Old Port

Strolling around La Rochelle’s Old Port is the perfect way to enjoy the city. Depending on the season you’ll find bars, restaurants, ice-cream stands and churro vendors, the Old Port is always bustling with activity. In fact, it’s the heart of the city, where many visitors like to take a break, eat in a restaurant overlooking La Rochelle’s towers and the boats that make up the port. As you walk along the quays of this former fishing port, now a marina, you’ll be lulled by the lapping of waves as you admire the imposing towers from different angles. While you’re at it, I’ll briefly recount the history of this iconic port, which was one of the most important ports in the Kingdom of France during the Middle Ages. At the end of Antiquity, when fishermen first settled in La Rochelle, the port was built in what is now the Parc Charruyer, along the Lafond stream. It wasn’t until the 12th century that the current, much larger port was built here, ensuring the continuous development of trade. Although it was highly coveted by the English during the Hundred Years’ War, La Rochelle’s harbour has survived the passage of time and remains one of, if not the liveliest place in the city! With a host of events throughout the year, including jousts, boat shows, the start of major yacht races and fireworks displays, you can’t ignore it when you visit La Rochelle!