Top 6 things to do in Quimper

For a few days, leave behind the big city in which you live. The city where car horns sound at the top of their voices, where the footsteps of people in a hurry resound, and where tranquillity is sometimes ‘disturbed’. It’s to the north-west of France that Navaway would like to take you: to the welcoming region of Brittany, described as a true ‘medieval city’. Haven’t guessed which town it is yet? In 7 letters and 2 syllables: Quimper. What makes Quimper so special? Apart from the fact that this place is steeped in art and history (which we’ll look at in a bit more depth in this article), it’s one of the only towns in the world to be crossed by 4 different rivers: the Odet, the Front, the Jer and the Steïr. Suffice to say, Quimper is a splendid place to wander around, wandering through the narrow streets and taking the time to admire the views. Especially at sunset! Any ideas of what you can do there? We’ve got it covered!

What to do in Quimper

1. Saint Corentin Cathedral

Category: Free/Cultural

Description: To start your visit, there’s nothing better than going to the legendary Saint Corentin cathedral. Open to the public, it stands proudly in Quimper town centre. Closely linked to the history of the town and its inhabitants, this Gothic jewel inspires both fascination and wonder. Construction of the cathedral began in 1239, and continued for almost six centuries before it was finally completed. You may be wondering what gave this beauty its name. It was named after Bishop Saint Corentin, a hermit whom King Gradlon appointed as his first bishop. The two towers that will catch your eye before you go inside were financed by the locals themselves towards the end of the 19th century. As a result, this monument is particularly popular with the people of Quimper, who don’t hesitate to visit it regularly. What’s there to see? Of course, the equestrian statue of King Gradlon, the legendary ruler of Ys, as well as the somewhat unusual alignment of the nave and choir.

2. Visit the town (from top to bottom)

Category: €€/Cultural/Gastronomic

Description: If there’s one thing you absolutely must do once you’ve settled into your hotel, it’s explore the town centre, and more specifically the old town. Old Quimper has that special something that makes discovering the town both mysterious and exciting. If any of our readers enjoy history with a capital H, you’ve come to the right place. Step back in time and relive the beginnings of this sumptuous medieval city, with its ancient yet robust architecture. One street in particular to visit? Kéréon! It’s known as the most visited street in the whole town, with lots of quirky little shops where you can wander around and do a bit of shopping. Are you ready to bring back some beautiful souvenirs and rare objects from your trip? And don’t forget that Kéréon is also renowned for having some of the best crêperies in town. The perfect place to take a break and fill your belly. An activity to do with the whole family!

3. A walk on Mont-Frugy

Category: Free/Sporty

Description: You’re off on a trip to relax, of course. But you should know that Quimper offers some absolutely breathtaking walks! Climbing Mont-Frugy is just one example. This hill dominating the town, like a queen rising towards the sun, reaches a total altitude of 70 metres. An interesting fact to bear in mind on your walk is that this hill was once called “Montagne sur Odet” during the French Revolution. If there are any sports enthusiasts or trail lovers here, you’re in for a treat! Put on your trainers, take a few litres of water and get ready to work on your cardio. There are also a number of benches along the trail, so you can make yourself comfortable during your breaks. Yes, it’s going to be uphill! But once you’re at the top of Mont-Frugy, you’ll be proud and happy to have made the climb. The views are breathtaking! What’s more, as well as being good for the body, hiking is also good for the mind. It strengthens the brain and boosts morale. Especially if you’re going through a rough patch, such as depression. An activity worth trying!

4. The Musée des Beaux-Arts in Quimper

Category: €/Cultural

Description: Go to 40 Place Saint Corentin to visit one of the region’s finest museums: the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Dating back to 1864, it is one of the most cherished and visited museums in western France. Be aware, however, that opening times vary according to the season, so it’s a good idea to check the museum’s website before visiting directly. And why, you might ask? Because the museum has a large and vast collection of paintings from the French, Flemish, Italian and Dutch schools, from the 14th century right up to the present day. Suffice to say that there are many things to see and discover, as the collection has been enriched over the years. It’s a great way to learn more about our civilisation and the world around us. There’s also a whole collection of spectacularly beautiful works by Breton artists. If you’re an art lover, a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts will be a moment of relaxation and discovery…

5. Take part in an Escape Game

Category: €€/Insolite

Description: With family or friends, here’s a leisure activity that’s sure to amuse everyone. Head to 5 rue Dr Picquenard for a sensational experience. Contrary to what many people think, escape games are one of the best activities for stimulating creativity and having fun at the same time. Players need to get their brains working in innovative and rigorous ways, while thinking intelligently about how to solve the problem. This is a unique entertainment experience that reduces stress and anxiety. You’ll get that wonderful feeling of personal achievement, which gives a great boost to your self-confidence and flatters your “inner self”. Come and try your luck at the Quimper escape game, while improving your teamwork in challenges that require a certain amount of collaboration and good communication. Choose a theme, and find the clues as you go along!

6. Le Jardin de la Retraite

Category: Free/Cultural

Description: We humans come from nature, don’t we? Unfortunately, we sometimes tend to forget that. The Jardin de la Retraite in Quimper is described by many as a “little corner of paradise where it’s good to rest”. Where the stresses, anxieties and torments of everyday life stop at the entrance, and cannot penetrate this haven of peace, which is the garden of the retreat. Open every day from 9am to 7pm, the garden is made up of three different areas that you really must visit: the palm garden, the tropical plants and the dryland plants. Three places forged by Mother Nature, each as different as the next, but all stunningly beautiful. If you’re looking for something fun to do with your partner at the end of the day, head to this unusual spot for a hand-in-hand stroll. Wouldn’t a little peace and quiet be the icing on the cake at the end of your stay?