Chain Tower: Guardian of La Rochelle's Old Port
Explore La Rochelle's maritime history at the iconic Chain Tower, offering panoramic views and fascinating exhibitions on the Old Port.
The Chain Tower (Tour de la Chaîne) is one of La Rochelle's iconic medieval towers, guarding the entrance to the Vieux Port (Old Port). Built in the 14th century, it gets its name from the massive chain that once stretched between it and the Tour Saint-Nicolas to control access to the harbor. Today, it offers stunning views and exhibitions on the city's history.
A brief summary to Chain Tower
- La Rochelle, 17000, FR
- +33546341181
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase a combined ticket for access to the Chain Tower, the Lantern Tower, and the Saint-Nicolas Tower for a comprehensive experience of La Rochelle's maritime defenses.
- Check the opening hours before your visit, as they vary depending on the season.
- Be prepared for a climb, as there are many steps to reach the top of the tower.
- Allow at least 1.5 hours to fully explore the tower and enjoy the views.
Getting There
-
Walking
From La Rochelle city center, the Chain Tower is easily accessible on foot. Head towards the Vieux Port (Old Port) and follow the waterfront promenade. The tower is located at the entrance of the port, next to the Saint-Nicolas Tower. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes from the main shopping streets. No costs are involved.
-
Public Transport
La Rochelle's Yélo city bus network provides access to the Old Port area. Several bus lines stop near the port. From the train station, you can take a bus to the 'Place de Verdun' stop and walk for 5 minutes to the Chain Tower. A single Yélo bus ticket costs €1.30.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in La Rochelle. A short taxi ride from the train station or another location in the city center to the Chain Tower will cost approximately €10-€15. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare before starting your journey.
Discover more about Chain Tower
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pl. de la Chaîne
0.0 km
Discover Place de la Chaîne in La Rochelle: a historic square with captivating architecture, lively cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Quai du port de La Rochel
0.1 km
Explore La Rochelle's historic Quai du Port: a vibrant hub of maritime history, stunning views, delicious seafood, and gateway to coastal adventures.
Les Océâmes
0.1 km
Explore La Rochelle's hidden gems with interactive tours, treasure hunts, and outdoor adventures for an unforgettable experience.
Rue sur les Murs
0.1 km
Stroll along La Rochelle's historic ramparts on Rue sur les Murs, connecting iconic towers and offering a glimpse into the city's past.
Grand Théâtre de la Coursive
0.1 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.
Phare d'alignement du Vieux-port de la Rochelle
0.1 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.
La Boussole
0.2 km
Embark on a culinary journey at La Boussole, where Asian flavors meet French cuisine in the heart of La Rochelle.
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.
Courtyard View
0.2 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.
Statue de l'amiral Duperré
0.2 km
A bronze statue in La Rochelle honoring Admiral Victor Guy Duperré, a French naval hero and native of the city.
Bed and Breakfast La Rochelle La Maison du Palmier
0.2 km
Charming 18th-century guest house in La Rochelle's historic center, steps from the Old Port and beaches.
Statue Eugene Fromentin
0.3 km
A tribute to Eugène Fromentin, the celebrated painter and writer, capturing La Rochelle's artistic heritage and connection to North Africa.
The Famous Pub
0.3 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.
La Belle Amarre
0.3 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
0.3 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Casco histórico de La Rochelle
0.0 km
Discover the historic charm of La Rochelle, where medieval architecture meets vibrant culture and maritime history.
St. Nicholas Tower
0.1 km
Explore St. Nicholas Tower, a historic landmark in La Rochelle offering stunning views and insights into the city's maritime heritage.
La Tour St Nicolas
0.1 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.
Vieux port
0.1 km
Discover the maritime beauty of Vieux Port in La Rochelle, where historic charm meets vibrant waterfront life, perfect for any traveler.
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.
LES PHARES DE LA ROCHELLE-Phare d'alignement du Vieux-port
0.1 km
Explore the historic Phare d'Alignement du Vieux-Port, a captivating lighthouse in La Rochelle, offering stunning views and a rich maritime heritage.
Les ateliers du Graff
0.2 km
Discover the captivating blend of creativity and culture at Les Ateliers du Graff in La Rochelle, an essential stop for street art enthusiasts.
The Lantern Tower of La Rochelle
0.2 km
Discover La Rochelle's Lantern Tower, a historic lighthouse offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the maritime heritage of this charming coastal city.
Le Globe de la francophonie
0.2 km
Experience the cultural harmony of the French-speaking world at Le Globe de la Francophonie in La Rochelle, a stunning tribute to art and diversity.
Grosse Horloge
0.3 km
Discover the Grosse Horloge, a stunning historical landmark in La Rochelle, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's maritime heritage.
Big Clock Gate
0.3 km
Discover the iconic Big Clock Gate in La Rochelle, a stunning historical landmark that encapsulates the city's rich maritime heritage and architectural beauty.
Place des petits bancs
0.3 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.
Gabut Quarter La Rochelle
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Gabut Quarter in La Rochelle, where colorful houses meet lively waterfront, art, and local culinary delights.
Vieux Port de La Rochelle
0.3 km
Experience the enchanting Vieux Port de La Rochelle, where maritime history meets vibrant culture in a breathtaking coastal setting.
Bouée Cardinale Nord
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking coastal beauty of Bouée Cardinale Nord in La Rochelle, a perfect blend of stunning views and rich maritime history.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Les Flots
0.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Restaurant Les Flots in La Rochelle - where haute French cuisine meets stunning waterfront views.
Iséo
0.0 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Iséo in La Rochelle - where fresh seafood meets culinary artistry.
Le P'tit Amiral
0.1 km
Experience the delightful fusion of French and Creole cuisine at Le P'tit Amiral in La Rochelle, where every dish tells a story.
Le Bistrot d'la chaîne
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Bistrot d'la Chaîne in La Rochelle - a charming bistro offering delicious local dishes and an inviting atmosphere.
La Kase - Restaurant La Rochelle
0.1 km
Discover modern French cuisine at La Kase in La Rochelle, where fresh seafood meets innovative flavors in an inviting atmosphere.
Bar André
0.1 km
Experience exquisite seafood and classic French cuisine at Bar André in La Rochelle - a must-visit culinary destination for every tourist.
Restaurant l'Aunis
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant l'Aunis in La Rochelle - where tradition meets taste.
Le Comptoir des Voyages
0.1 km
Experience exquisite Italian and French cuisine at Le Comptoir des Voyages in La Rochelle - where every meal is a delightful journey.
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 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.
Bon Temps
0.1 km
Discover Bon Temps in La Rochelle: A charming French restaurant offering exquisite cuisine and local craft beers in an inviting atmosphere.
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.
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.
La Storia
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Storia in La Rochelle - where every meal is a celebration of flavors and hospitality.
La Fleur de Sel
0.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Fleur de Sel in La Rochelle - where culinary excellence meets charming ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Blue Marine
0.2 km
Explore La Rochelle in style with outdoor clothing from Blue Marine, your go-to clothing store for adventure-ready fashion.
Aux délices du terroir
0.2 km
Discover the essence of La Rochelle at Aux délices du terroir, your go-to gift shop for local treasures and authentic culinary delights.
Les Mouettes
0.3 km
Explore Les Mouettes in La Rochelle for unique gift baskets filled with local flavors, artisanal crafts, and unforgettable souvenirs.
Maroche La Rochelle
0.3 km
Explore Maroche La Rochelle for unique fashion pieces that reflect local culture and contemporary style in the heart of La Rochelle.
L'antre des Sorciers
0.4 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
0.4 km
Explore the latest in women's fashion at Zadig&Voltaire in La Rochelle, where elegance meets contemporary style.
Levi's
0.4 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
0.4 km
Discover a world of fashion and beauty at Galeries Lafayette La Rochelle, where shopping meets style in a historic setting.
Kasbah Chic
0.4 km
Explore Kasbah Chic in La Rochelle for unique home goods and local artisan treasures that embody the charm of this beautiful French city.
Craft
0.4 km
Explore Craft in La Rochelle for unique fashion accessories that elevate your style with quality craftsmanship and personalized service.
The Stall of the Beach
0.4 km
Explore The Stall of the Beach in La Rochelle for a unique shopping experience filled with beach-themed treasures and local artistry.
46ieme Latitude
0.4 km
Explore the charm of La Rochelle at 46ieme Latitude, your destination for unique fashion accessories and vintage clothing that tell a story.
bien à LR
0.4 km
Explore Bien à LR, the quintessential store in La Rochelle for authentic local products and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of France.
ETC...A
0.4 km
Explore the unique gifts and local artisan decor at ETC...A, a boutique in La Rochelle that captures the essence of this charming coastal city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mac Ewan's Pub
0.1 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.
Le Mary Lili
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at Le Mary Lili, La Rochelle's premier bar for innovative mixology and a lively atmosphere.
La cave 34
0.2 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.
L'Alibi
0.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at L'Alibi, La Rochelle's go-to bar for cocktails, music, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Les Têtes Brulées
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Rochelle at Les Têtes Brulées, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
Barracuda La Rochelle
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Rochelle at Barracuda, where exceptional drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.
Glitter Bar
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of La Rochelle at Glitter Bar, where exceptional cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Mc Nulty's
0.2 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.
Le 404 Pub
0.2 km
Discover Le 404 Pub in La Rochelle, where vibrant atmosphere meets affordable drinks and unforgettable experiences.
The Jolly Sailor
0.3 km
Discover The Jolly Sailor in La Rochelle, a lively gastropub offering fresh seafood, craft drinks, and vibrant views along the picturesque marina.
Chez Auguste
0.3 km
Discover the lively ambiance and extensive drink selection at Chez Auguste, La Rochelle's charming bar and pub experience.
Le Zinc
0.3 km
Discover Le Zinc, a delightful bar and café in La Rochelle offering a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning waterfront views.
LE MAYFLOWER LA ROCHELLE
0.4 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.
Le Dock Café
0.4 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.
Bar Le Colt
0.4 km
Experience La Rochelle's vibrant nightlife at Bar Le Colt, where friendly service and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
