A foot in history, a nose for the times. That’s what Brittany’s big cities are like: full of surprising discoveries and great little addresses! They bend to your every whim: cultural – with always something to visit, a festival scheduled, an artistic treasure to unearth, an evening show. Gastronomic too, for a plate of oysters at the end of the market, a secret address to try out… Ready for a shopping spree in designer boutiques? A drink on rue de la Soif, a stroll between tradition and modernity? Stroll, vibrate, fall in love!
Welcome to the capital! The capital of Brittany, that is. You’ll love the cheerful atmosphere of this forward-thinking region that’s switched on and full of creativity. Want to know more about Rennes and the surrounding area? The focus is on youth and culture, but there’s also a series of fortified castles that formed the region’s line of defence in the past. Only an hour and half from Paris by TGV, Rennes is the perfect place for a city break, with nature thrown in as a bonus.
What shouldn’t you miss?
Saint-Brieuc is a multi-faceted city shimmering in an array of colours. Set within a dazzling backdrop of its three green valleys and coastal footpaths, blue sea and beaches of golden sand are its multi-coloured Art Deco and Street Art gems… A vibrant, uplifting patchwork that’s sure to bring colour to your cheeks!
The city that feels like the end of the earth
Forget everything you think you know about Brest. Come and experience a captivating and increasingly vibrant maritime city, nestling within one of France’s most stunning bays. You can look forward to a trip down Rue de Siam looking straight over the harbor, a visit to the extraordinary aquarium, and exploring sites repurposed for everyone’s benefit… All by foot, bike, bus, tram, and even cable car!
While it’s not one of France’s most attractive cities, St-Nazaire makes a fascinating destination for boat and plane enthusiasts as well as fans of World War II history. The beaches along its coastline are some of the best in the Loire-Atlantique department; one was immortalised on film.
The town with six ports
As the birthplace of the French East India Company, Lorient still proudly showcases its rich past of seafaring adventures and exotic trade to this day. Signs of this international history and heritage can be seen everywhere: in its architecture, ports and strong ties with the ocean on its doorstep. This fascinating, vibrant town embraces a festive cultural scene with all sorts of original places to visit in connection with the ocean!
A thriving town of art and history
Vannes won’t settle for any neat categorization! Overlooking the Gulf of Morbihan, two-and-a-half hours from Paris, this is a medieval town with a quirky sense of humor, a marina with a slightly rebellious streak. Picturesque, cultured and gourmet. Its extraordinary heritage is universally acknowledged, as its lively atmosphere all year round.
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All the light we can see
Like a stone ship, Saint-Malo’s ramparts stand tall, keeping watch over its port and its beaches. They cut an altogether unique figure! There’s a sense of adventure in the air here whatever the season. At once a historical, seaside and portside city, Saint-Malo is a maritime cave of wonders… You’ll love its myriad atmospheres!
What shouldn’t you miss?
Nantes historic city
Although it is now the administrative center of the Pays-de-la-Loire, Nantes was the capital of Brittany for hundreds of years. Start at the impressive Château des Ducs de Bretagne before wandering through the medieval old town then take a ride on a mechanical elephant on the Île de Nantes. Just follow the green line !
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What an (in)spired city!
Quimper takes its name from the Breton term “Kemper”, meaning “confluence”. And you can see why, since three rivers flow through this city of art and history, not far from the sea, where nature and stone, traditional and contemporary know-how are showcased in equal measure. River Odet connects the city to the ocean. The legendary King Gradlon sits, slightly off-center, on horseback between Quimper’s cathedral spires. With a definite hint of Venice about it, you’ll be amazed by the city’s creative, laid-back vibes and charming sites!
What shouldn’t you miss?
