- Recommended
Musée archéologique de Saintes
Main archaeology museum with Roman finds, sculptures, and local history collections. Essential for understanding Mediolanum Santonum, ancient Saintes.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from La Rochelle to Saintes
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€12
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€18
Fastest journey on Sep 20
49 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
49 m
Trains on Sep 20
13
Distance
61 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from La Rochelle to Saintes is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from La Rochelle to Saintes will cost around €18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €12.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 13 trains from La Rochelle to Saintes, including 11 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 61 km distance in an average of 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 49 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
38319:32 AM0h51La Rochelle station10:23 AMSaintes station€121One-way0 transfers- 38377:43 PM0h49La Rochelle station8:32 PMSaintes station€151One-way0 transfers
F15 (864015)+38376:59 PM1h33La Rochelle Porte Dauphine8:32 PMSaintes station€171One-way1 transfer- D15 (864813)6:39 PM0h50La Rochelle station7:29 PMSaintes station€171One-way0 transfers
- L15 (864809)4:06 PM1h03La Rochelle station5:09 PMSaintes station€171One-way0 transfers
- D15 (864805)3:28 PM0h49La Rochelle station4:17 PMSaintes station€171One-way0 transfers
- D15 (864807)11:28 AM0h49La Rochelle station12:17 PMSaintes station€171One-way0 transfers
- D15 (864815)7:12 AM0h49La Rochelle station8:01 AMSaintes station€171One-way0 transfers
- 38377:43 PM0h49La Rochelle station8:32 PMSaintes station€151One-way0 transfers
- D15 (864813)6:39 PM0h50La Rochelle station7:29 PMSaintes station€171One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for La Rochelle to Saintes
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from La Rochelle to Saintes among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €12 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 32m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €12, while a train costs an average of €17.
Distance: 37 miles (61 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€17 Average price | €12 Average price Cheapest | €16 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 32m Average total duration Fastest 1h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 52m Average total duration 2h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from La Rochelle to Saintes is a bus with an average price of €12.
This is compared to other travel options from La Rochelle to Saintes:
A bus is €5 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from La Rochelle to Saintes costing on average €17.
The fastest way to travel from La Rochelle to Saintes is by train with an average journey time of 1h 2m.
Other travel options to Saintes take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between La Rochelle and Saintes including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from La Rochelle to Saintes among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €17 compared to roughly €16 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-0.26. The journey takes 1h 2m versus 54m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
La Rochelle to Saintes train times
The table below shows live departures for La Rochelle to Saintes trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 8378+D17 (864473) | On time 1:47 PM La Rochelle station | 1h59 | 3:46 PM Saintes station | 1 transfer | |
| D15 (864805) | 3:28 PM La Rochelle station | 0h49 | 4:17 PM Saintes station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| F15 (864009)+3835 | 4:29 PM La Rochelle Porte Dauphine | 2h10 | 6:39 PM Saintes station | 1 transfer | |
| F15 (864018)+3835 | 5:38 PM Aytré Plage | 1h01 | 6:39 PM Saintes station | 1 transfer | |
| 3835 | 5:50 PM La Rochelle station | 0h49 | 6:39 PM Saintes station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864763) | 6:56 PM La Rochelle station | 1h04 | 8:00 PM Saintes station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864763) | 7:00 PM Aytré Plage | 1h00 | 8:00 PM Saintes station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864766)+3837 | 7:13 PM Aytré Plage | 1h19 | 8:32 PM Saintes station | 1 transfer | |
| 3837 | 7:43 PM La Rochelle station | 0h49 | 8:32 PM Saintes station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, September 20 | |||||
| D15 (864815) | 7:12 AM La Rochelle station | 0h49 | 8:01 AM Saintes station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3831 | 9:32 AM La Rochelle station | 0h51 | 10:23 AM Saintes station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| D15 (864807) | 11:28 AM La Rochelle station | 0h49 | 12:17 PM Saintes station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864757) | 12:37 PM La Rochelle station | 1h03 | 1:40 PM Saintes station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets La Rochelle to Saintes by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
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Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book La Rochelle to Saintes trains with Omio?
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 as well as SNCF | Intercités offer trains services from La Rochelle to Saintes.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from La Rochelle to Saintes.
Why book with Omio vs SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF | Intercités to find the best option for your trip from La Rochelle to Saintes.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from La Rochelle to Saintes.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from La Rochelle to Saintes.
Journey information
Overview: Train from La Rochelle to Saintes
FranceFrance
Trains from La Rochelle to Saintes run on average 16 times per day, taking around 1h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €10 but you can travel from only €3 by bus.
There are 14 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:20, the last at 22:03. The fastest train covers the 37 miles (61 km) distance in 49m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €3
Distance 37 miles (61 km) |
Average train duration 1h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price €10 |
Trains per day 16 |
Direct trains 14 |
Fastest train 49m |
First train 5:20 AM |
Last train 10:03 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €3
Train companies: SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités from La Rochelle to Saintes trainsSNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités trains will get you between La Rochelle and Saintes from €3. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
About
SNCF TER (Transport Express Régional) is the regional train service operated by France's national railway company, SNCF. It provides low-cost travel within France's regions, connecting towns and areas not served by high-speed trains. Each French region independently manages its own TER network, offering various ticket types, including discount cards and special fares. TER trains are used by over 800,000 passengers daily and are a popular choice for both commuters and tourists exploring France's diverse landscapes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Duration
49m
Cheapest SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 Price
€10
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
16 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one suitcase included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at train ends
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar or food trolley service on some routes, vending machines available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee, included in some first-class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
SNCF | Intercités
About
SNCF Intercités is the brand used by France's national railway company, SNCF, for its non-high-speed, long and medium-distance services on the classic rail network. Established in 2006, it encompasses routes not served by the TGV network, including both day and overnight trains. Intercités connects major regional cities and offers an alternative for destinations not on the high-speed lines, such as Paris to Clermont-Ferrand, Bordeaux to Marseille, and Nantes to Lyon. These trains are known for being comfortable and air-conditioned, with services like luggage space and, on some lines, Wi-Fi.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SNCF | Intercités Duration
49m
Cheapest SNCF | Intercités Price
€11
SNCF | Intercités frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Luggage racks at the end of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by SNCF
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar-buffet car with snacks and drinks, or trolley service depending on route
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, additional fee applies. Free in 1st class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, assistance service must be booked 48h in advance
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Saintes
Things to do in Saintes
Discover the best of Saintes — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Saintes trip today.
- Recommended
Musée de l'Échevinage
Museum dedicated to Charente River navigation and local trades in a preserved historic setting. A worthwhile stop for regional life beyond monuments.
- Recommended
Abbaye aux Dames Parcours de visite
Interpretive gallery within the abbey complex focused on music, heritage, and digital experiences. Good for families and modern cultural programming.
- Recommended
Cours National
Main pedestrian shopping street lined with historic facades. Ideal for strolling between monuments and getting a feel for the everyday city center.
- Recommended
Quais de la Charente
Attractive riverside promenade along the Charente with bridges, boats, and views of old Saintes. A relaxing walk at any time of day.
- Recommended
Quartier Saint-Eutrope
Historic quarter around the basilica with sloping lanes and older houses. Best for travelers who enjoy quieter walks away from the busiest streets.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pineau des Charentes
Pineau des Charentes is a regional aperitif made by blending grape must with Cognac eau-de-vie. It is a classic Charente drink served before meals.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Cognac
Cognac is the famed brandy of the Charente region, distilled from local wine and aged in oak. Near Saintes, it is a signature digestif and tasting staple.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Melon Charentais
Charentais melon is a fragrant local cantaloupe prized in summer for its sweet flesh. It is a regional specialty often served simply or with cured ham.
La Cave Passe Table
Refined restaurant in central Saintes known for modern French cuisine, careful presentation, and a calm dining room suited to a special meal.
La Musardiere
Casual crêperie appreciated for savory galettes, sweet crêpes, and friendly service. A good lighter option in the old town.
Le Parvis
Established brasserie-style address serving traditional French dishes and regional products in a relaxed, reliable setting near the historic center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for France: hotels and dining are usually below Paris, while local transit is limited and most sights are low cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for a simple lunch or fast food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service; round up taxis; small change is fine in cafes.
Modalis
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Gare de Saintes -> Place Bassompierre, Saintes
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets before boarding where possible; validation is required when you enter the bus.
- Contactless bank card payment on board is not reliably documented, so carry a valid ticket or local payment method.
FAQs: Trains from La Rochelle to Saintes
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from La Rochelle to Saintes by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Saintes, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from La Rochelle to Saintes can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €10, while the average price is around €17.
The train from La Rochelle to Saintes takes 49m and runs 16 per day.
The distance by train from La Rochelle to Saintes is 37 miles (61 km).
The first train from La Rochelle to Saintes leaves at 5:20 AM.
The last train from La Rochelle to Saintes leaves at 10:03 PM.
There is no high speed train available from La Rochelle to Saintes.
Yes, there is a direct train from La Rochelle to Saintes. This service operates 14 times per day, provided by SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from La Rochelle to Saintes.
The train station in La Rochelle that goes to Saintes is La Rochelle station, which connects to Saintes station.
The cheapest way to get from La Rochelle to Saintes is by bus, with a cost of around €3.
The train journey from La Rochelle to Saintes offers scenic views of the French countryside, characterized by charming villages, lush green landscapes, and occasional glimpses of the coastline, providing a pleasant and visually appealing travel experience.
Yes, a day trip from La Rochelle to Saintes is feasible with a travel time of 49m and a distance of 37 miles (61 km). There are 11 trains per day.
To fully experience Saintes, including its historical sites such as the Amphitheatre, the Abbaye aux Dames, and the Arch of Germanicus, a 2 to 3-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from La Rochelle to Saintes.
Since both La Rochelle and Saintes are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Saintes include Bordeaux, Royan, Rochefort, Cognac, Angoulême.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from La Rochelle to Saintes among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Saintes, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially pickpocketing in crowded areas and near popular landmarks. It is advisable to stay vigilant in busy markets and public transportation. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares can occur, so agree on a price before the ride. Travelers should also be mindful of their belongings when dining or enjoying outdoor events. Overall, common-sense precautions help ensure a safe visit to Saintes.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from La Rochelle to Saintes
Most La Rochelle to Saintes trains use the La Rochelle to Saintes station pair. Use this guide to compare La Rochelle and Saintes train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in La Rochelle
Arrival train stations in Saintes
Which La Rochelle station do trains to Saintes leave from?
Trains from La Rochelle to Saintes leave from La Rochelle. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from La Rochelle city centre at Place de la Gare, 17000 La Rochelle, France.
La RochellePlace de la Gare, 17000 La Rochelle, France+33 5 46 51 62 74
City-centre transport
Getting to La Rochelle from La Rochelle city centre
La Rochelle is 1 km from La Rochelle city centre. Public transport options include:
BusSeveral lines available
Local shuttle services
La Rochelle train station facilities and services
La Rochelle has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Les 4 Sergents, La Boussole
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at La Rochelle. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at La Rochelle. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at La Rochelle: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at La Rochelle: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at La Rochelle: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Best Western Plus Masqhotel, Hotel Saint Nicolas, Ibis La Rochelle Vieux-Port.
La Rochelle Porte Dauphine17000 La Rochelle, France
City-centre transport
Getting to La Rochelle Porte Dauphine from La Rochelle city centre
Bus211, 14, 12, 3, 10, D3, 341, 346, N3, 352, 354, 13, 15 · 2m · every ~17 min
La Rochelle Porte Dauphine train station facilities and services
La Rochelle Porte Dauphine has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at La Rochelle Porte Dauphine.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at La Rochelle Porte Dauphine.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at La Rochelle Porte Dauphine: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at La Rochelle Porte Dauphine: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at La Rochelle Porte Dauphine.
Which Saintes station do trains from La Rochelle arrive at?
Trains from La Rochelle to Saintes arrive at Saintes. Saintes is 0 miles (1 km) from Saintes city centre.
SaintesPlace de la Gare, 17100 Saintes, France+33 5 46 93 52 52
City-centre transport
Getting to Saintes from Saintes city centre
Saintes is 1 km from Saintes city centre. Public transport options include:
BusA, C, Charriers, Gare · 7m · every ~5 min
Saintes train station facilities and services
Saintes has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Le Parvis, La Table du Maroc
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Saintes. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Saintes. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Saintes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Saintes: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Saintes: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Comfort Inn Saintes, ibis Saintes, Campanile Saintes.
Most popular train connections from La Rochelle
More options for your journey from La Rochelle to Saintes
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Saintes and La Rochelle
Most popular train connections to Saintes
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