Poitiers - Do & See

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Poitiers

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Overview

Do & See The guide was updated: 2023-10-27

Poitiers is called the city of art and culture due to the vestiges of thousands years of history, presenting a bustling centre where it's a pleasure to wonder and get lost in its intricate maze of cobbled streets.

The city offers many famous historical sites like the magnificent Romanesque church Notre-Dame la Grande, which has become the city's landmark, and the impressive Saint-Pierre Cathedral. If you would like to visit a more modern attraction, head to Futuroscope, a technological theme park that is an entertaining option for any age.

Futuroscope

Futuroscope

Designed with "education in mind", this popular high-tech theme park offers more than 20 attractions, shows and events in a 60 hectare park. Here, visitors can experience images and sounds through the world's most sophisticated film projection systems, including 360-degree movie theatres, giant film screens and 3D movies. The park is situated outside Poitiers and offers new attractions every year.

Notre-Dame la Grande

Notre-Dame la Grande

This magnificent Romanesque church, lying at the very heart of Poitiers Old Town, has become the landmark of the city. It features beautiful biblical carvings on the outside, as well as statues from the 15th and 16th centuries.

Poitiers Cathedral

Poitiers Cathedral

The construction of the impressive Saint-Pierre Cathedral began in 1162 under Henry II of England and Eleanor of Aquitaine. Inside, visitors can see a 12th-century window depicting the crucifixion of Christ, his ascension and resurrection, along with other architectural beauties.

Bois de Saint-Pierre

Bois de Saint-Pierre

Spread over 248 hectares, Saint-Pierre Woods offer numerous activities for sport-lovers of any age and ability. Hike or cycle down its 8 km long walking trails, discover the animal park, chill at the swimming pool or play a round of mini-golf: Bois de Saint-Pierre is a wonderful day-trip solution.

Sainte-Croix Museum

Sainte-Croix Museum

The Sainte-Croix Museum exhibits a wide collection of paintings and sculptures from the ancient world, as well as modern works of art. Situated on the site of the old abbey of Sainte-Croix, it features works of well-known French artists like Louis Gauffier and Jean-Paul Laurens, as well as contemporary pieces from Raymond Hains, Jacques Villeglé and others.

Blossac Park

Blossac Park

Poitiers' largest park boasts a history that dates back to the beginning of the 18th century, when it was first established as a private garden. The Parc de Blossac is a wonderful escapade in the city-centre, creating a romantic atmosphere of beautiful grottoes, fountains and statues.

Baptistère Saint-Jean

Baptistère Saint-Jean

This baptistery is one of the oldest examples of Christian architecture in Europe and houses an interesting collection of stone coffins. Built on a Roman foundation in the early 4th century, the site was reconstructed in the Middle Ages.

Jardin des Plantes

Jardin des Plantes

This is an ideal place to take a break from the buzz of the city. The park, which was created in 1869, features around 100 species of trees and bushes, and also comprises a 4800 square-metre large botanical garden and a greenhouse containing 150 different plants.

Church of Sainte-Radegonde

Church of Sainte-Radegonde

Église Sainte-Radegonde is a well-maintained 6th-century church with a beautiful Roman tower. Established as a mortuary chapel, it is home to the tomb of Queen Radegonde, who died in 587 AD, and was constructed in Romanesque style.

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