- Must visit
Aquarium La Rochelle
One of Europe's leading aquariums, showcasing Atlantic and tropical marine life. A flagship family attraction connected to La Rochelle's seafaring identity.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Saintes to La Rochelle
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$14
Average price
$16
Fastest journey
49 m
Average duration
51 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
61 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Saintes to La Rochelle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Saintes to La Rochelle will cost around $16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $14.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Saintes for La Rochelle on Thu, Aug 06, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 61 km distance in an average of 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 49 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 52 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.
5:32 PM0h52Saintes6:24 PMLa Rochelle$141One-way0 transfers- 6:32 PM0h52Saintes7:24 PMLa Rochelle$151One-way0 transfers
- 9:17 AM0h49Saintes10:06 AMLa Rochelle$191One-way0 transfers
- 9:17 AM0h49Saintes10:06 AMLa Rochelle$191One-way0 transfers
- 6:32 PM0h52Saintes7:24 PMLa Rochelle$151One-way0 transfers
- 5:32 PM0h52Saintes6:24 PMLa Rochelle$141One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Saintes to La Rochelle
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Saintes to La Rochelle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 47m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $12.
Distance: 37 miles (61 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$16 Average price | $9 Average price Cheapest | $20 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 34m Average total duration 1h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 17m Average total duration Fastest 47m 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 Saintes to La Rochelle is a bus with an average price of $9.
This is compared to other travel options from Saintes to La Rochelle:
A bus is $6 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Saintes to La Rochelle costing on average $16.
The fastest way to travel from Saintes to La Rochelle is by bus with an average journey time of 47m.
Other travel options to La Rochelle take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 4m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Saintes and La Rochelle including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Saintes to La Rochelle 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 $16 compared to roughly $20 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $5. The journey takes 1h 4m 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.
Direct services run with SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF).
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Saintes to La Rochelle train times
The table below shows live departures for Saintes to La Rochelle trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3852 | On time 9:25 AM Saintes station | 0h50 | 10:15 AM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
 L15 (864758) | 10:06 AM Saintes station | 1h03 | 11:09 AM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864758) | 10:06 AM Saintes station | 1h11 | 11:17 AM La Rochelle Porte Dauphine | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3854 | On time 11:17 AM Saintes station | 0h49 | 12:06 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864760) | 12:27 PM Saintes station | 1h12 | 1:39 PM La Rochelle Porte Dauphine | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864760) | 12:27 PM Saintes station | 1h04 | 1:31 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
L17 (864470)+ 8377 | 1:01 PM Saintes station | 2h21 | 3:22 PM La Rochelle station | 1 transfer | |
| D15 (864806) | 2:35 PM Saintes station | 0h52 | 3:27 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3856+F15 (864012) | 3:33 PM Saintes station | 1h27 | 5:00 PM La Rochelle Porte Dauphine | 1 transfer | |
| 3856 | 3:33 PM Saintes station | 0h50 | 4:23 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864764) | 4:47 PM Saintes station | 1h11 | 5:58 PM La Rochelle Porte Dauphine | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864764) | 4:47 PM Saintes station | 1h04 | 5:51 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L16 (864626) | 5:52 PM Saintes station | 1h10 | 7:02 PM La Rochelle Porte Dauphine | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L16 (864626) | 5:52 PM Saintes station | 1h03 | 6:55 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| D15 (864808) | 6:34 PM Saintes station | 0h50 | 7:24 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3858 | 7:32 PM Saintes station | 0h52 | 8:24 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864770) | 8:08 PM Saintes station | 1h02 | 9:10 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L15 (864770) | 8:08 PM Saintes station | 1h10 | 9:18 PM La Rochelle Porte Dauphine | 0 transfersDirect | |
| D15 (864818) | 8:47 PM Saintes station | 0h50 | 9:37 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| D15 (864816) | 9:34 PM Saintes station | 0h50 | 10:24 PM La Rochelle station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Saintes to La Rochelle by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12
Aug 12
Why should you book Saintes to La Rochelle trains with Omio?
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 as well as SNCF | Intercités or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) offer trains services from Saintes to La Rochelle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Saintes to La Rochelle.
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 or Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) to find the best option for your trip from Saintes to La Rochelle.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Saintes to La Rochelle.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Saintes to La Rochelle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Saintes to La Rochelle
FranceFrance
Trains from Saintes to La Rochelle run on average 13 times per day, taking around 1h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 but you can travel from only $7 by bus.
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 22:08. 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 $7
Distance 37 miles (61 km) |
Average train duration 1h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 11 |
Fastest train 49m |
First train 5:25 AM |
Last train 10:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
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 $7
Train companies: SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Saintes to La Rochelle trainsSNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Saintes and La Rochelle from $7. 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 Duration
50m
Cheapest Price
$13
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
18 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 Duration
49m
Cheapest Price
$12
SNCF | Intercités frequency
4 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
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
49m
Cheapest Price
$27
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to La Rochelle
Things to do in La Rochelle
Discover the best of La Rochelle — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect La Rochelle trip today.
- Must visit
Musée Maritime de La Rochelle
Maritime museum featuring preserved ships and exhibits on navigation, trade, and ocean life. Ideal for exploring La Rochelle's strong nautical heritage.
- Recommended
Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle
Natural history museum with zoology, ethnography, and regional collections in a historic setting. Excellent for understanding science and global curiosities.
- Must visit
Vieux Port
The city's postcard harbor lined with historic towers, quays, and lively promenades. Essential for first-time visitors, photos, and atmosphere day or night.
- Recommended
Rue du Palais
Elegant arcaded shopping street in the historic center. Great for wandering beneath covered walkways and admiring La Rochelle's distinctive stone architecture.
- Recommended
Marché Central Area
Historic market district centered on the covered market halls. It is one of the best areas to feel daily local life in the old city.
- Gluten-free
Huîtres de Marennes-Oléron
Fresh Atlantic oysters from nearby Marennes-Oléron, prized for their briny taste and strong link to the Charente coast and local oyster farming.
- Gluten-free
Moules de bouchot
Blue mussels from the Bay of Aiguillon or nearby coast, often served simply steamed to highlight a classic local shellfish tradition.
- Gluten-free
Crevettes grises
Small local shrimp, usually eaten chilled with butter or mayonnaise. A staple seafood snack tied to the fishing culture of La Rochelle.
Christopher Coutanceau
Refined Michelin-starred dining in the old port area, known for elegant seafood-focused tasting menus and polished service.
Les Flots
Well-known harbor restaurant specializing in fresh fish, oysters, and regional seafood in a lively, traditional setting.
André
Historic seafood institution near the harbor, celebrated for shellfish platters, fish dishes, and a classic La Rochelle brasserie atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for coastal France; hotels rise in summer, but dining and local transit are manageable versus larger French tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up; small change is enough in cafes.
Yélo
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €4.20
To the city center
La Rochelle Airport -> Place de Verdun, La Rochelle
- Distance
- 5 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets in the Yélo app or from ticket machines before boarding when available. Validate your ticket at the start of each bus trip.
- Contactless bank card payment is not reliably available on all buses, so carry a valid ticket or buy in the official app first.
FAQs: Trains from Saintes to La Rochelle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Saintes to La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Saintes to La Rochelle can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12, while the average price is around $16.
The train from Saintes to La Rochelle takes 49m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Saintes to La Rochelle is 37 miles (61 km).
The first train from Saintes to La Rochelle leaves at 5:25 AM.
The last train from Saintes to La Rochelle leaves at 10:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Saintes to La Rochelle.
Yes, there is a direct train from Saintes to La Rochelle. This service operates 11 times per day, provided by SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Saintes to La Rochelle.
The train station in Saintes that goes to La Rochelle is Saintes station, which connects to La Rochelle station.
The cheapest way to get from Saintes to La Rochelle is by bus, with a cost of around $7.
Yes, the train journey from Saintes to La Rochelle offers scenic views of the Charente-Maritime region, featuring picturesque countryside landscapes and glimpses of coastal areas as you approach La Rochelle.
Yes, a day trip from Saintes to La Rochelle is possible. The journey takes 49m and covers 37 miles (61 km), with 11 train trips available per day.
For a fulfilling visit, spending 2 to 3 days in La Rochelle allows you to explore its historic old town, visit the iconic towers, enjoy the local cuisine, and take a day trip to nearby Île de Ré.
Yes, you can take the train from Saintes to La Rochelle.
Since both Saintes and La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle include Poitiers, Niort, Rochefort, La Roche-sur-Yon, Cognac.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Saintes to La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the old port and during festivals. Avoid leaving belongings unattended and be wary of distraction techniques. Scams involving overcharging in taxis or at small shops can occur, so always confirm prices in advance. Petty theft near popular tourist sites is the main safety concern to watch out for.
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 Saintes to La Rochelle
Most Saintes to La Rochelle trains use the Saintes to La Rochelle station pair, with some services arriving at La Rochelle Porte Dauphine. Use this guide to compare Saintes and La Rochelle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Saintes
Arrival train stations in La Rochelle
Which Saintes station do trains to La Rochelle leave from?
Trains from Saintes to La Rochelle leave from Saintes. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Saintes city centre at Place de la Gare, 17100 Saintes, France.
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.
Which La Rochelle station do trains from Saintes arrive at?
Trains from Saintes to La Rochelle most often arrive at La Rochelle. Some services arrive at La Rochelle Porte Dauphine, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your La Rochelle arrival station.
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.
Most popular train connections from Saintes
More options for your journey from Saintes to La Rochelle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from La Rochelle and Saintes
Most popular train connections to La Rochelle
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