How to get to Poitiers

When planning a visit to the picturesque region of New Aquitaine in France, many travelers seek information on how to reach Poitiers — a charming city with a rich history and unique Romanesque architecture. You can travel to Poitiers via various routes, as the city boasts a well-developed transport network, welcoming guests arriving by plane, train, bus, and car.

Poitiers-Biard Airport (PIS) is located in the immediate vicinity of the city. It is situated just a few kilometers from the center; however, the number of direct flights here can be limited and often depends on the season, so it is worth checking available routes in advance.

A very popular and convenient option for many travelers remains flying into Paris, to Charles de Gaulle or Orly airports. From the capital, you can quickly reach your final destination by high-speed TGV train: the journey from Montparnasse station or directly from Charles de Gaulle airport will take less than two hours.

You can also consider arriving in neighboring cities, for example, Tours, Limoges, or Angers. This can be a good alternative if you plan to rent a car and take a small road trip through the region on your way to your destination.

The city possesses excellent rail connections, making the journey here fast and comfortable. The main transport hub — Gare de Poitiers station — is located within walking distance of the historic center and handles numerous services daily.

The most popular way to reach the destination is to use the high-speed TGV trains. The journey from Paris (trains depart from Montparnasse station) takes only about one and a half hours. Furthermore, there are direct and frequent connections with the city of Bordeaux and other major settlements in the region, such as Tours or La Rochelle. Thanks to this, travelers can easily plan a route without tiring transfers.

Traveling by bus is not only an economical way to reach your goal but also a great opportunity to admire the peaceful landscapes of France from the window of a modern coach. One of the most in-demand routes is the service from the city of Tours: the bus covers the distance of 100 kilometers in less than two hours. Travelers departing from Angers will spend about two and a half hours on the road, passing 140 kilometers through picturesque provinces.

For those planning a visit from the south-east direction, a convenient option would be the service from the city of Limoges, which takes just over two hours. Most intercity buses arrive at the bus station located in the immediate vicinity of the Poitiers railway station, allowing tourists to immediately immerse themselves in the city's atmosphere.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic landscapes of the region. The fastest route runs from the city of Tours: the distance of 100 kilometers along the A10 high-speed motorway can be covered in just over an hour. The road from historic Limoges along the N147 highway will take about two hours (120 km), and the trip from Angers will require approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to cover 140 kilometers.

For those who do not plan to rent a car, ordering an intercity taxi is available, although it is worth noting that in France this is not a cheap undertaking. A private transfer from neighboring major cities to Poitiers will cost on average between 150 to 300 Euros depending on the time of day and the class of the vehicle, so many travelers prefer to rent a car.

Preparing for your trip to Poitiers will help you avoid unnecessary hassle and focus on the beauty of the ancient streets and attractions. We have compiled several useful recommendations that will make your journey through this picturesque corner of France as comfortable and carefree as possible.

1. Clothing and Footwear. The historic center of the city is located on a hill and abounds with cobblestone streets, so comfortable flat shoes are your main ally; it is better to leave heels at home. The climate here is mild, but the weather can be changeable, so dress in layers and always carry a light raincoat or umbrella.
2. Transport. The city center is quite compact and is best explored on foot. If you need to reach the outskirts or the famous "Futuroscope" park, use the buses of the local Vitalis network. Tickets can be bought from the driver (more expensive) or at special machines at bus stops.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from hotels to museums. However, it is highly recommended to carry a small amount of cash (small notes and coins) for purchases in small bakeries, souvenir shops, or at markets where terminals may be absent or there may be a minimum payment limit.
4. Health and Safety. Poitiers is a calm student city with a low crime rate, but leaving belongings unattended is still not advisable. Pharmacies are easily recognized by the flashing green cross on the facade; pharmacists are qualified and can often help with selecting medication for minor ailments without a doctor's visit.
5. Communication. Although many locals, especially young people and students, understand English, politeness requires starting a conversation in French. Learn basic phrases ("Bonjour", "Merci", "S'il vous plaît") — this will instantly warm the person up to you.
6. Local Etiquette. In France, the culture of greeting is extremely important. When entering a shop, cafe, or addressing someone on the street, be sure to say "Bonjour" (during the day) or "Bonsoir" (in the evening). Ignoring this rule is considered a sign of bad manners.
7. What to Avoid. Do not plan active shopping or bank visits during lunch time (usually from 12:30 to 14:00) and on Sundays, when most establishments are closed. Also, avoid loud conversations in public places and temples — locals value silence and restraint.
8. City Navigation. Pay attention to the colored lines painted directly on the asphalt or cobblestones of the sidewalks. These are specially designed tourist routes that will guide you from one attraction to another without the need to constantly check the map on your phone.

By following these simple tips, you can feel confident and avoid typical tourist mistakes. The city is open and friendly to guests who respect its traditions and rhythm of life, so your visit is sure to leave only warm memories.