Rennes, the vibrant capital of Brittany, is a city where medieval charm meets student energy. As I wandered through its colorful half-timbered houses and grand squares, I discovered a place that feels both historic and surprisingly young. This hidden gem in northwestern France offers everything from bustling markets to peaceful gardens, making it perfect for travelers who want to experience authentic French life away from the usual tourist crowds.
During my time exploring Rennes, I found myself falling in love with its unique mix of old and new. The city comes alive on Saturday mornings when one of France’s largest markets fills the ancient streets with the smells of fresh bread and local cheese. Whether you’re interested in history, food, culture, or just want to experience real French life, I’ll share all my favorite spots and insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to this fascinating city.
🏠 Where to Stay in Rennes
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Balthazar Hôtel & Spa Rennes - MGallery
- ✨ 5-Star: BW Premier Collection Le Saint Antoine Hotel et Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Le Magic Hall
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hôtel Kyriad Rennes Centre Gare
- 💸 Cheap: Le Quatre
- 🏢 Apartment: L'évasion - Studio cosy en centre ville
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Marnie et Mister H
- 🏩 For Couples: Apparts' Rennes BnB Duhamel- Centre Gare
💁 Best Guided Tours
- Tour from Rennes: Mont Saint-Michel, Cancale & Saint-Malo from € 159 (⭐4.8/5)
- Rennes: Outdoor Escape Game - Peaky Renners from € 15 (⭐4.7/5)
- Rennes Private Walking Tour from € 85 (⭐4.9/5)
- Poitiers Region Eco-friendly Historical Tour from € 190 (⭐4.8/5)
Best Things to Do in Rennes
1. Centre Historique de Rennes
First Impressions. Stepping into Rennes’ historic center feels like walking through a living museum. The medieval quarter, centered around Place Sainte-Anne, showcases the city’s most stunning collection of half-timbered houses. I’ve found the best time to explore is early morning when the streets are quiet and the light perfectly illuminates the colorful facades.
Architecture Spotlight. The most picturesque street is Rue du Chapitre, where I counted over 40 preserved timber-framed buildings dating from the 15th century. These distinctive structures, painted in bold colors like ochre and blue, survived the great fire of 1720. My favorite spot is the corner building at 3 Rue du Chapitre, with its dramatically leaning floors and intricate wooden details.
Local Life. Place Sainte-Anne pulses with energy, especially during market days. The square hosts numerous cafés where you can sample authentic Breton galettes. I recommend trying the local specialty at Crêperie Saint-Anne:
| Item | Price (€) | Price ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Galette Complète | 8.50 | 9.30 |
| Local Cider | 3.50 | 3.80 |
Hidden Gems. The narrow Rue Saint-Michel, nicknamed “Rue de la Soif” (Thirsty Street), comes alive at night with its numerous bars and restaurants. During day time, it’s perfect for photography enthusiasts – the medieval buildings here lean so close together they almost touch.
⭐ Best tour
- Rennes: Private guided walking tour – Discover the city of Rennes on a guided walking tour. Explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture by visiting the city’s most iconic landmarks.
2. Portes Mordelaises
Historical Significance. The Portes Mordelaises, Rennes’ ancient city gates, stand as proud guardians of the old city. Built in the 15th century, this fortress-like entrance includes two impressive towers and a drawbridge mechanism that still exists today. I discovered you can climb the ramparts for a spectacular view of the old town – just book a guided tour at the tourist office.
Practical Tips:
- The tourist office offers guided walks every Tuesday and Thursday (12€/person)
- Most shops close for lunch between 12:30-2:00 PM
- Download the free “Rennes Medieval” app for self-guided tours
Local Secret. Behind the Portes Mordelaises lies a lesser-known garden where locals often picnic. It’s the perfect spot to rest and sketch the medieval walls – I spent a peaceful afternoon here watching artists capture the scene.
Time Travel. Walking through the fortified gateway, you’ll notice the deep grooves in the stone walls – marks left by centuries of cart wheels passing through. Touch these ancient stones, and you’re literally feeling 500 years of history beneath your fingertips.
⭐ Best tour
- Rennes Self Guided Historical Walking Tour – Pass through the Portes Mordelaises, the grand medieval gate, then explore the timber-framed houses of Rue du Champ-Jacquet. Continue along Rue Hoche, blending history with modern vibrancy.
3. Rennes Cathedral (Saint-Pierre)
First Look. The moment I stepped into Saint-Pierre Cathedral, I was struck by its unique blend of Gothic grandeur and neoclassical elegance. The facade, rebuilt in the 19th century, features striking granite stonework that’s particularly impressive at sunset.
Interior Highlights. The cathedral’s most remarkable feature is its richly decorated vault, rising 20 meters above the nave. During my visit, I discovered the hidden gem of the cathedral – its 17th-century organ, which still resonates during Sunday services.
| Visiting Hours | Time |
|---|---|
| Monday-Saturday | 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Sunday | 2:00 PM – 6:30 PM |
| Mass Times | 11:00 AM (Sunday) |
Art Treasures. Don’t miss the remarkable triptych behind the main altar – it’s a masterpiece of religious art that survived the French Revolution.
⭐ Best tour
- Rennes Private Walking Tour – Journey through Rennes, the bustling capital of Brittany. Marvel at the medieval architecture and the Grand Cathedral. As you walk the streets of this historic town, hear stories of wars and dynasties. Don’t miss the chance to explore the cultural hub of Champs Libres.
Cultural and Artistic Highlights
1. Parliament of Brittany
Grand Entrance. The Parliament building stands as France’s most beautiful provincial parliament. After a devastating fire in 1994, it underwent a meticulous restoration. I was amazed by the ceiling frescoes – they’re considered among the finest in Europe.
Guided Experience. Tours run daily in multiple languages:
- Morning tours: 10:30 AM (French, English)
- Afternoon tours: 2:30 PM (French, English, Spanish)
- Price: 7.50€/adult, free for under 18s
Insider Tip. Book your tour at least one day in advance during peak season (July-August). I learned this the hard way after missing out during my first visit!
⭐ Best tour
- Rennes: Private Guided Walking Tour – Discover the history of Rennes, the capital of Brittany, on a guided walking tour. See the city’s most important landmarks, including the Cathedral, and try a galette saucisse.
2. Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum)
Collection Highlights. The museum houses an impressive collection spanning from ancient Egypt to contemporary art. My favorite section is the Brittany room, showcasing regional artists and their interpretation of local life.
Must-See Pieces:
- Georges de La Tour’s “The Newborn”
- Pablo Picasso’s “Portrait of Dora Maar”
- The Egyptian antiquities collection
Practical Information:
| Ticket Type | Price (€) | Price ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | 6 | 6.50 |
| Student | 4 | 4.30 |
| Under 18 | Free | Free |
Time-Saving Tip. If you’re short on time, focus on the second floor where the most important works are displayed. I spent about two hours here and felt I got a good overview of the collection.
3. Les Champs Libres
Modern Culture Hub. This contemporary cultural center houses three distinct institutions: the Museum of Brittany, the Science Center, and the Planetarium. The building’s striking architecture makes it impossible to miss.
Interactive Experience. The Science Center offers hands-on exhibits that are engaging even for adults. During my visit, I participated in a DNA extraction workshop – surprisingly fun!
Value Tip. Purchase a combined ticket for all three institutions:
| Combo Ticket | Price (€) | Price ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | 13 | 14.20 |
| Student | 8 | 8.70 |
| Family (4) | 30 | 32.80 |
Best Time to Visit. Arrive when it opens at 10 AM on weekdays to avoid school groups. The planetarium shows are particularly popular – book these in advance online.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
1. Parc du Thabor
Natural Wonder. As Rennes’ green heart, this 10-hectare park is a masterpiece of landscape design. The park seamlessly blends formal French gardens with romantic English-style landscapes, making it one of France’s most impressive urban parks.
Garden Highlights. The crown jewel is the rose garden, showcasing over 2,000 varieties of roses. I found the best time to visit is early morning when the flowers are fresh with dew and the light is perfect for photography.
| Season | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Summer | 7:30 – 20:30 |
| Winter | 7:30 – 18:30 |
Hidden Spots. Don’t miss the historic aviary, where you can observe exotic birds, or the grotto with its peaceful cascade. The bandstand hosts free concerts during summer weekends.
2. Vilaine River Walks
Riverside Magic. The Promenade des Bonnets Rouges offers a delightful urban escape. I particularly enjoy the stretch between the old mills, where local artists often set up their easels.
Water Activities. You can rent electric boats at 61 quai Saint-Cyr for a unique perspective of the city:
| Activity | Price (€) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Boat | 35 | 1 hour |
| Kayak | 15 | 2 hours |
| Paddleboard | 20 | 2 hours |
3. Gayeulles Park
Adventure Zone. This vast recreational area is perfect for active travelers. The park features:
- Tree climbing courses suitable for ages 2 and up
- Mini-golf course
- Picnic areas with barbecue facilities
- Swimming pool (heated year-round)
Local Tip. Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds, especially in summer. The park is particularly beautiful in autumn when the leaves change color.
Seasonal Activities. In winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with ice skating, while summer brings outdoor cinema screenings and music festivals.
Markets and Local Cuisine
1. Place des Lices Market
Market Magic. Every Saturday, Place des Lices transforms into Brittany’s second-largest market. I always arrive by 8 AM to watch local farmers set up their stalls and get the freshest picks.
Must-Try Products:
- Local organic vegetables
- Artisanal Breton butter
- Regional cheeses
| Best Times to Visit | Crowd Level | Selection |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00-8:30 AM | Low | Best |
| 9:00-11:00 AM | High | Good |
| 11:00-1:00 PM | Very High | Limited |
Local Tip. Bring cash and your own shopping bag. The best deals happen after 12:30 PM when vendors start reducing prices.
2. Breton Cuisine Highlights
Traditional Tastes. My culinary journey through Rennes revealed these authentic local specialties:
| Dish | Price Range (€) | Where to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Galette Saucisse | 3-4 | Market Stalls |
| Kouign-amann | 3.50-5 | Boulangeries |
| Far Breton | 3-4 | Local Cafés |
Cider Experience. Don’t miss trying authentic Breton cider. Local producers offer tastings at the market, where you can buy bottles directly:
- Traditional Brut: 4-6€
- Artisanal Organic: 7-10€
- Special Reserve: 12-15€
Food Trail Tips:
- Best breakfast: Fresh croissants from Boulangerie Saint-Georges
- Lunch: Traditional galettes at Crêperie du Marché
- Dinner: Local seafood at Le Galopin
Seasonal Specialties. During winter months, try the local variety of oysters. In summer, don’t miss the fresh strawberries from Plougastel.
Budget Tip. Many restaurants offer a “formule midi” (lunch menu) on weekdays, typically including a main course and dessert for 12-15€.
Market Shopping Guide:
- Early morning: Best for photography and fresh produce
- Mid-morning: Perfect for sampling and socializing
- Afternoon: Best deals but limited selection
Food Etiquette. When ordering galettes, it’s customary to pair them with cider served in traditional bowls called “bolées.” Most locals drink their cider from these shallow cups rather than regular glasses.
Culinary Events. Time your visit with the annual “Gourmand’ises” festival in October, where local chefs showcase modern interpretations of traditional Breton cuisine.
Day Trips from Rennes
1. La Roche-aux-Fées
Mystical Experience. Just 30km southeast of Rennes, this megalithic site took my breath away. It’s one of France’s largest and best-preserved covered passages, dating back over 5,000 years.
Practical Details:
| Transport | Time | Cost (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Car | 35 min | ~8 (fuel) |
| Bus | 1h | 5 |
| Guided Tour | 4h | 35 |
Best Times to Visit:
- Sunrise/Sunset: Perfect for photography
- Summer Solstice: Special events and ceremonies
- Off-season weekdays: Quietest times
Local Tip. Download the free AR app “Roche-aux-Fées 3D” before your visit – it brings the ancient site to life with reconstructions.
2. Mont Saint-Michel (optional mention)
Journey Planning. While technically in Normandy, this UNESCO site is just 1.5 hours from Rennes. I recommend the early morning shuttle service for the best experience.
Transport Options:
| Method | Duration | Cost (€) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shuttle Bus | 1h 30m | 25 RT | Every 2h |
| Guided Tour | 6h | 75 | Daily |
| Private Car | 1h 15m | ~30 (fuel) | Flexible |
Timing Strategy:
- Depart Rennes: 7:30 AM
- Arrive: 9:00 AM (before tour buses)
- Return: 4:00 PM (after crowds thin)
Money-Saving Tips:
- Book shuttle tickets online 48h in advance for 20% discount
- Pack a picnic to avoid tourist-priced restaurants
- Consider visiting November-March for lower prices
⭐ Best tour
- Tour from Rennes : Mont Saint-Michel – 1 day trip along the emerald coast with me, a local guide. Discover the Mont Saint-Michel, the old port of Cancale and the Corsair city of Saint-Malo. Availability 2025 : From April to September.
Seasonal Activities in Rennes
Festival Scene. The city comes alive with Les Tombées de la Nuit in July, transforming streets into performance spaces. Jazz à l’Étage brings melodic evenings to Thabor Park in June, while May’s Rock’n Solex fills the air with student energy and music. Evening food markets on Wednesdays create a perfect atmosphere for sampling local delicacies under the stars.
Indoor Culture. Winter in Rennes offers a cozy retreat into the cultural heart of the city. The contemporary art exhibitions at FRAC showcase cutting-edge talent, while TNB theater performances provide intimate evening entertainment. The Opera House hosts magnificent concert series, with tickets ranging from budget-friendly 9€ shows to premium 80€ performances.
Perfect Seasons. Spring brings cherry blossoms to Thabor Park and the vibrant Mythos Festival in March-April. Autumn transforms the city with wine festivals and harvest celebrations. The shoulder seasons offer ideal temperatures for exploring, though Brittany’s changeable weather means layers and an umbrella are essential companions.
Weather Tip. During spring and autumn, mornings often start crisp and cool but warm up significantly by afternoon. I’ve learned to dress in layers and always carry a light raincoat – Breton weather can change in minutes, but that’s part of its charm.
Practical Information for Visitors
1. Where to Stay in Rennes
District Guide. The Centre-Historique captivates first-time visitors with its medieval charm and central location. Thabor-Saint Hélier offers a peaceful retreat among elegant mansions, while Saint-Martin pulses with authentic local energy and fantastic restaurants.
Accommodation Budget Guide:
| Type | Price Range (€) | Area |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | 50-80 | Saint-Martin |
| Mid-range | 80-150 | Centre |
| Luxury | 150+ | Thabor |
Local Tip. I’ve discovered that staying near metro stations makes exploring effortless, especially during Rennes’ frequent rain showers. The Centre-Historique accommodations often occupy restored medieval buildings, offering a unique historical experience.
2. Getting Around Rennes
Transport Overview. The single metro line efficiently connects major attractions, while the comprehensive bus network reaches further suburbs. The LE vélo STAR bike-sharing system provides a delightful way to explore during fair weather.
Transport Costs:
| Ticket Type | Duration | Price (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Journey | 1 hour | 1.50 |
| Day Pass | 24 hours | 4.00 |
| Week Pass | 7 days | 15.00 |
Money-Saving Tip. Order the free “Pass Liberté” card to reduce journey costs to 1.25€. I’ve found the week pass invaluable for exploring beyond the city center, especially when visiting attractions like Thabor Park and Les Champs Libres.
3. Best Time to Visit Rennes
Seasonal Magic. Spring brings mild temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring outdoor markets and gardens. Summer buzzes with festivals and warmest weather, while autumn paints the city in beautiful colors and hosts cultural events. Winter offers Christmas markets and better accommodation rates.
Weather Patterns. Brittany’s climate can be unpredictable, but each season has its charm. Spring mornings often start crisp but warm up significantly. Summer evenings stay light until late, perfect for outdoor dining. Autumn brings crisp, clear days ideal for photography, while winter offers cozy café culture and festive atmosphere.
❓ FAQ
How do I get from Rennes Airport to the city centre?
The Rennes airport is connected to the city centre by the C6 bus service, which runs every 20 minutes and takes about 20 minutes to reach the city. You can also take a taxi which costs around 20€ and takes 15 minutes to reach Place de la République in the historic centre of rennes.
What are the best restaurants in Rennes for traditional Breton food?
The historic centre of Rennes offers numerous crêperies serving authentic savoury galettes and sweet crêpes, with Crêperie Saint-Georges near Place de la Mairie being particularly noteworthy. For a complete Breton dining experience, Le Galopin near Marché des Lices offers excellent seafood and local specialties in a traditional setting.
What’s the ideal itinerary for a weekend in Rennes?
Start your first day exploring the medieval streets of the old town and Parlement de Bretagne, then spend the afternoon at the Museum of Fine Arts or Rennes Opera House. Your second day should begin at the Marché des Lices (if it’s Saturday), followed by a stroll through the 10-hectare Thabor Gardens and a visit to Les Champs Libres cultural center.
Is Rennes worth visiting as a base to explore Brittany?
Located in the Brittany region, Rennes serves as an excellent base with its central location and excellent public transport connections throughout the city and region. The city’s position makes it perfect for day trips to Mont Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, and the former capital of Brittany, Nantes.
What’s the best time of year to visit Rennes?
Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists, making it easy to discover the best things Rennes has to offer. Summer brings numerous festivals and warm weather, though winter can be charming with Christmas markets and fewer tourists, especially in the historic centre.
How long should I stay in Rennes?
A minimum of three days allows you to explore the main attractions in Rennes and experience the city’s vibrant student population atmosphere. Five days would be ideal if you plan to use Rennes as a base for day trips to explore more of Brittany.
What accommodation options are available in Rennes?
The city offers lots of options from spacious and comfortable hotels like Aparthotel Adagio Access Rennes Centre to boutique guesthouses in the historic centre. Budget travelers can find good deals in the student city areas, while luxury seekers should look around Place de la Mairie for upscale hotels.
How can I save money while visiting Rennes?
Many attractions in Rennes are free of charge, including walking tours of the historic centre and the Thabor Gardens. Consider getting a public transport pass for your entire stay, and visit the Marché des Lices held every Saturday morning for affordable local produce and meals.
What makes Rennes different from other places in France?
As the capital of Brittany, Rennes combines a large student population with rich historical heritage, featuring the impressive Parlement de Bretagne and one of the best-preserved medieval centers in France. The city’s unique blend of French and English influences, along with its famous market in France, makes it distinctly different from other French cities.
Can I visit Rennes as a day trip from Paris?
While Rennes is located in northwestern France, the high-speed TGV makes it possible to visit as a day trip from Paris, taking just 1.5 hours each way. However, the city deserves more time to properly explore its attractions and experience the vibrant atmosphere, especially in the streets of the old town.
