La Rochelle is a charming coastal city that offers an exciting mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, there’s always something new to discover in this stunning French destination. From its lively Old Port to the tranquil shores of Île de Ré, La Rochelle is a perfect holiday destination. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top things to do in La Rochelle in 2025, showcasing the must-see attractions and activities that will make your trip unforgettable.
La Rochelle is not only rich in attractions but also incredibly easy to explore. It is a bike-friendly city with easy access to public transport, and it’s also very walkable.
La Rochelle is famous for its stunning beaches, offering a perfect escape for everyone. If you’re planning a family day, a peaceful solo retreat, or a romantic evening by the sea, the beaches there have it all.
You can enjoy the lively city beaches or find quiet, hidden spots to relax. Each beach has its own vibe, making La Rochelle a great place to unwind. Let’s dive into some of the best beaches in the area, each with something special waiting for you!
Located just outside the old town, Concurrence beach is a great choice for families, especially with its fun activities for kids. Not only can you relax by the sea, but it’s also close to Charruyer Park, which offers a peaceful space for picnics and walks. If you’re looking for something extra, there’s a free animal park nearby, perfect for a quick visit after the beach.
This is the largest beach in La Rochelle and a perfect spot for those who love space to spread out and enjoy the sun. You can easily reach it by taking the boat bus from the old port, which makes for a fun and scenic trip. In the right season, this beach offers a treasure hunt for seashells, making it a delightful experience for beach lovers and collectors alike.
For those seeking a quieter spot, Chef de Baie is a small, sheltered beach where you can enjoy the fine sand and calm atmosphere. It’s an ideal location for a peaceful walk along the shore, with stunning views of the coast. There’s also a grassy area nearby where you can join in outdoor activities, such as picnicking, making it a perfect place to spend a relaxing day.
When we visited, we were lucky to find a beautiful, multicolor seashell that immediately caught our eye (you can see it in the photo!). We also tried our hand at rock stacking, creating a little sculpture with stones we found along the shore. This city is a perfect beach destination.
The Old Port (Vieux Port) is the heart of La Rochelle, full of charm and history. Its iconic towers: Tour Saint-Nicolas, Tour de la Chaine, and Tour de la Lanterne are a must-see. From the top of the Lantern Tower, you can enjoy stunning views over the city and the sea. As you wander along the waterfront, you’ll also spot the Grand Clock, a beautiful and historic landmark. The area is always lively, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, or enjoy a delicious meal. There’s also a park for kids, making it a perfect spot for families to visit.
The Saint-Nicolas district is another wonderful area near the Old Port. Here, you can explore charming art galleries, bookstores, and unique second-hand shops. The area has a relaxed vibe, with colorful window displays and even outdoor record vendors, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll.
If you walk over to the Gabut district, you’ll be greeted by bright wooden houses painted in shades of yellow, blue, and red. The area feels cozy, with many cafes and restaurants offering lovely views of the sailing boats in the harbor. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by. The neighborhood is also very bike-friendly, and buses easily connect you to the rest of the city.
The Old Port is undoubtedly the heart of La Rochelle, and it’s easy to see why. On our visit, we couldn’t resist grabbing some delicious ice cream and churros as we strolled along the harbor. We also decided to take a ride on the iconic big wheel for just 5€. As it slowly turned, we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the port and the city stretching out toward the sea. It was the perfect way to enjoy the romantic atmosphere of La Rochelle.
La Rochelle offers a variety of boat tours, each providing a unique way to experience the stunning coastal views. You can choose from three types of boats: classic sailing boats, catamarans, and motorboats, depending on your preferences.
For a truly magical experience, why not take a sunset cruise? Watching the sun dip below the horizon while cruising the Atlantic is unforgettable. There are also two-hour cruises that take you between the beautiful islands of Ré, Aix, and Oléron. These excursions offer the perfect opportunity to see the coastline from a different perspective.
One of the most popular boat trips is to the famous Fort Boyard, which has become an iconic symbol of La Rochelle. You can catch a boat from the Old Port to get a close look at this historic fortress, known for its role in the popular French TV show. It’s an adventure that’s not to be missed!
If you prefer to stay closer to the mainland, there are several short cruises that take you along La Rochelle’s beautiful coastline. These cruises let you admire the cliffs, beaches, and charming seaside landscapes from the water.
Prices for these excursions typically range between 20 and 30 euros for a two-hour trip. Since these boat tours are very popular, especially during the summer months, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance to avoid missing out.
One of the most famous boat operators is Kapalouest. They offer day trips and sunset tours aboard a large catamaran. With several departures per day from March to October, you’ll be in good hands with their professional and friendly crew. Please note that we are not sponsored by Kapalouest, this is just a recommendation based on its popularity.
Île de Ré is just a short drive from La Rochelle, accessible via the iconic bridge that connects the island to the mainland. The bridge, nearly 3 kilometers long, is the second-largest in France and features a dedicated cycling lane. A toll is required to cross the bridge, which is around 16€ for a round-trip car in high season and 8€ during the off-season.
The island is only about a 35-minute drive from the center of La Rochelle. You can also catch a bus if you prefer not to drive.
Île de Ré is made up of 10 charming villages, with the most famous being Saint-Martin-de-Ré. This picturesque village, with its lively harbor and terraces, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking through the streets, you’ll find colorful houses with shutters, small boutiques, and cafes, giving the village a unique charm.
One of the must-see attractions on the island is the Phare des Baleines (Whale Lighthouse). Located on the western tip of the island, the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. It’s an unforgettable experience, especially at sunset.
Île de Ré is known for its cleanliness and meticulous upkeep. It is a cyclist’s paradise, with over 100 kilometers of dedicated bike paths winding through the island’s lush landscapes. The island’s commitment to preserving its environment makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers, offering both hiking and biking opportunities. In the high season, the island can get quite busy with tourists, but during the off-season, it offers a peaceful and more serene atmosphere.
The beaches on Île de Ré are beautiful and clean, with many of them lined with fine sand and colorful pebbles. When we visited, we were amazed by the variety of stunning stones scattered along the shore, making for a great souvenir or photo opportunity.
Overall, Île de Ré is a hidden gem, with its charming villages, beautiful beaches, and range of activities, it’s a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
Located just across from the Old Port, the Aquarium La Rochelle is one of the city’s top attractions. It offers an incredible journey through marine life from the Atlantic, the Mediterranean, and tropical waters. With over 12,000 marine animals on display, including 20 types of sharks, the aquarium is an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Visitors can expect to spend about 1.5 hours exploring the 82 aquariums and 600 species on display.
The aquarium is equipped with an informative audio guide available in multiple languages: French, English, Spanish, and German, helping visitors learn more about the exhibits and the species they encounter.
If you’re planning to visit, it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. The standard entrance fee is 18€ for adults, 14.50€ for teenagers (13-17 years old), and 12€ for children (3-12 years old). The Aquarium also offers discounts for families and groups.
Whether you’re an ocean enthusiast or looking for a fun activity with kids, the Aquarium La Rochelle offers a unique and engaging experience for all ages.
La Rochelle is an eco-friendly city full of vibrant energy and rich history, offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re exploring the picturesque Old Port, enjoying a peaceful day on the beaches, or venturing to the nearby Île de Ré, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained.
If you are travelling in the west side of France, we higly suggest that you pass by this coastal city. The top things to do in La Rochelle in 2025 promise an enriching and memorable experience. Don’t forget to check out our recent posts about others french cities such as Paris or Nantes.
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