Top 6 things to do in Poitiers

The town nicknamed “The City of a Hundred Spires” has more than one trick up its sleeve when it comes to showing you its many monuments and important squares. Poitiers is one of the oldest regions of France, so its sturdy walls and cobbled streets are steeped in history and rich in heritage. So far, you thought you knew everything there was to know about French history? Poitiers, a city of art, history and discovery, will amaze you and teach you more about France. Whatever you fancy: a stroll, a visit to a historic monument, tasting some of the region’s typical dishes, a stroll around the city on foot… We’ve selected a few activities to inspire you during your stay. Check them out below!

What to do in Poitiers

1. The Church of Notre-Dame-la-Grande

Category: Free/Cultural

Description: Every town has its flagship monument, the one that is part of its soul, part of its identity. Located right in the middle of Poitiers, the church of Notre-Dame-la-Grande stands on the Place Charles de Gaulle. Its history is rather mysterious, to tell the truth: a Romanesque church, many say that long before it was built, it was a pagan temple. Its facade, covered in sculptures, depicts motifs linked to Romanesque art. You can see animals from an overactive imagination, as well as characters whose faces are distorted by grimaces. Inside: this is a typical setting from the 1850s. Visitors love to come and meditate in this mythical place: while staring at the stalls and the great organ, peace and serenity reign in harmony. When you leave the church, be sure to look up at the entrance portal to see the relief frieze. It tells the story of the Bible like a picture book. It shows Christ standing, followed by the apostles and bishops. Restored between 1992 and 1995, this frieze is one of the town’s jewels and the pride of its inhabitants. Open every day from 9am to 7pm, you’ll be very welcome…

2. Blossac Park

Category: Free/Sports/Cultural

Description: Poitiers may be full of historic monuments and famous squares, but it’s also a city of fantastic flora and fauna. The best way to make the most of this varied natural environment is to visit the splendid Parc Blossac, open to the public every day from 7.15am to 10.30pm. Go to the rue Léopold-Thézard, to enjoy several gardens of different styles. Covering an area of just under 9 hectares, the park is linked to the banks of the River Clain as far as chemin de la Cagouillère. A superb walk in prospect! This typical French garden was influenced by the style of King Louis XIV’s gardeners, and the perfect geometry has created many impressive vistas. When it starts to get hot in the middle of the afternoon, come and take shelter under the many trees overhanging the foliage… Enjoy the various rivers, fountains and grottoes, while not forgetting to take photos of the pretty flowers opening up to the sunlight. Here you can picnic, play games and enjoy some family time.

3. Futuroscope

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: What is Futuroscope? Quite simply, it’s an amusement park for young and old, themed around technology and science. The attractions, each as interesting as the next and quite unusual, play on the sensory and sensational aspect, while projecting images. Futuroscope is a bit like stepping into a fourth dimension, another world, and travelling through time. The one in Poitiers is undoubtedly the most visited attraction every year. Located just a 20-minute drive north of the city, it offers a world of discovery, thrills and travel. Its most popular attractions are undoubtedly “Arthur’s Adventure” in 4D, the Illusio magic show, and “Dancing with the Robots” (our favourite). When you arrive at the entrance, a magnetic force will draw you into these mysterious places filled with scientific objects and gadgets. On top of this, new attractions are making their debut in 2024: the “Futuropolis” children’s world, an immersive “Antarctica” film, and a show featuring a giant robot.

4. Saint-Pierre Cathedral

Category: Free/Cultural

Description: If you ever take a walk west of Poitiers, you won’t want to miss the Gothic-style cathedral of Saint-Pierre. The building’s size and hall-church shape make it unique. A real nugget! It is also one of the oldest monuments in Poitiers, having been begun around 1160 and officially completed at the end of the following century. What interests visitors most? The Crucifixion stained glass window, listed as one of the oldest in France. A bit like a museum, Saint-Pierre cathedral houses a number of works that originally belonged to churches in Poitiers, but were moved following the Revolution. You’ll find the ‘Grand Orgue Clicquot’, as well as the oldest Gothic stalls in Europe. For history buffs, this is a place that will fascinate you as you begin your visit. The murals, meanwhile, are a treasure trove of Gothic art, and every detail has been meticulously crafted, featuring bright colours such as red and blue.

5. Hiking

Category: Free/Sporty

Description: Planning a trip to Poitiers? Don’t forget to bring a good pair of trainers and a hat or cap to protect you from the sun. Especially if you’re travelling in summer. The town is famous for its walking, cycling and mountain biking trails. Between the forest and the river, leave the car behind, just for a few hours, and venture into this soothing countryside, guided by the rustle of the trees and the whistle of the water. What more could you ask for? A bit of sport while taking in the breathtaking scenery? There are almost twenty walks to do in Poitiers, all equally interesting: easy, a little more complicated, there’s something for everyone. The duration and distance can vary according to your curiosity. Not to mention the fact that it will give you a bit of exercise, and that hiking has many benefits for the body and mind: as well as freeing up your breathing, it strengthens the skeleton and joints and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. As well as boosting the immune system, it frees your brain from the worries of everyday life.

6. Take a stroll in the city centre

Category: €€/Cultural/Gastronomic

Description: Aaahhh, the city of Poitiers… There’s nothing better after a long hike than sitting on a terrace, sipping a delicious beer or sampling a local speciality, isn’t there? Don’t they say that after effort comes comfort? A stroll through the historic quarter will give you the chance to chat with the locals, meet some new people and indulge in a few hours’ well-deserved shopping. You’ll fall in love with the charm of this medieval town, with its rich and precious heritage. Head for the Cordeliers shopping centre to browse the boutiques and buy a lovely souvenir of Poitiers. This is a “chill” activity, allowing you to spend some time with the family, having fun, while getting to know the city better. With its mix of history and modernity, be sure to take a stroll down the cobbled streets and pay close attention to the various historic monuments you’re likely to come across. Get your camera ready!