Home > Carhire > Europe > France > Poitiers

Poitiers is located midway between Paris and Bordeaux and is a wonderful area to drive around and explore. As most of the traffic uses the A10 motorway, the region’s minor roads offer a relaxing and enjoyable way to reach some of the local towns.

 

One of the highlights in the town is the Marais Poitevin in the north. Its nickname is the ‘Green Venice’, due to the dreamlike environment of watery boulevards and shimmering reflections.

 

La Rochelle, which lies to the west of Poitiers, is one of France’s most interesting seaside towns. The town’s waterfront and old city centre date from the 17^th century, when it was an important hub of trade with the New World. The harbour is dominated by the Grosse Horloge, a gateway to the old town which provides access to the rue de Palais and the many shops under its 18^th century arcades. To the south of La Rochelle is France’s second largest island, Oleron Island.

 

Another fascinating destination is the lively city of Tours, which sits atop an old Roman town. At the centre of the town lies the Place Plumereau with its charming courtyards and half-timbered houses. The medieval St Gatiens Cathedral’s Gothic façade and stained-glass windows is another attraction. There are also several notable museums.

 

To the south of Poitiers along the A10 and E603 lies the region’s brandy country, where cognac is the focus. There are many distilleries and cellars available offering samples of their products. A bit further along the E603 is Angouleme, a picturesque old town on the top of a hill. The 12^th century St Pierre Cathedral, with its seventy bas-reliefs and stone statues of the Last Judgement, is an unmistakable sight in the town.

 

Poitiers Airport is situated a few miles to the west of the town and handles regular flights from Paris and many other French cities. Currently there is no scheduled bus service from the airport to town, but taxis are available. Poitiers is conveniently serviced by the main A10 motorway and the Paris-Bordeaux railway line, which has several trains each day.