The most practical and fastest way to get to La Rochelle is by train. The station itself is a beautiful historical building, situated within easy walking distance of the heart of the city. La Rochelle is connected by rail to the major French towns, including Paris (about 3 hours away by high speed train) and Bordeaux (around 2 hours).
You can book your train tickets on the national rail (SNCF) website:
There are international flights from La Rochelle airport to many European countries and domestic flights to Paris-Orly and Lyon.
For more information about the La Rochelle-Ré airport consult the following site:
Once you have arrived at the airport, there are buses to take you into the city and to nearby towns. Take bus number 7 or 47. Tickets cost 1.30€.
For more information about bus timetables consult the RTCR site:
The best way to appreciate the beauty of the town is to walk its streets. As the heart of La Rochelle is not very big, it generally does not take very long to walk from one place to another.
You can also use the municipal bicycles.
For longer trips in and around the city, choose public transport by bus. The main bus station is on the central square, la Place de Verdun. The municipality also hires out electric cars. There are various "self-serve" parking areas for these vehicles, including the Place de Verdun.
For more information: