La Rochelle

Beautifully located on a café bay of the Atlantic Ocean, the ancient seaport of La Rochelle has a distinctive character. The Vieux Port (Old Port) is guarded by two massive towers, the Tour Saint-Nicolas and the Tour de la Chaîne, which served defensive purposes during the Middle Ages. Flanked by the Quai Duperré and the Cours Wilson, the Old Port has a bustling harbor and a busy café scene. Nearby is the Bassin à Flot, an atmospheric fishermen’s quarter.

Tourists will enjoy exploring the quaint Old Town of La Rochelle with its atmospheric pedestrian streets and impressive landmarks. The centerpiece of the historic quarter is the Hôtel-de-Ville (Town Hall), a lovely Renaissance building that is open to the public. The building has a beautiful courtyard and is lavishly furnished. The Grand Rue des Merciers is a medieval arcaded street lined with enticing shops. The name means “Street of the Haberdashers” and there are still many stylish clothing and shoe boutiques found in the arcaded corridors. Other must-see sights include the 16th-century town house Maison de Henri II and the 15th-century Tour de la Lantern lighthouse that is one of La Rochelle’s most emblematic sights.

(source: http://www.planetware.com)