Top 10 things to do in Saintes

Saintes is the ancient Gallo-Roman capital of the Saintonge region. It's a favorite destination for history lovers. It has preserved its heritage over the centuries and has been designated a "Town of Art and History." You'll appreciate the Paleosite, the Roman amphitheaters, the emblematic religious monuments of the Way of St. James, and even a beautiful Renaissance palace. We offer a Top 10 of the best things to do in Saintes, from the most classic to the most unusual.

Opening photo: The city of Saintes / Photo © AdobeStock_JackF-Saintes

1) Find traces of our most distant ancestors

Saintonge, and particularly the Charente Valley, have been occupied since prehistoric times. Numerous traces of our ancestors have been found there, and to showcase this exceptional prehistoric site, Europe's largest interpretation center has been established. The Paléosite allows you to experience prehistoric life through workshops, activities, and virtual reality screenings.

2) Go back in time in Gallo-Roman Saintes

Then the "Santons" settled there. They were quickly joined by the Romans, who founded Mediolanum Santonum. This Gallo-Roman civilization left many vestiges in Saintes. They have survived the ages and have been preserved. You can admire:

• The Amphitheater ;
• The Thermal Baths of Saint-Saloine ;
• The collections of the Archaeological Museum of Saintes...

3) Experience the Middle Ages on the Way of St. James in Saintes

Saintes is an important stop on the Way of St. James. You will visit several religious monuments from the medieval period, including:

• Saint Peter's Cathedral ;
• The Ladies' Abbey ;
• The Basilica of Saint Eutrope ;
• The Jacobin Convent...

If you are interested in the subject, be sure to explore it further at the Musée de l'Échevinage, which presents, among other things, beautiful pieces from the 15th century, and to stroll through the historic city center of Saintes, with its half-timbered houses.

4) Visit a Saintonge Renaissance castle

In the town center of Sainte, the Renaissance is well represented with beautiful private mansions from the 16th and 17th centuries. On the outskirts of the town, stop at the Château de la Roche-Courbon. It has been completely restored in a "Renaissance" style. The decorated interiors are splendid. The gardens, inspired by those of Versailles, are beautiful. An escape game is offered to discover the castle in a more unusual way.

5) Discover Saintes in modern times at the Dupuy Mestreau Museum

In the 18th century, the town of Saintes was modernized and redeveloped. It was at this time that the Hôtel particulier was built to house the Prefecture's services. The Dupuy Mestreau Museum therefore naturally houses the collections of local works of art from the 19th and 20th centuries, collected by this great collector, who was passionate about the region.

6) Take part in an “active visit” to Saintes

The "Visit'actives" are unusual outings and workshops. They allow you to meet local producers, learn during workshops and immerse yourself in the culture and know-how of Saintonge. They are organized by an association involved in sustainable development and eco-consciousness.

7) Taste the Saintonge specialties, between land and sea

To enjoy Saintonge gastronomy in a bistro atmosphere, we recommend a restaurant that is traditional, with a touch of originality: Le Restaurant l'Iode. The chef showcases local products and regional cuisine in a modern, "bistronomic" style.

8) Take a nature outing in the Charente Valley

Saintes is built around a bend in the Charente River. The town is located in the heart of the Charente Valley, classified as a "Natura 2000" site to protect rare natural species, such as the otter, the mink, and the European pond turtle. As soon as you leave the town, you will appreciate the natural spaces on the banks of the Charente.

9) Hiking around Saintes in the Val de Saintonge

To hike in the Val de Saintonge, we recommend following the Way of St. James. The GR655 has been developed to make it easier for you to access. The tourist office also offers different trails, by theme, level, or geographical area, and will be able to advise you on finding the hike that best suits your needs.

10) Pedaling on the Flow bike

For cyclists, the most enjoyable route in Saintonge is the "Flow Vélo" (Cycling Flow). It runs 25 km between Saintes and Saint-Savinien. The route is very pleasant as it follows the banks of the Charente. It is easily accessible for families with children.

We hope this top 10 has made you want to visit Saintes and Saintonge during your next vacation in Charente-Maritime.

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