La Rochelle: The Complete Guide

La Rochelle is a beautiful coastal city on the west coast of France, known for its picturesque harbor and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy wandering through the charming old town with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and bustling markets. The city is a great destination for those interested in seafood, as many restaurants line the waterfront offering fresh, local dishes. The old port area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with views of the iconic Tour de la Lanterne and Tour Saint-Nicolas, as well as numerous cafes and shops.
In addition to the historic areas, La Rochelle offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions, including the Aquarium de La Rochelle, one of the largest in Europe. The city is also a great base for exploring the nearby islands, such as Île de Ré, known for its stunning beaches and cycling routes. Whether you’re enjoying the coastal views, taking a boat ride, or simply relaxing in the local parks, La Rochelle provides a peaceful yet lively atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for visitors looking to combine history, culture, and natural beauty.
Table of Contents
- History of La Rochelle
- Early History of La Rochelle
- La Rochelle in the Middle Ages
- La Rochelle in the Renaissance and Early Modern Period
- La Rochelle in the 18th and 19th Centuries
- La Rochelle in the 20th Century and Beyond
- 18 Best places to See in La Rochelle
- Vieux Port (Old Port)
- Aquarium La Rochelle
- Towers of La Rochelle
- Musée Maritime de La Rochelle
- Marché du Centre Ville (Central Market)
- Musée d’Histoire Naturelle de La Rochelle
- Plage des Minimes
- Parc Charruyer
- Île de Ré
- Le Bunker de La Rochelle
- Cloître des Dames Blanches
- Maison Henri II
- Hôtel de Ville, La Rochelle
- Rue des Templiers & Cour de la Commanderie
- Musée Rochelais d’Histoire Protestante
- Marché Central de La Rochelle
- Cathédrale Saint-Louis de La Rochelle
- Le Bunker de La Rochelle
- Musée du Nouveau Monde
- Porte de la Grosse-Horloge
- Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle de La Rochelle
- Tour Saint-Nicolas
- Old Harbour, La Rochelle
- Tour de la Chaîne
- Charruyer Park
- Tour de la Lanterne
- La Rochelle Aquarium
- Maritime Museum La Rochelle
- 10 Best Day Trips from La Rochelle
- Where to Stay in La Rochelle
- Best Time to Visit La Rochelle
- Visiting La Rochelle in Spring
- Visiting La Rochelle in Summer
- Visiting La Rochelle in Autumn
- Visiting La Rochelle in Winter
- How to get to La Rochelle
History of La Rochelle
Early History of La Rochelle
La Rochelle’s origins date back to the early Middle Ages when it began as a small fishing village. During the 12th century, it gained prominence as a port town due to its strategic location along the coast. The town was officially recognized as a commune in the 12th century, and by the 13th century, it had become a significant trading hub in Europe, particularly for salt and wine.
La Rochelle in the Middle Ages
By the 14th century, La Rochelle had firmly established itself as one of the most important ports on the Atlantic coast. The town’s strategic position made it a valuable asset during the Hundred Years’ War, and it was heavily fortified to defend against both English and French forces. During this period, La Rochelle also became a center of commerce, with bustling markets and merchants from all over Europe.
La Rochelle in the Renaissance and Early Modern Period
In the 16th century, La Rochelle flourished, especially with the rise of the Protestant Reformation in France. The city became a stronghold for Huguenots (French Protestants), which led to tensions with the Catholic monarchy. This culminated in the Siege of La Rochelle in 1627-1628, when the city was captured by Cardinal Richelieu’s forces, marking the end of Huguenot control in the region and a shift in the city’s political landscape.
La Rochelle in the 18th and 19th Centuries
During the 18th century, La Rochelle continued to thrive as a major port, particularly in the trade of sugar, coffee, and slaves. The 19th century saw the city’s economy grow with the rise of new industries, including shipbuilding and the development of the railway. However, La Rochelle faced some challenges, particularly during the French Revolution, when the city was divided by political unrest.
La Rochelle in the 20th Century and Beyond
The 20th century saw La Rochelle evolve into a popular tourist destination, thanks to its well-preserved historical center and coastal beauty. During World War II, the city was occupied by German forces, but it was liberated by Allied troops in 1944. Today, La Rochelle is known for its maritime heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and scenic beauty, attracting visitors from around the world.
Visiting La Rochelle for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in La Rochelle on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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18 Best places to See in La Rochelle
This complete guide to La Rochelle not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in La Rochelle and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Cloître des Dames Blanches

Location: Cloitre des Dames Blanches, Rue Saint-Michel, La Rochelle, France | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Cloître des Dames Blanches
Maison Henri II

Location: Maison Henri II, Rue des Augustins, La Rochelle, France | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Maison Henri II
Hôtel de Ville, La Rochelle

Location: Place de l'hôtel de ville, Rue de l'Hôtel de ville, La Rochelle, France | Hours: Guided tour on Wednesday and Thursday between 3 pm and 3.45 pm and between 4 pm and 4.45 pm. | Price: €6 | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Hôtel de Ville, La Rochelle
Rue des Templiers & Cour de la Commanderie

Location: Cour de la Commanderie, La Rochelle, France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Rue des Templiers & Cour de la Commanderie
Musée Rochelais d’Histoire Protestante

Location: Musée Rochelais d'Histoire Protestante, Rue Saint-Michel, La Rochelle, France | Hours: June to September every day except Sundays, from 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. | Price: €5 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Musée Rochelais d’Histoire Protestante
Marché Central de La Rochelle

Location: Marché central, La Rochelle, France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Marché Central de La Rochelle
Cathédrale Saint-Louis de La Rochelle

Location: Cathédrale Saint-Louis de La Rochelle et Tour St Barthelemy, Place de Verdun, La Rochelle, France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Cathédrale Saint-Louis de La Rochelle
Le Bunker de La Rochelle

Location: Le Bunker de La Rochelle (Musée), Rue des Dames, La Rochelle, France | Hours: Daily 10:00 to 18:0 | Price: €9.50 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Le Bunker de La Rochelle
Musée du Nouveau Monde

Location: Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle, Rue Fleuriau, La Rochelle, France | Hours: Summer: Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-6pm, Saturdays 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Winter: Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 10am-12:30pm / 1:30pm-5:30pm, Saturdays 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Mondays closed | Price: €8 | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Musée du Nouveau Monde
Porte de la Grosse-Horloge

Location: PORTE DE LA GROSSE HORLOGE, Rue de la Grosse Horloge, La Rochelle, France | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Porte de la Grosse-Horloge
Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle de La Rochelle

Location: Muséum d'Histoire naturelle de La Rochelle, Rue Albert 1er, La Rochelle, France | Hours: Summer: Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-6pm, Saturdays 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Winter: Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 10am-12:30pm / 1:30pm-5:30pm, Saturdays 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Mondays closed | Price: €8 | Website | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle de La Rochelle
Tour Saint-Nicolas

Location: Tour Saint-Nicolas, La Rochelle, France | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Tour Saint-Nicolas
Old Harbour, La Rochelle

Location: Vieux-Port 17000 La Rochelle France | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Old Harbour, La Rochelle
Tour de la Chaîne

Location: Tour de la Chaîne, La Rochelle, France | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Tour de la Chaîne
Charruyer Park

Location: Le parc Charruyer, Chemin des Remparts, La Rochelle, France | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Charruyer Park
Tour de la Lanterne

Location: Tour de la Lanterne, Rue sur les Murs, La Rochelle, France | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Tour de la Lanterne
La Rochelle Aquarium

Location: La Rochelle Aquarium, Quai Louis Prunier, La Rochelle, France | Hours: 10:00 - 20:00 | Price: €18.50 | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting La Rochelle Aquarium
Maritime Museum La Rochelle

Location: Musée Maritime de La Rochelle, Place Bernard Moitessier, La Rochelle, France | Hours: High season (June - Sept): Tue. Wed. Thu. Fri. & Sun.: open from 10am to 6pm Saturday: open from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday: weekly closing Admissions close at 5 p.m.Low season: Tue. Wed. Thu. Fri. & Sun.: open from 10am to 5:30pm Sat: open from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday: weekly closing | Price: €8 | Website | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting Maritime Museum La Rochelle
Best Day Trips from La Rochelle
A day trip from La Rochelle offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around La Rochelle provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Fort Boyard

Location: Fort Boyard, Île-d'Aix, France | Distance: 18.5km
Visiting Fort Boyard
Ile de Ré

Location: Île de Ré, France | Distance: 19.0km
Visiting Ile de Ré
Rochefort

Visiting Rochefort
Phare de Cordouan

Location: Phare de Cordouan, Le Verdon-sur-Mer, France | Website | Distance: 63.8km
Visiting Phare de Cordouan
Cognac

Visiting Cognac
Nantes

Visiting Nantes
Poitiers

Visiting Poitiers
Angers

Visiting Angers
Bordeaux

Visiting Bordeaux
Saint-Émilion

Visiting Saint-Émilion
Where to Stay in La Rochelle
In the heart of La Rochelle’s historic Vieux Port, elegant townhouses and boutique boltholes place you steps from the turning lantern of the Tour de la Chaîne and the cafés lining the quays. Hôtel La Monnaie Art & Spa occupies a converted 18th-century mint with sleek, art-filled rooms and a rooftop spa overlooking the harbor, while Hôtel Saint-Nicolas blends exposed oak beams with minimalist décor and offers balconies that frame the illuminated towers at night. A little further along the quay, Hôtel Le Voiles charms with nautical-inspired interiors and a sun-lit patio where you can sip regional vinos under striped awnings.
Just south of the city center, the Marina des Minimes district caters to lovers of sea air and sailing culture. Novotel La Rochelle Centre perches between the marina’s masts and the leafy boulevard, offering contemporary rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor pool hidden among palm trees. Nearby, Résidence Odalys Archipel provides studio apartments with kitchenettes—ideal for families—and easy access to the Aquarium and beach via the coastal footpath.
A short drive or ferry ride brings you to Île de Ré’s western tip and the coastal village of Ars-en-Ré, perfect for a quieter retreat amidst whitewashed houses and salt marshes. Within easy reach of La Rochelle, Hôtel Île de Ré by Thalazur offers spa treatments using local seaweed and thalassotherapy pools fed by the Atlantic. Back on the mainland, near the beaches of Châtelaillon-Plage, La Résidence Hôtelière Du Phare sits beside dunes and pine groves, its contemporary studios with balconies inviting you to unwind to the sound of the surf.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in La Rochelle. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
La Rochelle Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit La Rochelle
Visiting La Rochelle in Spring
Spring (March to May) is an ideal time to visit La Rochelle, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the summer months. The city’s parks and gardens come alive with blooming flowers, and the pleasant weather makes it perfect for walking along the harbor or exploring the old town. Spring also marks the beginning of various local festivals and outdoor events, offering a lively atmosphere.
Visiting La Rochelle in Summer
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in La Rochelle, with warm weather and plenty of activities. The city is bustling with tourists enjoying its beaches, boat tours, and open-air cafes. While the town is lively and full of energy, it’s also the busiest time, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.
Visiting La Rochelle in Autumn
Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit La Rochelle. The weather is still pleasant, with cooler temperatures, and the crowds start to thin out after the summer peak. The fall foliage around the city adds to its charm, and it’s a wonderful season to explore the local vineyards and enjoy seasonal produce.
Visiting La Rochelle in Winter
Winter (December to February) in La Rochelle is quieter, offering a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. While the temperatures are cooler, they remain mild compared to other regions of France, making it a comfortable time for sightseeing. The festive Christmas markets and decorations in the town center add a cozy and charming touch to the winter months.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 10°C 53°F
- February 11°C 55°F
- March 13°C 59°F
- April 17°C 66°F
- May 20°C 71°F
- June 23°C 77°F
- July 26°C 82°F
- August 26°C 82°F
- September 22°C 76°F
- October 19°C 70°F
- November 14°C 61°F
- December 11°C 56°F
How to get to La Rochelle
Getting to La Rochelle
La Rochelle is a charming coastal city with easy access by air, train, and car, making it convenient for visitors to reach from both nearby and distant locations.
By Air
The primary airport serving La Rochelle is La Rochelle–Île de Ré Airport (LRH), located about 8 kilometers from the city center. The airport offers both domestic and European flights, particularly from Paris and major cities in Europe. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi, shuttle service, or rent a car to reach the city center.
By Train
La Rochelle is well-connected by train, with the Gare de La Rochelle being the central station. High-speed TGV trains connect the city to other major cities in France, such as Paris, Bordeaux, and Nantes. The train station is located near the city center, making it easy to access the local attractions and accommodations upon arrival.
By Car
Renting a car provides flexibility for exploring La Rochelle and the surrounding region. The city is connected to other parts of France via highways such as the A10 and N137, allowing easy access from nearby cities. Driving to La Rochelle is straightforward, and there are several parking options in and around the city center.
For a convenient car rental experience, consider booking through Discover Cars, where you can compare rates and find the best deals.
Getting Around La Rochelle
La Rochelle is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. The city also offers an efficient bus network for longer distances, and bicycle rentals are available for those who want to explore at their own pace. For more convenience, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available to get around the city.