La Rochelle's Chain Tower: Guardian of the Old Port
Explore La Rochelle's Chain Tower: a medieval guardian offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's rich maritime history.
The Chain Tower (Tour de la Chaîne) is a medieval tower in La Rochelle, France, guarding the entrance to the Old Port. Built in the 14th century, it's named for the chain once stretched between it and the Saint-Nicolas Tower to protect the harbor from enemy ships. Today, it stands as a historical monument, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's maritime past.
A brief summary to Chain Tower
- La Rochelle, 17000, FR
- +33546341181
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase a combined ticket for €9.50 to access all three of La Rochelle's medieval towers (Chain, Saint-Nicolas, and Lantern) for a comprehensive historical experience.
- Visit the tower at sunset for ideal lighting and stunning photo opportunities of the harbor.
- Allow ample time to explore the temporary exhibitions within the tower, which showcase La Rochelle's maritime heritage.
Getting There
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Walking
From La Rochelle city center, the Chain Tower is easily accessible on foot. Head towards the Old Port (Vieux Port) and follow the waterfront. The tower is located at the entrance of the port, next to the Cours des Dames. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes and offers scenic views of the harbor. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The Yélo bus network serves the Chain Tower. Take Illico lines 1, 2, 3, or 4 and disembark at the 'Dames Blanches' stop, which is directly near the tower. A single ticket costs €1.50 and can be purchased on board.
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Ferry
The Yélo ferry connects the Old Port and the Médiathèque area. From the Médiathèque, the Chain Tower is a short walk along the Old Port. The ferry costs €1.50.
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Parking
Several parking lots are available near the Old Port, including Parking Vieux Port Ouest and Parking de l'Encan. Parking Vieux Port Ouest is located on Esplanade St Jean D'acre. Parking rates typically range from €2 per hour , with daily rates between €8 and €15. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season.
Discover more about Chain Tower
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pl. de la Chaîne
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Quai du port de La Rochel
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Les Océâmes
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Rue sur les Murs
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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
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Phare d'alignement du Vieux-port de la Rochelle
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La Boussole
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Clocher Saint-Jean
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Courtyard View
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Statue de l'amiral Duperré
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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
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Statue Eugene Fromentin
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The Famous Pub
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La Belle Amarre
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The Children of Rock
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Unmissable attractions to see
Casco histórico de La Rochelle
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St. Nicholas Tower
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La Tour St Nicolas
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Vieux port
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La Rochelle Vieux Port
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LES PHARES DE LA ROCHELLE-Phare d'alignement du Vieux-port
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Les ateliers du Graff
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The Lantern Tower of La Rochelle
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Le Globe de la francophonie
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Grosse Horloge
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Big Clock Gate
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Place des petits bancs
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Gabut Quarter La Rochelle
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Vieux Port de La Rochelle
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Bouée Cardinale Nord
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Les Flots
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Iséo
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Le P'tit Amiral
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Le Bistrot d'la chaîne
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La Kase - Restaurant La Rochelle
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Bar André
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Restaurant l'Aunis
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Le Comptoir des Voyages
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Le Bateau Ivre
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La Popote de la Mer
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Bon Temps
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les 2 tours
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Le P'tit Bleu
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La Storia
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La Fleur de Sel
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Boutique Marine
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Blue Marine
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Aux délices du terroir
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Les Mouettes
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Maroche La Rochelle
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L'antre des Sorciers
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Zadig&Voltaire
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Levi's
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Galeries Lafayette La Rochelle
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Kasbah Chic
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Craft
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The Stall of the Beach
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bien à LR
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ETC...A
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mac Ewan's Pub
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Le Mary Lili
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La cave 34
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L'Alibi
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Les Têtes Brulées
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Barracuda La Rochelle
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Glitter Bar
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Mc Nulty's
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Le 404 Pub
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The Jolly Sailor
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Chez Auguste
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Le Zinc
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Le Dock Café
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Bar Le Colt
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