On the island, people mainly get around by bike. But during a stay at our campsite on Île de Ré, a taxi can come in handy in many ways: getting back after a night out, heading to the beach with a load of gear, or catching the last bus you missed. Here’s how taxis work to help you get around Île de Ré with ease, how much they cost, and what alternatives to consider.
Key points to remember
- Reservations are recommended: there are no taxis cruising the streets like in the city; you book your taxi by phone, ideally in advance during peak season.
- Regulated rates: Prices are set annually by an order issued by the Charente-Maritime Prefecture (pickup fee + rate per kilometer + waiting time).
- Train Station and Airport: Taxis provide transportation to the SNCF train station and La Rochelle Airport.
- Alternatives: ride-hailing services, island shuttles and buses, and, of course, bicycles.
How to Take a Taxi on Île de Ré
The way it works is different from that of a big city. On the Île de Ré, you don’t hail a taxi on the street, and there are no taxi stands where a line of taxis is constantly waiting: taxis rarely cruise the streets looking for passengers. So the standard practice is to book by phone. You call a driver, agree on a pickup location and time, and the car comes to pick you up.
Most towns have one or more taxis: Saint-Martin-de-Ré, La Flotte, Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré, Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, Rivedoux-Plage, Ars-en-Ré, Les Portes-en-Ré, Loix, and Saint-Clément-des-Baleines. So you can find a taxi service nearby just about anywhere on the island. Up-to-date lists of drivers are maintained bythe Destination Île de Ré tourist office.
When should I book? As early as possible, especially in the summer and in the evening, when demand spikes. Be especially sure to plan ahead for a transfer to the train station or La Rochelle airport, or for a late-night return trip. Let the driver know the number of passengers and any bulky luggage (coolers, beach gear, strollers) so they can send a suitable vehicle.
How much does a taxi cost on Île de Ré?
Taxi fares are not unregulated: they are regulated and set each year by a decree issued by the Charente-Maritime Prefecture. The fare for a ride consists of a base fare, a per-kilometer rate (which is higher at night, on Sundays, and on holidays), and, if applicable, a charge for waiting time or slow travel. The meter reading is final.
| Rate Component | Amount (Charente-Maritime Prefectural Order) |
|---|---|
| Coverage | €2.50 |
| Rate A – round trip, Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-7 p.m. | €0.85/km |
| Rate B – Round trip, overnight, Sundays & holidays | €1.21/km |
| Rate C – one-way (return empty), day | 1.70 €/km |
| Rate D – One-way (return trip without load), overnight, Sundays & holidays | €2.42/km |
| Idle time or slow driving | €21.60/hour |
| 4th Adult Passenger Surcharge | €1.83 |
Good to know: For a one-way trip, the taxi then returns empty, and the price per kilometer is increased (€1.70/km during the day and €2.42/km at night or on Sundays). There is no official flat rate for the airport: a ride to the train station or La Rochelle Airport from La Couarde-sur-Mer is metered and costs several dozen euros depending on the time of day and distance, with the meter applying the regulated rates listed above. Ask the driver for an estimate when you book.
Alternatives to Taxis
The VTC. In addition to taxis, private car service drivers offer rides booked in advance at a price agreed upon in advance. To compare the two options, check out our article on private car services on Île de Ré.
Shuttles and the bus. The island is served by a bus network that connects the villages and runs to La Rochelle. It’s the most economical way to travel from one end of Île de Ré to the other. Find the routes and schedules in our guide to Île de Ré shuttle buses.
Cycling. It’s the most popular mode of transportation on the island, thanks to a network of flat, safe bike paths that connect all the towns. For most everyday trips, exploringÎle de Ré by bike remains the simplest and most enjoyable way to get around.
The taxi comes to the rescue just when you need it, but it’s on a bike, starting from the campsite, that you really get a feel for the island.
Pierre Schmitz
Located in the center of the island, in La Couarde-sur-Mer, our family-friendly campsite puts you right next to the bike paths. Take advantage of our bike rental service to explore the villages at your own pace, from April through the end of September, and save the taxi for when you really need it.
