Discover La Rochelle on foot
With its Old Port, arcaded streets, and largely pedestrianized historic center, La Rochelle is a city that is a delight to explore on foot.
In just a few kilometers, you can go from the famous medieval towers to the facades of the Old Town, before returning to the maritime atmosphere of the quays.
Our hotel in La Rochelle is perfectly situated for exploring the city on foot.
Put on some comfortable shoes: here is a walk of about 4 kilometers to discover some of the city's must-see sights!
It is hard to imagine a better starting point. At the Old Port, pleasure boats, café terraces, and white facades create one of La Rochelle’s most iconic settings.
Before heading to the historic center, pass under the Grosse Horloge (Great Clock). This former 14th-century fortified gate once marked the passage between the port and the city.
Continue along Rue du Palais and Rue des Merciers.
Their arcades a signature feature of La Rochelle’s center recall the city’s mercantile past; they allowed merchants to shelter their stalls.
As you walk, take the time to admire the private mansions and historic houses.
Then, make your way to La Rochelle’s Town Hall, a remarkable structure featuring medieval-style walls and a Renaissance building.
Head back toward the ocean to find La Rochelle’s three sentinels.
The Saint-Nicolas Tower and the Chaîne Tower (Chain Tower) flank the entrance to the Old Port. In the Middle Ages, a chain could be stretched between them to block access.
A little further on stands the Lanterne Tower a former lighthouse turned prison which still bears graffiti carved into its walls by sailors and prisoners.
Next, head over to Le Gabut, a former harbor district recognizable by its colorful wooden houses.
Its atmosphere contrasts with the pale stone of the historic center, offering a different side of La Rochelle.
Continue along the quays to the La Rochelle Aquarium.
You can end your day there or simply enjoy the waterfront before a leisurely stroll back to the center.
Book one of the 41 modern rooms and suites at the Hotel Central Park, located in the heart of La Rochelle.
And after exploring the city, enjoy a wellness break in our spa!
In just a few kilometers, you can go from the famous medieval towers to the facades of the Old Town, before returning to the maritime atmosphere of the quays.
Our hotel in La Rochelle is perfectly situated for exploring the city on foot.
Put on some comfortable shoes: here is a walk of about 4 kilometers to discover some of the city's must-see sights!
Start your walk at the Old Port
It is hard to imagine a better starting point. At the Old Port, pleasure boats, café terraces, and white facades create one of La Rochelle’s most iconic settings.
Before heading to the historic center, pass under the Grosse Horloge (Great Clock). This former 14th-century fortified gate once marked the passage between the port and the city.
Stroll under the arcades of the historic center
Continue along Rue du Palais and Rue des Merciers.
Their arcades a signature feature of La Rochelle’s center recall the city’s mercantile past; they allowed merchants to shelter their stalls.
As you walk, take the time to admire the private mansions and historic houses.
Then, make your way to La Rochelle’s Town Hall, a remarkable structure featuring medieval-style walls and a Renaissance building.
Walk past La Rochelle’s three towers
Head back toward the ocean to find La Rochelle’s three sentinels.
The Saint-Nicolas Tower and the Chaîne Tower (Chain Tower) flank the entrance to the Old Port. In the Middle Ages, a chain could be stretched between them to block access.
A little further on stands the Lanterne Tower a former lighthouse turned prison which still bears graffiti carved into its walls by sailors and prisoners.
Finish your walk in theLe Gabut district
Next, head over to Le Gabut, a former harbor district recognizable by its colorful wooden houses.
Its atmosphere contrasts with the pale stone of the historic center, offering a different side of La Rochelle.
Continue along the quays to the La Rochelle Aquarium.
You can end your day there or simply enjoy the waterfront before a leisurely stroll back to the center.
Book one of the 41 modern rooms and suites at the Hotel Central Park, located in the heart of La Rochelle.
And after exploring the city, enjoy a wellness break in our spa!
