Getting Around Ile De Re. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation: Buses

The main public transit system on Île de Ré involves the bus network, operated by "Les Mouettes" (The Seagulls), serving the Charente-Maritime department. These buses are modern and reliable. No metro or tram systems operate on the island given its size and rural character.

Line 3 / 3E (Les Mouettes): This constitutes the most important bus line for visitors. It connects La Rochelle (serving the train station and airport) directly to various villages on Île de Ré. The 'E' version is an express service, making fewer stops and rendering a quicker journey. "Navettes de l'île de Ré": In summer, special shuttle buses operate within and between the island's villages. These services prove popular with tourists, delivering convenient connections for shorter distances or when cycling is not desired. They often serve specific attractions or beach areas.

Ticketing & Accessibility

Single Tickets: Purchase directly from the bus driver (cash usually needed).
Multi-Journey Passes: Consider 10-journey or daily/weekly passes for cost savings. Find at bus stations, tabacs, tourism offices.
Hours & Frequency: Schedules vary seasonally; more frequent in summer, reduced in winter. Check latest timetables online.
Accessibility: Modern buses generally accommodate wheelchairs with ramps.

Efficient Navigation

Download the "Les Mouettes" app for real-time schedules. Cycling often excels for inter-village travel.

Summer Crowds

Buses, especially to the island, become crowded in summer. Plan accordingly, especially with luggage.

Cycling Advantage

Cycling is usually faster and more enjoyable for traveling between villages.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services

Availability: Mainly at La Rochelle train station/airport and Saint-Martin-de-Ré.
Hailing: Best to find a designated stand or book in advance by phone. Your hotel can assist.
Fares: Relatively expensive. A ride from La Rochelle airport to Saint-Martin-de-Ré costs €40-€70.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber rarely offers wide availability or consistent operation on the island itself.
BlaBlaCar: A carpooling service; an option for longer distances to/from La Rochelle. Not for short island trips.
Safety: Licensed taxis are safe and regulated. Confirm card acceptance or agree on price beforehand.

Rental Options Overview

Bicycles

Most iconic and practical. Widely available, various types. €10-€20/day, €50-€80/week.

Cars

International rental companies at La Rochelle airport/station. Local agencies on island. €40-€80+/day.

Scooters

Less common but available. Quicker than cycling, easier parking than cars. €30-€60/day.

Specialty Vehicles

No tuk-tuks or jeepneys. Petit Train in Saint-Martin-de-Ré for tours.

Rental Procedures & Requirements

Renting a vehicle, especially a bicycle, proves a popular way to explore Île de Ré. Cars and scooters deliver alternative mobility.

Car Rental Specifics

Companies: Major international (Hertz, Avis) at La Rochelle; some local on island.
Requirements: Valid driving license. Non-EU citizens need an IDP. Major credit card for deposit.
Booking: Advance booking advised for availability and better rates, especially in high season.
Inspection: Thoroughly inspect vehicle for damage and note it on agreement upon pick-up.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Availability: Less common than bikes/cars, but found in some villages.
Requirements: Valid motorcycle license.
Safety: Often calls for a helmet and riding experience.
Booking: During high season, wise to book bikes in advance to secure availability.

Bicycle Rental Overview

Shops: Abundant in every village (e.g., Cycland, Holland Bikes, Vélos du Port).
Types: Standard city bikes, mountain bikes, electric bikes (E-bikes), children's bikes, trailers, tandems.
Cost: Standard bike €10-€20/day; E-bikes €25-€40/day. Weekly rates €50-€80 for standard.

Personal Items: Consider bringing your own Cycling gloves for comfort on longer rides.
Helmets & Locks: Usually included with rentals. Helmets required for children under 12.
Booking: Wise to book bikes in advance during high season to guarantee availability.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving Side

Drive on the right-hand side of the road in France.

Speed Limits

Strictly enforced: 50 km/h in villages, 80 km/h on main island roads. Watch for cameras.

Road Safety

Road network is excellent. Main concern: many cyclists; give ample space.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling amount to the most authentic and enjoyable ways to experience the beauty and charm of Île de Ré.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Villages: All villages stand highly pedestrian-friendly with charming narrow streets, often car-free.
Coastal Paths: Well-marked "sentiers littoraux" offer scenic walks along the coastline.
Designated Paths: Routes through vineyards and salt marshes deliver tranquil exploration opportunities.
Self-Guided Walks: Easy to explore with maps and information from local tourist offices.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Extensive Network: Over 100 kilometers of dedicated, well-maintained cycle paths cover almost the entire island.
Safety: Paths are mostly flat and largely separate from car traffic, making them very safe for all ages.
Awareness: Be aware of other cyclists and pedestrians, notably on busy sections during high season. Keep right.
Helmet Use: A Bike helmet for safety, even if not legally required for adults, amounts to a sensible precaution.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour Buses

Traditional hop-on-hop-off tour buses are not common due to the island's size and cycling focus.

Local bus network serves similar purpose.

Boat Taxis

Regular boat taxi services between villages are not available.

Various boat tours from Saint-Martin-de-Ré or La Rochelle for sightseeing (Fort Boyard, Île d'Aix).

Local Unique Transport

"Petit Train" in Saint-Martin-de-Ré offers narrated tours of the village and Vauban fortifications during peak season.

A relaxed way to see main sights without walking.

Accessibility Services

Challenges & Solutions

Island: Generally flat, but historic villages have cobblestone streets and narrow sidewalks, posing challenges.
Accommodation: Newer accommodations and main attractions increasingly design with accessibility in mind.
Cycle Paths: Extensive, flat, and smooth network offers good accessibility for wheelchairs or adapted bicycles.

Information & Inquiries

Public Buses: Modern public buses generally wheelchair accessible.
Inquiry: Contact Île de Ré Tourisme for specific information regarding accessible services and attractions.
Bike Rentals: Inquire with local bike rental shops about adapted bicycles.

No-Go Areas & Safety Tips

No-Go Areas: No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians and cyclists.
Adherence: Always adhere to local traffic laws and respect private property.
Main Roads: Certain main roads prove less safe for cycling due to higher vehicle traffic.
Cycle Paths: Always stick to marked cycle paths for safety and enjoyment.

Pedestrian Safety: Watch for cyclists when walking on shared paths or in villages.
Driving Caution: Drivers need heightened awareness for cyclists and pedestrians, especially in villages.
Bell Use: Cyclists should use bells to alert pedestrians and other cyclists.
Night Riding: If cycling at night, ensure your bike has working lights and wear reflective clothing.

Final Transportation Tips

Embrace the island's unique transport culture for a memorable experience.

Cycling as main Mode

Cycling: The most authentic, enjoyable, and efficient way to explore the island.
Flexibility: Explore hidden corners and reach beaches inaccessible by car.
Weather Readiness: Be prepared for changeable weather with appropriate clothing.
Local Maps: Pick up local cycling maps from tourist offices.

Integrated Travel Strategy

Buses: Utilize for longer distances, bad weather, or when tired from cycling.
Cars: Beneficial for off-island excursions or transporting heavy luggage upon arrival/departure.
Planning: Combine different modes for maximum convenience and enjoyment.
Local Info: Tourist offices are excellent resources for current transport information.

Beyond the Island: Day Trips

La Rochelle

A beautiful historic port city just across the bridge.

Explore the Old Port and its Towers.
Visit the famous Aquarium La Rochelle.
Wander through the charming vieille ville.

Île d'Aix

A car-free island, reachable by ferry from Fouras.

Enjoy a tranquil day trip by foot or bike.
Visit Napoleon's House and Museum.
Walk the coastal paths and see Fort Liédot.

Fort Boyard

Iconic sea fort; visible from the island, reachable by boat tour.

Famous for the French game show.
Boat tours depart from La Rochelle or Fouras.
A unique historical landmark at sea.

Important Local Regulations

Bridge Toll

All vehicles pay a toll when entering the island.
Toll varies by season (€8 low, €16 high).
This is a return toll, paid once upon entering.

Parking Rules

Paid parking applies in most popular villages during high season.
Parking can prove challenging and scarce during peak times.
Consider free parking options outside village centers, involving a short walk.

Quick Travel Guide

Île de Ré is a cycling haven. Embrace the bike culture for the most immersive experience.

For convenience, consider a combination of cycling and local buses to cover longer distances.

Getting Around Ile De Re