A car-free weekend in La Rochelle: the perfect itinerary for doing everything on foot

Looking for fresh air, a relaxed way of life and a chance to discover new things... without ever having to get behind the wheel of a car?

Good news: in La Rochelle, everything can be done on foot (especially when you're sleeping right in the center, a stone's throw from the old port).

Whether you arrive by train or put your car down for the weekend, here's a perfect itinerary for exploring La Rochelle on foot, at your own pace. Follow the guide, step by step!

Saturday morning: get lost in the historic center

Start your escapade in the cobbled streets of the city center. From the hotel, just a 3-minute walk away, reach the Grosse Horloge, the emblematic medieval gateway that separates the port from the old shopping streets.

Stroll through the arcades of Rue du Palais, push open the door of a concept store or a small tearoom, and let yourself be carried away. No need for GPS here: every turn leads to a pretty facade, a tree-lined square or a hidden church.

Local tip: don't miss the central market, open every morning. Perfect for stocking up on fresh produce or nibbling on a slice of cheese cake on the go.

Saturday afternoon: head for the seaside

Head for the old port and its famous towers. Climb to the top of the Saint-Nicolas tower for a breathtaking view of the city and islands.

Then walk along the quays towards Plage de la Concurrence. In less than 10 minutes on foot, you'll have your feet in the sand, facing the ocean. Incredible, isn't it?

Want to extend your iodine break? The Promenade du Mail is perfect for a siesta in the shade of the pine trees. Vacation atmosphere guaranteed.

Saturday evening: dinner with a view

Return to the center for an aperitif overlooking the boats, followed by dinner in one of the restaurants with terraces around the harbor. Want to end the day on a high note... and with shellfish? Le P'tit Bleu is the address for you. And good news: it's only a 1-minute walk from the hotel!

For a more local feel, you can also walk to the more bohemian Saint-Nicolas district, with its lively bars and less touristy addresses.

Sunday mornings: a gentle wake-up call

Grasse matinée or wake up to the sound of seagulls, it's up to you. Breakfast at the hotel is one of the pleasures of the weekend, especially when it's served in a decorative, cocooning atmosphere.

Then it's on to Parc Charruyer, just a few minutes' walk away: perfect for a leafy stroll to Plage des Minimes, if you feel like it.

To sum up: why is La Rochelle ideal for a car-free weekend?

Everything is within walking distance of the hotel (train station, town center, sea, restaurants).

The atmosphere is gentle, safe and stress-free

You really get to enjoy the moment (and don't have to spend your time looking for a parking space or recharging your car...)

What if this weekend was the starting point of a new tradition?

Come to La Rochelle on foot... and leave with a head full of iodized memories.

Everything can be done on foot... Especially when you sleep in the right place.

TREAT YOURSELF TO THE PERFECT LOCATION