The most recognisable landmark in La Rochelle, the three historic towers stand at the entrance to the harbour, are together listed as National Monument. They once formed the most important part of the town defences against invasion from the sea.
Looking towards the sea from in the port area, from left to right you can see the Saint Nicolas Tower and the Chain Tower, each side of the harbour entrance, then along the ramparts a little way is the third tower, the Tower of the Lantern.
Exploring the towers of La Rochelle
The towers can all be visited, and apart from the interest of the towers themselves, they also each afford very good views across La Rochelle.
The Saint-Nicolas tower is the largest of the three. It's walls, up to six metres thick, contain a maze of stairways, passages, and rooms eg a chapel. The descent of the tower is perhaps the highlight of a visit: you can choose from the 'easy' staircase or the steep, slippery 'double helix' staircase. I highly recommend the second if possible, it is extremely impressive.
The Chain tower (Tour de la Chaine) was originally constructed to control access to the port and now contains an interesting series of exhibits covering the role of La Rochelle during the migration of French people to Canada (Nouvelle-France as it was then known) between 1604 and 1763.
Approximately 30,000 set off for Canada and 15,000 stayed (others were tradesmen who travelled under contract). The travellers included 700 young ladies, mostly orphans who were sent on the voyage by the King (hence known as "les filles du roi") as wifes for the early inhabitants.
The exhibit is fascinating and explains the challenges of the journey, and the even greater challenges of Canada when they arrived.
The third tower is the Lantern Tower (Tour de la Lanterne). The only medieval lighthouse on the Atlantic Coast that is still standing, the lantern tower contains a remarkable array of graffiti, carved into the walls by the pirates and prisoners that were held here after it was converted to a prison in the 17th century. There are several hundred examples of the graffiti to be seen, many of which are very ornate.
To see all three towers takes about 2-3 hours. a combined ticket to see all three costs 13 euros, and includes a crossing on the 'water bus' between the two opposite sides of the harbour of La Rochelle.
Attractions nearby
There are many aspects of La Rochelle that are interesting to visitors: see our guide to La Rochelle for details. Close to the towers you can visit La Rochelle old town and harbour and the aquarium of La Rochelle.
You can find more travel ideas in the Charente-Maritime guide and the Poitou-Charentes guide.
Arrange a visit to La Rochelle towers
Reserve excursions
Book hotels, car hire and flights
Hotels in La Rochelle towers
Booking.com: best prices
For great prices on car hire throughout France and Corsica please visit our recommended partner at RentalCars.com
Map of La Rochelle towers and places nearby
Visit near La Rochelle towers with France This Way reviews

La Rochelle
The historic town and monuments and the vibrant harbour area make La Rochelle one of our favourite towns in France
La Rochelle guide
La Rochelle aquarium
The aquarium in La Rochelle features various parts, including a shark tank and many colourful sea creatures
La Rochelle aquarium guide
La Rochelle harbour
The harbour area in La Rochelle is the liveliest part of the town, with numerous restaurants, street entertainers, artists and the aquarium
La Rochelle harbour guide
La Rochelle Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum in La Rochelle contains an eclectic mix of items collected by 19th century explorers
La Rochelle Natural History Museum guide
Chatelaillon-Plage
The seaside resort of Chatelaillon-Plage has a long sandy beach and a friendly atmosphere
Chatelaillon-Plage guide
La Flotte-en-Re
The village of La Flotte-en-Ré is a pretty village on the Ile-de-Ré
La Flotte-en-Re guide... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Charente-Maritime
The French version of this page is at La Rochelle towers (Francais)