Discover Saintes by train: our articles, itineraries and tips

Want to discover a town where Roman heritage and river charm intertwine? Good news, Saintes is accessible with a quick connection from Paris, Bordeaux, and Poitiers, thanks to the regional TER network, and you can reach the town centre in just a few hours. Here's our guide for a 100% train city‑trip where history, gastronomy and relaxed river walks blend together, no flying, no car.

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How to reach Saintes by train?

You'll depart from Paris Gare Montparnasse aboard a TER to Poitiers and then transfer to a local train to Saintes. The first leg takes about 1h30, the second about 1h15, for a total travel time of roughly 3 hours. Regular connections run several times a day, so you can choose a departure that fits your schedule. Once you arrive, the station sits just a short walk from the historic city centre, making it easy to explore on foot or by the local bus network.

What to do by train in Saintes?

In Saintes, there’s no shortage of things to do: a visit to the Ancient Theater, the Gallo-Roman amphitheater, and the Basilica of Saint John the Baptist takes you back to Roman times, while the Market District offers a taste of local flavors, including the famous Saintes sausage. The cobblestone streets and the gentle murmur of the Seugne River create an atmosphere that is both historic and welcoming.

Not to mention the Maison des Aqueducs in Vénérand (opening April 2026), which takes you to the heart of Roman engineering and a 17th-century mill.

You can easily explore it all on foot or by public transportation.

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What to do in Saintes in 48 hours?

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