Map of Saintes, France

🏞️ What to do in Saintes

Immerse yourself in the charm of Saintes with a range of captivating activities that cater to every budget. From exploring historical sites to indulging in cultural experiences, Saintes offers something for everyone seeking adventure and relaxation.

• Best Budget Activity in Saintes:

  Visiting the Saintes Amphitheatre: Step back in time by exploring the impressive Roman amphitheater, a fascinating free attraction showcasing the city's ancient history.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Saintes:

  Boat Tour on the Charente River: Embark on a scenic boat tour along the peaceful Charente River, offering picturesque views of the city and surrounding countryside.

• Best Luxury Activity in Saintes:

  Wine Tasting Tour in Cognac: Indulge in a luxurious wine tasting experience in the nearby town of Cognac, where you can sample a variety of renowned local wines and spirits.

🍽️ Where to eat in Saintes

Discover the culinary delights of Saintes, where local flavors and must-try dishes await you around every corner. From traditional French cuisine to innovative fusion dishes, Saintes has something for every palate.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Saintes:

  Le Bistrot du Coin•$:

  French comfort food classics

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Saintes:

  La Table Gourmande•$$:

  Fresh seafood dishes

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Saintes:

  Le Jardin des Saveurs•$$$:

  Fine dining with a modern twist

• Best Budget Bar in Saintes:

  Le Petit Bouchon•$:

  Local wines and cheese platters

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Saintes:

  L'Entracte•$$:

  Craft cocktails and tapas

• Best Luxury Bar in Saintes:

  La Cale 2•$$$:

  Champagne and oysters

🏰 What to see in Saintes

Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Saintes through its iconic landmarks that date back centuries and showcase the city's unique character. From ancient Roman ruins to elegant Gothic architecture, Saintes boasts a treasure trove of must-visit sights that will captivate visitors from near and far.

• Saintes Amphitheatre:

  Step into the past at the well-preserved Roman amphitheater, where gladiators once battled and crowds gathered for entertainment.

• Arch of Germanicus:

  Admire the impressive triumphal arch, a symbol of Roman triumph and a testament to the city's legacy as a provincial capital.

• Saint-Eutrope Church:

  Explore the stunning Romanesque architecture of this historic church, known for its intricate carvings and spiritual significance.

• Abbaye aux Dames:

  Visit the former Benedictine abbey, now a cultural center, and marvel at its elegant cloisters and peaceful gardens.

• Saint-Pierre Cathedral:

  Behold the grandeur of this Gothic cathedral, with its soaring spires and intricate stained glass windows that recount centuries of history and faith.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Saintes

Explore the vibrant shopping scene of Saintes, where quaint boutiques, local markets, and chic stores await to cater to every shopping desire. Whether you seek unique souvenirs, trendy fashion pieces, or gourmet delicacies, Saintes offers a shopping experience that suits every budget and taste.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Saintes:

  Marché Local des Halles: Dive into the bustling local market at Les Halles, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a variety of affordable treasures.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Saintes:

  Rue Gambetta: Wander along Rue Gambetta, lined with charming shops offering a mix of clothing boutiques, specialty stores, and cozy cafes for a delightful shopping spree.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Saintes:

  Les Remparts: Indulge in a luxurious shopping experience at Les Remparts, a high-end shopping area with designer boutiques, upscale jewelry stores, and chic homeware shops.

🚌 Getting Around Saintes

• Public Transport

  In Saintes, the main form of public transportation is buses operated by TDS (Transport Départemental et Scolaire). These buses cover various routes within the city and to surrounding areas. The standard fare for a single journey is €1.20, with discounted rates available for students and seniors. Bus schedules are generally reliable, running from early morning until late evening on weekdays.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Saintes is served by the Gare de Saintes train station, located in the city center. This station connects Saintes to major cities like Bordeaux, La Rochelle, and Paris. For those arriving by air, the nearest airport is La Rochelle – Île de Ré Airport, approximately 80 kilometers away. Bus services are available from the airport to Saintes.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Visitors to Saintes can rent cars from well-known providers like Europcar, Hertz, and Avis. Prices typically start at around €40 per day, depending on the vehicle type and rental duration. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: For a more eco-friendly way to explore the city, bicycle rentals are available from local shops such as Vélo Horizon. Rates for bicycle rentals in Saintes start at €10 for a half-day rental.