Things To Do
in Poitiers
Poitiers is a charming city located in western France, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city is famous for its well-preserved Romanesque churches, including the magnificent Notre-Dame la Grande. Poitiers is also a vibrant university town, with a lively student population and a bustling main square lined with cafes and shops.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the winding medieval streets, relaxing in beautiful parks, and immersing themselves in the city's cultural heritage.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the stunning Church of Notre-Dame la Grande, known for its intricate Romanesque façade. Stroll through the old town, taking in the picturesque streets and charming architecture.
After lunch at a local café, visit the Palais de Justice, a historical site with rich architectural details. Spend your afternoon at the Parc de Blossac, enjoying a relaxing walk or a picnic.
As the sun sets, explore the vibrant streets filled with bars and restaurants. End your day with a delicious dinner featuring local specialties.
Start with a visit to the ChĂąteau de Poitiers, where you can wander through the historical grounds. Don't forget to appreciate the views from the ramparts.
Visit the Musée Sainte-Croix to see impressive art exhibitions and learn more about the region's history. Enjoy lunch at a bistro nearby.
Take a leisurely stroll along the river, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Conclude with a delightful French meal at a cozy restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with numerous landmarks, such as the Palace of Poitiers and the Church of Saint-Hilaire.
- Vibrant cultural scene with various festivals, museums, and theaters.
- A pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Strategic location with good transport links to other major cities in France, including Bordeaux and La Rochelle.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities like Paris.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, which may lead to higher unemployment rates.
- Public transportation can be less frequent compared to larger urban centers.
- Cultural and entertainment options may be limited for young professionals compared to bigger cities.
- The local economy may be heavily reliant on tourism, which can fluctuate.
- Some areas might feel isolated, especially if not well-connected to public transport.
Best Activities in Poitiers
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the Futuroscope theme park for a day of fun and entertainment with futuristic attractions and shows.
Explore the beautiful Parc de Blossac for a relaxing walk, picnicking, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Rent a bike and enjoy a scenic ride along the Clain River, taking in the natural beauty of the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Poitiers with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Poitiers
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful park with great views of the city and great photo opportunities.
Scenic town located near Poitiers with picturesque views and photo opportunities.
Historic church with stunning architecture and a great spot for photography.
Food in Poitiers
Poitiers Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional specialty stew made with rabbit, white wine, mushrooms, and vegetables, providing a hearty and flavorful dining experience. It can be savored at Le Bois d'Amour, a popular restaurant known for its authentic local dishes.
Must-Try!
A traditional Poitou cake made with flour, eggs, butter, and sugar, often flavored with rum or citrus. Delight in this sweet treat at Maison Dubernard, a renowned bakery in Poitiers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Poitiers' most vibrant markets, offering a diverse range of fresh produce, local cheeses, charcuterie, and artisanal goods. Visitors can explore various street food stalls serving delectable crepes, galettes, and freshly prepared local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Poitiers, it's customary to greet others with a handshake, and a kiss on each cheek (starting with the left).
When dining out, it is polite to wait until everyone has been served before starting to eat, and it's also common to keep your hands on the table rather than in your lap.
In Poitiers, personal space is important, so it's best to avoid standing too close or touching others during conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Poitiers
Ensure a smooth experience
In Poitiers, France, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is common to leave a small tip of about 5-10% for exceptional service.
Payment in Poitiers, France is generally done using cash or credit/debit cards. Most businesses, including restaurants and shops, accept major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Some smaller establishments may prefer cash, so it's always good to have some on hand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Poitiers, as the city comes to life with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. You can expect milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the charming streets and outdoor attractions.
Summer in Poitiers brings warm weather and a lively atmosphere. It's the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities, festivals, and events. The city's parks and gardens are in full bloom, offering a picturesque setting for visitors.
Autumn in Poitiers is characterized by vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures. The city is less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience while still being able to enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events.
Winter in Poitiers may bring colder temperatures, but the city's festive atmosphere and holiday markets make it a charming time to visit. Visitors can experience the enchanting sights of the city adorned with holiday decorations and enjoy indoor attractions and cozy cafes.
Poitiers at Night
Hiking in Poitiers
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast regional park known for its wetlands, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails that provide a unique opportunity to explore nature.
A beautiful forest located near Poitiers offering several walking paths and trails suitable for hiking amidst oak and pine trees.
Not only known for its vineyards, this area features scenic trails that allow hikers to enjoy stunning views while exploring the wine country.
A recreational area with a lake, where you can find walking and hiking paths around the water, including opportunities for bird-watching.
A beautiful park in Poitiers with landscaped gardens and walking trails, perfect for short hikes and enjoying the scenery.
Aiports
How to reach Poitiers by plane.
The nearest airport to Poitiers, primarily serving domestic flights, with limited international connections.
Located approximately 135 km from Poitiers, serving both domestic and limited international flights.
Around 195 km from Poitiers, this major international airport offers a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Approximately 210 km from Poitiers, a significant airport providing various international flights.
Located roughly 100 km from Poitiers, this airport offers limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Poitiers, comprising both native and immigrant families with deep historical roots in the region.
A significant community, primarily from Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
A growing demographic group within Poitiers, consisting of individuals from various countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Includes various Asian communities, particularly Vietnamese and Chinese immigrants, adding to the multicultural aspects of Poitiers.
Residents from other European countries, contributing to the demographic mosaic of the city.
This category includes smaller populations from various non-European countries and regions, reflecting global migration patterns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Poitiers, with several local clubs and a strong community support. The city's team competes in regional leagues.
Rugby has a significant following in Poitiers, with local teams that participate in various leagues and championships, fostering a vibrant sports culture.
Basketball is popular among the youth and has several clubs providing opportunities for recreational and competitive play.
Athletics is widely practiced in Poitiers, with various events held throughout the year and clubs that train athletes of all ages.
Tennis is a popular individual sport in Poitiers, with several courts available for public use and numerous clubs that offer training and competitions.
Swimming is favored by many residents, with facilities available for both leisure and competitive purposes, including local swimming clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Poitiers.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several restaurants and cafes in Poitiers cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, with innovative and enticing plant-based dishes. La Plantxa and Cofy & Café are recommended for their diverse vegetarian and vegan menu offerings.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a variety of gluten-free dishes at Le Poivre d'Ăne and Les 3 Petits Cochons, which are known for their efforts in providing delicious gluten-free alternatives.