Walking tours in Poitiers pack serious historical punch. The city’s best guided walks connect you directly with France’s medieval roots and unforgettable characters.
You’ll immediately appreciate the Guided City Walking Tour, which efficiently covers the must-see Gothic churches and offers local insight you won’t find in guidebooks.
History buffs will love the Powerful Women Walking Tour – it brings to life the remarkable stories of Joan of Arc and Eleanor of Aquitaine through the very streets they once walked.
The Eleanor of Aquitaine Tour stands out as my favorite, led by an expert who makes this 12th-century queen’s dramatic story come alive.
Let’s explore these top three walking tours that make Poitiers’ history accessible and meaningful.
Good To Know
- Guided City Walking Tour offers a 1.5-hour tour highlighting key landmarks like Église Notre-Dame la Grande and Saint-Pierre Cathedral with knowledgeable local guides.
- Powerful Women Walking Tour focuses on pioneering female figures in Poitiers’ history, including Joan of Arc and Eleanor of Aquitaine, suitable for all ages.
- Eleanor of Aquitaine Walking Tour provides a 70-minute exploration of the queen’s influence, with tours available in English, French, and Spanish.
- Walking tours in Poitiers offer flexible booking options, with full refund policies up to 24 hours in advance.
- Personalized attention and engaging experiences are provided by awarded local experts leading the walking tours in Poitiers.
Poitiers: Guided City Walking Tour
The guided walking tour of Poitiers offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history and architectural gems.
This 1.5-hour experience, priced at $63.97 per person, showcases the city’s highlights, including the stunning Église Notre-Dame la Grande, the impressive Saint-Pierre Cathedral, and the charming Place Leclerc.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour delves into Poitiers’ founding and history, sharing intriguing anecdotes and legends.
Participants will wander through hidden streets and alleys, discovering historic mansions and absorbing the city’s unique atmosphere.
The tour caters to a variety of travelers, from families and couples to solo adventurers and groups of friends.
With the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking, this guided walking tour is an excellent way to take in the captivating history and architecture of Poitiers.
Reviewers have praised the guide’s incredible knowledge and the tour’s ability to bring the city’s rich past to life.
Read our full review: Poitiers: Guided City Walking Tour Review
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Poitiers: Powerful Women Walking Tour (Joan of Arc Etc.)
This captivating Poitiers: Powerful Women Walking Tour offers visitors the chance to explore the city’s rich history and uncover the remarkable stories of its pioneering female figures.
Over the course of 1.5 hours, guests will explore notable sites like the Count of Poitiers Castle, Saint-Pierre Cathedral, and Blossac Park, while an expert guide shares insights into the lives of legendary women such as Joan of Arc, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and Radegonde.
Travelers can expect to learn about Eleanor’s remarkable journey from Poitiers to her fight for freedom as queen of both France and England.
The tour also highlights Radegonde’s monastery and her independence against religious hierarchy.
Along the way, visitors will admire architectural marvels, hidden streets, and historical anecdotes related to these powerful women.
Suitable for all ages, the tour provides a family-friendly experience that brings the city’s female-centric history to life.
Read our full review: Poitiers: Powerful Women Walking Tour (Joan of Arc Etc.) Review
Book now: Check availability
Poitiers: Eleanor of Aquitaine Walking Tour
Visitors can embark on a captivating journey through Poitiers’ history with the Poitiers: Eleanor of Aquitaine Walking Tour. This 70-minute guided tour, available in English, French, and Spanish, explores the life and legacy of one of the most influential women in medieval Europe.
Beginning at the Château d’Eau in Blossac Park, the tour takes guests to key landmarks, including the Poitiers City Hall and the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Poitiers, where the tour concludes.
Highlights of the experience include learning about Eleanor of Aquitaine’s role as queen of both France and England, as well as insights into the city’s defenses and local legends.
Led by an awarded local expert, the tour provides personalized attention and positive feedback from previous visitors, who praised the guide’s competence and engagement.
With a price range of CZK 1,080 to CZK 1,242 per person and a free cancellation policy, this walking tour offers a compelling and educational experience for visitors to Poitiers.
Read our full review: Poitiers: Eleanor of Aquitaine Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Questions About Staying Here
What Are the Best Restaurants Near the Walking Tour Sites?
The best restaurants near the walking tour sites offer a variety of local and international cuisine. They provide a convenient dining experience for visitors exploring the area’s historic landmarks and attractions.
Is There a Wheelchair-Accessible Option for the Walking Tours?
There are wheelchair-accessible walking tours available in Poitiers. These tours allow visitors with mobility challenges to explore the city’s historic sites and landmarks. The routes are designed to be easily navigable for those using wheelchairs or mobility aids.
Can I Bring My Dog on the Walking Tours?
Whether you can bring your dog on the walking tours depends on the specific tour operator’s policies. Some may allow well-behaved dogs, while others may restrict access. It’s best to check with the tour provider before booking to confirm their pet policy.
How Much Time Should I Allocate for Each Walking Tour?
The duration of each walking tour can vary, but typically it’s recommended to allocate 1-2 hours per tour to fully experience the sights and allow for breaks. The exact time needed may depend on the specific tour and the pace of the group.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals for the Walking Tours?
Many walking tour companies in Poitiers offer discounts or package deals to attract visitors. These can include combined tickets for multiple tours, group rates, and seasonal promotions. Checking with tour providers directly is the best way to find available discounts.
Worth The Stay
Poitiers offers a range of guided walking tours, each providing a unique perspective on the city’s rich history. From exploring the city’s architecture and notable figures to discovering the legacy of powerful women, these tours offer an immersive experience for visitors. Whether you’re interested in the general history of Poitiers or the captivating stories of its past, these walking tours are a great way to uncover the city’s fascinating past.