Pearl of the French Atlantic coast, La Rochelle located in Charente Maritime stands out thanks to its many riches. The charm of its Old Port et its 2 medieval towers emblematic, its cobbled streets, its museums captivating, its international cultural events, his beaches et its gastronomy authentic make her a city where life is good all year round, mixing both tradition and modernity.
La Rochelle, beautiful and rebellious
“La Rochelle, beautiful and rebellious” is an expression often used to describe the city. This expression reflects the rich and sometimes tumultuous history of the city. The city has a long maritime history and played a important role maritime commerce over the centuries.
However, the adjective "rebel" refers to political history from La Rochelle. The city was a stronghold of Protestantism during the wars of religion in the 16th century. The inhabitants of La Rochelle resisted the Catholic authorities on several occasions, and the city was the scene of notable military sieges. The most famous of these sieges was the siege of La Rochelle (1627-1628) during the Thirty Years' War. Richelieu, the French cardinal and statesman, besieged the city for suppress Protestant resistance. La Rochelle finally had to surrender after long months of siege, marking the end of its status as a rebel city.
Thus, the expression “La Rochelle, beautiful and rebellious” reflects the duality of the city, combining its picturesque beauty with its historical past marked by resistance and rebellion.
Top 5 to see and do in La Rochelle
01
Old Port of La Rochelle and its 2 towers
Welcome to the Old Port of La Rochelle, a maritime jewel steeped in history. Stroll along the quays picturesque places where the old rubs shoulders with the modern. Admire the two emblematic towers, the Saint-Nicolas Tower and the Chain Tower, silent witnesses of the past. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this port city, where timeless charm operates
02
The La Rochelle Aquarium
Dive into an underwater world fascinating to the La Rochelle Aquarium. With more than 12 marine species is one of the largest private European aquariums. Explore the underwater tunnels, marvel at the Sharks majestic and discover the richness of marine life. A captivating adventure immersive offering an unforgettable spectacle for the whole family !
03
The Francofolies
More musical excitement French Francofolies of La Rochelle, a captivating festival celebrating the diversity of French-speaking song. Between the busy streets and vibrant scenes, discover renowned artists and emerging. A unique cultural experience, where music comes to life in the picturesque setting of this maritime city.
04
The many museums
Explore history and culture through captivating museums from La Rochelle. Of Natural History Museum au Maritime Museum, each place reveals unique treasures. Dive in art, science et maritime heritage for an enriching experience, illuminating the rich facets of this charming Atlantic city.
05
Gastronomy
Discover art of cooking exceptional of La Rochelle, where the marine flavors meet the French gastronomic tradition. Delicious sea food freshly caught with local specialties, each bite is a symphony of tastes.
The other curiosities of La Rochelle
The Halles market
The covered market stands on the historic site of the Grande Boucherie, first meat market in La Rochelle, built in 1443 according to the plans of the architect Brossard. Built in Charentes stone and dated “1834” on the façade, the market, covered with an imposing wooden frame, welcomed its first visitors in 1835.
In 1893, the architect Corbineau supervised the expansion of the building, adding side aisles to the central nave. The use of metal and glass responds to safety and hygiene standards, incorporating materials such as granite, brick and terracotta to preserve the authenticity and modernity of the place.
Nature Escapes
Go and discover the “Nature Escapes“, network of Sensitive Natural Areas of Charente-Maritime. Walks, guided tours, activities… because there is no such thing as a small adventure! The Echappées Nature network brings together 50 hectares of fragile and exceptional natural spaces by their flora and fauna, their landscapes, but also their history and that of the men and women who have developed them. Throughout the year, the Echappées Nature invite you to understand the secrets of nature, to explore unique landscapes, and to escape for a natural break. 14 sites to visit as The Poitou Donkey Farm in Dampierre-sur-Boutonne, The Crazanne Stone, The Bird Marsh in Dolus-d'Oléron, the Port des Salines on the Île de Ré(…) or even 29 ideas for walks to discover with family or friends!
Travel between Niort and La Rochelle
La Rochelle Ocean Pass
Practical, clever and economical, the La Rochelle Ocean Pass opens the doors to more than 50 must-see sites and activities in the region. It also includes unlimited access to La Rochelle public transport as well as TER Nouvelle-Aquitaine trains between La Rochelle, Rochefort, Saintes and Niort.
Whether you are staying for the duration ofa weekend, an extended getaway or a vacation, this city pass constitutes an ideal solution for exploring the destination while controlling your budget.
Located in the heart of a rich and diverse territory — from the island of Oléron to Rochefort, passing by the island of Aix, the Marais Poitevin or even the South Vendée — La Rochelle invites you to discover an exceptional natural and cultural heritage.
The La Rochelle Ocean Pass is available in four durations: 48 hours, 72 hours, 7 days, and a special 72-hour winter version (available only from November to February). Three price categories are available: adult, teenager (12-17 years old), and child (4-11 years old)*.
Sites accessible on the Destination Niort – Marais Poitevin with the Ocean Pass:
By bus: Express line 140E between Niort and La Rochelle
- €2,5 per journey – subscription possible
- 6 round trips per day from Monday to Friday
- Schedules designed for home-work journeys
- Comfort on board: Wi-Fi, USB, digital press, air conditioning, reclining seats
- Serving employment areas, university centers, and well connected to the Tanlib and Yélo networks
- Since April, Yélo tickets have been valid for journeys on the La Rochelle CDA
- La Rochelle – Bus Station
- Périgny – 4 Knights & La Bourgne
- Sainte-Soulle – Usseau School
Contact the La Rochelle Tourist Office
LA ROCHELLE TOURISM OFFICE
2 Quai Georges Simenon
17000 La Rochelle
+05 46 41 14 68 XNUMX
[email protected]
www.larochelle-tourisme.com