Explore La Rochelle: A 3-Day Itinerary of City Life, Nature, and Culture

Day 1: City Discovery

La Rochelle, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de la Paix

Start your day at Café de la Paix, a charming spot offering a delicious array of pastries and fresh coffee, energising you for a day of exploration.
Walk to the Old Port area after breakfast.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Old Port

Wander around the picturesque Old Port, with its iconic towers La Chaîne and Saint-Nicolas, where history meets scenic views.
Continue along the waterfront walkway.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore La Rochelle's Aquarium

Delve into the vibrant marine life at La Rochelle's Aquarium, one of the largest in Europe, featuring stunning biodiversity.
Head south along Quai Louis Prunier.
EUR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Bistro des Quatre Saisons

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Le Bistro des Quatre Saisons, renowned for its local seafood delicacies and ambiance.
Stroll back towards the Old Town for lunch.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Maritime Museum

Immerse yourself in La Rochelle's seafaring history at the Maritime Museum, showcasing fascinating exhibits and models of historic ships.
A short walk from the restaurant to the museum.
EUR9, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening stroll in Parc Charruyer

Unwind with a stroll through Parc Charruyer, a lovely green space perfect for relaxation and people-watching.
Walk southeast towards the park.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at La Table de l'Escale

Dine at La Table de l'Escale, savouring refined cuisine made from local seasonal ingredients.
Walk back to the Old Port for dinner.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 2: Island Escape

Île de Ré, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Café du Commerce

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Le Café du Commerce, offering fresh croissants and local cheeses.
Take a local bus or rent a bicycle to head to Île de Ré.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cycle through the Lighthouse of Whales

Rent a bicycle and cycle to the majestic Phare des Baleines (Lighthouse of Whales) for stunning coastal views.
Follow the route provided by your bike rental.
EUR6 for bike rental, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Cabane du Feneau

Indulge in a seaside lunch at La Cabane du Feneau, famous for its oysters and fresh fish dishes.
Bike from the lighthouse to the restaurant.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Island's Salt Marshes

After lunch, explore the beautiful salt marshes of Île de Ré, where you can observe local wildlife and unique landscapes.
Cycle to the marshes as indicated on local maps.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax on the Beach

Unwind at one of the stunning beaches on the island, soaking in the sun and sea breeze.
Head to La Conche des Baleines beach.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to La Rochelle

Cycle back to your starting point and take the bus back to La Rochelle.
Follow the same route back.
EUR6 for bike rental, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Fleur de Sel

Savour traditional French cuisine at La Fleur de Sel, famous for its warm atmosphere and hearty dishes.
Short walk from your accommodation.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

La Rochelle, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pâtisserie Mêlée

Start your day with exquisite pastries and coffee at Pâtisserie Mêlée, highly regarded by locals.
Walk towards the café in the city centre.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts

Explore rich art collections at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, showcasing both local and international artists.
Short walk from breakfast location.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through the Market

Experience local life by visiting the Marché Public, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, cheeses, and regional specialities.
Stroll down Rue de la Monnaie to the market.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Le Comptoir de la Mer

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at Le Comptoir de la Mer, known for its fresh catch of the day.
Head towards the waterfront near the market.
EUR28, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore La Rochelle's Historic Streets

Wander through the historic streets of La Rochelle, admiring the medieval architecture and colourful facades.
Explore on foot, guided by a map of the area.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Les Halles Market

Conclude your cultural journey with a visit to the vibrant Les Halles Market, immersing yourself in local flavours.
Short walk from the historic streets.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Le Port placed

Finish your La Rochelle adventure with dinner at Le Port, featuring delectable dishes inspired by the region's culinary heritage.
Walk back to the Old Port area for dinner.
EUR35, 2 hours
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