You have arrived in La Rochelle or prepare your holiday in La Rochelle with the kids but unsure on what to do? No worries, in this guide, I will take you through the best things to do in La Rochelle with your children, including fun activities.
La Rochelle is located on the South West side of France and is famously known for its port called the Vieux Port in French. With three medieval towers within the old town of La Rochelle, the city is appealing to lots of visitors who wish to see the Île de Ré or Fort Boyard.
With direct flights going to La Rochelle with airlines like Ryanair or EasyJet, you can see why the French city is popular for a weekend getaway or simply a stopover destination before driving down to Aquitaine towards Bordeaux and further.
So without further do, let’s have a look at all the exciting things you could do in La Rochelle with your children. Let’s go!
1. La Rochelle Aquarium
La Rochelle Aquarium, one of Europe’s largest private aquariums, offers an unforgettable experience for families. Located in the heart of La Rochelle, this world-class facility features over 600 marine species from the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and tropical waters.
Families can explore diverse themed zones, including the incredible Caribbean lagoon, a vibrant coral reef, and a captivating Amazon River exhibit.
Highlights include a 360-degree underwater tunnel, touch tanks for interactive learning, and awe-inspiring displays of sharks, sea turtles, and colourful tropical fish.
La Rochelle Aquarium is definitely an activity to do in La Rochelle and should be on your bucket list.
Address: Quai Louis Prunier, 17000 La Rochelle, France
2. Museum of Natural History
The Museum of Natural History in La Rochelle is a fascinating destination for families and curious minds alike. Housed in a charming 18th-century building, the museum boasts a rich collection of over 10,000 specimens that span the realms of zoology, palaeontology, ethnography, and botany.
Visitors can marvel at impressive displays of fossils, exotic animal skeletons, and intricate botanical models. There are 5 different floors to explore including a beautiful garden.
The museum was recently renovated and reopen with success in 2022. Please be aware that the museum is closed on Monday.
Address: 28 Rue Albert 1er, 17000 La Rochelle, France
3. Palmyre Zoo
Families visiting Palmyre Zoo can look forward to an exciting and educational adventure in one of France’s most renowned wildlife parks. Located just a little over 1 hour south of La Rochelle by car, the zoo is home to over 1,600 animals representing 110 species from around the world.
Visitors can see majestic big cats, including lions and tigers, and enjoy close encounters with primates such as gorillas and chimpanzees. The zoo’s large enclosures mimic natural habitats, offering a glimpse into the animals’ lives.
Children will be delighted by the playful antics of seals and sea lions during daily shows and the colourful array of exotic birds in the aviaries.
The zoo also features a dedicated children’s area with petting animals and interactive displays. With its diverse animal collection, beautiful setting, and family-friendly facilities, Palmyre Zoo promises a memorable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Considering the return journey to get to Zoo La Palmyre from La Rochelle, plan a full day out with the family for this exciting activity.
Address: 6 Avenue de Royan, 17570 Les Mathes, France
4. A trip to Île de Ré
With easy access from La Rochelle, you can hire a taxi to take you to Île de Ré which takes no more than 30 minutes. Otherwise, you can take a bus from La Rochelle train station that takes to Île de Ré in about 45 minutes.
Once you have arrived on the island, I strongly advise you to hire bikes so you can explore every side of the island with its several little scenic villages.
A visit to Île de Ré cannot be complete without walking to the long beach of Conche des Baleines. This fine sandy beach is very popular in the summer where locals and visitors spend their day with their kids.
It goes without saying during the school holidays, the beach can be quite crowded, especially where lifeguards are operating on a portion of the beach.
Plan a full day for this activity so you can really appreciate the beauty of the island of Ré.
5. Boat Trip to Fort Boyard
As you may know, Fort Boyard is famous for its TV game that has seen different franchises all around Europe including the UK.
Although the fort itself is not open to the public for interior tours, families can enjoy boat excursions that provide stunning views of this historical structure. The tour includes engaging commentary about the fort’s history, from its initial construction under Napoleon to its modern fame as the set of the popular television show “Fort Boyard.”
During the boat trip that lasts about 2 hours, families can take in panoramic vistas of the surrounding waters and nearby islands, making for excellent photo opportunities. Kids will be thrilled by tales of the fort’s past and its role in television adventures.
6. The PEAK
If your children are in need of an exciting indoor adventure, you can’t go wrong with the Peak. Situated in the South of La Rochelle in Angoulins, the PEAK is an indoor treetop adventure attraction that will keep your children busy for a few hours.
The venue also has some climbing walls that are reachable for all kind of levels with some colour coding. The PEAK is supervised by excellent staff who will help you during your climbing sessions.
Finally, the place has a unique attraction that recreate what its like when exploring like a speleologist. For instance, you will be going through narrow path with a head torch and find out a mini pool of balls.
Overall, the PEAK is a perfect family attraction to do in La Rochelle rain or shine.
Address: 26 Avenue des Fourneaux, 17690 Angoulins, France
7. Mini Golf du Mail la Rochelle
Who doesn’t like a game of mini golf? La Rochelle has a great miniature golf located not too far from the Old Port. You will be able to play 18 holes outdoor under the shade of trees.
Kids will also love playing with their peers in the inflatable castles or drive one of the number cars. And of course, you will find a café to appreciate your favourite drink with a good choice of ice creams and snacks.
Address: Avenue de la Monnaie, 17000 La Rochelle, France
8. Atlantic WakePark
Atlantic WakePark, located near La Rochelle, is a thrilling destination for families seeking outdoor adventure and water sports fun. This wakeboarding and waterskiing park offers activities suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Kids and beginners can start on the easy circuits with professional instruction, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
In addition to wakeboarding, the park features stand-up paddle and an inflatable aqua park, complete with slides, trampolines, and climbing walls. This floating playground (open in the summer only) provides hours of entertainment for children and a great way to cool off on hot days.
With equipment rentals, on-site amenities, and a friendly atmosphere, Atlantic WakePark is the perfect place for families to have fun on sunny days.
Address: 3 Allée du Banc Cantin, 85460 L’Aiguillon-la-Presqu’île, France
9. Parc Floral de la Court d’Aron
If you have a car during your holiday in La Rochelle, you can’t miss visiting the beautiful Parc Floral de la Court d’Aron. Situated in the North of La Rochelle, this delightful botanical garden offers a tranquil and visually stunning escape for families.
Spanning over 10 hectares, the park showcases an impressive array of exotic and native plants, beautifully arranged in themed gardens. Families can wander through lush landscapes, including a tropical greenhouse, a Japanese garden with serene water features, and a vibrant Mediterranean garden.
Children will be enchanted by the diverse flora and fauna, including colourful flowers, towering trees, and an assortment of butterflies and birds. The park also features charming ponds with koi fish and playful ducks, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.
Finally, the Parc Floral has introduced a garden full of dinosaurs with over 30 different species that I am sure your children will recognise easily.
Address: 4 Rue Benjamin Fillon, 85540 Saint-Cyr-en-Talmondais, France
10. La Rochelle Bunker Museum
At La Rochelle Bunker Museum, families can embark on a fascinating journey through history, exploring the underground bunkers that once played a crucial role in World War II. Housed in a former German bunker complex, the museum offers an immersive experience that sheds light on the city’s wartime past.
Families can expect to see authentic artifacts, documents, and photographs that provide insight into life during the occupation of La Rochelle. The museum’s exhibits detail the construction and purpose of the bunkers, as well as the daily lives of soldiers and civilians during this turbulent period.
Interactive displays and audiovisual presentations enhance the educational experience, allowing visitors to engage with the history in a meaningful way.
Families can gain a deeper understanding of the impact of war on the local community and the resilience of the people of La Rochelle.
A visit to the La Rochelle Bunker Museum offers a thought-provoking and educational experience for families interested in history and heritage.
Address: 8 Rue des Dames, 17000 La Rochelle, France
11. Charruyer Park
Right in the middle of the city centre, the Parc Charruyer is a beautiful park that locals and visitors love to come all year round. Children will love the playground to release balls of energy before or after lunch.
You can also spot some nice peacocks wandering around the park and other birds like ducks swimming in different ponds.
Overall, Charruyer Park is perfect place to relax outdoor and maybe plan an impromptu picnic on a nice sunny day.
Address: Chemin des Remparts, 17000 La Rochelle, France
Conclusion
As you can see, La Rochelle is an exciting destination that you shouldn’t miss if you are taking your holiday in the South West of France. The city is full of surprises with a long history that you can discover in the Old Town. Enjoy your family holiday in La Rochelle!
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