The iconic Vieux-Port
Must-see
La Rochelle’s Towers, picture perfect
From the Vieux Port, you can’t help but admire the majestic towers that stand guard over the city. Standing tall over the Atlantic, they are a symbol of La Rochelle’s power and wealth over the years. These sea fortifications built in the middle ages, and that are now classed as historical monuments, are a must-see when visiting La Rochelle, whether you are just through for a day trip, a weekend, a week or even longer. On both sides of the entrance to the Vieux Port you can find the Tour Saint-Nicolas, which is the highest tower, and the Tour de la Chaîne, then further along, attached to the Tour de la Chaîne by a curtain wall or defensive wall is the Tour de la Lanterne, which is both a lighthouse and a prison.
Soak up the community spirit and stroll through the Vieux Port
How do you fancy having a drink or grabbing a bite while looking out over the sea or indulging on a really good ice cream whilst wandering along the docks? As well as being the starting point for cruises that go round the coastline and the islands, the Vieux Port offers a range of options and is the perfect place for a stroll.
Take the time to stop off in one of the little places at the Quai Duperré and lounge around on the terrace where you can admire the spectacular view and listen to the sea breeze and the flapping of the masts from the marina. In the shade and dotted with benches, the Cours des Dames is the perfect place in summer to go for a short walk and to discover several craftsmen and artists with unexpected talents.
It’s where the Cours des Dames and the Quai Duperré meet that you can find the Grosse Horloge (Great Clock). With the Gothic style typical of La Rochelle’s heritage, back in the day the town was used to separate the port from the city. Go through the gate and keep going through the old town and its arcaded streets.
Get front row seats!
The docks, galleries of exceptional shows
An anchor point for pleasure boats, the Vieux Port and the two wet docks host lots of events that you can discover from the docks: jousting, nautical parades, exhibitions of exceptional and legendary boats, high-diving, fireworks, spectacular shows and the starting point for big sailing races.
The place to be for families
Square Valin
On the corner of the Quai Valin and the Quai Carénage, Square Valin underwent significant renovation works. Today it is a friendly place with a mix of green areas, a play area for kids, a wooden merry-go-round, benches and a snack stand. A recreational and relaxation area in the stunning Vieux Port and the perfect place to make family memories.
An evening at La Rochelle’s Vieux Port
Have a magical summer’s evening at the Vieux Port. La Rochelle at night is an incredible sight to see with lots of different atmospheres coming together. The illuminated Atlantic city is a magical place where every step opens your eyes to another world. With a lively atmosphere on the terrace, a crafts market and a stunning sunset, when night falls La Rochelle gets a fresh lease of life and it will never cease to surprise you!