Essential Preparations: Poitiers

Chronological Planning

Here's a timeline to organize your pre-trip activities efficiently.

Pre-Departure Roadmap

Plan your preparations effectively with this step-by-step guide.

Three Months Out

Passport & Visa Check

Confirm passport validity for six months beyond return. Begin Schengen visa application if needed.

Flight & Accommodation Research

Research options for Poitiers to understand price ranges and availability.

Travel Insurance & Language Study

Secure comprehensive travel insurance. Begin learning basic French phrases.

One Month Prior

Bookings & Permits

Finalize flights and accommodation. Book Futuroscope tickets and TGV trains for better rates.

Driving & Health

Arrange International Driving Permit if renting a car. Consult doctor for vaccinations and health advice.

Confirmations

Confirm all major reservations and appointments.

One Week Ahead

Final Checks

Confirm all reservations. Notify bank of travel plans to prevent card issues.

Packing & Digital Tools

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and essentials. Download necessary apps and offline maps.

Document Copies & Home Prep

Create digital and physical copies of documents. Arrange pet care, mail, and home security.

Pre-Trip Essentials

Identify what to book and research before your journey.

Bookings

Flights to France and onward to Poitiers.
Accommodation in Poitiers for your stay.
TGV train tickets, especially for popular routes.
Futuroscope tickets online, in advance.

Final Preparations

Ensure everything is set before you leave home.

Home Security & Logistics

Arrange for pet care if needed.
Inform a trusted neighbor or friend of your travel plans.
Stop mail delivery or arrange for it to be collected.
Secure your home (lock doors, windows, set alarms if applicable).

Dive Research

Enrich your visit with a foundation of knowledge.

Historical Background

Read about Poitiers' rich history.
Focus on its Romanesque period.
Learn about its role in significant battles.
Familiarize yourself with its heritage.

Cultural Immersion

Familiarize yourself with French dining customs.
Understand general etiquette.
Explore local traditions.
Embrace the cultural subtleties.

Practical Information

Review visa requirements for your nationality.
Check currency exchange rates.
Understand public transport options.
Note emergency contact details.

Smart Packing Strategy

Lay out all your packed items a day or two before you leave. This supports visualizing what you are bringing and verifies you have not forgotten anything, or packed too much. Consider Eagle Creek travel organization products for efficient packing.

On-Trip & Departure Planning

Ensure smooth arrival and departure with these checklists.

Arrival in Poitiers

1
Clear Immigration & Collect Luggage
Take a moment to orient yourself upon arrival.
2
Locate Tourist Information
Pick up a free city map and ask for any current event listings or local advice.
3
Currency & Connectivity
Withdraw Euros from an ATM for immediate cash needs. Consider a local SIM card.

Transport to Accommodation

Ground Transportation
Use a pre-arranged taxi, Vitalis bus (Route 1 from airport), or train from Gare de Poitiers.
Address Confirmation
Have your hotel address clearly written down for your driver or for navigation.
Pre-Booked Transfers
Confirm your transport to accommodation if pre-booked.

Departure Procedures

Souvenirs & Shipping

Plan for luggage space for any souvenirs you purchase.

Inquire about VAT refund (Détaxe) procedures at stores if applicable.

Airport Timing

Allow ample time for airport check-in and security.

For Poitiers–Biard Airport, 1-1.5 hours usually suffices for domestic/Schengen flights.

Train Departures

For train departures from Gare de Poitiers, arrive at least 20-30 minutes before your TGV leaves.

Confirm your flight or train details and transport to the station in advance.

Essential Preparations