With its many religious buildings, Poitiers is nicknamed "The City of a Hundred Bell Towers". While their beautiful architecture adds charm to your discovery of the historic center, rest assured that there's plenty more to see! Parks, museums and other picturesque districts are waiting to reveal their finest secrets. Of course, the Futuroscope is also on the program. Are you ready? Discover the best things to do in Poitiers over the weekend!
Day 1: What can you do in Poitiers over the weekend? Religious buildings, Musée Sainte-Croix and Parc Floral
The first day of your weekend begins with most of the 15 must-do things to do in Poitiers, so let's get started! If you're planning to visit the city in two days and save the Futuroscope for later, don't hesitate to spread out these visits and take the time to stroll around the city center.
Morning: Notre-Dame-la-Grande, Palais des Comtes de Poitou-Ducs d'Aquitaine, Cathédrale Saint-Pierre and Musée Sainte-Croix
Poitiers can't be visited, it has to be experienced... And there's no better way to do that than to book this guided tour of the city, which will introduce you to its history and all the must-see places.
The morning begins at saint-Pierre Cathedralbuilt in the XIIᵉ century at the instigation of Eleanor of Aquitaine. As you explore the historic center, you won't be able to miss its beautiful Gothic architecture.
Just a few minutes' walk away, the Musée Sainte-Croix invites you on a journey through the centuries. Archaeology buffs will be able to step back in time from prehistory to Antiquity, thanks to collections featuring Neolithic tools and Roman remains.
On your way out, you'll pass the St. John's Baptistery, considered one of the oldest Christian buildings in Europe.
Good to know: only open from 2 to 4 pm, and closed on Mondays, you'll need to return if you wish to enter the interior of the baptistery to see its Romanesque and Gothic frescoes, as well as the collection of Merovingian sarcophagi.
At 11am, it's time to visit the Palais des Comtes de Poitou-Ducs d'Aquitaine. This medieval masterpiece bears witness to the power that has been exercised here for centuries. Its grandiose architecture and rich history make it a must-see to round off your morning in Poitiers!
After a morning full of discoveries, why not take a lunch break at the Roseraie floral park? With its 6,000 plant species, this enchanting garden offers a bucolic interlude in the heart of the city for a local snack.
The article to read: What to do in Nouvelle-Aquitaine? The 15 must-sees
Afternoon: Panorama des Dunes and Parc de Blossac
The afternoon begins with a digestive stroll to the Panorama des Dunes, reached by a staircase of... 217 steps! Sound a little excessive after lunch? Rest assured, it's also possible to get there by car or bus. On foot, the stroll takes you from the Pont Joubert to the panorama of the Dunes, from where you overlook the city.
The afternoon continues at leisure in the pretty Parc de Blossacpoitiers' green lung, which also offers a fine panorama from the top of the surrounding wall. Your stroll along its landscaped paths takes you straight to the banks of the Clain, via the chemin de la Cagouillère. A total of four magnificent gardens punctuate your tour of discovery:
- an English garden
- a French garden,
- the garden of light and shadow,
- the rock garden.
Good to know: in winter, the Parc de Blossac is invaded by a large funfair, much to the delight of children of all ages!
Day 2: What to do in Poitiers over the weekend? Fun at Futuroscope!
You have two choices on this second day: continue visiting Poitiers or visit the Futuroscope in one day by booking your entrance ticket right here. In town, you can still visit the Jardin des Sens, the Confort Moderne or the famous Baptistère Saint-Jean in the afternoon. You'll keep the Futuroscope for a day or two after this weekend full of discoveries. However, if you can only stay for two days, arrive as soon as it opens to spend the whole day in this futuristic park!
Between technological innovations and thrills, your day at Futuroscope, considered one of France's best theme parks, promises to be unforgettable. On the program: immersive shows, augmented reality experiences and breathtaking attractions.
Petit Futé Tip: to save time, buy one of the three Futuroscope passes. They give you access to a number of attractions without having to queue (among other advantages).
Start your adventure with Chasseurs de Tornades, a 360° attraction that plunges you into the heart of a larger-than-life hurricane, thanks to a technological feat offering a pure concentrate of adrenalin. Another must-do is Objectif Mars, a roller coaster that takes you into a space training center, with surprising accelerations and immersive effects.
The day continues with the park's many attractions, including :
- Futuropolis, a zone dedicated to the youngest adventurers,
- L'Extraordinaire Voyage, a magical flying theater tour of the wonders of the world.
- Étincelle, la Malédiction de l'Opale, a 4D show combining magic and special effects.
Can you stay until the end of the day? Then don't miss the night show "La Clé des Songes", a magical show combining projections, fountains and lighting effects.
Find out all our tips and tricks for visiting Futuroscope, and leave nothing to chance.
The article to read: What to do in Vienne The 10 must-sees in 2025
Where to stay in Poitiers for a weekend? Our selection of the best hotels
Not tempted by the hustle and bustle of Poitiers' historic center? Although the proximity to many points of interest is interesting, you may prefer the calm of the Episcopal district.
- The best compromise
For a very affordable price, theACE Hôtel Poitiers welcomes you to its comfortable rooms. Quiet and welcoming, this is one of the city's most popular hotels. Book your roomhere.
- The cheapest
No fuss at theHôtel Come Inn! Rooms are simple but comfortable. For a very small price, you can put down your suitcases for a night or two without breaking the bank. A welcoming, inexpensive hotel to book here.
- The best location
TheHotel Central 's ideal location means you can do a lot of sightseeing on foot. Appreciated for the quality of its welcome, this establishment offers pretty rooms with comfortable beds. Click here to book this hotel.
On this page, you'll find all the best places to stay in Poitiers!
Have you found all the inspiration and things to do in Poitiers over the weekend? You'll find some of France's most unusual places, such as the Futuroscope, as well as cultural and historical visits. In short, Poitiers has everything you need for a great weekend away, without leaving France.
Discover also the most popular activities to do during a weekend in Poitiers :
