La Rochelle and surroundings

Looking for ideas to make the most of your stay before or after your visit to the Aquarium?

La Rochelle

Charentes

Nouvelle Aquitaine

Before or after your visit, discover La Rochelle’s heritage and the treasures of the Atlantic coastline.

Iconic landmarks of La Rochelle, the Lantern Tower, Chain Tower and Saint-Nicolas Tower reveal an important part of the city’s history. This must-see visit offers insight into La Rochelle’s maritime and commercial past while providing exceptional views over the city and the ocean. Temporary exhibitions are regularly on display throughout the year.

The Natural History Museum

Located in the heart of the Botanical Garden, La Rochelle’s Natural History Museum is one of the richest museums in the region. With more than 10,000 objects on display, it invites visitors of all ages to explore natural sciences, animals from around the world and collections brought back by great explorers. An ideal cultural activity to complement a family visit to La Rochelle.

Maritime Museum

Facing the Fishing Harbour basin, La Rochelle’s Maritime Museum invites visitors to explore the city’s rich maritime history spanning several centuries. Discover historic vessels and exhibitions that highlight La Rochelle’s unique relationship with the Atlantic Ocean and the great seafaring expeditions of the past.

Inter-Iles cruises

From La Rochelle’s Old Harbour, set sail on a sea excursion to Fort Boyard, Ré Island, Oléron Island or Aix Island. These cruises offer a unique perspective on the Charente coastline and some of the most beautiful landscapes in Charente-Maritime. In summer, sunset catamaran cruises are particularly popular and provide an unforgettable experience at sea.

Guided Tours of La Rochelle

Discover La Rochelle from a different perspective with the many guided tours available throughout the year. Whether on foot, by bike, by Segway or through themed itineraries, these tours offer a unique way to explore the city’s historic heritage, iconic landmarks, charming old quarters and local specialities.

Plan your stay in La Rochelle

In addition to your visit to La Rochelle Aquarium, discover some of the region’s major attractions in Charente-Maritime and the Charente.

Rochefort Naval Dockyard

Located less than 30 km from La Rochelle, the Rochefort Naval Dockyard retraces 350 years of maritime history through the Royal Rope Factory (Corderie Royale), the National Maritime Museum and Accro-Mâts. A fascinating destination combining heritage, culture and leisure.

Zoo de la Palmyre

Just an hour’s drive from La Rochelle, La Palmyre Zoo is one of Europe’s most renowned zoological parks. Discover more than 1,600 animals living in an 18-hectare pine forest setting.

Antilles de Jonzac

Looking for a relaxing break? Les Antilles de Jonzac offers a tropical escape with lagoons, wellness areas and pools heated to 32°C.

International Comics and Illustration Centre (Cité de la Bande Dessinée)

Set in Angoulême, less than two hours from La Rochelle, the Comics and Illustration Centre offers a unique journey into the world of comic art through collections, exhibitions and original works renowned throughout Europe.

Prepare your visit to the Charentes

From the Lascaux Caves to La Cité du Vin and Futuroscope, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers a wealth of experiences and discoveries for visitors of all ages.

Marais Poitevin

Less than an hour from La Rochelle, embark on a traditional boat ride through the heart of the Marais Poitevin, one of western France’s largest natural areas. With its shaded waterways, preserved wildlife and peaceful landscapes, it is the perfect escape to relax and reconnect with nature.

La Cité du Vin

Located in Bordeaux, La Cité du Vin offers an immersive journey through the culture and history of wine with interactive exhibitions and sensory experiences. A unique venue to discover wine through its cultural, historical and heritage dimensions.

Lascaux caves

In the heart of the Dordogne region, Lascaux IV invites visitors to discover the fascinating world of prehistoric cave art through a full-scale replica of the famous Lascaux Cave. This immersive experience takes visitors back to the dawn of humanity and the first known artistic creations.

Le Futuroscope

Near Poitiers, Futuroscope offers a unique experience combining innovative attractions, cutting-edge technology and immersive shows for the whole family. Excitement, discovery and wonder await visitors of all ages.

Les Bassins des Lumières

Housed in Bordeaux’s former submarine base, the Bassins des Lumières present monumental digital exhibitions showcasing masterpieces by some of the world’s greatest artists. A spectacular venue where art comes to life through image, light and music.

TRAVEL IN NEW AQUITAINE

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