Things To Do
in Saintes
Saintes, in the Charente-Maritime, sits along the Charente River with a deep Roman heritage and a well-preserved medieval core. Its compact center lets you wander between ancient arches, amphitheaters, and church interiors without losing the sense of history. The town blends archaeology, riverside charm, and inland Charente gastronomy into an inviting, walkable experience.
It’s an excellent base for exploring Cognac country and the nearby Atlantic coast by car or bike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of Saintes, marveling at the stunning Roman architecture that dates back to the first century. Visit the impressive Arch of Germanicus, an ancient monument that serves as a testament to the city's rich history. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional French breakfast of croissants and café au lait while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Continue your exploration by visiting the Saintes amphitheater, one of the best-preserved Roman structures in France, where you can imagine the spectacular events that took place there centuries ago. Afterward, head to the Saint-Eutrope Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to admire its stunning Romanesque architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Enjoy lunch at a bistro nearby, sampling local specialties such as fresh seafood or duck confit.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Charente River, where the soft glow of the evening lights reflects off the water. Treat yourself to dinner at a charming restaurant that features regional cuisine, paired with a fine selection of local wines. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local wine bar for a tasting session, allowing you to savor the unique flavors of the Charente region.
Begin your day with a visit to the Musée de l'Échevinage, where you can immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage of Saintes through its diverse collection of paintings and sculptures. Spend time admiring works from both local artists and renowned French masters, gaining insight into the cultural influences that have shaped the region. Stop by a nearby bakery to sample freshly baked pastries as you prepare for an afternoon of creativity.
Participate in a hands-on art workshop, where you can learn about traditional French painting techniques while creating your own masterpiece to take home. Engage with local artists who will share their knowledge and passion for the arts, making for a memorable and enriching experience. Later, enjoy a casual lunch at a nearby café, where you can discuss your artistic endeavors over a classic quiche or a savory tart.
As evening falls, attend a live performance at the Théâtre de Saintes, where you can experience the vibrant local arts scene firsthand. From classical concerts to contemporary plays, there's always something captivating to enjoy in this historic venue. After the show, unwind with a drink at a nearby bar, soaking in the lively atmosphere and mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| ☕Coffee or cappuccino | $2-5 |
| 🚌Local transit day pass | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Roman and medieval heritage in a walkable compact town
- Excellent access to Cognac and Atlantic coast day trips
- Excellent markets and fresh seafood, with friendly locals
- Nightlife is low-key compared with larger cities
- Some major sights may have seasonal hours or be less crowded in winter
- Public transport options are good but not as extensive as big cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Où est la gare ?" - Where is the station?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Pouvez-vous m’aider ?" - Can you help me?
- "Parlez lentement, s’il vous plaît." - Speak slowly, please.
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît." - The check, please.
Places to Visit in Saintes
Visit one of these nice places.
A well-preserved Roman triumphal arch along the river; striking at sunrise or sunset with the water reflecting the stones.
Ancient arena ruins with arches and atmospheric lighting in the early evening; great for wide-angle and detail shots.
Gothic architecture and tranquil cloisters set against a blue Charente sky; ideal for architectural photography.
Riverside quay with boats, reflections, and pastel façades—the Charente provides dynamic foregrounds.
The old town walls offer vantage points over the rooftops and river; best shot during golden hour.
Food in Saintes
Saintes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh oysters from nearby bays, typically served on ice with lemon or a light vinaigrette.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked duck spread, traditionally served with crusty bread or scones as a starter or light meal.
A classic almond-scented cake that pairs well with coffee or dessert wines.
Slow-cooked pork belly bites with herbs, a rustic snack or accompaniment to wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic covered market with daily stalls offering seafood, cheese, charcuterie, fruit, and bread; great for tasting and picking up picnic supplies.
Alley-side traders and small eateries offer crepes, baked goods, and regional snacks—ideal for a casual bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Bonjour or Bonsoir, use ‘s’il vous plaît’ and ‘merci.’ A polite, not rushed interaction is appreciated in shops and cafés.
Address staff politely and maintain a relaxed pace in conversations; table manners are typically casual but neat.
Safety
Tipping in Saintes
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. Rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% at sit-down restaurants is common practice.
Cash and cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Some small traders or markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional heat; bring sun protection and water; evenings are pleasant for strolls along the river and outdoor meals.
Mild days with colorful foliage; great light for photography and long walks; harvest events and markets ramp up.
Cool and damp at times; some attractions may have reduced hours; indoor sites and cafés offer refuge and coziness.
Flowers bloom and outdoor life returns; ideal for walking tours, bike rides, and river views.
Saintes at Night
Hiking in Saintes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle, scenic trails along the river with opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Shaded loops through woodland with varying distances, suitable for families and hikers.
Day-long or half-day hikes that connect small villages and vineyards, offering pastoral scenery.
Airports
How to reach Saintes by plane.
Major international and domestic connections; about a 1.5-2 hour drive to Saintes depending on traffic.
Regional flights and seasonal charters; typically a 1.5-2.5 hour drive to Saintes.
Smaller regional flights; roughly 1-2 hours by road to Saintes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with schools, parks, and manageable daily rhythms.
A presence of students and young workers who commute to larger nearby cities for work or study.
Steady, welcoming community with a slower pace and strong sense of heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across the region with local clubs and matches available on weekends.
Road and leisure cycling through vineyard and river routes; great for day trips.
Public courts and clubs are available around the town and nearby villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saintes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for seasonal vegetables, cheese-based dishes, risottos, or omelets. When ordering, ask for ‘sans viande’ and request olive oil or butter rather than meat stock; many restaurants can accommodate with advanced notice.