La Rochelle, France: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for La Rochelle, France? If you're planning to go to La Rochelle, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to La Rochelle, France

Based on the climate and weather in La Rochelle, France, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for La Rochelle, France

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in La Rochelle, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for La Rochelle, France by month

January

January in La Rochelle is brisk. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you go to La Rochelle in February, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to find the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

In March, La Rochelle is pretty cool. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for La Rochelle, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in La Rochelle can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to pick the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you are traveling to La Rochelle in May, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June here is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you are traveling to La Rochelle in July, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to get the right kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in La Rochelle is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) to low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

In October, La Rochelle is chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for La Rochelle, with several of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in La Rochelle can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to find the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you go to La Rochelle in December, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, France has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in La Rochelle. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Musée du Nouveau Monde, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in La Rochelle, France

La Rochelle is a charming coastal city in southwestern France. The city is known for its maritime heritage, picturesque old ports, historic fortifications, and vibrant cultural offerings. With a wealth of fascinating sights and activities, it's no wonder that La Rochelle is such a popular destination among both local and foreign visitors.

In this article, we'll explore some of the top tourist attractions in La Rochelle that you shouldn't miss on your next visit.

1. Vieux Port (Old Port)

The Vieux Port is a bustling hub of activity situated right in the heart of La Rochelle. This ancient harbor has been in use since medieval times and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Here you can see picturesque fishing boats and pleasure craft docking alongside each other. The Vieux Port is surrounded by elegant quaysides, scenic promenades, and a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and bars.

2. Fortifications of La Rochelle

La Rochelle is home to some of the most impressive fortifications in France. The city's walls and towers were erected during the 17th century and played an important role in defending the city against its enemies. Nowadays, the fortifications offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and are a fascinating place to explore.

3. Aquarium La Rochelle

Aquarium La Rochelle is one of the biggest attractions in the city and is a must-visit for anyone interested in marine life. Here you can see over 12,000 species of sea creatures from all over the world, including tropical fish, sharks, turtles, jellyfish, and more. The aquarium is divided into different zones and offers a range of exhibitions, interactive displays, and informative talks.

4. Saint Nicolas Tower

Saint Nicolas Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in La Rochelle. This imposing medieval tower is over 50 meters tall and offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The tower also houses a museum dedicated to the city's history and is home to a unique collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures.

5. Musee Maritime de La Rochelle

If you're interested in the sea, a visit to the Musee Maritime de La Rochelle is well worth your time. This fascinating museum is housed in a former dockyard and showcases La Rochelle's maritime heritage. Here you can see displays on boat building, navigation, fishing, and more. The museum also hosts regular workshops and events, making it a great place for families and children.

6. Parc Charruyer

Parc Charruyer is a beautiful public park located in the heart of La Rochelle. This vast green space offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in a peaceful and serene environment. The park features gardens, ponds, and walking trails, as well as a range of sporting facilities.

In conclusion, La Rochelle is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. From its picturesque old port and historic fortifications to its world-class aquarium and museums, there's no shortage of things to see and do here. So whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing weekend getaway, La Rochelle is definitely worth a visit.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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