+353 (0) 1 475 9646The best shops to go to in La Rochelle
La Rochelle is a small coastal city in southwestern France. It is steeped in history and has been a busy centre for fishing and trade since the 12th century. It is a popular French destination and attracts tourists and students from all over the world. There is a busy market, many souvenir and boutique shops as well as mainstream chains and department stores. Shopping in La Rochelle is definitely a treat to the senses with its vast array of food, clothes, gifts and souvenir shops that attract both locals and tourists alike.
Here’s our selection of the best shops to visit during a trip to La Rochelle.
Ile de Ré Chocolats & Caramels, 55 Boulevard Joffre
This chocolate shop in the centre of the town has a huge selection of chocolates, caramel products and other sweets to choose from. Buy the beautifully shaped chocolates in pretty gift packaging as gifts or buy a mix of chocolates in bulk to enjoy with friends. The shop hosts daily chocolate-making demonstrations (excluding Saturdays) and guided tours.
Le Comptoir Charentais, 119 Quai Louis Prunier,
This is one of the largest souvenir shops in La Rochelle. You can buy a wonderful selection of goods including local wine, edible souvenirs, French-themed T-shirts and an excellent range of natural cosmetics from local producers.
Le Gout de la Vie 4 Rue du Minage
This shop is beautifully decorated inside and sells locally produced food products such as miniature jars of mustard, various types of vinegar, bottles of wine and biscuits, as well as popular national sweets. The shop also stocks the largest selection of farm sausages and other meat delicacies.
Monoprix 29 Rue Admyrauld
This popular French department store is always worth a visit with its vast range of clothing, beauty products, household goods and even food. A great store to go to enjoy the hustle and bustle of a busy city store. Go in for a shirt and leave with some cheese!
Marches du Central Ville/Central Market
Soak up the local atmosphere and experience some French culture at the La Rochelle Central market. Held in the 19th Century market hall, there is a daily food market and a general market that spills onto the surrounding streets each Wednesday and Saturday. Expect to see the usual array of delicious bread, cheese, seasonal fruit and vegetables and fresh fish at the food market and be sure to try some regional specialities like the traditional tourteau fromage (burned crust cheesecake).
La Rochelle is one of Stein Study’s most popular destinations in France where it runs 5 exciting study French language abroad courses for Irish Students. Click here for details of our study abroad courses in La Rochelle.
