Map of Saintes, France

🏞️ What to Do in Saintes:

Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural tapestry of Saintes through a variety of engaging activities. From exploring ancient ruins to leisurely strolls along the Charente River, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this charming city.

• Best Budget Activity in Saintes:

  Visit the Roman Amphitheatre: Step back in time at the well-preserved Roman Amphitheatre, offering a glimpse into Saintes' ancient past with stunning architectural remains.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Saintes:

  Boat Cruise on the Charente River: Relax and unwind on a scenic boat cruise along the picturesque Charente River, taking in the charming views of the city and surrounding countryside.

• Best Luxury Activity in Saintes:

  Wine Tasting Tour in Cognac: Embark on a luxurious wine tasting tour in the nearby Cognac region, where you can sample exquisite local wines and spirits in a captivating setting.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Saintes:

Indulge in the culinary delights of Saintes, known for its fresh seafood, delectable pastries, and flavorful wines. Don't miss out on trying the local specialty, Cognac-infused dishes!

• Best Budget Restaurant in Saintes:

  Le Bouchon•€:

  Traditional French fare with a modern twist

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Saintes:

  La Table Du Marché•€€:

  Fusion cuisine blending local ingredients with international flavors

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Saintes:

  Le Relais Saint Pierre•€€€:

  Fine dining French cuisine with a focus on seasonal and regional produce

• Best Budget Bar in Saintes:

  Le Vintage Bar•€:

  Try their signature cocktail, the Saintes Spritz

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Saintes:

  Le Riverside•€€:

  Savor a glass of local wine or beer while enjoying the riverside view

• Best Luxury Bar in Saintes:

  Bar Cognac•€€€:

  Indulge in a premium Cognac tasting experience

🏰 What to See in Saintes:

Discover the captivating history and architectural beauty of Saintes by exploring its iconic landmarks and cultural attractions. From ancient Roman ruins to majestic cathedrals, these must-visit sites offer glimpses into the city's storied past.

• Abbaye aux Dames:

  Founded in the 11th century, this former Benedictine abbey showcases stunning Romanesque architecture and houses the Saintes Music Conservatory.

• Amphitheatre of Saintes:

  Step back in time at the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, where gladiatorial games once entertained crowds in ancient times.

• Saintes Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Sainte:

  Marvel at the intricate Gothic design and impressive stained glass windows of this historic cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture.

• Arch of Germanicus (Arc de Germanicu:

  Admire the grand Roman triumphal arch, dating back to the first century AD, which once marked the entrance to the ancient city of Mediolanum Santonum.

• Saint-Eutrope Church (Abbaye Saint-Eutrope de Sainte:

  Explore this Romanesque church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ornate sculptures and crypt containing the relics of Saint Eutropius.

🛍️ Where to Go Shopping in Saintes:

Indulge in a delightful shopping experience in Saintes, where charming boutiques, local markets, and specialty stores await to cater to every shopper's needs. From budget-friendly finds to luxurious offerings, the city boasts a diverse shopping scene that promises something for everyone.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Saintes:

  Les Halles de Saintes: Explore this vibrant indoor market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Saintes:

  Rue Saint-Pallais: Stroll along this picturesque street lined with boutiques, fashion stores, and gift shops, perfect for finding unique souvenirs and stylish items.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Saintes:

  Centre Commercial Saintes Côte-Boutin: Discover upscale designer boutiques, high-end fashion brands, and luxurious stores at this premier shopping center in Saintes.

🚌 Getting Around Saintes

• Public Transport

  In Saintes, public transportation options primarily consist of buses and trains. The bus system in Saintes is run by TPCo (Transports Publics de la Communauté d'Agglomération) and offers a convenient way to navigate the city and its surroundings. Bus fares typically range from €1.30 to €2.40 depending on the distance traveled, with discounted rates available for seniors and students. The bus schedule generally runs from early morning until late in the evening, with frequency varying depending on the route. The train station in Saintes, Gare de Saintes, serves as a key transportation hub connecting the city to major destinations in France. Trains offer a comfortable and efficient way to travel to nearby cities like Bordeaux, La Rochelle, and Paris. Passengers can check schedules and purchase tickets online or at the station.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  - Train Station: Gare de Saintes is the primary railway station in Saintes, offering connections to various destinations. - Bus Terminal: The main bus terminal in Saintes is located in the city center, providing access to local and regional bus routes.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Visitors can rent cars from providers like Europcar and Avis, with prices starting from €30 per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: Bicycles can be rented from local shops such as VéloCity, offering a sustainable and enjoyable way to explore Saintes. Rental rates for bicycles start at €10 per day.