La Rochelle city breaks

La Rochelle is one of the most picturesque port towns in France.  Located on the East coast of France, La Rochelle will not disappoint you. It’s now easier than ever to book a high speed rail journey to La Rochelle with Eurostar so think about a city break to La Rochelle for something different to do.

La Rochelle city break attractions
The centre and the waterfront date from the 17th century when the town played an important in the trade with the new world. The most attractive area is located from the harbour and the place de Verdun. The Grosse Horloge is a gateway to the old town and dominates the harbour. It leads onto the rue du palais which is filled with shops under the 18th century arcades. The main sights to visit include the Musee du nouveau Monde and the Hotel de Ville. Also, not very well known (but easily walkable from the Old Port - or take the Bus de Mer / Water Taxi) is the coastal pathway that goes from the Minimes marina, along the coast to the beach near Aytre and beyond, up to 8km of superb scenery. There are fantastic views of the sea approaching La Rochelle on your city break.

When to visit La Rochelle for a citybreak?
The best month for your city break to La Rochelle would be July. Numerous things are happening in this month. In mid-July, the ‘Rochelais’ celebrate the best of French music with a six-day music festival known as Francofolies. Thousands of people flock to the city to enjoy the music of well-known artists as well as smaller gigs showcasing new talent. Also, for cinema lovers, La Rochelle is home to the world’s second largest French film festival after Cannes. From the beginning to mid July over 250 films will be screened across the city, demonstrating La Rochelle’s passion for world cinema and attracting film fanatics of all ages. Finally, the city’s Bastille Day celebrations are hailed as among the best in France. On 14 July, visitors and residents are treated to special food stalls in La Rochelle’s famous covered market and a spectacular firework display over the harbour at night.

My La Rochelle
Emeline Moquillon, Information Duty Officer at Lille’s Centre Opérationnel Eurostar (COE), lived in La Rochelle as a student. Take their tips on your city break to La Rochelle.