Royan is a fantastic town to explore—especially if you enjoy diverse attractions packed into a small area. While many travelers come for the beaches, there’s plenty to discover beyond the shoreline. For families, Planet Exotica offers a fun, interactive day immersed in exotic plants and animals, with recreated habitats and engaging animal encounters. Meanwhile, history lovers will appreciate the Walking Tour of Paris’s Roman and Medieval Era—a journey through 2,000 years of fascinating architecture and stories. Both tours showcase the region’s unique charm, whether you’re after a family-friendly adventure or a cultural deep dive.
In this guide, you’ll find two standout tours: one for nature lovers and one for history buffs. We’ll break down what each offers, why they’re worth your time, and who they’re best suited for.
1. Royan: Planet Exotica Entry Ticket
At number one on our list is Royan: Planet Exotica Entry Ticket. This theme park is perfect for families or anyone curious about exotic flora and fauna. Priced at $21 per person, it offers a full day of discovery without breaking the bank. You’ll explore recreated habitats from different continents, attend animal encounters and presentations, and participate in interactive activities that appeal to both kids and adults.
What makes Planet Exotica stand out is its immersive approach—you not only see animals but learn about their environments and conservation issues. Visitors often comment on how engaging the experience is, with many saying it’s a wonderful way to introduce children to the natural world. The park is well-maintained, and the variety of animals—ranging from tropical birds to reptiles—keeps the experience lively. The park’s layout allows for easy movement, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and mobility levels.
Value for money is excellent, especially considering the full-day access and interactive features included. This tour suits families with young children or those who enjoy wildlife and nature exhibitions. If you’re planning a relaxed day with kids or just want a break from beach lounging, this is your spot. The only potential downside? It’s a day-long outing, so plan accordingly if you’re short on time.
Bottom line: If you’re after an engaging, educational experience that’s fun for all ages, Planet Exotica offers great value and memorable moments.
2. Paris: From the Roman Era to the Middle Age Walking Tour
Coming in at number two, this 2-hour walking tour explores Paris’s rich history from Roman Lutetia to medieval Paris. For around $111 per person, it offers a deep, walking-based glimpse into the city’s ancient foundations. Though not located in Royan, this tour is included because it vividly illustrates the kind of historical exploration travelers can enjoy nearby, especially if you’re interested in uncovering the layers beneath France’s most iconic city.
The tour includes visiting the Roman arena, where gladiators once fought, and the Cluny baths, the best-preserved Roman remains in Paris. Visitors also explore Notre-Dame’s medieval architecture, hearing legends and stories that breathe life into the stone. Walking past rare medieval houses and concealed city walls offers a tangible sense of the past that you can’t get from a guidebook or museum alone.
This tour is led by an expert guide who shares vivid stories and historical context, making the long-ago eras come alive. The small group setting ensures a personal experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions. While the price is higher than the typical walking tour, the richness of what you see and learn makes it worthwhile. A reviewer noted, “It’s like walking through history with a friend who knows all the stories.”
Bottom line: Perfect for history enthusiasts and those wanting a different perspective on Paris, this tour offers a compact but detailed look at the city’s medieval and Roman past.
How to Choose Between These Tours
Choosing between these two experiences depends on your interests and schedule. If traveling with kids or seeking a family-friendly activity, the Planet Exotica park provides a full day of fun and learning about exotic animals and plants, suitable for all ages. On the other hand, if you’re a history lover or curious about ancient and medieval Paris, the Walking Tour of Roman and Medieval Paris offers a rich, storytelling experience that will deepen your understanding of the city’s past.
Budget and time are also considerations. The full-day park adventure requires a half-day or full-day commitment, whereas the two-hour walking tour can be easily combined with other sightseeing. For those with limited time but a strong interest in history, booking this tour is a smart way to maximize your stay.
Remember to book early, especially for popular tours, and consider the best times to go—mornings for outdoor visits and cooler weather tend to make for a more comfortable experience.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Best Royan Tour
Both of these tours showcase different sides of Royan and nearby regions—whether it’s the lively, educational experience of Planet Exotica or the immersive historical journey through ancient Paris. If you’re traveling with family or want a relaxed day among animals and plants, Planet Exotica will likely be your favorite.
If history sparks your interest, or you want to see a different side of Paris than the typical tourist spots, the Walking Tour offers a detailed, story-rich experience. For history buffs, it’s a chance to stand where gladiators once fought and imagine medieval life through the eyes of those who lived it.
Both tours are worth considering, and booking early ensures you won’t miss out. No matter which you choose, Royan and its surroundings promise memorable experiences that add depth to your visit.
