Where to find the best souvenir shops in La Rochelle?
Between the Old Port, arcaded streets and the sea air that flows through every corner of the city, La Rochelle has a distinctive atmosphere that visitors love to take home with them.
But with so many shops to choose from, it’s not always easy to tell authentic local creations from more standardised souvenirs.
To help you, we’ve selected the 10 best souvenir shops in La Rochelle: authentic, varied addresses that truly reflect the spirit of the city. You’ll find plenty of ideas for original gifts — while also reclaiming the VAT paid on your purchases.
Want to go further? Take a look at our guide to the best places for shopping in La Rochelle.
In summary
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La Rochelle is full of authentic souvenir shops, offering ocean-inspired creations, Charente gourmet specialties and handcrafted items.
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The best addresses are located around the Old Port, pedestrian streets and the historic city centre.
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With Zapptax, you can easily reclaim up to 90% of the VAT paid on your purchases. Download the app to enjoy tax-free shopping in France with complete simplicity.
Top 10 best souvenir shops in La Rochelle
1. Mémoires d’Océans
The iconic shop of La Rochelle Aquarium, entirely dedicated to the marine world. You’ll find decorative items, accessories and eco-conscious gift ideas. An inspiring place, perfect for bringing home a souvenir that truly evokes the ocean.
📍Quai Louis-Prunier, 17000 La Rochelle
2. Le Comptoir Charentais
A gourmet delicatessen that visitors love for edible souvenirs: Charente biscuits, salt-based products, regional spirits and a wide range of local specialties. A warm, welcoming address and a firm favourite with travellers.
📍119 Quai Louis Prunier, 17000 La Rochelle
3. Tourism Office Shop
A classic choice. Maps, posters, guidebooks and typical gifts — the perfect place for a practical, local and officially branded souvenir. A reliable option, right in the heart of the Gabut district.
📍 2 Quai Georges Simenon, 17000 La Rochelle
4. InfiniThé
An elegant and welcoming tea room and boutique offering a wide selection of teas, herbal infusions, rooibos and accessories. Gift boxes, curated sets and seasonal collections make it an excellent souvenir idea for fine tea lovers.
📍27 Rue Dupaty, La Rochelle
5. Cœur de Sel (Pineau & Cognac)
Specialising in Charente regional products, this shop offers a beautiful selection of gourmet salt, spices, local sweet treats, Pineau des Charentes and Cognac. Ideal for bringing home a gourmet souvenir or an iconic bottle from the region.
📍44 Cours des Dames, 17000 La Rochelle
6. Conserverie La Belle-Iloise
A well-known brand among seafood lovers, offering sardines, mackerel, soups and discovery gift sets. The colourful, retro packaging makes these products especially attractive culinary souvenirs. A safe choice for a gourmet gift that’s easy to transport.
📍55 Rue Paradis, 17000 La Rochelle
7. Eyemazy
A creative boutique featuring artistic images, original prints and design-focused photo objects. Perfect if you’re looking for an aesthetic souvenir that stands out from classic gifts.
📍22b Rue des Merciers, La Rochelle
8. Retour de Plage
A popular shop with holidaymakers, offering marine décor, summer accessories and seaside-inspired objects. A great address for a light, colourful souvenir with a coastal feel.
📍27 Rue des Gentilshommes, La Rochelle
9. L’Échoppe de la Plage
A small shop selling typical souvenirs: magnets, maritime décor, beach accessories and easy-to-gift items. An ideal last stop before leaving the port area.
📍Pro Concurrence, La Rochelle
10. Souvenir & Traditions
A friendly shop combining decorative objects, regional souvenirs and small gourmet treats. A simple, accessible option for a last-minute gift.
📍1 Rue Chaudrier, La Rochelle
What to bring back from La Rochelle?
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Marine-inspired items: posters, miniature lighthouses, blue-and-white décor, seaside accessories.
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Gourmet products: caramels, Charente biscuits, coastal specialties, Pineau des Charentes, local jams.
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Artisan creations: baskets, bags, jewellery and handcrafted objects made in La Rochelle or Charente-Maritime.
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Simple, practical souvenirs: textiles, magnets, postcards and small accessories.
How to reclaim VAT on your purchases with Zapptax?
If you live outside the European Union, you can request a refund of the VAT paid on your purchases made in France.
How does it work?
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Shop wherever you like: boutiques, artisan workshops, concept stores, gourmet shops and more.
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Ask for a VAT invoice made out to Zapptax.
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Upload your invoices to the Zapptax app: they are automatically grouped together.
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Once you reach €100 in total purchases, the app generates your tax-free form.
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When leaving (airport, port, train station, etc.), validate it at a PABLO kiosk or with a Customs officer.
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Receive your VAT refund directly into your account.
A simple, 100% digital process — valid in all participating stores.
To learn more about conditions and steps, read our complete guide to VAT refunds in France.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a handcrafted item, a gourmet souvenir or an object inspired by the ocean, every souvenir shop in La Rochelle tells part of the city’s story.
With Zapptax, you benefit from a clear, hassle-free VAT refund and head home with authentic souvenirs — plus a little extra savings.
FAQ
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What souvenirs should you bring back from Charente-Maritime?
Visitors to La Rochelle particularly enjoy local specialties such as Charente biscuits, salt-based products, Pineau des Charentes, Cognac and salted butter caramels. Marine-themed items, coastal posters and creations by local artisans are also excellent gift ideas.
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What is La Rochelle known for?
La Rochelle is known for its strong maritime identity: lighthouses, boats, seaside charm and ocean-inspired traditions. Regional products such as fish preserves, Charente biscuits, Pineau, Cognac and local handicrafts are among the city’s most iconic elements.
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What is the main shopping street in La Rochelle?
Rue du Minage is one of the main shopping streets in La Rochelle, known for its variety of shops and historic arcades. Many other stores are also located along Rue des Merciers, Rue du Palais and around the Old Port.
