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Practical La Rochelle
How to get here, how to get around by bus, bike and boat, and where to find the tourist office, the town hall, public services and emergency help.
Getting here
Direct TGV trains link Paris-Montparnasse in about 2 h 40. La Rochelle – Île de Ré Airport is on the northern edge of the city, and the A10 and N11 bring you here by road from Paris.
Getting around
The Yélo network combines buses, the free Navette Cœur de Ville, self-service bikes at 114 stations and boats: the Bus de Mer to Les Minimes and the Passeur across the harbour.
City services
Addresses, phone numbers and opening hours of the main offices and services:
Good to know
A few tips before you visit.
A town on the Atlantic
Mind the tide: at La Concurrence, the beach closest to the Vieux-Port, swimming is difficult at low tide because of the rocks, and lifeguards are on duty in July and August only. At sea, dial 196 or use VHF channel 16.
Where to stay
Hotels around the Vieux-Port and in the old town, hostels and stays by the sea. In July and August, book early.
Useful links
Official websites of the city, the tourist office, transport and the department.
Emergency numbers
Free from any phone in France, 24 hours a day.
Sources: Wikipedia (La Rochelle) · everyrail.com · larochelle.aeroport.fr · Yélo · plages.tv · service-public.gouv.fr (emergency numbers). Checked 14 October 2026.