Grosse Horloge gate

Grosse Horloge, La Rochelle

The Porte de la Grosse-Horloge is the gothic style city gate that used to separate the port from the main city as part of the defensive city walls. The base of the gate dates from the 12th century and the upper part was added during the 18th century.

Since the 15th century the gate has displayed a large clock face so the inhabitants of La Rochelle can check the time. The church of the Église Saint-Sauveur can be found nearby. This church was built during the 17th century by monks from the Island of Aix. The former church on this site suffered continuous damage from religious protests and fires.

In fact many buildings were damaged in La Rochelle during the siege of the city in the early 17th century. During the Siege of La Rochelle, the Royal army of King Louis XIII tried to blockade the Huguenot residents of the city.

24 – Encounter some live reptiles and tropical plants at the Planet Exotica

Planet Exotica, La Rochelle

Planet Exotica is a zoological park with a wide variety of areas to explore. Stroll around the large tropical greenhouse and learn more about exotic plants. Alternatively visitors can admire the Japanese garden with 100 year old bonsai trees or watch a horse riding spectacle among the tipis of the mini American Indian village.

Children will love coming face to face with the dinosaur replicas in the Jurassic garden. Children will also enjoy watching the animals at the mini animal farm with goats, geese, guinea pigs and chickens.

There are plenty of educational resources at the park such as a Dinosaur museum packed with bones and fossilized teeth. There is also exhibitions on crocodiles or exotic curiosities inside a shaman tent!

  • Planet Exotica tickets

25 – Aim for a lucky strike at the bowling alley

bowling in La Rochelle

Bowling is a great form of evening entertainment and an excellent way to bond with friends and family. Use your hand eye co-ordination and balancing skills to beat your fellow team mates.

Bowling de La Rochelle has 18 bowling alleys on two levels with fun lighting systems. The place also has billiards and arcade games for after a round of bowling. Bowling de La Rochelle is located on the Avenue Michel Crépeau near the Port des Minimes. It is open late every night with the exception of Sundays when it closes at 9pm.

26 – Catch a sunset through the carrelet’s nets

carrelets in La Rochelle

Near La Rochelle, along the Atlantic coastline, stand the distinctive “carrelets” or fishing huts on stilts. Originally used by fishermen to catch shrimp and small fish close to the shore, these wooden structures have now become an emblematic symbol of the region’s maritime heritage.

As the sun sets, casting shades of orange and pink across the horizon, the silhouette of these huts offers a breathtaking spectacle. Beyond their function, the carrelets tell tales of tradition and simpler times.

When visiting La Rochelle, spare an evening to experience the magic of these stilted huts and immerse yourself in a piece of Charente Maritime’s history while admiring the sunset.

27 – Grand Théâtre de la Coursive

Grand Théâtre de la Coursive, La Rochelle

Check out what cultural events are happening at the Grand Théâtre de la Coursive for example cinema screenings, dance performances or dance pieces. The Grand Théâtre de la Coursive is located within an old Carmelite convent that was constructed back in 1665.

The building has a fascinating history because during the French Revolution is became a tobacco manufacturing factory, followed by a customs house and then a fish market in 1846. Since 1970 the place has been dedicated to housing cultural events and the original form of the Carmelite cloister still remains.

One of their interesting cultural events during the winter seasons involves baroque chamber music accompanied by chocolate tastings!

28 – Treat yourself to a fine dining experience

fine dining in La Rochelle

The Christopher Coutanceau restaurant is completely inspired by the ocean world with deep blue flooring and aluminium crystal ceiling hangings that create wave like reflections. Gaze out of the large glass windows onto La Concurrence Beach and taste the cleverly crafted sea food creations prepared with attention to detail and originality.

Annette is a modern and authentic bistro located on the Rue Bletterie right in the heart of La Rochelle. Annette proposes seasonal dishes using the best fresh ingredients with a focus on tradition and simplicity. They also have outdoor seating on the street outside so you can dine in the fresh air and enjoy the people watching.

Les Flots is located right at the foot of the Tour de la Chaîne. The establishment used to run as a small café during the 18th century but it has been open as a restaurant since 1945. The chef of Les Flots, Grégory Coutanceau (the older brother of Christopher Countanceau) proposes a menu based on seafood and fish, which makes sense due to the superb location in the Old Port!

Impressions can be found opposite the cloister of the Dames Blanches, not far away from the town hall. The restaurant boasts a sleek modern loft design with crisp white luminous walls and wooden furniture. The haut cuisine french food at Impressions is served with precision and flair.

L’Astrolabe is a restaurant which fuses culinary traditions from around the world. Choosing from their menu is like embarking on a journey around the globe. The decor is modern with elegant leafy pot plants.

Le Mail is located opposite the seafront on a picturesque rochelais alley. Diners can enjoy the view from the large glass bay windows, giving the place an airy and bright atmosphere. The menu at Le Mail has a focus on locally sourced produce.

29 – Try to win the jackpot at the Casino Barrière

Casino Barrière, La Rochelle

Casino fans will love the variety of different games on offer at the Casino Barrière such as 3 Black Jack gaming tables, 10 English Roulette wheels and plenty of video poker and slot machines. There is also a Texas Hold’em table.

The Casino is easy to locate since it is right on the waterfront, next to the Parc Alcide d’Orbigny. The Casino Barrière has a restaurant onsite that overlooks the Atlantic ocean and serves local French cuisine with a buffet option. There is also a more casual bar on site for watching sports games. Sometimes the Casino hosts special dinner-shows or tribute nights.

30 – Discover what the nightlife has to offer

nightlife in La Rochelle

Here is a short list of the best bars and pubs to try out when in La Rochelle!

Le Mary Lili Cocktail Bar is located on the corner of the Rue de la Chaîne. The interior is inspired by New York bars with a French maritime twist. The local mixologist seeks to create cocktails using fresh ingredients and fruit syrups. Their menu is constantly updating depending on the season and they also serve some tasty mocktails.

La Guignette is a wine bar on the Rue Saint Nicholas that produces their own lightly sparkling aperitifs with white wine and fruit flavors. These aperitifs which are low in alcohol are a perfect refreshing option during the summer. The bar has been opened since 1933 welcoming sailors coming in from the port.

Le Piano Pub is popular among the younger Rochelaise crowd. The place blasts out pop and rock music and it is common to see people on the dance floor. The rhum arrangé (macerated fruit rum) is a popular drink of choice!

For a more modern night club vibe try heading to White Rabbit. The place mainly focuses on electronic music but they also have various guest DJs and themes party nights.

Where to stay in La Rochelle?

Entre Hotes is a Bed and Breakfast situated on the Rue Réaumur, 500 meters away from the centre of La Rochelle. The place is located in a 18th-century shipbuilder’s house and has a pleasant small back garden. One of the rooms is situated in the atmospheric old vaulted cellar which has a stylish free standing illuminated bath tub!

Un Hôtel En Ville is a small and unpretentious boutique hotel with modern decor. The hotel has a terrace with views of the Tour de la Lanterne tower. Centrally located on the Place Du Maréchal Foch, nearby it is easy to find plenty of bars and restaurants.

The 3 star Boutique Hôtel d’Orbigny Chatelaillon -La Rochelle is located 15 kilometers away from the center of La Rochelle so perfect for visitors who come to visit La Rochelle with a car. It has a heated exterior pool, a patio and a charming half timbered façade. Beach lovers will appreciate its location 50 meters from the Châtelaillon beach. Bike enthusiasts will enjoy pedaling along the coastal Velodyssée route which is 50 meters away from the hotel.

The 4 star Hotel Le Champlain is one of the best hotels located inside a historical covent building dating from the 17th century. The hotel has a spacious garden, an outdoor seating area and luxuriously designed rooms.

  • best hotels in La Rochelle

How to get there?

The La Rochelle- Île de Ré International Airport is just 5 kilometers north of La Rochelle. Alternatively the Nantes Atlantique Airport is a 1 hour 45 minutes drive north of La Rochelle. Check out the Tourscanner website to check offers on airport transports to ensure a smoother and stress free journey from your hotel door to the airport.

Coming from Paris, visitors can access La Rochelle in an approximately 3 hour train journey on the high speed TGV. If you look at train timetables beforehand and book in advance there are also some good deal train tickets at certain times of the day in between La Rochelle and Bordeaux with a direct journey time of 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Where to go next?

There are many other fun things to do in southwestern France for example why not spend a few days in the elegant wine capital Bordeaux. There are many  things to do in Bordeaux such as learning about wine production and tasting techniques in the modern Cité du Vin or admiring the impressive Gothic cathedral of Saint-André. Other things to do in Bordeaux include strolling along the Garonne river and browsing the antique stores of the quaint and charming Chartrons district.

From La Rochelle drive two hours north to the fascinating historical city of Nantes. There are lots of fun  things to do in Nantes such as discovering the magical universe of the Jules Verne inspired mechanical animals at Les Machines de L’Ile or exploring the Medieval ramparts and turrets of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne. Sampling the fresh seafood accompanied by Muscadet wines are some of the other top things to do in Nantes.

There are also many  things to do in Toulouse for example admire the Renaissance architecture of the Capitole Town Hall or browse world celebrated modern art at the Abattoirs museum gallery. Discovering about outer space and new rocket technology at the Cité de l’Espace is another one of the top things to do in Toulouse.

If you are looking for general inspiration for general best places to visit in France, check out this article entitled the  best places to visit in France.  From vineyards, mountains, beaches, gastronomical delights to historical cities, France has so much to offer!

Final thoughts

And there we have it! From the historic Old Port to the enchanting streets of the old town and beyond, the list of things to do in La Rochelle is truly captivating.

Whether you’re drawn by its maritime history, its contemporary coastal charms, or simply the allure of French elegance, La Rochelle offers a slice of the extraordinary for every traveler.

So, what’s holding you back? Embark on your journey to La Rochelle now and discover why it’s hailed as the jewel of the Bay of Biscay.

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  2. Que voir et que faire à La Rochelle ? Nos 9 visites incontournables

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  3. Visiter La Rochelle: Top 15 à faire et à voir

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  5. LES TOURS DE LA ROCHELLE: Une visite incontournable !

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  6. Destination La Rochelle avec Tictactrip

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COMMENTS

  1. THE 10 BEST La Rochelle Tours & Excursions

    Walking Tours. Cultural Tours. Sightseeing Tours. Private Tours. Segway Tours. Skip-the-Line Tours. Self-Guided Tours & Rentals. Ports of Call Tours. Top La Rochelle Tours: See reviews and photos of tours in La Rochelle, France on Tripadvisor.

  2. THE TOP 10 La Rochelle Tours & Excursions (UPDATED 2024)

    The best tours in La Rochelle according to Viator travelers are: La Rochelle : Private Custom Private Walking Tour With a local. La Rochelle Heritage Segway Tour. Escapes Games outdoor The Magic Portal On The Ile De Re. The Océâmes Treasure in La Rochelle. Gems of the Port Outdoor Escape Game in La Rochelle.

  3. Visit La Rochelle: Top 15 things to do and see

    La Rochelle Old Port in the evening 2. Towers of La Rochelle. If you started your visit of La Rochelle by the Old Port, you couldn't miss the 3 emblematic towers that mark the entrance and exit of the harbor:. The Lantern tower, a former lighthouse which also served as a prison; The Chain Tower, before used as an entrance gate to the port.A t night, a big chain was strung between it and ...

  4. The BEST La Rochelle Tours and Things to Do in 2024

    2. La Rochelle: 2-Hour Sunset Sailing Cruise. Embark on boat trip on a maxi-catamaran of 16 meters. Meet at the dock located in front of the 2 historic towers of la Rochelle. After a welcome speech, you will sail up the channel, looking one last time at the city in full daylight.

  5. La Rochelle Tours with Local Private Tour Guides

    about ratings. Tour in La Rochelle, France: "Romain was an excellent guide which made for a wonderful day in La Rochelle! I would highly recommend him!!" Lisa Blair - Jun, 2018 [view guide page] Tour in La Rochelle, France: "Romain was great. He knew his stuff, and showed us interesting artefacts that we would never have spotted.

  6. THE TOP 10 La Rochelle Tours & Excursions in 2024

    This tour takes in La Rochelle from every angle, from the West side, the South side and the historic town centre! La Rochelle the rebel, La Rochelle the beautiful, La Rochelle, a thousand-year-old town whose origins date back to the 9th century, a city open to the ocean, hence its nickname of the Ocean City, is a city full of charm whose ...

  7. THE TOP 10 La Rochelle Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises (w/Prices)

    A: The best Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises in La Rochelle according to Viator travelers are: La Rochelle Heritage Segway Tour. La Rochelle : Private Custom Private Walking Tour With a local. La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour. La Rochelle Lighthouse at the end of the world Segway Tour. 3 Hour La Rochelle Private Tour.

  8. Home

    The Discovery Walking Tour is great for those who are curious and want a deep discovery of the unique culture of La Rochelle! Packed full of food and drink advice as well as tips and tricks to make the most of your time here in LR, we cover all the must see sites with interesting history and amusing anecdotes - we even stop for a few tasters on the way round!

  9. THE 10 BEST La Rochelle Tours & Excursions (from £5)

    Segway Tours. Skip-the-Line Tours. Self-Guided Tours & Rentals. Ports of Call Tours. Mar 14, 2024 - Find & Book the top-rated and best-reviewed tours in La Rochelle for 2024. From prices and availability to reviews and photos, Tripadvisor has everything you need to create that perfect itinerary for your trip to La Rochelle.

  10. 10 best things to do in La Rochelle

    Looking out to the Atlantic, the Tour Saint-Nicolas (14th century), the Tour de la Chaîne (14th Century) and the Tour de la Lanterne (12th and15th century) are the remains of a great fortification building campaign undertaken in the City of La Rochelle from 1199. The "Tour Saint Nicolas" and "Tour de la Chaine" form the majestic ...

  11. La Rochelle France Shore Excursions

    La Rochelle Shore Excursion - 7 Hours. The focus of this La Rochelle shore trip is a visit to the Poitevin Marsh Nature Park, known as the Green Venice of France. You will explore the area in a flat bottom boat and then you visit a local winery for a wine tasting. Custom Tours & Group Assistance. We'll help design a tour that's right for you!

  12. 30 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in La Rochelle

    The Plage de la Concurrence is the city beach in La Rochelle, near to the Tour de la Lanterne and the park Charruyer. Situated near to the Old Port, it is fun to sit on the sand and watch the boats leave and enter the marina. Watch the boats from the sailing schools practice their navigational skills.

  13. The 11 Best Things to Do in La Rochelle

    Climb The Three Towers. La Tour Saint-Nicolas & Tour de la Chaîne, two 14th century towers which look across the Atlantic, form the gateway to the Vieux Port and harbour. Like much here on the front, their original intent was to repel outsiders from the wealthy trading hub.

  14. The BEST La Rochelle Tours and Things to Do in 2024

    La Rochelle Seaside Segway Tour - 1h. This Segway tour is a must for anyone wanting to discover La Rochelle and its emblematic sites. Situated between land and sea, this splendid ride will take you on a tour of La Rochelle's must-sees, revealing its most beautiful viewpoints as well as its remarkable monuments steeped in history. Discovering ...

  15. The BEST La Rochelle Cruises & boat tours 2024

    Our most recommended La Rochelle Cruises & boat tours. 1. From La Rochelle: Sailing Cruise to Fort Boyard. Get on board a sailing catamaran cruise from La Rochelle with a qualified captain and crew and set off to explore Fort Boyard. Sail through the islands as the wind blows and the tides rise and fall.

  16. La Rochelle ⭐️ Best Wine Tours & Tastings ️ 2024

    As La Rochelle is located close to the Charente-Maritime vineyard and the Poitou Charentes vineyard, you have to spend some time in a winery to meet local winemakers (for instance producers of cognac or pineau des charentes) and enjoy a wine tour or a commented tasting. You will find on Rue des Vignerons a list of wineries open to public in ...

  17. La Rochelle Towers (Tours de La Rochelle) Tours and Tickets

    The trio of medieval watchtowers that stand guard over La Rochelle's Old Port (Vieux Port) are the last vestige of the city's 12th-century sea walls. Protected as a national monument, the La Rochelle Towers (Tours de La Rochelle) are among the city's most photographed landmarks. Learn more. Vieux Port, Quai Duperre, La Rochelle, 17000.

  18. Free walking tour La Rochelle: Free Booking Without Credit Card

    The best guruwalks in La Rochelle (1 / 1) La Rochelle Free Walking Tour. No reviews yet. Duration: 2h and 30min. Starts at: 10:00 and 10:30. sun. 24. mon.

  19. Tours to La Rochelle

    TGV inOui operates a train from St Pierre Des Corps to La Rochelle Ville 3 times a day. Tickets cost €45 - €85 and the journey takes 2h 2m. Alternatively, BlaBlaCar Bus operates a bus from Tours to La Rochelle twice daily. Tickets cost €15 - €23 and the journey takes 3h 40m.

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