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Top cities between Gijon and Poole
Best stops along Gijon to Poole drive
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40 Best Stops Between Gijon and Poole

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedMar 31, 2023

How long is the drive from Gijon to Poole?

The direct drive from Gijon to Poole is 857 mi (1,379 km), and should have a drive time of 15 hrs 22 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Gijon to Poole, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Bordeaux, Bilbao, Donostia - San Sebastian, Nantes, Weymouth, La Rochelle, Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, Santander, and Biarritz, as well as top places to visit like Pamplona Catedral Hotel and Beach of La Concha, or the ever-popular Royal Palace of Olite.

Visiting Gijon or Poole? See our Gijon Trip Planner and our Poole Trip Planner.
857 mi
Total Distance
15 hrs 22 mins
Drive Time
40 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Gijon and Poole

The top cities between Gijon and Poole are Bordeaux, Bilbao, San Sebastian - Donostia, Nantes, Weymouth, La Rochelle, Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, Santander, and Biarritz. Bordeaux is the most popular city on the route. It's 5 hours from Gijon and 10 hours from Poole.
1

Santander

Santander, the capital city of Cantabria in northern Spain, is known for its stunning landmarks and rich history. The Palacio de la Magdalena, a former royal summer residence located on the La Magdalena Peninsula, offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Santander.
36% as popular as Bordeaux
6 minutes off the main route, 10% of way to Poole
2

Bilbao

Sights & Landmarks
Architectural Buildings
Bilbao, a vibrant city in northern Spain, is known for its stunning blend of modern architecture and natural beauty. The iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry, stands as a symbol of the city's revitalization. Nestled amidst green mountains and overlooking the Bay of Biscay, Bilbao offers a diverse experience for travelers. From surfing along the Atlantic coast to exploring the picturesque towns and fishing villages, there's no shortage of adventure.
94% as popular as Bordeaux
4 minutes off the main route, 16% of way to Poole
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2
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0
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2
3

Donostia / San Sebastián

Donostia-San Sebastian, a charming resort town in Spain's Basque Country, boasts stunning beaches like Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta. The cobblestoned old town, Parte Vieja, is lined with upscale shops and vibrant pintxo bars offering regional specialties. The area is also renowned for its world-class restaurants led by innovative chefs.
76% as popular as Bordeaux
6 minutes off the main route, 22% of way to Poole
4

Biarritz

Biarritz, a charming coastal town in southwestern France, has been a sought-after destination since the 1800s when European royalty began frequenting its shores. Renowned for its long sandy beaches and as a major surfing hub with surf schools, it also boasts the iconic Rocher de la Vierge, crowned by a statue of the Virgin Mary and offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay.
27% as popular as Bordeaux
10 minutes off the main route, 25% of way to Poole
5

Bordeaux

Food & Drink
Wine Tours & Tastings
Cultural Tours
Bordeaux, located in the southwest of France, is a picturesque port city renowned for its association with the world-famous wine-growing region. The city boasts stunning Gothic architecture such as the Cathédrale Saint-André and elegant 18th- to 19th-century mansions. Art enthusiasts can explore notable museums like the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux, while public gardens adorn the river quays.
Most popular city on this route
5 minutes off the main route, 35% of way to Poole
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6

La Rochelle

La Rochelle, located in the southwest of France and serving as the capital of the Charente-Maritime department, has a rich maritime history dating back to the 12th century. The city boasts a charming Vieux Port (old harbor) and a large modern marina called Les Minimes. Its old town is characterized by medieval half-timbered houses, Renaissance architecture, and picturesque passageways adorned with 17th-century arches.
46% as popular as Bordeaux
15 minutes off the main route, 44% of way to Poole
7

Nantes

Nantes, located in western France along the Loire River, is a city with a rich history as a port and industrial hub. Visitors can explore the restored medieval Château des Ducs de Bretagne, now a local history museum with multimedia exhibits and walkways atop its fortified ramparts.
58% as popular as Bordeaux
2 minutes off the main route, 53% of way to Poole
8

Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is a picturesque tidal island and mainland commune in Normandy, France. Situated about one kilometer off the north-western coast, it covers 7 hectares and is located at the mouth of the Couesnon River near Avranches. The island offers a variety of dining options, with restaurants mainly found on or just off Grande Rue. However, hidden gems tucked away on back streets or higher up the mountain may offer lower prices and a more relaxed atmosphere.
46% as popular as Bordeaux
22 minutes off the main route, 64% of way to Poole
9

Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo is a captivating port city in Brittany, France. Enclosed by towering granite walls, the old town was once a stronghold for privateers and features the impressive Saint-Malo Cathedral and La Demeure de Corsaire, an 18th-century privateer’s house turned museum. The city offers various attractions such as beautiful gardens, art galleries, and historic sites like the Black Prince's house.
39% as popular as Bordeaux
3 minutes off the main route, 67% of way to Poole
10

Weymouth

Weymouth, a charming seaside town in Dorset, southern England, is known for its sandy beach lined with colorful beach huts and Georgian houses. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the harbor from attractions like the Jurassic Skyline and Victorian Nothe Fort. The town is also home to Weymouth Sealife Park, featuring a variety of marine life.
52% as popular as Bordeaux
40 minutes off the main route, 95% of way to Poole

Best stops along Gijon to Poole drive

The top stops along the way from Gijon to Poole (with short detours) are Puy du Fou, Mont Saint-Michel, and Beach of La Concha. Other popular stops include La Rochelle Aquarium, Les Remparts de Saint-Malo, and Les Machines de l'Île.
1

Royal Palace of Olite

Mentioned on 
+14 other lists 
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
The Royal Palace of Olite is a medieval fortress complex with towers, battlements, courtyards, and gardens. It has a rich history dating back to the 15th century when it began to deteriorate after Navarre was invaded. The palace was intentionally burned during the Peninsular War in 1813 but has since been restored to its original grandeur. Today, it stands as a major tourist attraction in the quiet town of Olite.
A really nice place to visit in nice quiet town. I was lucky to make it on a Monday afternoon with free entrance. Thanks. I enjoyed the palace. When you make it to the top of the towers the wind blows very strong.
Y A — Google review
We were recommended to visit this castle by a member of staff at the parador at Calahorra. Whilst it was a detour from our planned route, it was most certainly worth it. A stunning building and an entrance fee which was unbelievably low, for people of a "more mature age". Indeed had this been an historic building in the UK, possibly run by the National Trust, the entrance would have been a minimum of 10 times the fee in Olite. It is wonderful to see how the Spanish authorities are, when it comes to restoration and maintenance of their historic sites. This castle is amazing and should definitely be on everybody's list if visiting this part of Spain.
David R — Google review
A stunning medieval castle with impressive towers and courtyards. The architecture is unique, and the views from the top are breathtaking. A must-visit if you’re in Navarra!
Daniel D — Google review
Absolutely recommended. The castle is very well maintained and actually quite big. Great value for what you get. Audio tour is gives you much background information.
Maurits D — Google review
Stopped by at this palace on our way to Zaragoza. Well worth the detour. Entrance fee is derisory. Lovely views from all the corners of the tower. We didn’t see much of the town as it was showering but looks like a pretty little town.
Yola ( — Google review
Although there's nothing to see on the inside, the exterior is worth the entrance fee. The architecture is good, towers to climb and ramparts to walk giving good views.
Motorhome Q — Google review
Beautiful palace. Route through the palace and information well laid out. Lots of steps to climb to visit the numerous towers and parts of the palace. Would recommend a visit.
Eugene W — Google review
Absolutely worth the visit, very nice little castle with many towers to climb
Judit T — Google review
4.6
(26320)
•
4.6
(2108)
Pl. Carlos III El Noble, 4, 31390 Olite, Navarra, Spain
https://palaciorealolite.com/
+34 691 02 16 67
2

Pamplona Catedral Hotel

Mentioned on 
+17 other lists 
Hotel
Sights & Landmarks
Pamplona Catedral Hotel is a luxurious accommodation housed in a 19th-century convent, offering an elegant restaurant and a trendy bar. The hotel's staff provides exceptional service, offering valuable recommendations and ensuring guests feel like royalty. Situated in the heart of the old town, it offers easy access to various attractions within walking distance. The hotel seamlessly blends modernity with its historic past, featuring sleek rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the city.
We stayed here for 8 nights and had a lovely experience. The front desk staff were very friendly and helpful and spoke English very well which we appreciated given our limited Spanish. The valet service included in parking was great as well. The only downside was no on-site laundry, but we found a laundromat only a few minutes away that met our needs perfectly. The location is very convenient to the center of Old Town Pamplona and all of the tourist sites are easy walks. There is also a small grocery store very close by, but be aware that the in-room refrigerator is very small.
M D — Google review
Dear Duty Manager, I am writing to express my profound dissatisfaction with my recent stay at your hotel, which has regrettably concluded with my early departure and relocation to the Gran Hotel La Perla. Staff and Service Issues: The reception staff demonstrated a consistent lack of professionalism and helpfulness throughout my stay. I observed a marked difference in their demeanor when assisting Spanish-speaking guests versus others, which is unacceptable in any hospitality establishment. Every reasonable request I made was met with responses such as “we can’t do that,” “no sorry,” or worse, false information and blank stares. This is not the service standard one expects from a property charging rates comparable to a Hyatt Regency or Mandarin Oriental. Dining Experience: The in-room dining hours are woefully inadequate, and the menu offerings were utterly tasteless. The hotel restaurant was shameful in its execution. For context, the Auberge in Zubiri where I dined yesterday delivered an experience approaching Michelin-star quality - a stark and embarrassing contrast to your establishment. Room Conditions: The room itself was substandard in multiple respects: • Overly starched, uncomfortable linens • No air conditioning or adequate cooling system • Dirty bathroom upon arrival • Television remote control held together with tape • An antiquated television with no modern connectivity options (no screen sharing capability) • Insufficient pillows (which I had to specifically request) • Intrusive lighting from the pool area that illuminated my room to an unbearable degree throughout the evening Value Proposition: Your hotel charges premium rates that match genuinely luxury properties, yet delivers a 4-star experience at best - and frankly, even that rating feels generous given my experience. This represents exceptionally poor value and, quite frankly, misleading positioning in the market. Management Perspective: I must address what appears to be a fundamental misunderstanding by your management team: not all Camino pilgrims stay in hostels. Many of us, myself included, regularly patronize 5-star establishments for respite during our journey. We are experienced travelers who frequently review accommodations, dining, and travel services. Your assumption that pilgrims represent a lower-tier clientele is both incorrect and insulting. Resolution: I have absorbed the cancellation fees and relocated to the Gran Hotel La Perla, where I should have trusted my instincts to book initially. I hope by posting a detailed review on Google will assist other travelers in my position be forewarned. They deserve to know they should either continue walking or stay at the superior property across the plaza. I expect no response to this complaint, as my experience suggests it would likely be another “we can’t do that.” However, I sincerely hope you will use this feedback to reassess your service standards, facility maintenance, and approach to guest relations. Regards, P.
PT — Google review
Could be a lovely place to stay with some simple changes. The location was great, although parking at the hotel expensive. We parked a little way from the hotel which allowed us to enjoy walking through Pamplona’s beautiful gardens. Our room was spacious, but no kettle. Fridge very small and didn’t work properly. Some of the staff very unfriendly. The lady who checked us in was clearly not having a good day or needs another job. Lovely drinks area but very unfriendly service. Thank goodness for Sylvia who was absolutely delightful and helpful.
Moyra R — Google review
Great place to stay in Pamplona, in the heart of the old city. Secure parking - height limit of 3m - so ideal for those travelling in small camper vans. Access to the parking is easy, just behind/below the swimming pool. Excellent service, helpful, knowledgeable staff. Good quality buffet breakfast - however there are many places nearby to eat too. Highly recommend this hotel.
Louis F — Google review
Really helpful and friendly staff. Very eclectic decor in our dark suite. For a suite in a boutique hotel it really lacked bathroom products. The TV was a really tiny one, screwed to the wall high up on the wall only watchable from the bed. It was totally unwatchable from the 2x chairs ( not even a sofa) in the the sparsely-furnished sitting area.
Christopher B — Google review
Could be a very nice hotel (given location, and quality of building) but let down by unfriendly and rude staff and items not working in our room (bar fridge and safe). Also parking at the hotel is expensive, and cheaper alternatives are a 20 min walk away.
Warrick C — Google review
Top location very close to the busy old city centre from Pamplona, very comfortable rooms (some with view of the green) and a very friendly and professional staff at reception = top location to visit Pamplona (a plus: upon reservation since limited number, this hotel provides for a parking).
L. P — Google review
Great stay. Valet parking (I guess temporarily because the garage is under construction). Very friendly young lady at the reception. Good restaurant (we did not have breakfast), pet friendly,... If there's a remark to give: the 2 young ladies taking care of the restaurant should scan more the tables (look around more) to see if people want attention. More selling would have happened if they'd done so. But they surely were friendly too.
Erwin T — Google review
4.4
(1866)
•
4.3
(1682)
C. Dos de Mayo, 4, 31001 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
http://www.pamplonacatedralhotel.com/
+34 948 22 66 88
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3

Beach of La Concha

Mentioned on 
+134 other lists 
Beach
Outdoor Activities
The Beach of La Concha is a bustling, sandy, shell-shaped beach located on the Bay of La Concha in San Sebastian. It is considered one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe and among the best in the Basque Country. The elegant modernist promenade stretches for over a kilometer and ends at the Palacio de Mirar, featuring white railings and numerous large lampposts.
Fantastic Beach in Town Centre This is a great beach, it is very wide and shallow at the beginning but you get depth quite fast and you can swim very far out. The beach itself is really nice and has all the necessary amenities. What I also like a lot is that you can go to restaurants, shops etc very easily. Last but not least the view is also amazing!
Paul V — Google review
I loved the size of the beach. Despite the crowds, it never felt overcrowded. If you enjoy proper swimming, you can swim long distances across the width of the beach. There are also several good restaurants within walking distance. Plus, there’s convenient access to public restrooms. I would definitely recommend it.
Jens M — Google review
Beautiful beach. Mostly always well kept. Even if you don't like sand is very nice to stroll along just about any time of day.
Robin R — Google review
Fantastic city beach with safe swimming water. There is an arched promenade allowing for shade if needed with young children.
John D — Google review
One cannot come to San. Sebastian and not come to the beach. For goodness sake, this is the paradise part of SS. Full of people but ALWAYS enough space for everyone. Amazing and a must come for the sunshine!
Pecston G — Google review
Very beautiful in picture beach in the centre of Saint Sebastian. I really love my visit to the spot. Lots of people enjoying the weather and the scenic view. Around the beach area, there is plenty to see, including tourist attractions and spots to enjoy refreshments and food.
Carl C — Google review
As far as I can tell it is no less than the most beautiful city beach or bay in Europe. Of course you have to be lucky with the weather, as on hot days it feels like the whole city is digging through the sand. The huge dimensions only become clear on a walk or a drive up one of the two hills (Monte Igueldo or Urgull). It is a little unusual that there is so little catering right on the promenade.
Martin K — Google review
Stunning city beach! Great moment for a nice walk at the beach a few meters only from the city center. Definitely a place to be in this city
Jonathan ( — Google review
4.7
(23142)
•
4.7
(9300)
20007, Gipuzkoa, Spain, USA
4

Old Town

Mentioned on 
+90 other lists 
Neighborhoods
Old Town, also known as Donostia-San Sebastian's Old Town, is a vibrant neighborhood with narrow streets filled with tapas and pintxo bars. Bounded by Mount Urgull, the Urumea River, and Concha Bay, this area is home to the Plaza de la Constitución, where the Tamborrada drum festival takes place. The 16th-century Gothic San Vicente Church and the traditional La Bretxa Market are notable attractions in this historic district.
4.5
(4583)
Donostia / San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Spain, USA
5

Rocher de la Vierge

Mentioned on 
+83 other lists 
Sights & Landmarks
Monuments & Statues
Rocher de la Vierge is a famous landmark in the Bay of Biscay, featuring a dramatic rock formation with stunning views and a statue of the Virgin Mary perched on top. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, including the Villa Beltza and Cote des Basque, as well as enjoy a leisurely walk up 100 stairs to reach the bar Cents Marches for a relaxing sunset experience.
A romantic place - I went for sunrise and sunset. Loved it. Joggers seem to come to this place in the early morning too. Really windy - so bring something warm.
Tiffany A — Google review
Nice outcrop from the headland over a cool bridge. Was great the day we visited as it was after a storm so the seas were quite wild and waves crashing along the shore which made it more special. Not much to do there other than stroll out to it and admire the views. As your in Biarritz check it out and walk on from there through the streets to the port and palace beach
James W — Google review
A very nice vantage point to see the miramar beach and plage de la Côte des Basque. Very nice views during sunset. Adventurous swimmer and divers often jump up from here to the sea.
MAKAROVE — Google review
A delightful place to reach with a short nice walk and to enjoy at sunset. Surely there are always tons of tourists, but still, the place is attractive and full of photo opportunities.
Emiliano V — Google review
Great place. Must see in Biarritz. You can fee the power of the ocean. Picturesqe place for a romantic walk. Beautiful sunsets, great sunglight of the sunrise as well. Have a great walk!
Marzena C — Google review
Beautiful spot. Biarritz has blown me away with its location, scenery and blend with the sea
Miguel C — Google review
Amazing view of the beach and the sea, sometimes there was an artist who was selling the paintings for cheap, and there are paid telescopes. The waves sometimes are huge and can splash over the ledge, so be careful! Video from the Autumn.
Mykhailo S — Google review
Great place to view the coast of biarritz with many amenities nearby
Chris H — Google review
4.7
(16220)
•
4.4
(3112)
64200 Biarritz, France
http://pays-basque.tourisme64.com/harmonie/lieux-choisis/rocher-de-la-vierge/
+33 5 59 22 37 10
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6

Biarritz Aquarium

Mentioned on 
+56 other lists 
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
The Biarritz Aquarium, also known as the Musee de la Mer, is housed in a stunning art deco building and offers an exciting day out for visitors. Inside, there are 20 aquariums showcasing diverse marine life from the Bay of Biscay and around the world. The aquarium features sharks, rays, coral-reef fish, and a Caribbean lagoon. Visitors can witness seal feeding times at the underwater viewing platform and observe sharks up close in a dedicated tank.
Visiting the Sea World in Biarritz was an amazing experience! Everything is beautifully arranged and full of fascinating marine life the place truly comes alive. The aquariums are wonderfully designed, making you feel as if you are diving right into the depths of the ocean. I highly recommend visiting in the evening as well, because the sunsets here are absolutely magical and add to the overall atmosphere of the place. A wonderful experience that is definitely worth it!
Adela B — Google review
Fantastic aquarium,bought tickets online to safe the queue.Loved seals being fed ,one wee naughty one 😆. Well worth the money ,really enjoyed it. Perhaps a buggy park somewhere to save congestion when busy might help .
Susan — Google review
Fantastic aquarium- however we didn’t realise there was no parking at the actual a aquarium (because of where it is located) so don’t just put it into google maps without planning a car park first. The a aquarium itself was really well laid out and in two separate buildings. Some amazing fish and the jelly fish were spectacular. And my kids loved seeing the turtles and hammer head sharks. Also take time to appreciate the amazing art work and how it was created. Would throughly recommend.
Ryan C — Google review
Great museum with lots of fun jellyfish, octopus, seals, sharks and turtles as well as fun fish. Well curated, but a bit expensive at 46 eur for two adults and a kid.
Joachim V — Google review
It was a good aquarium with some very pretty jellyfish and seals. The other attractions were quite interesting too. Missing 1 star because they let too many people in at a time, we were crammed in like sardines.
Bradley A — Google review
The aquarium offers a decent variety of marine life, with the large shark tank being a highlight, providing an impressive view. I highly recommend a visit. However, the seal tank had noticeable algae growth, giving us a cloudy view. The seals are fed twice a day, once in the morning and again in the evening, so I recommend timing your visit for one of the feedings to enhance your experience.
Clinton T — Google review
My kid is almost two and he love it! Is not huge is big enough to spend 2 hours on it and is walkable for kids. They have a lot of sharks and spaces to sit and enjoy the fishes. A snack space, seals, turtles and a beautiful view. It was not super full so you can enjoy it with the stroller with not a problem.
Vero C — Google review
The only downside is that they do the seal feeding fully in French. I didn’t understand a single word. But my experience with the place was very positive. Really enjoyed the effort they put into this park. And the ticket price is worth it for sure; even it’s just to see the shark tanks, or hang out with Izar and Charlie.
Iliya P — Google review
4.3
(16127)
•
4.1
(3479)
Esplanade du, Rocher de la Vierge, 64200 Biarritz, France
https://www.aquariumbiarritz.com/
+33 5 59 22 75 40
7

Dune of Pilat

Mentioned on 
45 lists 
Natural feature
Nature & Parks
Dune of Pilat, a famous sand dune located along the shore, rises to a height of 110m above sea level. The area is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Ile aux Oiseaux, Lake Cazaux and Sanguinet, and the national nature reserve of the Banc d'Arguin. Additionally, it features notable landmarks such as the church of Saint-Vincent and historic buildings like the house of Verthamon and Lalanne house.
Just stunning. Hard to believe the size and beauty of it. Very well set up too, good selection of cafes, shade and services before you make the climb. Really well done 👏👏 A must see if the area!
Colin F — Google review
We combined a trip to Bordeaux with this so ended here at the beginning of the evening (at 18:00). We parked not at the formal entrance, but a bit down the road where we had to walk between the bushes and made a steep climb onto the dune. Challenging! But the view is amazing and coming there in the evening gives very nice pictures with the sunset (and it's not so crowded). We swam for a short while and went back before it got dark. The way down is much faster ;-)
Maikel J — Google review
Rising over 100 m above the Bassin d’Arcachon, Europe’s tallest sand dune and natural colossus draws nearly two million visitors each year. Families climb its soft flank for sweeping views across forest and ocean, while removable staircases and marked paths channel footfall to reduce erosion. At peak times, up to 17,000 people ascend daily, and archaeologists descend to preserve prehistoric revelations. Recognised as a Grand Site National since 1978, it is both geological wonder and leisure magnet, shaped by four millennia of wind and time.
Loo Y — Google review
An unforgettable natural wonder — the Dune du Pilat near Arcachon is the largest sand dune in Europe and absolutely stunning. It’s easy to access, yet feels like stepping into another world. If you want to see something truly extraordinary just beyond your doorstep, this is the place to go!
Boris B — Google review
Great views of the surrounding countryside. Be ready for a good climb if you want to reach the top though as there are plenty of steps to navigate, make sure you have some comfy footwear. The parking is €7, but that also covers the cost of the visit for as long as you want, so it was very good value for money. The parking areas are also very shaded so your car won’t be an oven when you return from your travels. It was busy when we visited, but as the fine is so large it didn’t feel overcrowded.
Julian D — Google review
We passed by on our route to Bilbao - what a stop, what an impressive piece of landscape. Well organized with a beautiful wooden tourist „village“!!
Seb L — Google review
If in area this is a must see! This is one long 2km dune along the coast. It seems so out of place. The view from the top of the dune overlooking the bay is stunning. There is one set of stairs to assist with your climb.
Brian K — Google review
Do I still need to introduce the majestic Dune of Pilat, the highest dune in Europe, which continues to amaze me years after years with its immensity and breathtaking landscapes ? Dominating the entrance to the Arcachon Bay, it stretches over 500 meters wide, reaches nearly 102 meters high and offers a spectacular panorama. From its summit, the view takes in the Atlantic Ocean, the Landes forest, the Cap-Ferret peninsula, the Banc d'Arguin and the bay. This masterpiece of nature, fragile and in perpetual movement, moves each year from one to five meters towards the forest, grain by grain, testifying to thousands of years of history and the incredible dynamics of the elements. Reaching this exceptional site is now facilitated by modern and well-designed facilities. A new cycle path leads to the site's entrance, and a pedestrian axis designed as a promenade crosses the reception area, inviting you to stroll before undertaking the climb. It can also be reached by bus or even by boat, making the Dune a destination accessible to all. Since summer 2023, the completely renovated reception area offers cultural and restaurant shops open year-round, and a seasonal staircase, installed from April to October, allows you to gently climb the dune from the back while preserving this natural site. Once at the top, the magic happens. At low tide, the sandbanks reveal heavenly hues, particularly the Banc d'Arguin National Nature Reserve, which stretches below. In summer, the Dune of Pilat attracts many visitors ; to fully enjoy the tranquility of the place, it is best to come early in the morning or at the end of the day. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset offer unique moments where the light enhances every detail of the landscape ! In summer, sunset walks are particularly popular for experiencing a moment outside of time. Hikes, storytelling walks, and educational workshops also enrich the visitor experience. Listed nationally and included in the Réseau des Grands Sites de France (Great Sites of France), the Dune of Pilat is exemplarily managed by the Syndicat Mixte de la Grande Dune du Pilat, in partnership with the Conservatoire du Littoral (Coastal Protection Agency). These preservation and development efforts ensure a balance between welcoming the public and protecting the natural environment. The revenue from parking is entirely reinvested in the management of the site : waste collection, naturalist monitoring and free environmental education tools ... This great lady of sand, witness to history and natural forces, continues to fascinate with its movement, its scale and the diversity of the landscapes it dominates. A visit to the Dune of Pilat is the assurance of an unforgettable encounter with an exceptional site, constantly evolving, in the heart of the Arcachon basin ...
Enjoy L — Google review
4.8
(11300)
•
4.5
(4565)
France, USA
8

Place de la Bourse

Mentioned on 
22 lists 
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
When visiting Bordeaux, one of the must-see spots is the Place de la Bourse. This iconic 18th-century city square is surrounded by elegant architecture and features a grand fountain at its center. The Palais de la Bourse, with its Neoclassical-style facade adorned with columns and sculptures, is a notable building to explore.
Kind an artificial pool with bunch of kids running around. Unusual and nice place - at least to see and experience this. When it gets quieter you can make amazing photos with buildings around and this part of flat water pool. Results are amazing
Kamil N — Google review
The 'water mirror' opposite of the bourse buildings is awesome! Such an excellent idea! This artist may get followers and copy cats all over the globe. The water is refreshing, makes the public happy and relaxed, allows kids to enjoy a city visit and provides poor citizens with a place where they can mingle with everyone else in a relaxed way. It also gives enough water for great flowers and the gardens/park pieces next to the water mirror. And, when quiet, the reflection doubles the grandeur of the bourse buildings. Best place of Bordeaux in my opinion.
Christy D — Google review
I visited Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux at night and it was a wonderful experience. The whole area looked magical with the lights reflecting on the beautiful old buildings and the famous water mirror. The fountain and lighting together created a peaceful and charming atmosphere. I spent a few hours just walking around, watching the reflections, and enjoying the calm breeze from the river. The place was lively yet serene — people relaxing, children playing, and tourists taking photos. It’s one of those spots where you can simply sit and take in the beauty of the city. If you are in Bordeaux, an evening visit to Place de la Bourse is a must. It truly captures the heart and elegance of the city.
Chandran P — Google review
We loved it! Place de la Bourse is a stunning 18th century square in Bordeaux with elegant façades, the Fountain of the Three Graces, and its famous Water Mirror. A true UNESCO gem.
Dieter K — Google review
One of the most beautiful squares in all of Europe! Really really pretty.
Flo — Google review
Not to crowded for a weekend, free but not to spent lots of time, just for a picture and to appreciate the city
Sussy B — Google review
Beautiful place, history and present, in the same spot
Catalin C — Google review
To better appreciate the combination of building and water mirror best yime to visit is early evening
Orhan G — Google review
4.6
(19593)
•
4.6
(7026)
Pl. de la Bourse, 33000 Bordeaux, France
http://www.bordeaux.fr/l3293
9

Miroir d'eau

Mentioned on 
+51 other lists 
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Located in Bordeaux, the Miroir d'eau is a large shallow reflecting pool built in 2006 near Place de la Bourse. Covering an area of 3450 square meters, it is one of the world's largest reflecting pools and offers stunning views of the surrounding architecture. The water's surface acts as a mirror, creating beautiful visual effects and making it a popular spot for photography.
A brilliant idea in combining a modern structure with the old buildings on the other side of the square. When there is no wind, the buildings are reflected in the water. It is very beautiful, as are the blooming gardens along the embankment. A wonderful space for walking!
Olga I — Google review
Fascinating creation right next to the river. You can see a clear reflection of people and buildings, if it is not too windy. They have two different exhibitions, a mist spray followed by about 2cm deep of water coming up from the bottom.
Michael R — Google review
The Miroir d'eau is just a playground with sprinkles. It is right next to the promenade at the river and across the street from the Place de la Bourse, not in front it, as appearing in the touristic brochures. The thin layer of water creates a reflective surface for the sky or Place de la Bourse buildings across the street. Popular water playground with children and to sit around to cool down in the warmer months or as a gorgeous, instagramable setting for pictures during the day or at night.
Gergana — Google review
An interesting location and use of water in a public space. Unfortunately the day we were in Bordeaux it was windy. The evening was calmer and allowed for some good reflections.
Stuart T — Google review
Such a great idea, simple that created a beautiful landscape. Reflecting the surrouding, the sky, the activities of people. Big playground for everyone especially kids 🥳
Quỳnh N — Google review
The Water Mirror in Bordeaux is deceptively simple yet magical. Its charm lies in the cyclical transformation it undergoes, the water functions as a perfect mirror, then a gentle fog is released across the surface creating a dream-like ambiance.
Yash V — Google review
Beautiful place excellent for cooling your feet on a hot day. Amazing photo opportunities. Lovely walk along the river.
Sara G — Google review
What's not to like? Highly recommend removing shoes and socks and paddling around in it. It was refreshing on a day that was in the high 30s in degrees. We spent over an hour paddling and splashing and people watching. Definitely take a visit
Barry — Google review
4.5
(16034)
•
4.5
(6699)
Pl. de la Bourse, 33000 Bordeaux, France
https://www.bordeaux.fr/l10812
+33 5 56 10 20 30
10

Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion

Mentioned on 
26 lists 
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
The Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion is an underground church carved from limestone, with a towering 68-meter bell tower. It dates back to the 12th century and is said to be made from a single stone. The majority of the church is located underground, and visitors can explore it on official tours organized by the Office of Tourism. The village was named after Emilion, an 8th-century hermit who established a religious community there.
Beautiful and well preserved. Love all the history and still the roman wall. Built on eachother. Love the streets and the wine.
Cori H — Google review
Amazing history and architecture! This little town was established around 800AD. Every road is cobblestone so wear flat shoes with good grip. Try to see everything in this area. This is one of the oldest wine growing regions in the world.
Jamie J — Google review
This is an absolutely wonderful piece of medieval architecture, and a real glimpse into the life of a hermit and his followers. The tour is wonderful and takes you on a journey from the small cave in which St Emilion to the mic. Church carved out of the rock by his followers and the devout. No photographs are allowed, but they’re plenty online. This is a fantastic tour and a must if you are going to st Emilion
G M — Google review
Best thing to do/see in town + not a rip off (unlike most things in saint emilion) You get given a key from the information desk and sent on your way. They only let a few people in at a time (around 6) so it’s not crowded at all! Make sure to go up the tower when you’re visiting!
Hattie C — Google review
I recommend getting the guided tour, it is worthwhile if you are in Saint-Emilion. Guide is available in many languages and goes through 4 different sections. The underground part is quite the spectacle. The workers were helpful and very knowledgeable on the church.
Anti — Google review
Historical & landmark Church in Saint-Emilion This is a fantastic medieval building in the town center of St. Emilion. Beautiful architecture well worth your time to visit regardless of if you are religious or not. We really enjoyed visiting this village probably one of the nicest in this region, and this church is high on the little of amazing building you can see & visit.
Paul V — Google review
A fascinating place but for someone a bit unsteady on their feet the paths and roads are made with pebbles and are very uneven.
Marjorie K — Google review
Interesting place to visit. We went as part of a vineyard tour.
Claire V — Google review
4.6
(5290)
•
4.6
(1927)
Pl. du Marché, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France
https://www.saint-emilion-tourisme.com/fr/1-decouvrir/31-les-12-monuments-incontournables/5-l-eglise-monolithe-et-son-clocher.html
+33 5 57 55 28 28
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11

L'Ange Bleu

Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Restaurant
L'Ange Bleu, a vibrant cabaret located in Gauriaguet, has been captivating audiences since its opening on April 2, 2013. Just a short stroll from the Fourchette de Gueynard pizzeria, this venue offers an unforgettable night out filled with dazzling performances and delightful cuisine. Guests rave about the colorful atmosphere adorned with sequins and the overall entertainment value of the shows.
Amazing show! My family and me spent the 24th of december in this wonderful place ! Thanks to all the team of the Ange Blue specially Emilie !
Marianne C — Google review
The food was good. The show, if you haven't seen it is good. But I have to say not as good as two years ago The interior is looking tired.
Steve P — Google review
Was a good night out, lots going on good food and service. My only criticism would be the comedian acting disabled / shy, it came over to me as making fun of people with disabilities, although I’m sure this wasn’t the intention. I’d probably suggest he tones that down a bit as to be sure not to offend. Overall a very entertaining night, very colourful and spectacular with sequins everywhere !
Firm B — Google review
Excellent
Alain B — Google review
Great show good food and a good atmosphere
Christine V — Google review
Top
Benoit M — Google review
Excellent spectacle
Frédéric B — Google review
Tip top 👍
Seyni V — Google review
4.6
(4029)
•
4.6
(2333)
47 Rue de Gueynard, 33240 Gauriaguet, France
http://www.angebleu.fr/?utm_source=gmb
+33 5 57 68 07 07
12

Zoo La Palmyre

Mentioned on 
25 lists 
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
Nestled in a lush pine forest, Zoo La Palmyre is a well-established zoo located in the southwest of Charente-Maritime, near Royan. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2016, the zoo has grown from 160 animals to over 1,600 from 115 species.
Such a great zoo! Big free parking between trees with lots of shade. Inside you can buy cheap bags of popcorn and feed all of the animals (except monkeys). First time feeding giraffes and zebras! Really interactive experience. Part of the zoo was closed due to making of new enclosures.
Bartosz S — Google review
Wow... Such a great experience. Family of 3 and we loved it. The zoo was impeccably clean and the staff were all super friendly. Being able to get so close to the animals is amazing. Feeding the Giraffes, zebra, ostrich, goats and Tortoise is such a great experience, my daughter absolutely loved it. They sell pop corn to feed the animals.. this is a must do as it adds so much fun to the day. There is a very large array of animals to see and you just keep getting wowed by them. I would most certainly recommend this zoo to anyone thinking of visiting.
Dan C — Google review
Another great activity to do with toddlers in La Palmyre is visiting La Palmyre Zoo. You should plan around 4 hours to see the entire zoo at a comfortable pace. There are so many animals to discover, and interactive areas where kids can feed and gently stroke the giraffes and goats. The zoo is very family-friendly: stroller accessible, clean, and well-organized with shaded areas to rest. There are also a few restaurants and snack points inside, especially during the summer months, which is super convenient when visiting with children. They also offer sea lion and parrot shows, which are fun and engaging for kids, it’s a good idea to check the show schedule on their website so you don’t miss them. Overall, a fantastic place to spend half a day with toddlers and kids while learning about animals and enjoying nature!
Desi M — Google review
I had never been to a French zoo before and had assumed an experience similar to Dublin Zoo...it's very different. Firstly the animals are far closer and more "accessible". The first enclosure for the flamingos is literally inside the front door, and they are arms length away at points. The flamingos looked vibrant and happy in the 30 degree sunshine, flaunting their sunny pinkness to their Dublin comrades. Our first port of call was the Giraffes...where u can literally feed them popcorn from your hand!! My first impression was I'm back in a Victorian Zoo, with an elephant ride up next...but I really enjoyed it!! Seeing the animals up close is a completely different experience. I'm sure there are raging debates in zoologist circles about the wisdom of hand feeding Giraffes popcorn...But they certainly seemed to enjoy it. My son loves Giraffes and this blew his mind. There is a lot to do and see, and on a warm day we picked out a few highlights. There is an amphitheatre where u can watch the sea lions perform tricks for food. 2 shows daily but we missed this. Wouldn't be a big fan of this so not bothered. The elephant enclosure again was far more accessible, there is a small mote with almost 360 degrees viewing angles. U could buy some sort of nuts to feed the elephants. I was initially horrified as I could see people throwing things across to the elephants, before I realized it was allowed. Kinda not sure about this. Turned this majestic animal into a Jack Russel looking for treats (with killer tusks). The enclosure was very large, so I guess they could wander off if it was bothering them 😕 Towards the back of the zoo there are chimps and orangutans. Given the scorcher of a day these animals were flaked out in the shade. Their enclosure was huge with an indoor area too. Lots of waterfalls, Jurassic Park vibes. We finished the trip seeing alligators and reptiles! There is plenty to do and see, with food options too. Huge free car park beside it, about €74 for a family ticket for 4. Worth a visit if u are in the area.
Justin M — Google review
There are vending machines around the park for drinks that are dated and don’t accept NFC payments. Don’t forget cash. Sea lion show was impressive back in the day but has lost its luster over the years. Kids still enjoyed it but as an adult found it missing something this time around.
Jason C — Google review
Amazing Zoo, set in a woodland. You are really close to the animals & you can get in with goats & feeding them is so much fun. Great day out, well priced & plenty of free parking
Justin P — Google review
Very nice park, highly recommended! Great variety of animals, the enclosures looked very good and the staff is friendly. However, when emus are stealing the maps from visitors and goats are getting stuck in backpacks (causing a ten-minute stampede in the petting zoo), you could argue it needs a little more supervision.
Robin H — Google review
A really well kept zoo, spotlessly clean with decent sized enclosures. The animals don't seem stressed. A good point: you can get face to face with the giraffes. A down point: the sealion show was only in the afternoon so we missed it.
Tony B — Google review
4.4
(34026)
•
4.1
(6139)
6 Av. de Royan, 17570 Les Mathes, France
https://www.zoo-palmyre.fr/
+33 5 46 22 46 06
13

Port of Cotinière

Mentioned on 
5 lists 
Marina
Nature & Parks
Port of Cotinière is a charming and authentic French fishing village that offers a tranquil coastal retreat. It boasts beautiful beaches, lovely boutiques, and vibrant restaurants, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely evening stroll. The harbor town exudes traditional charm with its picturesque surroundings and is known for its delightful culinary offerings.
Le port de la Cotinière is a hidden gem that showcases the beauty of traditional French fishing villages. Its authenticity, culinary offerings, and scenic surroundings make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an escape to a tranquil and picturesque coastal retreat.
Vautrin T — Google review
In September it is not so crowded. I went there in the morning. This is a good time to meet not too many tourists. But I can imagine its full in summertime. Parking 2 hours is possible for free.
R. A — Google review
Stopped for dessert and drinks, ended up dancing until 1am.
Bertrand C — Google review
I love this place I first visited it 30 years ago. Don't change much,that's a good thing. Scenic port,nice beach, good restaurants and tourist shops. Recommended.
Julian B — Google review
Love this place It's got the lot Beach Harbour Great shopping Great food
Phil W — Google review
Nice working harbour
Alan G — Google review
Great fir a walk in the evening ,vibrant place. Great restaurants, lovely little shops . Beaches are beautiful
Carolyn W — Google review
Harbor for a small fishing fleet. There town around it is a predictable tourist trap, but enjoyable none the less.
Martijn P — Google review
4.5
(6546)
•
4.1
(1534)
34 RUE DU PORT DE, 17310 Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, France
14

Phare des Baleines

Mentioned on 
+24 other lists 
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Phare des Baleines, located at the westernmost tip of Ile de Re, is an octagonal limestone tower built in the mid-1850s. The 59m-high lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views after climbing 257 spiral steps. It has been guiding ships around the island's edge for decades and is a popular stop on circular bike rides of the island.
Amazing views and the whole area is lovely with all it's restaurants. A bit breezy and very windy at the top of the lighthouse. Great views. Hold on to your caps and phones up there!!
Matt- F — Google review
Google directions to parking is a bit misleading but easy to figure out. Parking can be an issue in holiday times. There is a market with clothing shops and restaurants as well as the light tower, the old tower is just behind it.
Johan G — Google review
Very cool place to go to learn about the local history of the island and the lighthouse and as well the other lighthouses that dot French coastline. Worth the drive to the tip of Île de Ré.
Christopher C — Google review
Cool little destination when bike riding the Ile de Re. Plenty of ice cream spots also.
Dion J — Google review
Wonderful old lighthouse. We walked up 257 steps to the top, had beautiful views
Virginia W — Google review
Nice place to visit to get a great view from the top of the lighthouse
Chris H — Google review
Wonderfull wiew, strong wind and sunset is stunning.
Selim H — Google review
I always like a good lighthouse, especially if you can climb it. Entrance is round the back (seaward side) and provides excellent 360 degree views. There is a small museum nearby.
Stephen M — Google review
4.5
(23441)
•
4.4
(2606)
155 All. du Phare, 17590 Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, France
http://www.pharedesbaleines.com/
+33 5 46 29 18 23
15

Association Hermione La Fayette

Mentioned on 
9 lists 
Museums
Association / Organization
Association Hermione La Fayette is a majestic flagship that showcases the work of a boatswain. Visitors can experience the rigging by trying out the Accro-Mats, offering a unique opportunity to reach great heights. The Royal Ropery, an impressive 374m tall building, is also worth exploring. Rochefort itself is steeped in history, with reminders of Lafayette and Napoleon at every turn.
Magnifique. A great reason to visit Rochefort. Hermione is nothing else than a piece of art, a volunteering effort, a very passionate crew. Thank you all for reviving the history thru this glorious ship and letting us the visitors to enjoy it. A must see in this part of France.
Ralu K — Google review
Beautoful ship, too bad they were fixing it when we came so we couldn't see the whole of it. Also, everything is in French - no English translation
Tina P — Google review
Disappointing! No boat! At least not that we could see. Lots of interesting sub-museums each with own entry fee > €10 Made the mistake of arriving and looking at the town first with cafe in lovely square only to find that the museums were all closing in half an hour for a 2 hour lunch! Decided to go the Leclerc and go back to the caravan. Was so good had lunch in the supermarket if that isn’t sad! Great sandwich beer and wine. Rochefort - tick!!
Stephen W — Google review
We had a wander round in the mid-afternoon, it was great to see a tall ship that had clearly been lovingly reconstructed. Unfortunately, partly due to the size of our group, the cost of guided tours were a little more than we were willing to stomach. However, just the setting it's in and the surrounding area is well worth a look.
Francis L — Google review
Stunning place. The Versailles of the maritime world. So glad we made the effort to visit. The city is small and delightful. A place for a culture fix for sure.
Andreas G — Google review
Rochefort surprised me as a so historical town. At each street corner an old place reminds you Lafayette, Napoleon or other war part of French naval history. The Hermione is a so large vessel, impressive with the masts, the inside deck, .... all is so fantastic a must see... and what is you are lucky to see her taking the see
Arnaud C — Google review
An amazing place to visit, plenty to do and see and explore. Take your time and stay a whole day to explore it.
Martha A — Google review
Beautiful boat, what a pity that they don't have English information. Also, they could perhaps change the tents and have some permanent building. The temperature in the tents was unbearable.
Jean P — Google review
4.5
(2272)
•
4.5
(1153)
Arsenal Maritime, Pl. Amiral Dupont, 17300 Rochefort, France
https://fregate-hermione.com/un-espace-info-ouvert-a-tous-a-rochefort/
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16

La Rochelle Aquarium

Mentioned on 
+59 other lists 
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
The La Rochelle Aquarium is a popular tourist attraction in Charente-Maritime, France. It has received the TripAdvisor certificate of excellence and houses around 600 aquatic species in approximately three million liters of sea water. The aquarium features walkways over two floors with 83 basins representing the great oceans and seas, offering visitors a captivating experience that lasts about two hours.
Really fantastic aquarium! Very well maintained with an amazing selection of sea life. The layout is very well done and there’s so much interesting information. Many negative complaints seem to be about the busiest times of year, but just out of peak season on a Friday it was super quiet and a really relaxing experience! Would highly recommend a visit, especially with young kids. Our 1 year-old absolutely loved it too!
Matt S — Google review
Top tip for visiting this aquarium - book your tickets in advance online otherwise you will queue for ages to buy tickets only to be given a later time slot to return! Once inside, the aquarium is full of amazing tanks full of fish and other sea life. The tanks are well labelled in both French and English and you can follow the numbered tanks around the aquarium so that you don’t miss anything. We visited on a Monday during summer school holidays - the aquarium was really busy, but you still get to see everything.
Annette K — Google review
A wonderful and informative aquarium, well maintained and clean. Highlight was the sharks of course, but had lots to see and examine. Reasonable priced too, especially if you're from the UK where aquariums are prohibitively expensive. One other thing to note, it is all accessible for pushchairs, prams and wheelchairs.
Dominic L — Google review
There's a lot to see hear, from the jellyfish at the entrance to the sharks at the end and endless fish in between. It's divided into different areas, Mediterranean, Carribbean and tropical for some and the tour flows well. It was quiet when I visited, but can get very busy, so I would recommend choosing a quieter time.
Austen M — Google review
Practical side: Practically speaking, it was a mess. We had bought our tickets online, thinking it would save us time. Our slot was at 11:00, so we joined the line early since we didn’t know how long it would take. By 10:45 we reached the staff member at the entrance, but he told us we were too early and had to leave the line. Just five minutes later, people with 11:00 tickets were allowed in! When we rejoined, the line had tripled in length. So instead of saving time, we ended up waiting much longer. They even split the line to “speed things up,” which actually delayed us even more. On top of that, special discounts (for students, people with disabilities, etc.) weren’t available when booking online. The visit: As for the visit itself, it was one of the dullest aquaria I’ve ever seen. First of all, it was extremely crowded – surprising for a Thursday in late August – to the point where it felt claustrophobic and we often couldn’t even see the tanks. We walked through everything in about half an hour. Some fish were kept in very small tanks, with no mention anywhere about animal welfare or what the aquarium does to prevent harm. Many tanks just looked artificial, with fish placed in unnatural settings. There was also no clear storyline or structure. In other aquariums you often see a logical build-up (from shallow to deep water, or small to large species) but here it was just one similar-looking room after another: blue walls and a few glass tanks. There were no interactive elements, no feeding demonstrations, and no educational content about pollution, climate change, or conservation – all things you’d expect nowadays. For that, paying €18.50 is way overpriced.
Lexa M — Google review
Too many tickets sold per time slot. Our slot said 150 tickets left so we thought it would be quiet, instead met with massive queues, crowds and stressful experience.
Ben L — Google review
Very amusing, especially for kids. We went on a rather quite time of the month, so we h didnt have to wait in line and the aquarium wasn't very busy. Very lovely experience, I'd go there again!
Issa A — Google review
Huge aquarium. Good time for kids. The map of the aquarium is not clear and no signs inside the aquarium. Still worth the visit
Venkatesan D — Google review
4.1
(8724)
•
4.2
(9432)
Quai Louis Prunier, 17000 La Rochelle, France
https://www.aquarium-larochelle.com/
+33 5 46 34 00 00
17

Vieux-Port

Mentioned on 
43 lists 
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Vieux-Port is a charming and bustling harbor featuring the imposing La Chaîne and Saint-Nicolas towers, which have been repurposed into a museum and an observation deck. Along Quai Duperré, visitors can find trendy wine bars, seafood restaurants, and vendors selling delicious crêpes. In the summer, Cours des Dames hosts stalls offering a variety of goods such as crafts, cheeses, and scenic paintings.
4.5
(4734)
17000 La Rochelle, France, USA
18

Parc zoologique des Sables d'Olonnes

Mentioned on 
7 lists 
Temporarily Closed
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
Association / Organization
Parc zoologique des Sables d'Olonnes is an eco-zoo located near the beaches, home to around 500 exotic animals including lions, giraffes, Amur leopards, monkeys, pandas, and penguins. The zoo is committed to animal conservation and environmental protection. Visitors can explore imaginative habitats housing about 50-70 animals at a reasonable admission fee.
We've been here 3 times now, over 2 years, and this is such a lovely zoo! Only fairly small however we love it here... giraffes the obvious favourite, however the little parrots that you can feed with nectar pots are so much fun! Totally recommend
Elliott G — Google review
Lovely day out, very much enjoyed this zoo. Could have been our luck but the animals were all visible and active.
Amin B — Google review
It's nice to visit with kids :) Buy the bird food at the entry, they birds are friendly. Though, a tiny trick: The birds reach more than the hall at the start, if you keep walking there's an open space near and there will be more little parrots to say hello.
Marely R — Google review
Great little zoo involved in many international conservations programs. The path are surrounded with exuberant vegetation making you feel like you're in the middle of nature. Around 50 species available in great natural looking enclosures. Some shows available at times during the day. Reasonable in price, 16.50€ for an adult. The bar- restaurant is also reasonable in price.
David E — Google review
Lovely zoo. Friendly staff. Very pleasant experience and not too busy
Peter R — Google review
Lovely little zoo. Very well looked after animals. Beautiful bird space with the possibility to feed them. A great place to visit when it is hot an sunny as most parts of the park are with big trees. Suitable for prams. Food stand with outdoor seating area and souvenir shop available.
Chrissi H — Google review
Beautiful zoo that focusses on providing natural habitats for the animals and also try to preserve the planet through their ecological plan of action. It's gorgeous and definitely a recommendation!
Michel M — Google review
A somewhat smaller zoo, but beautifull and fun. There is an optimal route which should take you past all enclosures. The zoo was very nice for (young) children. Take your time and you will have a nice visit. There is nectar at the entrace for €1 which you can feed to some birds, which is really worth it.
Jan Z — Google review
4.2
(8193)
•
4.0
(1323)
Rte du Tour de France, 85100 Les Sables-d'Olonne, France
http://www.zoodessables.fr/
+33 2 51 95 14 10
19

Guérande

Mentioned on 
69 lists 
Neighborhoods
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Guérande, a charming medieval town in the Loire-Atlantique department of Pays de la Loire, Western France, is known for its salt marshes where the famous Guerande salt is produced. The locals are called Guérandais and Guérandaise.
4.3
(1685)
France
http://www.ville-guerande.fr/
20

Les Machines de l'Île

Mentioned on 
+81 other lists 
Museums
Specialty Museums
Les Machines de l'Île is an imaginative and interactive park attraction in Nantes, inspired by the works of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci. The park features a giant mechanical elephant that walks, trumpets, sprays water, and even spits fire. Visitors can also explore a laboratory of nature-inspired machines and enjoy a three-story carousel of marine machines.
A wonderful creative imaginative magical experience, for children and adults alike. Blending engineering & physics with creative design and wild imagination. This place is a must see! The Grand Elephant is also impressive, and squirts water everywhere. Don’t get wet! Must see, must try. Not expensive. Worthwhile for family and all ages!
F L — Google review
Love the experience. Amazing place. Most of presentations are in French. You can use app to read all info online. Would suggest more English tours through the week. One on Monday evening doesn’t suit all visitors on different days.
Maciej Z — Google review
Fantastic experience at Machine de l'île, Nantes. The ticketing system is complex but let's you pay for what you want to see - the three options are: The Elephant, The Gallery (with a range of mechanical animals to watch and some you can participate in) and the Carousel - each requires a separate booking and ticket, however the latter are both included in the Nantes pass whi h is good value for money. The Elephant was fun, though busy and you can get a better view from the ground of the elephant itself. The Gallery was excellent, again quite busy but you get to see demonstrations of 5 or 6 machines. The Carousel was better than I expected as each object has different functions that allow you to move them wh ih was fun. One word of warning, only download the tickets once as any subsequent downloads cancels the last ticket rather than duplicating it which meant I ended up in a mess with multiple tickets. You can also get tickets and opies of digital tickets from the ticket office. There's an outdoor cafe on site and a lovely Spanish restaurant adjacent.
Dominic B — Google review
This was on my "bucket list". It was amazing. Total of €30 to visit the Elephant, Carousel and Warehouse. You can see the Elephant walking around without paying if you don't want to pay to ride it. Worth knowing that parts of the carousel ride are wheelchair friendly too. It took us from 11am to 4pm ( with a break for lunchtime closure 12-2), to see everything.
Zena B — Google review
I found this a slightly bizarre experience, maybe best suited to children and anyone interested in beautiful carvings/mechanics.... but the mechanical animals were genuinely impressive and the people doing the tour were very enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The highlight for me was the mechanical elephant, which you don't have to pay to watch.
Helen E — Google review
I liked the fact that this building had been renovated for such an interesting and, above all, interactive project. Fortunately, there was an English-speaking guide available. During the visit we were able to touch some of the machines ourselves and activate them, making the whole thing much more fun. It was also nice to be able to access the area where these machines are actually built, so that everyone can understand the hard engineering work that goes into them.
Flavio C — Google review
The gallery is extremely disappointing. You pay 12 euros to watch the staff having fun with the animatronics. You'll be at 10m of distance (if lucky) and with 100 people around. Maybe, maybe you're lucky enough to be selected to "pilot" some machine (actually is managed by the staff) The elephant ride is worth its price though
Inmaculada B — Google review
Staff spoke English so was able to buy ticket and find way around. Lots of machines to look at and shown working by staff. Spent a few hours here and enjoyed it but not a whole days event. Reasonably priced. Parked our vw camper in multistory over the road no problem.
Ad T — Google review
4.6
(41393)
•
4.4
(7464)
Parc des Chantiers, Bd Léon Bureau, 44200 Nantes, France
https://www.lesmachines-nantes.fr/
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21

Puy du Fou

Mentioned on 
+57 other lists 
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Amusement park
Puy du Fou is a historical theme park that offers epic, period-specific shows such as the Vikings and Ancient Rome. The park features astonishing special effects, including dancing horses, rotating castles, and Viking longships emerging from underwater. With jousting knights, panoramic cinemas, and spectacular dance sequences, visitors are in for an immersive historical experience. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2017, Puy du Fou continues to innovate with an ever-increasing amount of entertainment.
I had read about this park, but nothing can prepare you for what you’ll see – it’s absolutely stunning and unforgettable! If you arrive around 9 AM and get the skip-the-line upgrade, you can catch all the shows in a day. Be aware that the roads get very crowded (our drive from Cholet took about an hour). A good tip: bring some food in a backpack and eat while watching the shows to save time. Totally worth it!
Alexandru L — Google review
It has been an unforgettable experience. The shows we attended were of great quality, including the costumes and staging. I must point out that it seemed to me that the sound was playback rather than live, and the simultaneous translation was slightly out of sync in some shows. Of course, it’s impossible to see everything in just one day, but even so, it’s well worth the visit — highly recommended for the whole family.
Lucía C — Google review
Love this park. As a family went have been visiting since 1989. We have seen so many changes over the years. It never ceases to amaze us every visit. We have a season pass as we now live in the area, so far this season we have been every week,our family of 4 and their families are avid Puy du fou fans,the grandchildren absolutely love it!. Great options for food,coffee and snacks. Gift shops well stocked with various memorabilia and various artisan shops in the medival and viking villages. Fun for all the family and all ages with not a ride in sight! A wonderful way to immerse yourself in french history and appreciate the performers enthusiasm in doing what they obviously love doing. The cinecine is something else,a must see,indescribable....see for yourself.
Jacqueline W — Google review
As you will need to walk around and spend time to line up, a detailed plan is very necessary in order to finish all the programs. Every shows are giving surprises to the audience. Very impressive. Bravo 🎉
T F — Google review
This place was incredible, we booked last minute not knowing what to expect and it did not disappoint. A lot of the shows are quite close together so we did have to run to catch them but there are hotels so you could stay for 2 days and see all the shows in good time. As a theme park it is a little pricey but this was to be expected. Make sure you take some headphones so you can translate the shows!
Robotllamas — Google review
What a place! A must do if you're looking for a unique experience with a tint of French history across the time. The well equipped parc is huge, so make sure that you wear comfy shoes! Booking in advance is a must, and depending on the time of the year you'll be visiting Le Puy du Fou, you might face waiting queues before attending the most rated shows... I strongly suggest that you download the apps, that will help you to organise your visit. We managed to watch the best shows, keeping us time to visit the parc, the villages replicas and indulge ourselves at some of the restaurants as well. Special thanks to all the dedicated staff, you are doing a great job! We had a great stay and we'll come back for sure.
Yozhyk — Google review
If you don’t speak French bear in mind you will be some what left in the dark here outside of the shows. None of the signage show any English and the shows are obviously in French but you can use the live translation if you’ve got the app. The shows however are outstanding even if you don’t know what’s being said very impressive indeed. Worth the visit.
Fionn M — Google review
We spent a few days at Puy du Fou and were absolutely blown away by the experience. The quality of the shows, both indoor and outdoor, is phenomenal. I had visited the park as a child about 20 years ago and was already impressed back then, but what it has become today is on an entirely different level. The scale and sophistication of the productions are unlike anything else. From massive sets to special effects that leave you wondering how it's even possible, every show is a true spectacle. The immersive experiences are just as unforgettable and add another layer to the journey through time. The scheduling of the shows is incredibly well thought out. We barely waited more than 15 or 20 minutes between each performance. Visiting just before the high season probably helped, but still, the whole day flowed smoothly without feeling rushed or overcrowded. Some historical events are presented with a certain angle, but that’s part of the park’s narrative style. It doesn’t take away from the fact that this is great entertainment at its finest. We truly loved our stay and would recommend Puy du Fou to anyone looking for unique and breathtaking live entertainment.
Jeremy B — Google review
4.8
(99114)
•
4.7
(17743)
85590 Les Epesses, France
https://www.puydufou.com/
22

Botanical Garden

Mentioned on 
+38 other lists 
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
Nestled in the heart of Nantes, the Jardin des Plantes is a stunning botanical garden that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Established in the 18th century, this lush oasis boasts an impressive collection of around 11,000 plant species, including vibrant camellias and majestic magnolias. Visitors can wander through its picturesque trails or relax amidst its tranquil environment, soaking up the beauty of nature.
Probably the best park I’ve been to. The fountains were so peaceful and made better with the amount of ducks (and even tortoise!). They had some cool guys around to spot with an amazing plant garden at the back. Had lots of fun activities for kids. Even had a cute chess place right in the middle of it - you have to bring your own pieces but the boards are there on the tables. The numerous public art about was fun to stumble upon. Such a lovely park
Oliver D — Google review
I love this park . It is Tranquil and beautiful . The park is one of the best I’ve been to . It has a magnificent Deer statue, lots of ducks , a lake with an interesting fountain and even a little area with some goats . It also has some very quirky big benches , which made me chuckle . It is only a stones throw from the main station as well , so is perfect to visit while waiting for a train.
Steve G — Google review
The scenery is beautiful and expansive, with interesting sights everywhere you look. It’s truly a must-visit. The variety of plant species is impressive — and discovering a special ‘Taiwan section’ was especially moving.
Po-Jen K — Google review
A truly beautiful and tranquil spot right in the heart of Nantes. The Botanical Garden is the perfect escape from the summer heat, with plenty of shaded areas under tall trees and lush greenery. Everything is very well looked after, clean and organized
Moaz A — Google review
This is a beautiful park, easily accessible from the center city, and nearby to many other attractions. Even in the middle of a busy weekday, the park was relatively quiet, and it was easy to find shaded areas to sit on a bench and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Mark P — Google review
Beautiful garden near center of Nantes, excellent maintained and has a great range of different flowers and trees, as well as artistic objects. Many benches to sit and enjoy the scenery. Free entrance.
Jasper V — Google review
Really nice walk out to the location from the city centre. Well worth it, very peaceful park with a fair few different things to see.
Thurso L — Google review
A beautiful, free garden with a large variety of flora. You can't sit on the grass but there are benches. There is also a cafe and play areas for children
D B — Google review
4.7
(17630)
•
4.7
(4052)
Rue Stanislas Baudry, 44000 Nantes, France
https://metropole.nantes.fr/lieu/jardin-des-plantes
+33 2 40 41 65 09
23

Parc du Thabor

Mentioned on 
+60 other lists 
Park
Nature & Parks
City park
Parc du Thabor, also known as the "Central Park rennais," is a must-visit in Rennes. Spanning over 10 hectares, this 18th-century park features French and English-style gardens, a botanical garden with over 3000 species, aviaries housing non-native bird species, a music kiosk, and a rose garden boasting more than 2,000 varieties of roses.
A simply lovely place to visit and walk about. A great variety of plants, trees and flowers. There's a children's play area and a super collection of birds, chickens and roosters. The birds kept us captive for a better part of a half hour and the chicken entertained us for another quarter hour .
John C — Google review
Lovely place! Suggest to have a peaceful walk there
Marina G — Google review
Parc du Thabor in Rennes, France is truly a delightful escape in the heart of the city. Spanning over 10 hectares, this beautifully maintained park offers a perfect blend of French formal gardens, English-style landscaping, and a lovely botanical garden. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s a serene spot to relax, take a walk, or enjoy a peaceful afternoon. What makes Parc du Thabor special is its charm and diversity. The rose garden is absolutely stunning in bloom, with hundreds of varieties adding color and fragrance to the air. The tall, shaded trees and open grassy areas make it ideal for picnics or simply lounging with a book. Families will appreciate the well-kept playgrounds, and there are even aviaries with exotic birds to admire. Throughout the seasons, the park remains a lively yet calming place — perfect for a morning jog, a romantic stroll, or some quiet reflection. It’s also close to the city center, making it easily accessible and a great break from the hustle of urban life. Overall, Parc du Thabor is a must-visit if you’re in Rennes. It’s a beautiful, peaceful space that showcases the natural beauty and thoughtful design typical of great European parks.
Rahul N — Google review
Must visit in Rennes! Come with kids and your family and you'll find a charming French garden with pleasant greenery. In particular you need to visit the birds nest! Try to grab a stick under the surrounding trees and let parrots come up to you. Such a wonderful place to visit in summer time.
Osbern H — Google review
I would have liked to give 4 stars but I think it will make more impact on reducing to make sure this catch the attention. I went to this park on the 29/08/2025 and first of all this is a very pretty and lit park. It’s free to enter and I also found some ducks and chickens I think :) (correct me if I am wrong) as I went to the park and explored then I needed to use the toilet so I didn’t check if there was any other as the Google maps led me to this specific toilet but I wasn’t the only one trying to use the facility. But,I am very disappointed by the fact that the toilet facility is not looked after at all. It looks like it has been clean for weeks. I mean how can you take care of a place you opened for the general public and the tourist alike, then ignore the fact that if you are expecting them to see there and spend time they cannot have somewhere to go and satisfy their humans needs(🚽🧻🧼🧴🪣). At least do some effort. Overall it’s a great park to visit but be mindful of this when planning to go there.
Mo — Google review
Cute and best park I've been to. It is quite big and colourful with flowers blooming. And you would also find love birds and chickens. Definitely a must visit in Rennes!
Ancy C — Google review
The prettiest park I’ve ever been to! I visited around 7-8 pm on a Thursday night (summer)and the weather was perfect for a walk. There was a modern art gallery plus a small bird sanctuary and the place is filled with beautiful flowers and greenery. I promise you will have a great time there. Bonne visite!
Tenzin — Google review
Great for relaxing, running and having a drink . Fun for kids as well 😀
Jasmina J — Google review
4.7
(13417)
•
4.6
(2594)
Pl. Saint-Mélaine, 35000 Rennes, France
+33 2 23 62 19 40
24

Tour de l'Horloge

Mentioned on 
10 lists 
Temporarily Closed
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Tour de l'Horloge is a 40-meter high tower offering breathtaking views of Dinan and its surroundings, with visibility extending to Mont-Saint Michel on clear days. Initially built as a meeting room and watchtower for fire prevention during Duke Francisco II's reign, it was later upgraded to include a clock and bell under Duchess Anne of Brittany's orders.
This is just one attraction in Dinan and a very good one it is. From its 46 meters, the clock tower offers stunning views of Dinan, its medieval town and Rance. The Clock Tower is open from April to September. Built in the fifteenth century by François II Duke of Brittany, the Clock Tower was primarily intended for monitoring Dinan. A highlight of the city of Dinan, it symbolizes the power of the bourgeoisie against the clergy and the ducal power. In 1507, Anne of Brittany installed a clock, this monument fits among the belfries. Since then is no longer the religious services that punctuate the time in the city of Dinan but the bell of the Clock Tower. The mechanism of this clock is presented on the ground floor of the tower.
Ewan B — Google review
CLIMBING THE TOWER IS HEAVY BUT AT THE END YOU HAVE A GREAT VIEW OVER THE MEDIEVAL TOWN!
Bourgogne M — Google review
Fantastic view of Dinan and surrounding area. Well worth it.
Jean-François K — Google review
We visited Tour de l'Horloge in Dinan and loved it! From the top, you can see the entire city. It's a great spot to enjoy and take in the beauty of Dinan.
Maya A — Google review
Really cool. For roughly $10 US you can spend about 2-3 hours here.
Carl B — Google review
Excellent attraction in Dinan! Probably the most beautiful 360 degree viewpoint in the city! Really recommended. The ticket is also cheap. Our twins loved it. However be careful with smaller children, particularly in the upper part that is very steep.
Laura — Google review
Beautiful village. Nice and calm atmosphere near the end of July. We parked down at the bridge (viaduct, one way except for parking), and walked out way up to the old town. Quite a climb, but doable.
Milan J — Google review
The place is interesting but when it gets full they close the door without putting a notice up that says “full now, wait 10-15 minutes” so some people gave up. Also video was broken and person in charge did not know how to fix it or get it fixed. These problems are so easy to address and would make this a 5 Star visit.
Lisa B — Google review
4.4
(3332)
•
4.7
(2165)
23 Rue de l'Horloge, 22100 Dinan, France
https://www.dinan.fr/156/tour-de-l-horloge
+33 2 96 87 02 26
25

Les Remparts de Saint-Malo

Mentioned on 
14 lists 
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Les Remparts de Saint-Malo, also known as the walls of Saint-Malo, are a historic and picturesque feature of this coastal town. Built between the 12th and 18th centuries to protect the town from invasions and pirate attacks, these mighty walls played a crucial role during World War II. Walking along the 2 km stretch of ramparts offers stunning views of the old city and the English Channel.
Walking here is a fantastic experience, allowing you to observe the beautiful sea. At sunset, the walls transform into a dreamlike landscape.
Connection E — Google review
Not completely overrun so far! Gives you a great understanding of old town structures and has a super nice flair! Just beat the crowd and be early there to get one of the parking spots outside of the city center.
Magnus M — Google review
No tickets necessary. Just over a mile to walk round. Steps up to the top of the ramparts. Beautiful views of the town and sea
Mary-Anne B — Google review
Historical & Landmark Saint-Malo walls This is a great place to come and visit. It is free of charge, so all you have to do is find one of the staircases leading you to the walkway the wardens & guards would have taken to check if the enemy was not coming ;) This is also a fantastic viewpoint and it is really good to start your visit of SM here as it does give you a perspective of the whole city somehow (obviously talking here about the intramuros part). The views were great & the walk is fantastic specially on a good day. Highly recommended!
Paul V — Google review
One of my most favourite places on earth. I adore it here and hopefully everyone will agree. Weather helps too.
Nigel C — Google review
Fantastic place to visit for it's amazing views, shopping and restaurants. Places for a dip in the sea if you are brave enough if the weather is good. Boat trips available
Graham N — Google review
This city is just one of a kind. It’s really crowded during the weekends and you think their is enough parking but their isn’t haha. We stayed a whole week to check out everything and it was really worth it. Go their during summer or during fall if you wanna see the big waves
PJ — Google review
A very interesting place to visit. Although the narrow streets could get claustrophobic if spending too much time there. Absolutely full of restaurants. We took the wee tourist train which gives a good look round without getting lost!
Gillian — Google review
4.8
(7657)
•
4.7
(8141)
6-2 Rue Guillaume le Gouverneur, 35400 Saint-Malo, France
https://www.saint-malo-tourisme.co.uk/explore/a-box-of-delights/the-ramparts-of-saint-malo
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26

Mont Saint-Michel

Fortress
Sights & Landmarks
Small, inhabited island with 11th-century, Romanesque abbey & the highest tides in Europe.
Absolutely worth the day trip! It's very convenient to visit, as there is a free shuttle bus from the car park directly to the bridge. We walked up to the Abbey and explored the shops inside. On the way down, we took the scenic outer path, where you can enjoy different views of the sand and water. I highly recommend trying the omelette and the lamb chops—they were delicious!
Iris O — Google review
Majestic!!!!! Town is free to enter. The abbey is a must do, its the main part of the town, get tickets in advance and dont miss the audioguide. Best we have had and nothing would make sense without the context it provides. Do the abbey in the afternoon so you can make your way up to it slowly. See the bridge at high tide, so you can see the town mostly covered in water, for photos. It rarely gets fully covered and only lasts an hour if it does. Parking is $20. There is a shuttle, but walk if you can. The walk up slowly is the best part and only takes a half hour. Give extra time to walk the fields all around it for different views and the sheep. We definitely wanted a full day. Could have done one day in the town and a second day to wander all around the outside. We rented a car from Paris for 3 days. The tolls to drive there and back cost us about $45.
Julia Z — Google review
Very impressive abbey and small village built or a rock, just off the coast. You get there via a purpose built bridge. Park your car on the "mainland" and get the free bus to the abbey. Walk through the tiny little streets that look like the Harry Potter set! Unique experience.
Seg1959 — Google review
Georgeous place, the walf from the parking to the castle takes up to 30-40 min but it's worth. When you get there you can walk through the surroundings freely, but you need tickets (in advance) to enter the castle. It's full of souvenir stores, some restaurants, WC...
Fèlix V — Google review
Oh gosh, that was great destination. If you ever wanna visit France, don't miss it. It's a must do location. If you'll walk up to the top of the tiny city, you'll think differently about your life, you'll be very happy and you'll understand...why it's important to walk up to the top and think about your life while you slowly look around, you'll understand in a second that we are so small and fragile ... We are all birds of God! Slow down and start feeling the meaning of real life. Here the nature will rule on you, you're small..... nature is big.
Káló A — Google review
Have been fascinated with this fairytale "castle" on a magical island for a long time. Found out more about it when planning the visit. This amazing structure was Gothic abbey and prison in the early centuries. High and low tide, day and night, four seasons give this abbey different charm. Not much light up at night, except in July and August, however you're not expecting big crowd.😉
Miley C — Google review
This is a stunning place and an engineering Marvel. However. It’s a long drive from Paris and the parking lots and mandatory buss ride from the parking lot leave a lot to be desired. The bathrooms at the visitor center would take your breath, men’s and women’s. Upon reaching the island, the streets were very narrow and overcrowded, and it was Shop after shop of more or less the same souvenirs largely Chinese junk. Tried some poor quality ice cream. Unless walking on the mud / sand flats with the island in the background is your thing I wouldn’t wast my time here. There are beautiful churches everywhere in Europe. That are much easier to visit. And much prettier beaches elsewhere in France. The site as whole was a little dirty and unkept. I can’t imagine how awful the crowding would be in peak season.
Shawn S — Google review
We visited early in the morning — we were there around 7:30 AM. It was very easy to find a parking spot. Since it was early, hardly anyone had arrived yet, and we chose to use the shuttle. If you come at this hour, you can witness an incredible tidal phenomenon within about two hours and see how the sea surrounds the island. We didn’t go inside the cathedral. Even just the tide is a natural spectacle that you absolutely must see. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, early morning is the best time to visit.
Pelin A — Google review
4.6
(118930)
•
4.5
(15034)
L'Abbaye, 50170 Le Mont-Saint-Michel, France
https://ticketssee.com/MontSaintMichelTicketandTours/
27

Jersey Zoo

Mentioned on 
+32 other lists 
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
Jersey Zoo, previously known as Durrell Wildlife Park, is a pioneering wildlife conservation park established in 1959 by naturalist Gerald Durrell. It is the first zoo dedicated to conservation projects and focuses on endangered species. The zoo is part of the larger conservation efforts of the Durrell Conservation Trust, which includes working with various species such as the aye-aye from Madagascar and the orange-tailed skink from Mauritius.
Really nice Zoo, with a great conservation message. The reptile house and large apes are great to see. You can easily spend 5hrs here. Lots of parking and the cafe was surprisingly good. I would say they could do with improving their signage, just finding the entrance to the butterfly house was not obvious at all, but the displays across the zoo are all really good. They also had the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition on which was fantastic.
Lee H — Google review
Really nice zoo and friendly staff. The sloths were asleep so the chap showed us some pics in his home. Really nicely laid out and the enclosures were spacious, especially the otter enclosure. A couple of enclosures were closed which is expected.
James — Google review
This is such a magical place to visit & a must-see if you are visiting Jersey... This zoo has so much history & is just wonderful. The animals are amazing & the infographics for all of them are informative & eye-opening, there is so much to see. We had a great time just wandering around & taking in all the sights & smells of the zoo, every part of it was amazing & I can't wait to go back! If you book online there is a discount, so we'll worth booking in advance. The bus journey is lovely & doesn't take too long to get there, & the buses are quite frequent.
Bry — Google review
We did the meerkat experience with Sam, he was very knowledgeable and was very interesting. We got hands-on experience preparing the meerkats food and got to enjoy feeding them, whilst Sam told us amazing facts about them. I would really recommend doing this experience. The zoo itself was generally a nice day out. Very well kept, clean. There were good viewing points for all of the animals. Interesting information on Gerarld and his life. One thing to note is that this zoo prioritises conservation, so do not expect to see the big ticket animals like other zoos, i.e., lions, elephants, etc.
M — Google review
Disclaimer: I was a Gerald Durrell fanboy starting as a young teenager from reading his very funny books. So i was thrilled to finally be able to visit Jersey Zoo. I have been to a lot of zoos in my life and am happy to report that Jersey Zoo has the consistently best designed enclosures for animal well-being that I've seen. The exhibits are well labeled and documented. It's not a huge zoo but you could easily spend a day here. Don't miss the exhibit on Durrell's life. Nice cafe with good cake. Overall highly recommended. Easily reachable by bus. You can feel good you supported a great conservation institution.
Grant D — Google review
Interesting zoo with a good variety of animals. Easy to park and walk around. Interesting story of how the zoo came about and Gerald's life. It was raining when we went so we didn't stay as long as we could have done.
Terry G — Google review
We had a really fantastic time here, we jumped on the bus (No 3 or 33) and the stop is outside the front door. Clean, well run, great staff. Thoroughly enjoyable day out. Will definitely return. so much to see, and everything really well maintained.
JAMES P — Google review
We bought tickets online and got two buses from St Brelade's Bay. When we arrived we were told that a couple of areas were going through maintenance so we may not see these animals. We saw some fab animals though, including birds, gorillas, snakes, toads, flamingos etc. and a lovely volunteer that we got chatting to pointed out a couple of marmosets that we would have missed otherwise. Overall, a great spot to visit.
Jonathan C — Google review
4.7
(3503)
•
4.5
(3880)
La Profonde Rue, Jersey JE3 5BP, Jersey
https://www.durrell.org/
+44 1534 860000
28

La Maison du Biscuit

Mentioned on 
9 lists 
$$$$affordable
Manufacturer
La Maison du Biscuit is a unique destination worth a detour, with its origins dating back to the early 1900s. What started as a small biscuit factory and shop has now expanded into a charming 1900s-style shopping street. The picturesque building houses high-quality snacks, treats, drinks, and spices, making it an ideal place to find gifts for loved ones. Visitors rave about the delicious madeleines and Caramels d'Isigny.
A vast shop of made on the premises biscuits. So many different types of biscuits and also local Normandy produce. There is also a cafe inside. Very friendly and we were offered biscuits to try on arrival. There is a car park at the side and across the road. A great place to buy presents.
Angela W — Google review
One of the places you should never miss to visit for some delicious cookies and tea's. Superb!
Maricar C — Google review
It's a wonderful place. Very sweet ☺️
Radu Z — Google review
Very nice arrangement of sweet and very tasty things. Service is very friendly and helpful. It is worth to stop here!!!
Guido K — Google review
Their butter biscuits are counted among the best biscuits I've ever had. The little house is a bit of a trek to get to, but once you're there you'll be glad you did. Apart from biscuits, there are all sorts of things to buy including stuffed toys, artisan chocolates, organic products and surprisingly, a range of exotic spices that I couldn't find anywhere else in Cherbourg. It's a great family day out and there's even a tea salon where one can test the goods before you buy a box of whatever.
C E — Google review
Beware! Make sure you really buy is what tasted so good at the entrance! We bought packages that turned out to be factory baked supermarket standard pastries at a very high price. Not what we expected. A tourist trap business model deserves nothing but the lowest possible rating, even though the on-site products are of the highest quality.
Management B — Google review
The building is picturesque, both inside and out. La Maison du Biscuit features high quality snacks, treats, drinks, and spices and is a perfect place to buy gifts for friends and family. I can personally recommend the madeleines and the Caramels d'Isigny, which are delicious and perfect if you want to share a taste of France with a large group of people. Also be sure to check out the tea room! It’s relaxing atmosphere and wide selection of teas and accompaniments are sure to please any tea lover.
Mark S — Google review
Below average. No Wi-Fi. Poor service. It was Sunday and I ordered their breakfast deal set for €8,50. The hot coffee was very watery (not strong enough) not hot enough. The confiture was too liquid and dripped all over my hands. The brioche and bread were so so. Given the less-than-ordinary quality, this was too expensive. The restaurant is in a valley, thus no mobile signal and, what’s worse, they don’t provide Wi-Fi for their guests. I see this as a major shortcoming. If they provided Wi-Fi, people would spend more time sitting in and ordered more food. It is obvious what their business model is—to handle large volume of tourists who never return. Consequently, there is no motivation to provide quality service and products. The environment of the restaurant was not attractive. The windows were dirty. I will not return.
Peter — Google review
4.6
(3040)
•
4.6
(2099)
1197 Rte de Carteret, 50270 Sortosville-en-Beaumont, France
https://www.maisondubiscuit.fr/
+33 2 33 04 09 04
29

La Cité de la Mer

Mentioned on 
+50 other lists 
Nature & Parks
Aquarium
La Cité de la Mer is a must-visit attraction in Cotentin, offering a magical and educational experience dedicated to exploring the seabed. Housed in an old transatlantic maritime Art Deco building since 2002, it features the largest visitable submarine in the world, the Redoutable. Visitors can also explore interactive Titanic exhibitions and discover the Ocean of the future through 18 immersive spaces and aquariums.
Great museums with lots to do. Would recommend hiring the audio guide especially if you've kids - it has great interactive features & had our son really engaged in the exhibits. The submarine is so cool! Fascinating to see inside & the audio guide is really informative. The Sounds of the Ocean section is lovely & chilled out. The Titanic museum is really interesting and the quest for the kids (on the audio guide) is fun. The aquarium is small but has a fantastic big/deep tank with lots and lots of interactive features.
Ailís C — Google review
The museum currently houses 3 separate expositions: The Titanic (very impressive, also because the 2nd pickup stop of the actual Titanic happened really there at that specific location); Sea life throughout the times; and a guided tour through an actual immense submarine. Well suited for all ages. Great to go to with kids. The are quite some stairs, but there are elevators too.
Martijn T — Google review
Another well worth to visit museum! Highest recommendations! Submarine-that’s unreal! Aquarium-very nice! Titanic experience! That’s 3in1 location. 21€ adult ticket, big parking. Must see attraction !
Karolis S — Google review
Definitely worth a visit if you are either staying in Cherbourg or just visiting for the day! Make sure this a stop on yourself visit. It encompasses three different attractions in one, this being the submergables and vehicle museum, the redoutable submarine and the aquarium. And not forgetting the Titanic museum.
Andrea M — Google review
We visited recently as part of a cruise stop with a teen and 8yo. The Titanic exhibition was the main draw for us and it was really informative and well done. The issue is that all the immersive elements and audio visual exhibits are walkways, so it’s impossible to watch anything and enjoy the full experience without people constantly walking past. This completely ruined the experience for us. The ocean exhibit is smaller but really excellent and the kids loved it. We didn’t get to see the sub as it was an hour to queue which we were advised on entry, and the place is generally oversold and too busy to enjoy properly. If you don’t mind a jam packed overcrowded experience then you’ll love it as the exhibits are very good, but I wouldn’t pay €70 again for such a poor experience.
Nicola D — Google review
I was very impressed. Never thought I'd be traipsing around a submarine in my life. It was very interesting and the audio guide was very informative although a bit long. The 3 screens with the 3 stories of 3 people's lives just before, on and during the Titanic almost had me in tears - very well done! I sadly missed the timeline movie of the actual sinking but the brief part I saw looked amazing. As for the Aquarium, absolutely beautiful 😍 Cannot recommend this venue enough.
Sara-Jane A — Google review
The aquaria we very nicely presented. The octopus didn't look too happy. Lots of information about the oceans and displays that kids can interact with. The submersibles were great, as was the brief historyof diving kit
Andy B — Google review
Worth it just for the submarine - fascinating. The Titanic thing wasn’t for me, and the aquarium was nice enough, but we all agreed (2 adults, 2 late teens) that we would have been happy with just the sub. Price includes the audio guide (defo use it - it’s very interesting) which is nice, plus you can press buttons / twist levers/sit in the mess/climb into a bed rather than it all being screened off which isn’t always the case. A “must visit” if you are in the area.
Trish M — Google review
4.5
(11574)
•
4.1
(2732)
All. du Président Menut, 50100 Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, France
https://www.citedelamer.com/
+33 2 33 20 26 69
30

Portland Bill Lighthouse

Mentioned on 
+11 other lists 
Visitor center
Sights & Landmarks
The Portland Bill Lighthouse, built in 1906, stands proudly at the southern tip of the Isle of Portland. It offers stunning panoramic views of the rugged cliffs and the tumultuous Race, where conflicting tides collide. The lighthouse also houses a visitor center with interactive maritime history exhibits, including a simulation of sailing through stormy seas. With its vibrant red and white stripes set against the dramatic coastal backdrop, this iconic structure serves as a beacon for vessels navigating through the English Channel.
Went down in the evening after a lovely meal out. Watched the sailing vessels go past. Felt very liberating. Lovely space and lovely area. Be extremely careful of the water & ridal movements around this area as they can be extremely harsh & fast. Lovely place for a picnic or just somewhere to watch the world go by.
Simon C — Google review
Absolutely fantastic experience. The staff were among the best I’ve ever encountered, genuinely attentive and welcoming. Climbing the Lighthouse was a highlight, made even better by a tour guide who knew his stuff inside out. The lady in the gift shop was an absolute gem. And the views? Endless. Just breathtaking.
Clare B — Google review
What a beautiful day. The 🌞 was shining and not a cloud in the sky. No queues for the lighthouse, what more can you ask for. If it was the middle of summer I'd book tickets 🎟️ in advance, but at this time of the year... we didn't.
Neil B — Google review
Very interesting - if you're into that sort of thing. Only take kids if they don't mind climbing up and down the stairs - we had a child that screamed half the way up and had to be almost dragged back down from lantern room.
Jamie H — Google review
Portland Bill Lighthouse is a stunning coastal landmark with breathtaking sea views. The striking red-and-white tower looks beautiful against the dramatic cliffs and ocean backdrop. It’s a great spot for photography, peaceful walks, and watching the waves crash along the rocks. The area is well maintained, with a cozy café nearby. A must-visit for anyone exploring the Jurassic Coast — truly iconic and unforgettable!
Harsha J — Google review
This was a lovely unplanned visit. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable of the area. The history of the place is nice to see and there are plenty of posters around to learn about the different type of lights they used. Definitely worth doing if you are able to manges walking 150 steps and a steep ladder.
Lauren — Google review
Really beautiful area to walk around and the lighthouse was fabulous. The tour was informative and the views from the top were great. I highly recommend going and seeing it
Karen G — Google review
Stunning spot with unbeatable 360° coastal views. The lighthouse is iconic, and the surrounding area is peaceful and perfect for a walk. Great mix of natural beauty and serenity — a must-visit on the Jurassic Coast.
Tushar S — Google review
4.6
(6395)
•
4.5
(1250)
Bill, Portland, DT5 2JT, United Kingdom
http://www.portlandbilllighthouse.co.uk/
+44 1305 821050
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