Saturday 11am
Start your break in Poitiers by immersing yourself in over 2,000 years of history. Admire the Church of Notre-Dame-la-Grande and its famous sculpted façade. A treasure of Romanesque architecture built in the middle of the 11th century. Don’t miss out on St Peter’s Cathedral, built during Eleanor of Aquitaine’s time, Duchess of Aquitaine and Countess of Poitou. No wonder that Poitiers is known as “the city of a hundred bell towers”!
When lunchtime comes around, you’ll be spoilt for choice with all the great restaurants on hand. We recommend you try out the Auberge chez Cul de Paille, with its warmhearted, cosy atmosphere and great dishes, but don’t forget to book a table.
Saturday 2pm
In the afternoon, why not try out the Viking 2.0 Escape Game. Go along with your family or friends, embody the character Igor Dehors, a Viking hero, and for an hour and a half, head off and discover the heritage of Poitiers with the Tourist Office
To finish off the day in style, enjoy one of the many cocktails proposed at the Rooftop Bar, with its festive atmosphere and breathtaking panorama over the city.
Sunday 11am
After having enjoyed a night on the town and a delicious breakfast, pay a visit to the former Palace of Justice, located in the historic palace of the Counts of Poitou, Dukes of Aquitaine. It’s one of the most outstanding ensembles of civil architecture from the Middle Ages in France
At midday, head over to Blossac Park and enjoy an amazing brunch at the Kiosque! A gourmet buffet awaits you offering a wide selection of products which will definitely delight your taste buds.
Sunday 2pm
What more could you ask for after a great meal than a bit of relaxation in peaceful, natural surroundings? Take time out in the shade of the trees at Blossac Park. It is one of the most exquisite public spaces in France, with its 9 hectares of greenery which includes 5 different types of park: French-style garden, English-style garden, shade and light garden, rock garden and, lastly, a mini zoo. Stroll down through the city a little and explore Tison Island, Poitier’s new area for relaxing, walking and enjoying animations along the banks of the Clain. Catering services are also on site and, while you’re there, try out a new activity like canoeing or take a boat trip.
After a short nap, visit Sainte-Croix Museum. Its original 20th-century architecture, its collections spanning regional architecture to fine arts make it a rich must-see in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Above all, check out Camille Claudel’s sculptures, the second public collection visible in France.
As the day draws to a close, wander around the picturesque streets and admire the statue of Our Lady of the Dunes, standing high above the city. And, while you’re here, take in the stunning panoramic view as the sun sets, a great way to end your weekend experience in Poitiers.
Fancy staying longer?
Enjoy an adventurous day at the Futuroscope just a few minutes from the city. An incredible moment out of time, with family or friends.
Do you love nature? Then head for Défiplanet and delight in a break in France’s first-ever one-of-a-kind, nature village and don’t miss out on the Vallée des Singes wildlife park. Kids (and adults alike!) will be over the moon!
Are you a history lover? head for the medieval town of Chauvigny and St Savin Abbey, a UNESCO-listed heritage.
Follow us, the editors of Nouvelle-Aquitaine-Tourisme.com as we show you around… our home.
From the peaks of the Pyrenees to the Marais Poitevin canals via the wharfs of Bordeaux, the beaches of the Atlantic to the shores of Lake Vassivière near Limoges, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is full of fascinating, entertaining stories that will amuse one and all.