Planning a trip to Brittany, France? This enchanting region is a treasure trove of experiences, offering everything from stunning coastal adventures and historical landmarks to culinary delights and vibrant festivals. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast eager to explore its rugged landscapes or a culture buff ready to dive into its rich heritage, you’ll find countless best things to do in Brittany. Discover the top Brittany attractions, must-see sites, and unique activities that make this region one of the most beautiful destinations in France. From the iconic beaches and charming medieval towns to the mystical forests and delicious local cuisine, our guide to the best things to do in Brittany will ensure you make the most of your visit to this remarkable place of Europe.
10 Best Places to Visit in Brittany
Wondering about the best places to visit in Brittany, France? This enchanting region is known for its rugged coastlines, ancient towns, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or food enthusiast, Brittany offers a plethora of top tourist attractions that cater to everyone. Read on to discover the must-see places in Brittany and essential travel information to make your trip memorable.
- Historical Seaside Town: Saint-Malo, known for its stunning walled city (Intra-Muros), offers a glimpse into Brittany’s seafaring past.
- Top Attractions: Visit the Saint-Malo Cathedral, Fort National, and the picturesque Grand Bé Island.
- Activities: Enjoy a walk on the Ramparts of Saint-Malo and relax on its beautiful beaches.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer months for the best weather and various festivals.
- Nearby Attractions: Consider day trips to Mont Saint-Michel and the Emerald Coast.
- Cultural Hub: Quimper is a charming town known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
- Top Attractions: Explore the Saint-Corentin Cathedral, Musée des Beaux-Arts de Quimper, and Jardin de la Retraite.
- Activities: Stroll through the Old Town’s cobbled streets, visit artisanal pottery shops, and enjoy traditional Breton cuisine.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for pleasant weather and events like the Cornouaille Festival.
- Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss the Village of Locronan and the Odet River cruises.
- Prehistoric Marvels: Carnac is world-famous for its impressive alignments of prehistoric standing stones.
- Top Attractions: Visit the Carnac Stones (Alignements de Carnac), Carnac Museum of Prehistory, and the Saint-Cornély Church.
- Activities: Take guided tours of the stone alignments, explore nearby beaches, and enjoy water sports.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best outdoor conditions.
- Nearby Attractions: Check out the Gulf of Morbihan and the Quiberon Peninsula.
- Port City: Brest is known for its maritime heritage and offers various nautical activities.
- Top Attractions: Explore the National Maritime Museum, the Océanopolis aquarium, and the Château de Brest.
- Activities: Take a boat trip around the harbor, walk along the Quai Commandant Malbert, and delve into local seafood at the port-side restaurants.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for maritime festivals and outdoor activities.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the Île d’Ouessant and the Crozon Peninsula.
- Capital City: Rennes, the vibrant capital of Brittany, is rich in history, culture, and modern attractions.
- Top Attractions: Visit the Rennes Cathedral, Parlement de Bretagne, and Thabor Botanical Garden.
- Activities: Explore the historical city center, enjoy the bustling Marché des Lices (Saturday market), and experience Rennes’ vibrant nightlife.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer tourists.
- Nearby Attractions: Take a trip to the Forest of Brocéliande, famous for Arthurian legends.
- Medieval Charm: Dinan is a beautifully preserved medieval town with cobbled streets and half-timbered houses.
- Top Attractions: The Basilica of Saint-Sauveur, Château de Dinan, and the scenic Rance River.
- Activities: Walk the Ramparts of Dinan, explore the Port of Dinan, and visit local artisan shops.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for its medieval festival, but spring and autumn are also lovely.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the picturesque village of Lehon and the Abbaye de Léhon.
- Mythical Land: Known for its association with Arthurian legends, Brocéliande Forest is a must-visit for those intrigued by myths and nature.
- Top Attractions: Visit the Tomb of Merlin, Fountain of Barenton, and Paimpont Abbey.
- Activities: Hike through the forest trails, guided mythological tours, and visit the Château de Comper.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best hiking conditions.
- Nearby Attractions: Check out the Val sans Retour and its mythical scenery.
- Picturesque Fishing Village: Roscoff is known for its stunning coastline, historic buildings, and botanical garden.
- Top Attractions: Explore the Jardin Exotique de Roscoff, the Church of Notre-Dame de Croaz Batz, and the nearby Île de Batz.
- Activities: Take a boat trip to Île de Batz, enjoy seafood in local restaurants, and explore the tidal pools.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for the best weather and local festivals.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the Baie de Morlaix and the town of Morlaix.
- Ancient Fortress: Fougères is home to one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe.
- Top Attractions: Explore the Château de Fougères, the Church of Saint-Sulpice, and the Fougères Botanical Garden.
- Activities: Walk the fortress ramparts, explore medieval streets, and visit local markets.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the picturesque village of Vitré and its château.
- Medieval Heritage: Vannes is a stunning medieval city located on the Gulf of Morbihan.
- Top Attractions: Visit the Saint-Pierre Cathedral, Château Gaillard, and the beautiful Promenade de la Garenne.
- Activities: Explore the medieval city center, take a boat trip in the Gulf of Morbihan, and enjoy local seafood.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for the lovely weather and local events.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the Islands of the Gulf of Morbihan and the Carnac Stones.
10 Best Things to Do in Brittany
Are you an adventure enthusiast heading to Brittany? This region on France’s northwest coast is packed with thrilling adventure activities that will add excitement to your trip. Whether you’re exploring rugged terrains or diving into the crystal-clear waters, Brittany offers a range of exhilarating experiences. Discover the best things to do in Brittany, France if you’re seeking an adrenaline rush!
- Unique Adventure: Experience coasteering along Brittany’s famous Pink Granite Coast.
- Location: Ploumanac’h, Perros-Guirec.
- Activities: Climb, swim, and jump from the rugged coastal cliffs into the sea.
- Best for: Thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Safety: Guided tours available; includes safety equipment.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the Sentier des Douaniers coastal path and the Ploumanac’h lighthouse.
- Water Adventure: Kayak through one of the most beautiful natural harbors in the world.
- Location: Gulf of Morbihan, Vannes.
- Activities: Paddle through calm waters, explore numerous islands, and spot local wildlife.
- Best for: Water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Guided Tours: Available for various skill levels; includes kayak rental.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the islands of Île-aux-Moines and Île d’Arz.
- Nature Trekking: Explore the diverse landscapes of this stunning regional park.
- Location: Armorique Regional Nature Park, Finistère.
- Activities: Hike through forests, moorlands, and coastal cliffs. Popular trails include the GR34 (Sentier des Douaniers).
- Best for: Hiking enthusiasts and nature photographers.
- Travel Tip: Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring a camera for breathtaking views.
- Nearby Attractions: Discover the Crozon Peninsula and the quaint village of Locronan.
- Surfing Hotspot: Catch waves at one of Brittany’s premier surf spots.
- Location: La Torche Beach, Pors Carn.
- Activities: Surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.
- Best for: Surfing aficionados and water sports lovers.
- Equipment Rental: Available on-site; surf schools offer lessons for beginners.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the town of Pont-l’Abbé and the Penmarch Lighthouse.
- Scenic Bike Ride: Cycle along the historic Nantes-Brest Canal.
- Location: Nantes-Brest Canal, spanning Finistère and Morbihan.
- Activities: Biking along the flat, scenic canal paths, perfect for all skill levels.
- Best for: Cycling enthusiasts and families.
- Bike Rentals: Available at various points along the canal.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore charming villages like Josselin and Rohan.
- Sailing Escape: Set sail in the picturesque Bay of Douarnenez.
- Location: Bay of Douarnenez, Finistère.
- Activities: Sailing, catamaran rides, and yachting.
- Best for: Sailing enthusiasts and sea lovers.
- Guided Tours: Sailing schools and charters available for beginners and advanced sailors.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the Port Museum of Douarnenez and the Île Tristan.
- Thrilling Descent: Navigate through the stunning Gouët Gorge.
- Location: Gouët Gorge, near Saint-Brieuc.
- Activities: Canyoning, including rappelling, sliding down waterfalls, and swimming.
- Best for: Adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers.
- Safety: Guided canyoning tours available; includes equipment and training.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the town of Saint-Brieuc and the Rosaires Beach.
- Cliff Climbing: Scale the magnificent cliffs of Cap Fréhel.
- Location: Cap Fréhel, Côtes-d’Armor.
- Activities: Rock climbing and bouldering.
- Best for: Rock climbing enthusiasts and experienced climbers.
- Guided Sessions: Climbing schools offer guided sessions and equipment.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the Fort La Latte castle and the coastal path GR34.
- Underwater Exploration: Dive into the clear waters of the Glénan Archipelago.
- Location: Off the coast of Fouesnant.
- Activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling, and underwater photography.
- Best for: Diving enthusiasts and marine life explorers.
- Diving Schools: Various diving centers provide equipment and guided dives.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the Isles of Glénan and their pristine beaches.
- Equestrian Adventure: Ride through the rugged landscapes of the Monts d’Arrée.
- Location: Monts d’Arrée, Finistère.
- Activities: Horseback riding through moorlands, forests, and rolling hills.
- Best for: Equestrians and nature lovers.
- Riding Schools: Local equestrian centers offer guided rides and lessons.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the Huelgoat Forest and the Parc d’Armorique.
10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Brittany
Looking for a beach getaway in the scenic region of Brittany? Renowned for its stunning coastline, Brittany boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in France. Whether you’re seeking endless stretches of golden sand, rugged cliffs, or hidden coves, this guide to the most beautiful beaches in Brittany will help you find the perfect spot for your beach vacation. Here are the top beaches you shouldn’t miss, along with essential travel information.
- Iconic Beach: One of the most popular and iconic beaches in Brittany, known for its elegant villas and stunning seafront.
- Location: Dinard, Côtes-d’Armor.
- Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, building sandcastles, and beach sports.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer months for warm weather and local festivals.
- Facilities: Lifeguards on duty, nearby cafes and restaurants, beach clubs, and parking.
- Nearby Attractions: Promenade du Clair de Lune and Plage de Saint-Enogat.
- Family-Friendly Beach: Ideal for families, this beach offers calm waters and kid-friendly facilities.
- Location: Plougonvelin, near Brest.
- Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, and sandcastle building.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best conditions.
- Facilities: Lifeguards, playgrounds, picnic areas, and parking.
- Nearby Attractions: Pointe Saint-Mathieu lighthouse and Fort de Bertheaume.
- Secluded Cove: Often listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, this hidden gem offers a tranquil escape.
- Location: Crozon Peninsula, Finistère.
- Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the surrounding cliffs.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for the clearest waters and warm weather.
- Facilities: No facilities; bring your own supplies. Accessible via a hiking trail.
- Nearby Attractions: Pointe de Pen-Hir and Cap de la Chèvre.
- Picturesque Beach: Famous for its pink granite rock formations and stunning coastline.
- Location: Ploumanac’h, Côtes-d’Armor.
- Activities: Swimming, exploring tide pools, and photography.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for the most pleasant weather.
- Facilities: Lifeguards, nearby cafes, and parking.
- Nearby Attractions: Sentier des Douaniers (customs officers’ path) and Ploumanac’h Lighthouse.
- Urban Beach: Located near historic Saint-Malo, this expansive beach is great for those wanting a blend of city and sea.
- Location: Saint-Malo, Ille-et-Vilaine.
- Activities: Swimming, windsurfing, and beachcombing.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities and events.
- Facilities: Lifeguards, changing rooms, restaurants, and ample parking.
- Nearby Attractions: Saint-Malo’s walled city and Fort National.
- Tranquil Spot: Known for its calm ambiance and clear waters.
- Location: Cancale, Ille-et-Vilaine.
- Activities: Swimming, walking, and shell collecting.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for optimal beach conditions.
- Facilities: Limited facilities; bring your own picnic. Parking available.
- Nearby Attractions: Cancale Oyster Market and Pointe du Grouin.
- Unique Beach: Notable for its white sand and unique curved shape, one of the few convex beaches in Europe.
- Location: Île de Groix, near Lorient.
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and sailing.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for the best water conditions and warm weather.
- Facilities: Cafes and shops nearby, lifeguards on duty.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the rest of Île de Groix and its charming villages.
- Golden Sand Beach: Famous for its golden cliffs that glow in the sunlight.
- Location: Pénestin, Morbihan.
- Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and fossil hunting.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through autumn.
- Facilities: Lifeguards, restrooms, and parking.
- Nearby Attractions: La Roche-Bernard and its picturesque harbor.
- Hidden Beauty: A lesser-known beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
- Location: Plouha, Côtes-d’Armor.
- Activities: Swimming, kayaking, and hiking.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities.
- Facilities: Limited facilities; accessible via a hiking trail.
- Nearby Attractions: Gwin Zégal Harbour and the Cliffs of Plouha.
- Family Beach: Featuring calm waters and fine sand, perfect for families.
- Location: Loctudy, Finistère.
- Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, and beach games.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn.
- Facilities: Lifeguards, restrooms, and nearby eateries.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the nearby Île-Tudy and Pont-l’Abbé.
Travel Information for Brittany
Planning a trip to the enchanting region of Brittany? This comprehensive travel guide for Brittany will provide you with all the essential travel information to make your visit smooth and unforgettable. From transportation options and accommodation to local tips and must-see attractions, here’s everything you need to know.
- By Air: Brittany is serviced by several regional airports, including Rennes Airport (RNS), Brest Bretagne Airport (BES), Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE), and Dinard-Pleurtuit-Saint-Malo Airport (DNR).
- By Train: High-speed TGV trains connect Brittany with major French cities. Key railway stations include Rennes, Brest, Quimper, and Vannes.
- By Car: Brittany is well-connected by an extensive network of highways (autoroutes). The A11 and A13 motorways link Brittany to Paris, making it easy to drive.
- By Ferry: Brittany is accessible by ferry from the UK and Ireland. Major ferry ports include Saint-Malo, Roscoff, and Lorient.
- By Bus: Long-distance bus services like FlixBus and Ouibus offer routes to various cities in Brittany.
- Public Transit: Cities like Rennes, Brest, and Quimper have efficient public transport systems including buses and trams.
- Car Rentals: Rent a car to explore Brittany’s rural areas and coastlines. Car rental agencies are available at airports and major cities.
- Biking: Brittany is bike-friendly with numerous cycling routes. Rent a bike to explore scenic trails like the Nantes-Brest Canal.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are readily available in urban areas. Rideshare services like Uber operate in larger cities.
- Luxury Hotels: Experience top-tier service at hotels like Hôtel Le Brittany in Roscoff and Le Grand Hôtel des Thermes in Saint-Malo.
- Boutique Hotels: Find charming boutique hotels such as La Maison Pavie in Dinan and Hôtel Castelbrac in Dinard.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Affordable choices include Ibis Hotels, B&B Hotels, and youth hostels like Auberge de Jeunesse de Rennes.
- Vacation Rentals: Use platforms like Airbnb and Gîtes de France to find cozy cottages and vacation homes.
- Spring (March to May): Mild weather and blooming flowers make spring an excellent time to visit.
- Summer (June to August): Warm weather and numerous festivals make summer the peak tourist season.
- Autumn (September to November): Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage mark the fall season.
- Winter (December to February): Though cooler, winter is peaceful and ideal for exploring Brittany’s inland areas and attending holiday markets.
- Carnac Stones: Discover the prehistoric alignments of standing stones at Carnac.
- Mont Saint-Michel: Visit this iconic island abbey just off the coast of northern Brittany.
- Saint-Malo: Explore the walled city and its stunning beaches.
- Quimper: Wander through the medieval streets and visit the Saint-Corentin Cathedral.
- Brocéliande Forest: Delve into Arthurian legends in this mystical forest.
- Brest: Stop by the National Maritime Museum and the Océanopolis aquarium.
- Seafood: Brittany is famed for its fresh seafood, especially oysters, mussels, and scallops. Try the local specialties in coastal towns.
- Crêpes and Galettes: Savor traditional Breton crêpes (sweet) and galettes (savory) at local crêperies.
- Cider: Enjoy a glass of Breton cider, a popular local beverage.
- Butter and Salt: Sample dishes made with Brittany’s famed salted butter, like kouign-amann, a decadent pastry.
- Markets: Visit markets like Marché des Lices in Rennes and Marché de Saint-Servan in Saint-Malo to experience local flavors.
- Local Markets: Shop for fresh produce and local products at markets like Marché de Dinard and Marché de Quimper.
- Artisan Shops: Discover unique souvenirs and artisanal goods in towns like Dinan and Vannes.
- Boutiques: Explore fashion and specialty shops in cities like Rennes and Brest.
- Seafood: Buy fresh seafood directly from local fish markets in coastal towns.
- Language: While French is the official language, many locals in tourist areas speak English. Learning some basic French phrases can enhance your experience.
- Currency: The currency used is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash is handy for small purchases.
- Safety: Brittany is generally safe, but remain vigilant in crowded areas to avoid pickpockets. Use hotel safes for valuables.
- Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. Even in summer, it’s a good idea to pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
- Greetings: A simple “Bonjour” (hello) and “Merci” (thank you) go a long way. Introductions and farewells are generally accompanied by a handshake or light cheek kisses.
- Dining Etiquette: French dining can be formal. Wait until everyone is served before beginning your meal, and it’s polite to leave a small extra tip for excellent service, although service is generally included (service compris).
- Dress Code: Dress smartly, particularly in more upscale establishments. Casual wear is suitable for sightseeing, but Parisians and Bretons alike tend to dress stylishly.
