Basilique Saint-Eutrope de Saintes: A Romanesque Masterpiece
Explore a Romanesque jewel in Saintes: Basilique Saint-Eutrope, a UNESCO site with stunning crypt, soaring Gothic tower, and centuries of history.
The Basilique Saint-Eutrope de Saintes is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, featuring two superimposed choirs and a vast crypt, one of the largest in Europe. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it's a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Basilique Saint Eutrope de Saintes
- 56 Rue Saint-Eutrope, Saintes, 17100, FR
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit the crypt to see the final resting place of Saint Eutrope and marvel at the Romanesque architecture.
- Take your time to examine the sculpted capitals in both the upper church and the crypt; they tell fascinating stories.
- Climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of Saintes and the surrounding area.
- Check the opening hours of the crypt in advance, as they may differ from the basilica's general hours.
- Combine your visit with a walk through the historic Saint-Eutrope district and explore other Roman ruins in Saintes.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the center of Saintes, such as the Saintes train station or the Arc de Germanicus, the Basilique Saint-Eutrope is approximately a 15-20 minute walk uphill. Follow the signs towards the Saint-Eutrope district. The basilica is located at the top of the hill at 56 Rue Saint-Eutrope. The walk involves a moderate incline.
-
Public Transport
The BUSS city bus network serves the Basilique Saint-Eutrope. Check the BUSS website or app for the most up-to-date route and schedule information. A single ticket costs €1.10 and can be purchased from the bus driver.
-
Taxi
Taxis are available in Saintes, and a ride from the train station or city center to the Basilique Saint-Eutrope would be a short trip. Taxi fares in Charente-Maritime include a base fee of €8.00, plus €2.20 per kilometer during the day. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for a short taxi ride within the city.
-
Parking
Limited street parking is available near the basilica. Several parking lots are located within walking distance, including Parking La Boisnarderie and car park Saint Pierre. Parking at Leclerc de Saintes at 10 Avenue de Saintonge is free and allows for a walk to the basilica. Rates vary, but expect to pay around €1-2 per hour.
Discover more about Basilique Saint Eutrope de Saintes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eglise Notre-Dame de l'Assomption et Lanterne des morts
16.6 km
Discover the beauty and history of Eglise Notre-Dame de l'Assomption et Lanterne des Morts, a stunning heritage site in the heart of Fenioux.
Fort Louvois
43.2 km
Explore Fort Louvois, a stunning coastal fortress in Bourcefranc-le-Chapus, where history meets breathtaking Atlantic views.
Pnte de la Fumée
47.7 km
Discover coastal beauty and island access at Pointe de la Fumée, Fouras – where oyster farms meet panoramic views of Fort Boyard and Île d'Aix.
Fort Enet
48.4 km
Discover the captivating history and stunning coastal views at Fort Enet, a remarkable fortress in Fouras, France, perfect for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Charente
52.6 km
Experience the picturesque charm of the Charente River in France, a perfect blend of nature, history, and outdoor adventure.
Honor Tower
53.9 km
Explore the medieval history of Médoc at the Tour de l'Honneur, a 14th-century tower with panoramic views and local museum exhibits.
Église Saint-Nicolas
59.5 km
Discover the historic Église Saint-Nicolas in La Rochelle, a testament to the city's resilience and enduring faith, with origins dating back to the 12th century.
LES OISEAUX DU MARAIS POITEVIN Parc Ornithologique et Embarcadère
59.5 km
Experience nature's beauty at Les Oiseaux du Marais Poitevin, a premier ornithological park with boat rentals and delightful dining in France’s stunning wetlands.
DS à la carte - Visites guidées La Rochelle
59.9 km
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of La Rochelle with guided tours from DS à la carte, uncovering the essence of this beautiful coastal city.
University of La Rochelle
60.0 km
A modern, coastal university in La Rochelle, France, known for sustainability research and international collaborations since 1993.
Musée Maritime de La Rochelle
60.0 km
Explore historic ships and exhibits at La Rochelle's Musée Maritime, a captivating journey into the city's seafaring past and maritime legacy.
Hotel Les Gens De Mer La Rochelle
60.1 km
Comfortable and conveniently located hotel in La Rochelle, steps from the train station and a short walk to the Old Port.
La Rochelle Aquarium
60.2 km
Explore the mesmerizing underwater world at La Rochelle Aquarium, home to thousands of marine species and a commitment to ocean conservation.
Le Village Francocéan des Francofolies
60.2 km
Experience free concerts, workshops, and eco-conscious fun at the heart of La Rochelle's Francofolies festival in Village Francocéan.
Village Francocéan
60.3 km
Experience music and sustainability at Village Francocéan during La Rochelle's Francofolies festival in the heart of Jardin Bobinec.
Unmissable attractions to see
Saint Peter's Cathedral of Saintes
0.7 km
Explore Saint Peter's Cathedral in Saintes, a Gothic architectural marvel with a rich history, stunning stained glass, and a towering bell tower.
Museum Échevinage
0.7 km
Explore fine arts from the 15th to 20th centuries in Saintes' historic former town hall, a cultural treasure in the heart of the city.
Thermes De Saint Saloine
0.9 km
Discover the ancient Roman baths of Saint-Saloine in Saintes, France, offering a glimpse into Roman daily life and architectural heritage.
Arch of Germanicus
1.0 km
Explore the Arch of Germanicus in Saintes, a remarkable Roman monument with intricate carvings and a rich history dating back to the 1st century AD.
Abbey to the Ladies of Saintes
1.3 km
Discover a millennium of history and music at the Abbaye aux Dames in Saintes, a captivating blend of Romanesque architecture and cultural innovation.
Église Saint-Palais de Saintes
1.3 km
Explore a historical church in Saintes, where Romanesque foundations meet Gothic aspirations, reflecting centuries of faith and architectural evolution.
Plage de Chaniers
7.2 km
Discover Plage de Chaniers: A relaxing riverside beach in Chaniers, France, perfect for swimming and family fun!
Fontaine du Moulin
8.2 km
Discover a historical spring in Vénérand, featuring Roman aqueduct remnants, a 17th-century mill, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Port des gabariers et baignade
10.7 km
A charming riverside park in Port-d'Envaux offering swimming, boating, and family-friendly activities in a historic setting.
Les Lapidiales
10.9 km
Discover Les Lapidiales, a unique open-air museum in Port-d'Envaux where international sculptors transform stone into breathtaking works of art.
Musée des Bujoliers
11.6 km
Discover rural life in Saintonge at Musée des Bujoliers, Saint-Césaire. Explore traditions, local crafts, and the region's fascinating history.
Château de Crazannes
12.0 km
Explore a fairytale castle in the heart of Charente-Maritime, where history, architecture, and legend come to life. Guided tours & events await!
Les Ânes de la Rêverie
13.4 km
Explore the beautiful Coran Valley with a gentle donkey trek at Les Ânes de la Rêverie, near Saint-Césaire. Fun for all ages!
Adventure Park Valley Fontdouce
14.5 km
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and outdoor fun in a serene valley setting near the historic Fontdouce Abbey in Saint-Bris-des-Bois.
Abbaye de Fontdouce
14.5 km
Discover Abbaye de Fontdouce, a historical treasure in Saint-Bris-des-Bois, where Romanesque and Gothic architecture meet serene gardens and rich history.
Essential places to dine
Le Dallaison Restaurant
2.3 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of French and Mediterranean cuisine at Le Dallaison Restaurant in Saintes - where culinary excellence meets local charm.
L'Amaranthe
10.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at L'Amaranthe in Port-d'Envaux - where culinary artistry meets local charm.
Bouillon Instant Charentais
15.3 km
Discover the taste of Charente at Bouillon Instant Charentais - a culinary haven in Brizambourg offering authentic French cuisine.
Restaurant La Belle Epoque
25.1 km
Experience exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurant La Belle Epoque in Cognac, where culinary excellence meets charming ambiance.
Le Logis Du Péré
25.6 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine and charming accommodations at Le Logis Du Péré in Saint-Coutant-le-Grand.
Le Domaine du Seudre
26.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Le Domaine du Seudre - where elegance meets local flavor in Saint-Germain-du-Seudre.
Le COUDE A COUDE
27.8 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Le COUDE A COUDE in Jarnac-Champagne—where every dish tells a story.
RESTAURANT L ETABLE
33.0 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant L'Etape in Sainte-Lheurine - where tradition meets modern elegance.
Ribaudière (La)
33.3 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of French cuisine at La Ribaudière in Bourg-Charente, where fine dining meets scenic riverside views.
La table du chef Corvez
34.4 km
Indulge in exquisite haute French cuisine at La Table du Chef Corvez in Haimps – a true culinary delight for every traveler.
Le Verre Y Table
36.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Verre Y Table in Jarnac – where every meal tells a story of local flavors.
Restaurant Du Château
37.0 km
Experience exquisite French fine dining at Restaurant Du Château in Jarnac - where culinary artistry meets local charm.
Graines et Garenne
49.2 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Graines et Garenne in Châteauneuf-sur-Charente, where local flavors meet delightful dining experiences.
L'Hysope
51.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at L'Hysope, where French gastronomy meets local ingredients in a charming setting.
Le Relais des Îles
56.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Relais des Îles in Vouharte, where local ingredients meet traditional culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Les Oiseaux de passage
15.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Les Oiseaux de passage, Brizambourg's charming gift shop filled with treasures that celebrate French culture.
les charentes en boutique
19.0 km
Explore the charm of Jazennes at Les Charentes en Boutique, your destination for unique local crafts and exquisite regional delicacies.
Vintage Road
23.7 km
Discover timeless treasures at Vintage Road, where vintage clothing, furniture, and records come together in a charming shopping experience in Sainte-Gemme.
Cave Saint Léger
24.9 km
Explore the exquisite wines at Cave Saint Léger in Cognac – a delightful destination for wine lovers seeking authentic local flavors.
L'Echoppe Souvenirs Cadeaux
40.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at L'Echoppe Souvenirs Cadeaux in Port-des-Barques, where memories are crafted with love.
Le Coin des Animo
57.1 km
Explore Le Coin des Animo, the ultimate pet store in Courçon, where quality products meet passionate service for every animal lover.
Aushopping Angoulême La Couronne
59.6 km
Discover the vibrant Aushopping Angoulême La Couronne, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
La Vie en Liège
60.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and artisanal gifts at La Vie en Liège, La Rochelle's charming gift shop where local craftsmanship meets delightful shopping.
ESPRITVOILES
60.4 km
Explore ESPRITVOILES in La Rochelle for stylish bags that blend quality, functionality, and local craftsmanship.
ETC...A
60.4 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.
Désordre Chéri
60.5 km
Explore the charming gift shop, Désordre Chéri, in La Rochelle, offering unique handcrafted souvenirs and local treasures for every traveler.
bien à LR
60.5 km
Explore Bien à LR, the quintessential store in La Rochelle for authentic local products and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of France.
Craft
60.5 km
Explore Craft in La Rochelle for unique fashion accessories that elevate your style with quality craftsmanship and personalized service.
Audalisque
60.6 km
Discover unique treasures and local craftsmanship at Audalisque, a charming store in La Rochelle that embodies the spirit of this beautiful coastal city.
46ieme Latitude
60.6 km
Explore the charm of La Rochelle at 46ieme Latitude, your destination for unique fashion accessories and vintage clothing that tell a story.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar-Tabac L'Aqueduc Romain
10.5 km
Unwind in Le Douhet's charming Bar-Tabac L'Aqueduc Romain, offering a taste of local culture and delightful drinks in an inviting atmosphere.
Rum Runners
24.2 km
Discover the lively Rum Runners in Saint-Jean-d'Angély, where vibrant cocktails and local charm create the perfect bar experience.
Chai.Bacchus
24.2 km
Discover the charm of Chai.Bacchus, a must-visit wine bar in Saint-Jean-d'Angély offering a diverse selection of wines and delightful small plates.
Ze Fun
24.3 km
Discover Ze Fun, a cozy bar and café in Saint-Jean-d'Angély, where local culture meets delightful refreshments in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Bar-Luciole
24.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cognac at Bar-Luciole, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Le pont qui bouge (Bar Guinguette)
24.6 km
Discover the vibrant riverside bar experience at Le Pont Qui Bouge in Cognac, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
Le Lys - Bar à Cocktails
24.7 km
Discover Le Lys in Cognac: A cocktail bar where craftsmanship meets creativity, offering exquisite drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
INDIGO by Martell - Rooftop Bar
24.8 km
Discover INDIGO by Martell, a rooftop bar in Cognac offering stunning views and exquisite cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
Le Garage Bar
24.8 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Le Garage Bar in Cognac, offering delicious hamburgers in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Bar des Halles
25.0 km
Discover Bar des Halles, a delightful bar in Cognac, where local culture meets exquisite drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Bar Louise
25.2 km
Discover the chic ambiance of Bar Louise in Cognac, where exquisite cocktails and gourmet dining come together to create an unforgettable experience.
La Gabare
25.3 km
Experience the charm of Cognac at La Gabare, a cozy bar offering exquisite drinks and a taste of local culture.
Bar Le Beune Aise
26.9 km
Discover the charm of Bar Le Beune Aise, a cozy bar and restaurant in Boutiers-Saint-Trojan, perfect for unwinding with local flavors.
Le Bar Sous Pression
30.4 km
Discover the essence of French brewing at Le Bar Sous Pression, a cozy beer hall in Tonnay-Charente with local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
L'Olympique
37.1 km
Discover the charm of L'Olympique, a lively bar in Les Métairies, perfect for enjoying local drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
