Attractions and Places To See around Saintes - Top 20

Saintes is rich in history, offering numerous Roman and medieval sites. You can visit the impressive Arch of Germanicus, the well-preserved Gallo-Roman Amphitheater, and the remains of the Baths of Saint-Saloine from the Roman era. For medieval history, explore the Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the Abbaye aux Dames with its ornate Romanesque façade, and the Basilica of Saint-Eutrope, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its large crypt. Further afield, consider visiting Crazannes Castle, a 14th-century fortress, or the historical Abbaye de Fontdouce.

Yes, Saintes is situated on the Charente River, offering pleasant walks along its banks. You can also find the Prairie de la Palu, a protected nature zone in the city center. For scenic views, the Boulevard du Marais provides extensive vistas of the coast and Talmont marshes. The Marsh Cycle Path in Meschers-sur-Gironde also offers panoramic views of the marshes. The Caillaud cliff at Talmont sur Gironde and Suzac Forest are other natural highlights.

The region around Saintes is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the moderate 'Crazannes – loop' or the easy 'Saintes – loop'. For cycling, the 'View of the Arch of Germanicus – Port of the Lys loop' is a popular gravel biking route. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails like the 'Abbaye de Fontdouce – Descent in the Forest loop'. You can find more details and routes in the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, and MTB trails guide for Saintes.

Yes, several attractions cater to families. Crazannes Castle is listed as family-friendly, offering a historical experience. The Abbaye de Fontdouce also welcomes families. Natural spots like the Marsh Cycle Path in Meschers-sur-Gironde and Suzac Forest are great for family outings. Additionally, the Paléosite near Saintes offers interactive exhibits on prehistory, which can be engaging for children.

To delve deeper into Saintes' Roman heritage, visit the Archaeological Museum located near the Arch of Germanicus. It houses a collection of Roman artifacts, including sculptures, inscriptions, and a restored Roman wagon. You can also explore the Gallo-Roman Amphitheater and the remains of the Baths of Saint-Saloine to visualize Roman daily life.

Beyond its ancient ruins, Saintes is a 'Ville d'Art et d'Histoire'. The Abbaye aux Dames now functions as a cultural center and hosts the annual Saintes Festival. You can also visit the Musée de l'Échevinage for fine arts, the Musée Dupuy-Mestreau for regional art, and the Haras National to see Poitevin workhorses and Poitou donkeys. The Gallia Theater is a notable performance venue.

Yes, Saintes offers several easy walking options. You can enjoy pleasant strolls along the banks of the Charente River or through the Jardin Public. The Saintes Green Line City Walk, marked on the street, guides you through many landmarks and beautiful spots in the city center. The 'Saintes – loop' hiking route is also rated as easy.

For a unique experience, consider the Grottes de Matata, a series of caves that house a museum depicting troglodyte habitat from prehistory to the 19th century, offering a fascinating glimpse into local history and a great viewpoint. The Paléosite, an interpretation center dedicated to prehistory near Saintes, also offers interactive and virtual reality experiences.

The best way to explore the city center is on foot. You can wander through the Old Town Centre to discover Renaissance houses, charming shops, and cafés. The Saintes Green Line City Walk is a particularly helpful way to ensure you see many of the key landmarks and beautiful spots, with maps available from the tourist office.

Saintes is home to several significant religious buildings. The Saint-Pierre Cathedral, with its Gothic bell tower, dominates the skyline. The Abbaye aux Dames is an important Romanesque abbey with an ornate façade. The Basilica of Saint-Eutrope, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a pilgrimage stop on the route to Santiago de Compostela, notable for its two sanctuaries and large crypt. You can also find the Saint Saturnin Church, Meschers nearby.

The region around Saintes offers varied terrain. You'll find flat marshlands, such as those around the Boulevard du Marais and the Marsh Cycle Path in Meschers-sur-Gironde, which are ideal for easy cycling and walking. The wider Val de Saintonge features hilly landscapes, popular with hikers and cyclists, while the valleys of the Charente and Boutonne rivers provide opportunities for aquatic activities.