La Rochelle

[allie, Isle of Wight]

Does anyone have any tips for visiting La Rochelle?
Thanks

[ROSEBASKETS, Yorkshire]

Love Ile De Re, just over the large bridge, fantastic beaches and St Martin is beautiful. You could always go to Fort Boyard by boat which takes about an hour.

[Wilba]

This must be one of the most underused quality ports on cruises out of the UK.

For me the actual harbour with its bars, restaurants and shops has more than enough to offer a first timer without looking to go further afield and then missing out on La Rochelle itself..........Wilba

[AlanM, Derby]

As Wilba says don't bother with visits further afield. Just take yourself off into the centre of the city and wander round. Go and see the harbour and the towers which guard it and the cathedral to name but two highlights. I certainly wouldn't bother with the Ile de Re, most underwhelming, we preferred the Ile d'oleron but if it's your first time I wouldn't bother with either, head for the city!

[alandrover, beccles]

That's useful for me too , thanks, we will be going in April on Emerald. I was thinking of going to Ile de Re but won't bother now, just head fir the city.

[philhar, wallasey]

I would agree that the town itself is pretty and plenty to do to wander around.It depends on what your personal interests are but there is a fabulous Aquarium in La Rochelle:
Aquarium La Rochelle - Site Officiel
There is a good general tourism website too:
La Rochelle Tourisme - hotel la rochelle, location la rochelle, chambres d'hôtes la rochelle, hôtels La Rochelle |
We loved La Rochelle thought it a very underrated destination.

[All at sea, Yorks]

La Rochelle has a lovely old town and harbour to wander round. Lots of atmosphere and don't forget to visit some of the homemade chocolate shops.

[Val, Wolverhampton]

I really like La Rochelle, great place to amble around.

[jc, liverpool]

Hi all
Thanks for the advice from me also.
I am thinking of a cruise on Britannia in summer that stops at La Rochelle.
JC

[allie, Isle of Wight]

Thanks everyone!
We usually just go for a wander in this sort of port - sounds right up 'our street' (?Rue?)

[Happy, Wolverhampton]

I agree with Wilba. We visited several years ago and met up with some people we knew at the time who showed us around. We enjoyed exploring the town and also enjoyed the Ile de Re. We also visited some old German submarine pens, interesting but very creepy, you felt as if there were ghosts watching your every move.

[allie, Isle of Wight]

Great ideas!
Not long to go now and really looking forward to La Rochelle as we love France