La Rochelle's Big Clock Gate: A Timeless Sentinel
An iconic La Rochelle landmark: the Big Clock Gate, where maritime history meets architectural splendor in the heart of the city.
The Big Clock Gate (Porte de la Grosse Horloge) is an iconic historical landmark in La Rochelle, France, marking the transition between the old port and the city center. Originally a fortified gate in the 12th century, it evolved into a prominent civic monument adorned with a clock and bell.
A brief summary to Big Clock Gate
- 7 Rue de la Grosse Horloge, La Rochelle, 17000, FR
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and capture the best photos of the Big Clock Gate.
- Combine your visit with exploring other nearby landmarks like the Tour de la Chaîne or City Hall for a comprehensive historical experience.
- Take time to appreciate the exterior details of the gate, as the monument itself is not accessible to enter.
Getting There
-
Walking
The Big Clock Gate is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from most points within La Rochelle's city center. From the Old Port (Vieux Port), simply walk inland, and the gate will be directly ahead, marking the entrance to the old city. From the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall), walk towards the port; the gate is a short stroll away. No costs are involved when approaching on foot.
-
Public Transport
La Rochelle's Yélo bus network provides access to the city center. Several bus lines stop near the Old Port, a short walk from the Big Clock Gate. A single Yélo bus ticket costs around €1.30. Alternatively, the Yélo electric ferry connects the Old Port and the Médiathèque area, offering a scenic route, and from there it is a short walk. The Yélo ferry is on-demand (via a button on the Médiathèque side).
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in La Rochelle. A taxi ride from La Rochelle Airport to the city center, near the Big Clock Gate, typically costs between €40 and €50. Within the city center, short taxi trips usually cost between €13 and €23. Taxi rates start at approximately €1.50 per kilometer.
Discover more about Big Clock Gate
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue de l'amiral Duperré
0.0 km
A bronze statue in La Rochelle honoring Admiral Victor Guy Duperré, a French naval hero and native of the city.
Statue Eugene Fromentin
0.0 km
A tribute to Eugène Fromentin, the celebrated painter and writer, capturing La Rochelle's artistic heritage and connection to North Africa.
Courtyard View
0.1 km
Experience La Rochelle's charm from this cozy bed and breakfast, perfectly located to explore historic sites and enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere.
La Belle Amarre
0.1 km
Experience La Rochelle's charm and history at La Belle Amarre, a welcoming guest house in a beautifully renovated historic building.
The Children of Rock
0.1 km
Experience La Rochelle's vibrant nightlife at The Children of Rock, a lively sports bar on Quai Duperré offering drinks, live sports, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Famous Pub
0.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere, delicious food, and extensive drink selection at The Famous Pub in La Rochelle, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Les Océâmes
0.2 km
Explore La Rochelle's hidden gems with interactive tours, treasure hunts, and outdoor adventures for an unforgettable experience.
Grand Théâtre de la Coursive
0.2 km
Experience the arts in La Rochelle's Grand Théâtre de la Coursive, a historic venue with a vibrant program of theater, music, and film.
Quai du port de La Rochel
0.2 km
Explore La Rochelle's historic Quai du Port: a vibrant hub of maritime history, stunning views, delicious seafood, and gateway to coastal adventures.
Pl. de la Chaîne
0.2 km
Discover Place de la Chaîne in La Rochelle: a historic square with captivating architecture, lively cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Clocher Saint-Jean
0.2 km
Discover the historic Clocher Saint-Jean in La Rochelle, a timeless landmark offering a glimpse into the city's maritime heritage and architectural beauty.
Phare d'alignement du Vieux-port de la Rochelle
0.3 km
Explore the historic Phare d'Alignement du Vieux-Port in La Rochelle, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's maritime heritage.
Hotel De La Tour De Nesle
0.3 km
Discover the charm of La Rochelle at Hotel De La Tour De Nesle, a cozy waterfront hotel offering comfort and easy access to local attractions.
Monument aux Soldats et Marins
0.3 km
A striking memorial in La Rochelle honoring the soldiers and sailors of Charente-Maritime who died for France. A place for reflection and remembrance.
La Boussole
0.3 km
Embark on a culinary journey at La Boussole, where Asian flavors meet French cuisine in the heart of La Rochelle.
Unmissable attractions to see
Grosse Horloge
0.0 km
Discover the Grosse Horloge, a stunning historical landmark in La Rochelle, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's maritime heritage.
Place des petits bancs
0.0 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Place des Petits Bancs in La Rochelle, a serene escape perfect for relaxation and reflection amid the city's vibrant life.
La Rochelle Vieux Port
0.1 km
Discover La Rochelle Vieux Port, a historic marina blending maritime charm with vibrant culture, perfect for exploring, dining, and soaking in stunning coastal views.
Rue du palais
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Rue du Palais, a historic street in La Rochelle filled with charming shops, cafes, and rich maritime heritage.
Vieux port
0.2 km
Discover the maritime beauty of Vieux Port in La Rochelle, where historic charm meets vibrant waterfront life, perfect for any traveler.
Vieux Port de La Rochelle
0.2 km
Experience the enchanting Vieux Port de La Rochelle, where maritime history meets vibrant culture in a breathtaking coastal setting.
Casco histórico de La Rochelle
0.2 km
Discover the historic charm of La Rochelle, where medieval architecture meets vibrant culture and maritime history.
La Rochelle Town Hall
0.2 km
Explore the architectural beauty and cultural vibrance of La Rochelle Town Hall, a landmark steeped in history and community spirit.
Quai Du Vieux Port
0.2 km
Experience the beauty and charm of Quai Du Vieux Port in La Rochelle, a picturesque marina perfect for leisurely strolls and delicious dining.
Chain Tower
0.3 km
Explore the Chain Tower, a historic landmark in La Rochelle, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich maritime heritage.
La Tour St Nicolas
0.3 km
Explore La Tour St Nicolas, a medieval tower in La Rochelle offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich maritime history.
St. Nicholas Tower
0.3 km
Explore St. Nicholas Tower, a historic landmark in La Rochelle offering stunning views and insights into the city's maritime heritage.
LES PHARES DE LA ROCHELLE-Phare d'alignement du Vieux-port
0.3 km
Explore the historic Phare d'Alignement du Vieux-Port, a captivating lighthouse in La Rochelle, offering stunning views and a rich maritime heritage.
Maison Henri II
0.3 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of Maison Henri II, a must-visit historical landmark in the heart of La Rochelle, France.
Saint Saviour Church of La Rochelle
0.3 km
Explore the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of Saint Saviour Church in La Rochelle, a must-visit for history and spirituality enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
Le Bistrot Gourmand
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Bistrot Gourmand in La Rochelle—where every dish tells a story.
Les copains d'abord
0.1 km
Discover Les Copains D'abord in La Rochelle – where exquisite French cuisine meets stunning harbor views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Le Canot
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Canot in La Rochelle - where traditional flavors meet coastal charm.
La Storia
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Storia in La Rochelle - where every meal is a celebration of flavors and hospitality.
Basilic'O
0.1 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Basilic'O in La Rochelle—where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
Le P'tit Bleu
0.1 km
Experience authentic French seafood cuisine at Le P'tit Bleu in La Rochelle – where freshness meets tradition in every dish.
les 2 tours
0.1 km
Experience the best of local cuisine at Les 2 Tours in La Rochelle—where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
La Popote de la Mer
0.1 km
Experience the best of fresh seafood at La Popote de la Mer in La Rochelle - where every bite tells a story of the sea.
LE PASS' PORT, BAR, BRASSERIE, CREPERIE, GLACIER, COCKTAILS, PETITS DEJEUNER.......
0.1 km
Discover Le Pass' Port: A delightful French brasserie offering crepes, cocktails, and desserts with stunning harbor views in La Rochelle.
Le Bateau Ivre
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Bateau Ivre in La Rochelle – where tradition meets modern flair in a stunning coastal setting.
La Malette - Bar à tapas de la mer
0.2 km
Discover La Malette in La Rochelle: A must-visit tapas bar serving exquisite seafood dishes in a vibrant setting.
Le Comptoir Saoufé
0.2 km
Experience exquisite seafood at Le Comptoir Saoufé in La Rochelle - where fresh oysters meet French culinary excellence.
Le Bistrot du Port
0.2 km
Discover Le Bistrot du Port: A charming bistro in La Rochelle offering authentic French cuisine and stunning harbor views.
Les hédonistes
0.2 km
Experience exquisite dining at Les Hédonistes, where French elegance meets Mediterranean flair in the heart of La Rochelle.
Bar André
0.2 km
Experience exquisite seafood and classic French cuisine at Bar André in La Rochelle - a must-visit culinary destination for every tourist.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Les Mouettes
0.0 km
Explore Les Mouettes in La Rochelle for unique gift baskets filled with local flavors, artisanal crafts, and unforgettable souvenirs.
Aux délices du terroir
0.1 km
Discover the essence of La Rochelle at Aux délices du terroir, your go-to gift shop for local treasures and authentic culinary delights.
Maroche La Rochelle
0.1 km
Explore Maroche La Rochelle for unique fashion pieces that reflect local culture and contemporary style in the heart of La Rochelle.
Blue Marine
0.1 km
Explore La Rochelle in style with outdoor clothing from Blue Marine, your go-to clothing store for adventure-ready fashion.
L'antre des Sorciers
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting world of L'antre des Sorciers in La Rochelle, where magic meets unique gifts and whimsical treasures await every visitor.
Zadig&Voltaire
0.1 km
Explore the latest in women's fashion at Zadig&Voltaire in La Rochelle, where elegance meets contemporary style.
Levi's
0.1 km
Explore the stylish offerings at Levi's in La Rochelle, where fashion meets coastal charm with a diverse selection for every taste.
Galeries Lafayette La Rochelle
0.1 km
Discover a world of fashion and beauty at Galeries Lafayette La Rochelle, where shopping meets style in a historic setting.
Boutique Marine
0.1 km
Explore Boutique Marine in La Rochelle for unique gifts and charming local crafts that capture the essence of this beautiful coastal city.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen La Rochelle
0.2 km
Explore a world of whimsical gifts at Flying Tiger Copenhagen La Rochelle, where creativity meets affordability in a delightful shopping experience.
Cooper Spot Vintage
0.2 km
Explore unique vintage clothing and accessories at Cooper Spot Vintage in La Rochelle, where fashion meets sustainability and history.
L'ATELIER Boutique mode, urbain, lifestyle, vintage
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage and urban fashion at L'ATELIER Boutique in La Rochelle, where style meets individuality in every piece.
Kasbah Chic
0.2 km
Explore Kasbah Chic in La Rochelle for unique home goods and local artisan treasures that embody the charm of this beautiful French city.
L'Océan
0.2 km
Explore L'Océan Gift Shop in La Rochelle for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and a touch of coastal charm.
Coquettes & Barbichettes
0.2 km
Discover unique fashion at Coquettes & Barbichettes, La Rochelle's chic boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le 404 Pub
0.0 km
Discover Le 404 Pub in La Rochelle, where vibrant atmosphere meets affordable drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Mc Nulty's
0.1 km
Experience the true essence of an Irish pub at Mc Nulty's in La Rochelle, where great food, drinks, and live music await every visitor.
The Jolly Sailor
0.1 km
Discover The Jolly Sailor in La Rochelle, a lively gastropub offering fresh seafood, craft drinks, and vibrant views along the picturesque marina.
LE MAYFLOWER LA ROCHELLE
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Le Mayflower La Rochelle, a cocktail bar blending live music, karaoke, and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Bar Le Colt
0.1 km
Experience La Rochelle's vibrant nightlife at Bar Le Colt, where friendly service and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Le Zinc
0.1 km
Discover Le Zinc, a delightful bar and café in La Rochelle offering a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning waterfront views.
Les Têtes Brulées
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Rochelle at Les Têtes Brulées, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
bad boys
0.2 km
Discover the lively energy of Bad Boys Lounge, a premier nightlife destination in La Rochelle, offering exceptional cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
Pub Lutèce Brasserie
0.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Pub Lutèce Brasserie in La Rochelle, where tradition meets modern flair in a cozy setting.
Le Mary Lili
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at Le Mary Lili, La Rochelle's premier bar for innovative mixology and a lively atmosphere.
Mac Ewan's Pub
0.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Mac Ewan's Pub in La Rochelle, where local flavors and vibrant social scenes come together for an unforgettable experience.
Barracuda La Rochelle
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Rochelle at Barracuda, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.
Le Dock Café
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Le Dock Café, a premier lounge and bar in La Rochelle, known for its cocktails, live music, and stunning harbor views.
La cave 34
0.3 km
Discover exquisite wines in the cozy ambiance of La Cave 34, the premier wine bar in La Rochelle, France, perfect for wine enthusiasts and casual sippers alike.
Garcia
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Garcia, a charming bar in La Rochelle, offering exquisite drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
