Top 6 things to do in Brest

A naval base, the smell of sea salt and a medieval castle – you’ve arrived in Brest! With a population of 139,000, Brest is the second largest city in Brittany after Rennes. With a heritage steeped in history, Brest offers visitors a real journey back in time. But where to start? From simple walks to swimming, there’s no shortage of things to do.

But there’s more to Brittany than its outdoor activities. If it rains, you can always take shelter in one of the many museums. For those with a sweet tooth, there are culinary workshops where you can sample the various specialities of Brittany.

Marked by the Second World War, the Ponant city has been able to rebuild itself and tell its story. Today, many tourists want to discover its history and unique atmosphere. In fact, it ranks 9th among France’s most livable cities. If the city’s dynamism is growing year on year, it’s also thanks to the many students who pass on their Breton identity.

1-National museum of the navy by night

Category: € /Insolite / Cultural

Description: If you’re looking for the thrilling and unusual! The Brest Marine Museum is offering a guided night-time tour of its underground passages. Armed with a torch (bring your own), you’ll experience what it’s like to be a cannon fighter and discover the origin of Captain Haddock’s expression. Please note that this experience requires you to be in good physical condition.

2-Discovery of the Marine Park

Category: €€€ / Unusual

Description: It’s time to get on board! Take a boat trip along the coast to discover the fauna and flora of the sea, the islands with their turquoise waters and many other marine mysteries. The trip lasts 2 hours and you might even be lucky enough to spot some dolphins!

3-Discover the Saint Louis market

Category: € / Gastronomic

Description: For over 100 years, the Halles de Saint-Louis has been serving up a host of local specialities to food lovers. From crêpes to kouign amman, let yourself be guided by the gourmet smells of the market. And before you leave, why not sit out on the terrace and enjoy the sea air?

Good to know: If you’d like a slice of typical Breton Kig Ha Farz pot-au-feu, make sure you come early – it’s often a victim of its own success!

4-Learn to cook Breton specialities

Category: € / €€ / €€€ / Unusual / Gastronomic / Sensations / Cultural / Sporting

Description: Brittany is synonymous with crêpes, but do you really know the recipe for this speciality? This workshop will teach you how to make real Breton galettes, as well as far breton and salted butter caramel. And after the effort, the comfort, you can enjoy your creations in a peaceful green setting with a glass of cider!

5-Discover one of France’s largest aquariums

Category: €€€ / Gastronomic

Description: Mandarin fish, otters and sharks – almost 10,000 animals and 1,000 species are on display in the various pools. For the more curious, you can take a guided tour behind the scenes and access areas that are usually inaccessible to the public. It’s also an opportunity to find out more about the very special profession of aquarist.

Good to know: To take advantage of the behind-the-scenes tour, you need to book in advance.

6-Sail away in a kayak

Category: € / €€ / €€€ / Unusual / Gastronomic / Sensations / Cultural / Sporting

Description: What better way to get close to the coast and the sea than by kayak? Sail along the harbour in a group or on your own. For the more courageous, it’s also possible to link up with Plougastel, just 3 kilometres from Brest.