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Travel guide in Poitiers
Best neighborhoods to stay in Poitiers
Poitiers, the capital of Vienne in western France, is a beautiful city with a rich history and stunning architecture. It is also home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. There are plenty of lovely neighbourhoods to stay in, each with its own charm and attractions. Here are our top picks:
Centre-Ville
The heart of Poitiers, Centre-Ville, is an excellent place to stay if you want to be close to the city's main attractions. The neighbourhood is home to many historic buildings, including the Notre-Dame la Grande, Palais de Justice, and the Town Hall. You'll find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to keep you entertained.
Blossac
Located just a short walk from the city centre, Blossac is a lovely neighbourhood with a large park that is perfect for a morning stroll. The area is also home to some of the city's best restaurants and cafes, as well as a lively nightlife scene. The neighbourhood is known for its beautiful 19th-century architecture, with many of the buildings featuring ornate balconies and intricate carvings.
Saint-Hilaire
If you're looking for a quieter neighbourhood, Saint-Hilaire is a great choice. Located on the outskirts of the city, this neighbourhood is home to many beautiful parks and gardens, including the Jardin des Plantes and the Parc de Blossac. The area is also home to some of the city's best museums, including the Musée Sainte-Croix and the Musée Rupert de Chièvres.
Les Couronneries
Les Couronneries is a modern neighbourhood located just a short distance from the city centre. The area is known for its excellent shopping, with many large department stores and shopping centres located nearby. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from, as well as a large cinema complex.
Montmidi
Located on the eastern edge of the city, Montmidi is a quiet neighbourhood that is perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat. The area is home to many beautiful parks and gardens, as well as some excellent restaurants and cafes. The neighbourhood is also well-connected to the rest of the city, with several bus routes running through the area.
Fun facts about Poitiers
Poitiers is a charming city located in western France. It has a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culture. Here are some fun facts about Poitiers that you might not know.
Poitiers is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe
The University of Poitiers was founded in 1431 and is one of the oldest universities in Europe. It has a long history of excellence in education and is still a major center for research and learning today.
Poitiers was an important city in the Roman Empire
Poitiers was an important city in the Roman Empire and was known as Lemonum. Many Roman ruins can still be seen in the city, including an amphitheater and a triumphal arch.
The Battle of Poitiers was a significant event in European history
The Battle of Poitiers was fought in 732 between the Franks and the Moors. It was a significant event in European history as it halted the advance of the Moors into Europe, and is considered a turning point in the history of Western civilization.
Poitiers is known for its beautiful churches
Poitiers is home to many beautiful churches, including the Notre-Dame la Grande, which is considered one of the best examples of Romanesque architecture in France. It also has the St. Peter's Cathedral, which is a Gothic masterpiece.
Poitiers is a popular destination for foodies
Poitiers is known for its delicious cuisine, including its famous goat cheese, Chabichou. The city also has many traditional dishes, such as the Poitevin eel, and is home to many excellent restaurants and cafes.
Discover Poitiers' hidden gems
Poitiers is a charming city in western France that's rich in history and culture. While the city is famous for its well-known attractions, there are many hidden gems that are worth exploring. From ancient architecture to unique museums, Poitiers has something for everyone.
Parc de Blossac
A stunning park located in the heart of the city, Parc de Blossac is a perfect place to relax and unwind. The park features beautifully manicured gardens, a large pond, and several walking paths. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or visit the nearby museum of Natural History.
Musée Sainte-Croix
The Musée Sainte-Croix is one of the most impressive museums in France. It's home to a vast collection of Roman artifacts, medieval sculptures, and contemporary art. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that are worth checking out.
Eglise Notre-Dame la Grande
Eglise Notre-Dame la Grande is a beautiful Romanesque church located in the heart of Poitiers. The church is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures, and it's a must-visit for anyone interested in art and architecture.
Jardin des Plantes de Poitiers
The Jardin des Plantes de Poitiers is a botanical garden that's home to a vast collection of plants and trees. The garden is beautifully landscaped, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while admiring the flora. The garden also features a small zoo with a range of animals.
Le Clain River
The Le Clain River is a charming waterway that flows through the heart of Poitiers. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank or take a boat tour to explore the city from a different perspective. The river is also home to several species of fish, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
Family-friendly activities in Poitiers
Poitiers is a beautiful city in western France with a rich history and countless family-friendly activities. From visiting interactive museums and amusement parks to exploring medieval castles and enjoying outdoor adventures, Poitiers has something for everyone. Here are five family-friendly activities to enjoy in Poitiers:
Futuroscope
Futuroscope is a theme park with a futuristic twist, featuring interactive and immersive experiences for all ages. From 3D cinemas and virtual reality rides to high-tech shows and exhibitions, Futuroscope promises a day of fun and discovery for the whole family.
The Giant Maze at La Vallée des Singes
La Vallée des Singes is a popular primate park with over 30 species of monkeys and apes. While the park is worth visiting on its own, the real highlight is the Giant Maze, a 10,000 square meter maze made of tall hedges that the whole family can explore together.
Château de Touffou
Château de Touffou is a medieval castle that has been restored and transformed into a museum. The castle features interactive exhibits and workshops that bring history to life for kids, including a treasure hunt and a chance to try on medieval armor.
Parc de Blossac
Parc de Blossac is a large public park in the heart of Poitiers, offering plenty of green space, walking paths, and playgrounds for kids. The park also has a small animal farm and a lake with boats for rent, making it a great place for a picnic or a day out in nature.
Planète des Crocodiles
Planète des Crocodiles is a reptile park that specializes in crocodiles and alligators. The park features indoor and outdoor exhibits with over 200 crocodiles and alligators, as well as other reptiles and amphibians. There are also feeding demonstrations and educational workshops for kids.
