If you’re looking for a French city rich in history, culture and innovation, but without the crowds, Poitiers is an excellent choice. Located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine in western France, just two hours from Paris, it’s a hidden gem in one of the country’s most underrated regions. One of France’s oldest cities, Poitiers was founded in the first century. Today, its cobbled streets, Romanesque architecture and innovative Futuroscope theme park uniquely blend history and modernity for visitors. Here’s your guide to the best things to see in Poitiers.
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Is Poitiers worth visiting?
Absolutely. Poitiers in France is worth visiting if you enjoy historical cities without the crowds. Walk around the picturesque university city of Poitiers and you’ll see lively al fresco cafés and impressive ancient architecture. A short bus ride or car journey from this ancient city is the one-of-a-kind Futuroscope theme park, making it a unique destination.
So why is Poitiers famous? The church of Notre-Dame la Grande is adorned with intricate statues that stand as a masterpiece of Romanesque religious art, while the city’s cathedral features an enormous, rare and magnificent medieval stained-glass window.
How many days do I need in Poitiers?
Two days is the perfect amount of time to experience Poitiers. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot. Dedicate one day to exploring the historic city centre, its beautiful churches and quaint streets. Use the second day to visit Futuroscope and enjoy its innovative attractions and captivating evening show.
First, let’s explore the best accommodation options in Poitiers.
Where to stay in Poitiers
If you’re visiting Poitiers without a car, staying in the city centre is your best option. This historic area is compact and walkable, with easy access to Poitiers’ main attractions, restaurants and shops. It also means you’re close to the train station and other public transport options, making it simple to reach Futuroscope and other nearby sites.
Here are some of the best places to stay in Poitiers:
The Ibis Styles Poitiers Centre is a modern 3-star hotel in the heart of Poitiers, known for its stylish, air-conditioned rooms and complimentary breakfast.
Perfect for longer stays, the Adagio Access Poitiers aparthotel has relaxing, quiet and spacious studios and apartments complete with kitchenettes.
The 3-star Logis Hôtel de l’Europe has comfortable rooms with modern amenities and free Wi-Fi. Guests love the warm hospitality of the staff and the serene courtyard, a great spot to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Situated in the heart of the city, Best Western Poitiers Centre le Grand Hôtel has spacious rooms with contemporary décor and free Wi-Fi. Guests praise the attentive service and convenient on-site parking.
The Mercure Poitiers Centre is housed in a converted Jesuit chapel. This hotel blends historic charm with modern amenities.
Explore the map below to check the latest accommodation deals and availability for your dates in Poitiers:
The best things to see in Poitiers, France
Poitiers is a city where every corner tells a story. Known for its rich Romanesque architecture, medieval landmarks and lively cultural scene, this historic hub is a delight to explore.
Its compact size makes it perfect for walking, allowing you to uncover its treasures at a relaxed pace.
From the iconic Notre-Dame la Grande to the vibrant student district, Poitiers brims with sights that blend its storied past with its dynamic present.
Whether you’re admiring its grand cathedrals, enjoying a tranquil park or stepping into the future at Futuroscope, Poitiers offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of traveller.
Let’s dive into the best things to see in Poitiers, France:
Notre-Dame la Grande
This Romanesque masterpiece is free to enter and a must-see. The church’s façade is adorned with detailed sculptures that narrate biblical stories, and its interior features exquisite frescoes. During summer evenings, the façade transforms into a spectacular light show that brings its carvings to life. Please note, the Notre-Dame la Grande is temporarily closed for restoration.
Discover Poitiers’ fascinating history during the 18th-20th century in the Napoleon III Walking Tour.
Saint-Pierre Cathedral
Built in the 12th century, the cathedral is a marvel of Gothic architecture. Inside, you’ll find one of the oldest surviving stained-glass windows in Europe depicting scenes from the Bible.
Discover all the famous sites and rich heritage of Poitiers on this guided walking tour.
Place de la Liberté
Place de la Liberté is a historic square in the heart of Poitiers, which even has its own version of the Statue of Liberty. Around the square is the grand town hall and lively cafés, and it often hosts markets and events, making it the perfect spot to relax or people-watch.
Learn about the legendary Queen of France and England, Eleanor of Aquitaine, on this guided walking tour.
Palais de Justice
Formerly the seat of the Counts of Poitou and Dukes of Aquitaine, this historic building provides a glimpse into Poitiers’ medieval history. Its stunning architecture and historical significance make it a fascinating stop.
Parc de Blossac
For a relaxing break, visit Parc de Blossac, a beautifully landscaped park perfect for strolling, picnicking or enjoying the view over the Clain River. It’s a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.
Discover the legendary women of Poitiers, from Joan of Arc to Radegundis, on this guided tour.
Futuroscope
Just outside the city, this futuristic theme park combines entertainment and education. Highlights include the 4D attractions, the “Extraordinary Journey” flying theatre and the dazzling evening show by Cirque du Soleil. We’ll dive into this extraordinary theme park now.
Book your private day trip to Futuroscope from Paris here.
Discover Futuroscope: Poitiers’ Modern Marvel
Move over Disneyland Paris, there’s another French theme park you need to know about, and this one isn’t just for kids. It’s the robot-dancing, 4D-experiencing, utterly unique Futuroscope, France, which fuses 21st century technology with cinematic and multimedia innovations. It’s one of France’s best amusement parks, according to TripAdvisor. Here is everything you need to know about this awesome theme park close to Poitiers.
An Extraordinary Journey
One of the park’s standout attractions is the Extraordinary Journey, Europe’s first flying movie theatre. Inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, this immersive experience takes you on a whirlwind adventure across deserts, skyscrapers and stormy mountain ranges. The tilting platform, enormous curved screen and special effects like wind and mist make it feel like you’re soaring through the skies. I was blown away by how intense and emotive it was—this is no ordinary simulator ride. It’s a must for anyone visiting Futuroscope.
Dance with Robots
If you’re in the mood for something daring, don’t miss Dances with Robots. This ride pairs you with a friend and seats you in the ‘hand’ of one of ten 7-metre high giant robotic arms. As electronic music from French DJ Martin Solveig pumps from the speakers, the robot spins and twists you in sync with the beats. You can choose from three intensity levels—we chose medium, which still felt exhilarating! If the thought of being flung around isn’t appealing, there’s a balcony where you can watch the action and enjoy the impressive lighting and video effects. The guidelines say it’s for adults and children over 4 feet tall, though I would say it’s not for the faint hearted!
4D experiences
Futuroscope is about more than just rides. As well as IMAX movies immersing you into the world of tiny creatures, outer space or under the sea, there are excellent 4D experiences, including Arthur: the 4D Adventure, in which you’re reduced to the size of an ant. Nature will never seem the same again.
Outstanding architecture
Simply walking around the park is pretty special, with striking architecture as far as the eye can see. Gigantic metal and glass sculptures lend the place a futuristic, otherworldly aesthetic. For example, The Extraordinary Journey is housed in a remarkable building with polycarbonate tubes, resembling organ pipes, rising from 20 metres below ground up to 40 metres in the air. Projectors light them up at night, as they represent a bundle of optical fibres and a symbol of communication. Its French architect Denis Laming was only 34 years old when he submitted his bold and visionary design proposals for Futuroscope in early 1984. For the last 20 years, Laming has conceived and designed all of Futuroscope’s buildings.
Where to eat and drink in Futuroscope
If you thought this France theme park’s innovation stopped at its rides and architecture, you’d be wrong. The dining experiences at Futuroscope are also impressive. This is no standard theme park fast food fare.
Dining at Futuroscope is an experience in itself. For example, you can enjoy a drink at Aérobar, the world’s first skybar, 35 metres in the air.
Visitors to Futuroscope have a choice of eight themed restaurants and nine takeaway outlets. With themed restaurants and on-site chefs preparing high-quality meals, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
There is so much to see and do at Futuroscope, France’s most fantastic day out. There’s a fair bit of walking to get from one attraction to another, so I advise you make a whole day of it, or stay there overnight, so you can take your time to stroll around the sites and enjoy the evening show.
Read on to discover the best hotels near Futuroscope.
Where to stay near Futuroscope
Here are affordable and mid-range hotels near Futuroscope, in the charming town of Chasseneuil-du-Poitou:
Ibis Budget Site du Futuroscope is a 10-minute walk to Futuroscope. This clean and modern hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi.
Also a short walk from Futuroscope is the B&B Hôtel Poitiers 3 Futuroscope. With spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi and secure parking, guests enjoy the comfy beds and tasty breakfast.
The eco-friendly The Originals City, Hôtel Alteora, Poitiers Futuroscope has been recently renovated. It has an outdoor pool, fitness centre and free Wi-Fi.
Explore the map below to find hotels near Futuroscope for your dates:
How to get to Futuroscope from Poitiers
Futuroscope is located around 10km (6 miles) north of Poitiers, making it easily accessible. If you’re travelling by car, the drive takes about 14 minutes and parking is available on-site. Taxi fares from Poitiers are typically around €29 to €35.
Regular trains run from Poitiers to Futuroscope station, with a journey time of approximately 9 minutes. Services operate hourly, and tickets are affordable, starting from €1.
There’s also a public bus, which takes 30 minutes to get to Futuroscope. The local bus company, Vitalis, operates services from Poitiers to Futuroscope. Line 21 runs from Monday to Saturday, while Line E operates on Sundays.
Coming from Paris? Book a private day trip to Futuroscope and skip the queues – find out more here.
Final thoughts on Futuroscope
Futuroscope is a place where imagination comes to life. With its thrilling rides, thought-provoking exhibitions and mesmerising architecture, it’s one of the best theme parks I’ve ever visited. To make the most of your trip, plan to spend a whole day or even stay overnight to enjoy everything, including the spectacular evening Cirque du Soleil show. Futuroscope is a perfect blend of fun, learning and adventure—it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Poitiers.
Where to eat in Poitiers
Poitiers is known for its unique local dishes, including Farci Poitevin, a herbed pork and cabbage terrine, and Tourteau Fromagé, a sweet goat cheese tart with a blackened crust. Talking of goats cheese, don’t miss the creamy Chabichou du Poitou. Finally, the Broyé du Poitou, a buttery shortbread biscuit, is perfect for sharing.
Here’s where to find the best meals in Poitiers during your visit:
- Le CARRé d’ARTs is a popular bistro serving classic French dishes with a modern twist in a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. Guests praise the high-quality food, attentive service and outdoor seating in the summer.
- Set by the river, the charming Le Trait d’Union restaurant is known for its creative contemporary French cuisine. Its scenic location and beautifully presented dishes make it a favourite among locals and visitors.
- Housed in a beautifully restored historical building, Les Archives delivers a refined dining experience. The menu blends traditional French flavours with modern culinary techniques, making it a must-visit for foodies.
Finally, why not indulge in the local flavours of Poitiers on this gourmet walking tour.
How to get to Poitiers
Poitiers is well-connected and easy to reach from major cities in France.
While Poitiers has a small regional airport (Poitiers-Biard Airport), direct flights to Poitiers are limited. Most international travellers fly into Paris or Bordeaux, then take the train or drive to Poitiers.
Poitiers is on the high-speed TGV train line, making it a quick and convenient journey from several key cities:
- From Paris: Direct trains from Montparnasse Station take just under 2 hours.
- From Bordeaux: Reach Poitiers in around 1 hour 15 minutes by TGV.
- From Nantes: A train journey to Poitiers takes approximately 2 hours. The train station is centrally located, so you can easily walk or take a short taxi ride to your accommodation.
If you’re on a France road trip, Poitiers is accessible via the A10 motorway, which connects Paris and Bordeaux. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Paris and less than 2 hours from Bordeaux. Ample parking is available in and around the city.
Final thoughts on the best things to see in Poitiers
Poitiers is a city that surprises and delights at every turn. From its centuries-old landmarks to the modern wonders of Futuroscope, it combines history and innovation seamlessly.
Whether you’re wandering through its historic streets, marvelling at Romanesque churches or experiencing cutting-edge attractions, Poitiers is an experience like no other. Plan your visit and discover all the unforgettable things to see in Poitiers.
A big thank you to Futuroscope who hosted our trip.
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