Pedestrians walking along a historic street in the center of La Rochelle, France

la rochelle france old town architecture medieval historic center cobblestone streets historic buildings cityscape waterfront harbor port fortifications towers tourism travel destination landmarks la rochelle towers saintnicolas tower chain tower lantern tower maritime history maritime museum old port quayside boats sailing yachts coastal city charentemaritime french atlantic coast european history fortified city historical architecture medieval city walls picturesque charming summer destination vacation pedestrian streets cafe culture traditional houses cultural heritage unesco world heritage urban exploration city skyline sunset view