As you’d expect from the capital of Brittany, Rennes is an excellent place to get a taste of some authentic French culture. With museums, galleries and parks, not to mention crêperies serving up delicious sweet and savory dishes, you’ll find many exciting attractions to explore in this bustling city.
Historic center
A great place to begin your visit to Rennes is the city’s atmospheric and historic center. Much of the architecture you’ll see here dates back to the 18th century, due to a fire in 1720 destroying much of the city. Take a walk along cobbled streets, such as Le Chapitre, and admire the colorful half-timbered houses, alongside cafés where you can stop for a coffee and enjoy the view.
This part of the city is home to some of the most famous attractions in Rennes, including its neoclassical Cathédrale St-Pierre. Wander the interior and notice the similarity to Roman basilicas, with its lavish gilded ceiling, marble columns and decorating paintings.
More historical architecture can be discovered at Piscine Saint-Georges. Opened in 1926, this art deco pool dazzles with its mosaic-clad interior and grand façade. Simply come here to admire the edifice or take your swimming gear and go for a few lengths.
Peaceful parks and mouth-watering eateries
For a busy city, Rennes has a surprising number of tranquil green spaces. One of its most relaxing and beautiful areas is Parc du Thabor, a 19th-century expanse nestled on the highest hill in the city.
Spend time roaming the rose garden, spot colorful birds in the aviary and admire the exotic plants in the botanical gardens. If you’re visiting during the annual summer festival, Les Tombées de la Nuit, the park also serves as an open-air theater where you can watch spellbinding performances.
Complete your trip to Rennes by indulging in classic Breton dishes – crêpes, sweet pancakes, and galettes, savory pancakes. Head into La Rozell for a traditional experience and feast outside in the pretty courtyard.
Island monument
There are a host of attractions on Rennes’ doorstep. Just north of the city lies one of the most famous monuments in all of France, Mont St Michel. This magical island monastery is set dramatically in a serene bay and can only be accessed via a footbridge.
The tangle of narrow medieval alleyways lined with quaint stores and restaurants that lead up to the spectacularly well-preserved medieval abbey will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Soak up the atmosphere as you stroll up to the 10th-century complex, where you can take a tour and even see the Benedictine monks who still hold services here. The sweeping views from the terrace are particularly mesmerizing.
Car rental car in Rennes is the best way to discover this historic city and the spectacular surrounding area of Brittany.