On vacation in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region? Discover Poitiers, a charming blend of history and modernity. Capital of the Vienne region, Poitiers, nicknamed "the city of a hundred steeples", is a must-see if you're a history buff. Did you know? Poitiers is one of the 10 best cities in France to telework, with its old town center, fiber optic cable and a growing number of coworking spaces. Are you here for pleasure? You'll find what you're looking for here too! Although we often think of Poitiers for its famous Futuroscope, the city has much more to offer curious travelers. Let's take a look at the 15 must-do things to do in Poitiers.
1. Futuroscope, Poitiers' must-see attraction
Let's start with the heavy stuff: Futuroscope, a unique park combining cutting-edge technology and artistic creativity. This futuristic theme park is one of the 10 most unusual places to visit in France in 2024. So don't miss out on a weekend or a vacation in the Vienne! Futuroscope catapults you straight into a world of startling innovation, with incredible visual attractions for young and old alike. For one or two days, treat yourself to sensory experiences and unusual shows. Where dream meets reality, every corner of the park reveals an immersive adventure, inviting you to plunge into the future with eyes closed in wonder.
Tip by Petit Futé : find out our tips and tricks for a stress-free day at Futuroscope.
2. The Palais des Comtes de Poitou-Ducs d'Aquitaine, a splendor of the past
For lovers of Poitou history, the Palais des Comtes de Poitou-Ducs d'Aquitaine is a must-see in Poitiers. With its great hall and Maubergeon tower, it represents a treasure trove of medieval architecture in France. Erected on a motte de terre in the early Middle Ages, the palace has housed various exercises of power, some dating back to antiquity. The Maubergeon tower takes its name from the Merovingian court. The Great Hall, rebuilt by the Plantagenet family before 1200, remains an outstanding example of medieval civil architecture. If you love ancient buildings steeped in history, you're in for a treat!
In the XIIIᵉ century, the palace took on an administrative orientation, before being transformed into a courthouse until 2019. It is now the property of the City of Poitiers. So, would you be tempted by a little exploration of this historic site?
3. The historic heart of Poitiers, between culture and shopping
The historic heart of Poitiers invites you to stroll along its cobbled streets and lose yourself in the past, between warmly-colored facades and lively squares. Take the time to stray, to discover the treasures hidden behind every corner. As you stroll along, you'll be seduced by the magnificent Saint-Pierre Cathedral, whose architecture sublimates the panorama. The charming cafés invite you to sit back and watch the world go by.
As you stroll through the streets and alleys of Poitou, you'll discover a host of small shops, some of which featurelocal crafts. Will curiosity get the better of you? As you immerse yourself in this unique atmosphere, you'll discover that Poitiers isn't something to be visited, it's something to be experienced... And for that, there's nothing better than booking this guided tour of the city, which will take you to all the places you need to see and visit.
4. Visit the church of Notre-Dame-la-Grande
Sculpted in the XIIᵉ century, the facade of Notre-Dame-la-Grande church narrates the holy epic, from the Garden of Eden to the birth of Jesus, while the apostles and a Christ watch overhead. The recent restoration has also revealed its treasures: ancient traces of polychromy, adding a touch of color to this architectural masterpiece.
Inside, color is also present, with mural decoration dating from the XIXᵉ century and an authentically Romanesque vault. The Renaissance stalls and organs, including Yves Sévère's majestic grand organ, are also worth a look.
5. A fun way to discover the Notre-Dame district
The enigma of Poitiers' historic center begins in front of Notre-Dame-la-Grande church. With the help of a game booklet, children aged 6 and over can follow the clues on a fun tour of the city. Learning while having fun? What a great way to spend the vacations! Adults can enrich their cultural knowledge, while children have fun: the ideal solution for the whole family.
This colorful booklet keeps kids on their toes from A to Z, making them forget all the hard work of visiting a city. Available online or from the tourist office, it offers around 1 h 30 offun exploration of the Old Town.
6. The Dunes panorama, a magical view of Poitiers
Climb the 217 steps leading from Pont Joubert to the Panorama des Dunes. From up there, like the bronze statue of Notre Dame-des-Dunes, you'll overlook the city. The most beautiful monuments in Poitou can be seen from a privileged vantage point. Take time to reflect on this unique panorama, which seems to come alive in the evening as the sun sets and the lights come to life.
Rest assured, the Dunes panorama is also accessible by bus or car, if you don't feel like climbing all those steps. Families with children will certainly appreciate it!
7. Poitiers, between leisure and culture
Are you interested in theater,art, music and exhibitions? Two must-see addresses await you in Poitiers:
- Le Confort Moderne, sometimes referred to simply as "Le Confort", a contemporary art center hosting numerous concerts and other events.
- Le TAP (Théâtre Auditorium de Poitiers), for theater lovers.
These two venues have become major cultural players in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, so don't hesitate to push open their doors!
8. Parc de Blossac, Poitiers' green lung
Alleys lined with perfectly trimmed trees, fountains, perfectly manicured green spaces... There's no doubt about it: this dreamlike landscape awaits you in the Parc de Blossac, a natural interlude enjoyed by the whole family. Extend your stroll along these French-style paths and you'll come to a panorama of the Clain valley, offering a dazzling view without leaving the city.
Always full of surprises, this park also boasts a superb English garden. Would you like to vary the pleasures of your bucolic stroll? The light and shade garden, the rock garden and the zoological park will complete this pleasant outing for families or couples.
9. The Trainebot trail, the Clain revisited
This extraordinary garden is home to the mysterious Chemin de Trainebot, a little-known treasure that we'd like to share with you. With its timeless charm, it is home to no fewer than 1,200 varieties of plants, transforming Trainebot into a fairytale world. Many authors have found inspiration in this timeless setting, including Jean Hiernard and Gérard Simmat. On foot or by bike, take the time to discover this magical place: it's well worth it!
10. Visit the magnificent Saint-Pierre Cathedral
Standing proudly at the heart of the Rue Sainte-Croix, the Cathedral Saint-Pierre tells part of the story of Eleanor of Aquitaine. This colossus has dominated the city with its exceptional Gothic allure since 1160, and its façade, adorned with a rose window and three sculpted portals, bears witness to a perfect fusion of Anjou Gothic and Ile-de-France influence. Would you like to push open the doors of this Poitevin giant? Inside, you'll discover a treasure trove of works from Poitevin churches affected by the Revolution.
Take time to admire the Romanesque stained glass windows, including the colossal crucifixion window from the XIIᵉ century, and plunge into history with the Gothic stalls, the oldest in Europe from the XIIIᵉ century. A pure marvel!
Please note: wondering what to do in Poitiers when it rains? This is the place to be.
11. Poitiers markets to discover
The city's main market is the Marché Notre-Dame, held from Tuesday to Saturday on the Place du Général de Gaulle. Do you like the atmosphere of a market? There are others all over town:
- Couronneries open-air market: Wednesday and Sunday mornings (a must!).
- The Montmidi market: every Wednesday afternoon.
- Bellejouanne market: Friday mornings.
- Montierneuf market, two Tuesday afternoons a month.
- Clos-Gauthier market, Thursday morning.
- Carmago market, Friday morning.
- Bel-Air market, Friday morning.
So many good places to find fresh, local produce, and even non-food products at some of them.
12. Musée Sainte-Croix, the history of Poitou revealed
Travel from prehistory to the Middle Ages at the Musée Sainte-Croix, home to relics from Poitou's past. These archaeological collections are ably complemented by the Fine Arts department, itself carrying works dating from the XIVᵉ to the XXᵉ century. You'll discover artifacts from the Magdalenian era, as well as Neolithic tools and Iron Age chariot tombs. Roman remains are a reminder of ancient occupation, while sculpted sarcophagi bear witness to local history. This comprehensive museum offers a wealth of information on the region's history, all in one place.
13. The Baptistère Saint-Jean, an air of mystery
Near the Musée Sainte-Croix, take the time to visit the Baptistère Saint-Jean, one of Europe's oldest Christian buildings. Established in the IVᵉ century in a Gallo-Roman house, the baptistery was transformed in the Vᵉ century. Inside, you'll discover an ancient octagonal baptismal pool. Later transformed into a parish church, the edifice is adorned with Romanesque and Gothic frescoes, as well as a remarkable collection of Merovingian sarcophagi. In a nutshell? You're visiting a historical treasure trove, evoking the evolution and cultural richness of the area.
14. The Roseraie floral park, a natural setting in Poitiers
Looking for a romantic spot in Poitiers? Head for the Roseraie floral park, whose shimmering colors intoxicate the senses with every step. It's the ideal place for a bucolic interlude in the heart of the city! More than 6,000 species of plants await you, promising escape and contemplation, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Numerous floral and natural scenes have been designed to make this walk idyllic:
- a modern rose garden,
- les Belles de l'année, a collection of annual and biennial plants,
- the gourmet table with its tempting plants,
- the labyrinth of collections, with its 3 basins and valuable trees.
Finish your visit with the ephemeral gardens evoking the theme of plant travel. A pure marvel, taking you on a magical journey around the world.
15. Taste Poitiers' culinary specialties
Here we are at one of our favorite parts! That's right: visiting, learning, admiring - we love it, but it also makes you hungry! Good news, in Poitiers, some local delicacies will awaken your taste buds. Start with broyé du Poitou, a crumbly wafer with exquisite flavors. Then delve into the world of Chabichou, which not only has an adorable name, but is also delicious. This delicately flavored goat's cheese is ideal with a glass of Sauvignon AOC from Haut-Poitou. Then let yourself be seduced by the famous tourteau fromager, a cheesecake you've probably already heard of.
Now it's time for the sweet stuff, with Montmorillon macaroons, whose origins go back two centuries. Those with a sweet tooth can visit the Musée du Macaron, which traces the history of this incomparable delicacy. Finally, you can discover or take home a souvenir of Poitou beer. So, are you ready to indulge in these Poitou treasures during your stay?
Where to stay in Poitiers?
The historic center of Poitiers is a great place to put down your bags for a weekend. Close to all points of interest, it offers an attractive living environment. The western quarter , on the other hand, is about 15 km from Futuroscope, yet close to Poitiers city center.
The best value for money
Looking for a classy hotel at a great price? Welcome to Au Chapon Fin, an establishment with an emphasis on chic decor that you can book quickly right here. And yet it's still very affordable, comfortable and warm. This listed manor house offers the perfect pied-à-terre for a stay in Poitiers.
The quietest
Despite its strategic location, the Hôtel de l'Europe is a quiet hotel within easy reach of the city center. A parking lot, less than 500 meters away, makes parking easy during your stay. With its 3-star rating, this quality hotel offers every comfort: go here to book your room!
The most atypical
While the interior of Le Beaulieu remains simple, its facade leaves no one indifferent. The long building is adorned with pretty blue shutters, the kind usually found in Provence. Its little plus? Some of the rooms have king-size beds, making your stay in Poitiers as comfortable as possible. Click here for rates and availability !
Find out more about our favorite accommodations in Poitiers!
What to do in Poitiers for young people?
Share precious moments with your teens, by trying out some original activities. For starters, plunge into the bewildering world of Sensas, where unusual sensory challenges await you. As a family, defy your limits and explore a course dotted with enigmas and surprises.
For a historical adventure, try Viking 2.0, a life-size adventure game organized by the Tourist Office. Plunge into the world of the Vikings in search of treasure. Youngsters love it! Want to extend these moments with your family? Activate experience mode with Escape League and set off in search of Eleanor of Aquitaine's treasure, an exciting medieval experience. Finally, awaken the scientific curiosity of these youngsters at theEspace Mendès Francewhere workshops and fun exhibitions offer an entertaining approach to understanding the world around us.
What to do in Poitiers for two?
The Roseraie floral park is an unmissable place to spend a few romantic hours in Poitiers. Its majestic avenues lined with flowers in 1001 colors invite you to escape, creating the perfect cocoon for a declaration of love. L'îlot Tison is another great idea for a romantic getaway. Surrounded by greenery, it borders the river Clain, a real invitation to relax. You can book a pedal-boat, canoe or paddle-boat outing to complete your romantic day.
After a romantic restaurant, such as Le Trait d'Union, head for Poitiers' TAP for a well-deserved evening of entertainment.
How to visit Poitiers in 1 day?
You've only got one day to spend in Poitiers (excluding Futuroscope)? Go for it! Organize yourself to see the main points of interest.
Morning: the historic heart of the city
Start with the majestic Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, a Gothic masterpiece, and continue to the Baptistery of Saint-Jean. Take time to stroll through the picturesque Old Poitiers district, discovering its charming alleyways and medieval buildings.
Noon: Poitevin delights
For lunch, treat yourself to Les Bons Enfants restaurant, renowned for its traditional cuisine. You can also opt for a table further south, such as Oh Le Bitro, to bring you closer to the afternoon's points of interest.
Afternoon: a green break
In the afternoon, head for the îlot Tison and the Parc de Blossac for a relaxing break. Or would you prefer to continue strolling through the city? Visit the Espace Mendès France and the Musée Sainte-Croix.
Thought you'd only find the Futuroscope in Poitiers? As you can see, there's much more to Poitiers than that: historic heritage, delicious cuisine and a charming atmosphere. What more could you ask for? If you can, take advantage of your stay to explore the Vallée des Singes, less than an hour away. We also recommend a visit to the medieval town of Chauvigny, as well as Lusignan, whose half-timbered houses reveal all their charm.
