24 hours in La Rochelle: the perfect program for those arriving unannounced
No time to plan? All the better.
La Rochelle is the ideal place to improvise a perfect day, without stress or complicated logistics.
Here's a turnkey program to follow (or adapt) to make the most of a short stay in relaxation mode - whether you arrive this morning or are already here.
10am - Arrival and coffee on the port
Drop off your bags at the hotel (yes, you can leave your luggage even before check-in), and get out into the sea air.
Start with a café on the terrace overlooking the boats in the old port - vacation atmosphere guaranteed.
We like: Brasserie Là-Haut for the view.
11:30 am - An impromptu stroll through the historic center
Head for the cobblestone streets, between arcades, small boutiques and art galleries.
You're sure to come across the Grosse Horloge, Les Halles, or one of the pretty shady squares typical of the city center.
The real tip? Let yourself go, without a plan. Everything is within walking distance, and every detour holds a surprise.
Bonus: a little detour to the central market, for the pleasure of your eyes (and taste buds).
1p.m. - Lunch on the terrace in the shade of the sails
Head to one of the quayside restaurants for a plate of seafood, grilled fish or fresh ceviche.
Prefer the local spirit? Try a more hidden bistro in the slightly more bohemian Saint-Nicolas district, a 5-minute walk away.
Express option: a sandwich from Brother's Coffee Shop + a bench facing the port = winning combo.
3 p.m. - Laze on the Concurrence beach
Just a few minutes' walk away, the Concurrence beach is ideal for lounging without leaving the center of town.
Put down your towel, pull out a book or close your eyes...
If you're tempted by the water, swimming is supervised and the atmosphere is very calm.
Don't forget to hydrate (and sunscreen!).
6p.m. - Aperitif with a view & sunset
Back at the port, settle down on one of the terraces with a view for a well-deserved aperitif.
Spritz, oysters or raspberry mojito, depending on your mood.
And if you prefer a more local feel, the Octopus rooftop is the perfect place to watch the sun set over the ocean.
Insider tip: the best shots are taken just behind the Saint-Nicolas tower, towards the pier.
9p.m. - A peaceful night in a room that breathes the ocean
When it's time to head home, there's no need for cabs or complicated plans: the hotel is just a stone's throw away.
The ambience is cosy, the bedding ultra-soft, and the ocean-inspired decor plunges you into a mood of 100% relaxation.
In short: the perfect end to a perfectly improvised day.
✔️ La Rochelle day in brief:
- Café + a stroll through the old town
- Lunch by the water
- Lazy afternoon on the beach
- Sunset aperitif
- Overnight in a well-placed cocoon
First step: book your room!
