Tour
4,7 km
1h50
25 audios
Text version
The French are all so familiar with Rennes’ festive and lively student reputation. It’s true that Brittany’s capital is no stranger to partying. But Rennes is not only an open, dynamic city; it’s also a treasure trove of heritage, a living history book waiting to be discovered! In 1720, the city faced its darkest hour as it burned continuously for seven days. Numerous architects and engineers were requisitioned for the reconstruction, and Rennes found itself with none other than the King’s own architect. The mix of surviving buildings and urban reconstruction that makes Rennes such an eclectic and electric city! Whether you’ve come for its quirky and oh-so-photogenic houses, to sample the bars of the Rue de la Soif, or to discover Rennes’ historic heritage monuments, be sure to immerse yourself in the city’s charm. Let’s discover all the secrets Rennes has to offer, through its wooden or stone facades, its cobbled streets, its medieval gates and its most emblematic monuments.
Had you been looking for parchement paper in Rennes during the 17th century, you would have come over here! Indeed, it was on this Parcheminerie square that all the parchment sellers gathered. They prepared them in their workshops Read more
If you were Duke or Duchess of Britanny, this cathedral would be special to you! This is where you, your ancestors and descendants have been crowned for centuries! Today, this cathedral remains a highlight of your stay in Rennes! Read more
Let’s wind time back to 300 BC. Rennes was still named “Condate”, which means confluent in Celt. It was nicknamed “the Red”, as it was surrounded and protected by a red brick wall. Where you stand and observe the Mordelaise Gates Read more
It is probably hard to imagine, but it was here, on the Place des Lices, that the constable Duguesclin, the quintessential knight and a major figure of the Hundred Years' War, fought his first battle ! This square was called a “medievel closed Read more
You now arrive to the small Saint-Michel Square, that opens up to the North on the famous Rue de la Soif. Rennes is renowned in France forbeing young at heart and full of students. So it is only natural for it to be the proud owner of this Read more
You are now on the very pleasant Rallier du Baty Square. Doesn’t it just make you want to sit at one of the cafés and observe Rennes’ everyday life go by? It was named this way in the year 1726, in honor of Toussaint Rallier du Baty Read more
If you venture all the way till the end of the Rallier du Baty impasse, you will see the Saint-Michel Prison, pretty much untouched since the 18th century. The inner courtyard is now listed as a historic monument. This is where the inmates came Read more
It’s crazy how a flaw can bring such charm! You have to admit that this place wouldn’t be the same if the facades were straight and aligned! No one would be interested in the Tower of Pisa if it weren’t leaning! It is the same here, the Champs Read more
This Old Rennes street was named “rue de la Fracasserie”! It means “smashers’ street”. In these days, people working in the same field were often grouped together. This street was that of of blacksmiths and locksmiths, who made a terrible Read more
You are now on Saint-Anne Square. It is super charming with its row of multicolored facades ! When Rennes was surrounded by walls, this square was outside of the city, but was nonetheless quite lively. Its name could come from Anne of Read more
You are now on the delightful Hoche Square, bordered by chestnut trees, and charming townhouses. The city’s architect, Jean-Baptiste Marteno laid this plaza out at the end of the 19th century. Archery contests, firework shows, parties, balls Read more
Saint-Melaine street brings us right in front of the abbatial church of the same name. It was dedicated to Saint Mélaine, who is considered to be Rennes’ first bishop. He isn’t just any bishop. In 511, he participated, along with 31 other bishops Read more
This is Rennes’ Central Park : Thabor Park. If you decide to visit or return later for a more in-depth exploration, you will discover 10 hectares of lush greenery, taking you through French and English gardens, past orangery and rose gardens Read more
The Parliament is a true symbol of Britanny. Its assembly was established in the 13th century by the Dukes of Brittany. Later, in the 16th century, itbecame a Parliament under the French Ancien Régime meaning that it rendered justice in the Read more
You're on rue Saint-Georges, along with rue du Chapitre, this typical Rennes street is the one with the most timber-framed facades. Completely spared by the Great Fire, Saint-George street is part of a vast project of renovation of the historic Read more
It isn’t every day that we stop to see the public swimming pool of the town we’re visiting! Quite frankly, it is impressive, it even was voted 8th best pool in the world! This beautiful Art Deco building from the 20s brings an undeniable artistic Read more
You are now standing in front of the beautiful Saint-Georges palace. You have to picture that, in the 11th century, you would be standing outside of the city’s walls, and in front of a great benedictine Abbey, founded by Duc Alain III. In 1670 Read more
You are now on one of the town’s oldest squares! As the mandatory excavations for the metro were being pursued, archeologists found a ton of treasures dating back to the Middle Ages, bearing witness to a very active trading past! Read more
From the Saint Germain footbridge, you will have a beautiful open view over the Vilaine River. You might be wondering why such a beautiful river got such an ugly name. Indeed Vilaine transaltes to naughty, ugly or even wicked. There are a Read more
You are in Captain Alfred Dreyfus Street, close to the Emile Zola high school. You might not know it, but Rennes was the site of the retrial of the notorious Dreyfus affair. It’s a good opportunity to take a look back at this incredible story Read more
The covered market of Rennes, a truly convivial experience. If you’re fond of good food, enter the “Criée” and follow the various produce stalls. There is something for everyone and it is a good dive into local cuisine. Of course, you will find an Read more
Just like other Republique squares in France, it is the city's most central place. The eye catching building standing majestically in front of you, is the Palace of trade. This is the former Rennes stock exchange, built at the end of the 19th century Read more
The Town Hall on one side, the Opera House on the other. Take a look at these two buildings and feel the connection between them. After the fire of 1720, which swept through the northern half of the city, the king's architect decided to Read more
As we walk by the Saint-Sauveur Basilica, I would like to tell you a story. The current church was built in the 18th century, but it replaces a chapel that was here for as long as anyone can remember. Yet, I am not here to talk about architecture Read more
You’re now entering Rennes most beloved street! It’s an enchanted break from the town’s agitation. Here, you can stroll along the cobblestones, admiring the typical half-timbered facades, private mansions and beautiful boutiques. Read more
Découvrez Rennes avec l’application navaway®
An interactive guide through the most beautiful streets, squares, and districts
25 fun audioguides full of historical facts, anecdotes, and legends
Explore the wonders of the Breton coast: from Mont Saint-Michel to Saint-Malo, with a gourmet stop in Cancale.
Once you’ve discovered all of the city’s secrets, why not take a stroll from the Saint-Cyr Quays to the Confluence Garden? Often looked down upon, the Vilaine quays will surprise you with the opportunity of going on a nice rearranged walk.
Close to East Downtown, don’t miss out on a walk around the Mail district. Since its renovation in 2015, this old promenade renamed as “Mail of the Champs-Elysees” has become the new trendy area in
If you need a romantic nature getaway in the heart of Rennes, you should go to the Rocambole Garden. Many artistic installations cover the lawns of this pleasant garden. During your relaxing walk, real-size games are organised for both children and adults alike, where you get to play Mikado or Connect 4 in a charming environment.
If that’s not enough green for you, you can go to the wooded Gayeulles Park in the city’s outskirts. This enormous 100-hectare space offers many different activities. You will come across water ponds, home to ducks, turtles and lilypads. There are also sports fields, a mini-golf court, an animal farm for children, treetop adventure courses, numerous hiking trails, and gigantic lawns on which you can rest. There is something for everyone!
For all art enthousiasts, Rennes’ Fine Arts Museum is a true wonder. It is neither too small, nor too big. It exhibits excellents collections ranging from the Antiquity to our modern era. You can admire pieces by Rubens, Picasso, Chardin or even Georges de la Tour, as well as archaeologic relics that will thrill the most passionnate. Don’t hesitate, entrance is free!
Do not miss out on the Champs Libres, right across Charles de Gaulle Square! Always busy, this innovative cultural centre is home to the Britanny Museum, the Science Center, and the Metropole’s library. Presenting all forms of art through many diverse exhibitions and literary or digital performances : it really has it all!
If you have time to explore the region, do not miss out on the Brocéliande Forest. Over there, you’re immediately propelled into an imaginary world, full of legends, fairies and mysterious landscapes. During your stay in Rennes, allow yourself this magical break to explore and follow the same steps as Merlin and King Arthur in Brittany’s most famous forest.
Why noy enjoy your stay in Rennes by visiting one of France’s wonders: the famous Mont-Saint-Michel. About 1 hour away from Rennes, you can visit this mysterious abbey seemingly floating between sky and sea. By the way, it is one of the first ever sites to be registered as a UNESCO World heritage site.
Discover Rennes from a different perspective: a culinary immersion, fun challenges, and a unique photo experience.
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In downtown Rennes, a Breton pastry chef will share with you the recipe for the famous kouign-amann, mainly made of butter and salted butter caramel. You will make your own kouign-amann, which you can proudly take home with you after the workshop!
Once you’re back home, you can…
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This five-star hotel with a chic and contemporary atmosphere is nestled in a beautiful building in downtown Rennes. Behind…
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Highlights
Beautiful decoration
Calm and comfort
Delicious breakfast
Casual luxury
Things to Consider
No parking
Location: 19 Rue Maréchal Joffre, 35000 Rennes
Our rating
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Discovering Rennes also happens through your plate! After all, know that Rennes is the Breton city with the most Michelin-starred culinary establishments. The city is full of great restaurants for all tastes and budgets. It’s time to sit down and enjoy! For that, take a walk down Saint-Mélaine Street or Visitation Street. There, let yourself be tempted by the savory dishes and sweet treats, the ingredients of which you can find on the menu. Regularly served on the menu are galettes and crêpes (the city’s main specialties) as toppings. The waiters and waitresses are smiling, pleasant, and take the time to chat with customers, even advising them on attractions to visit in the region. Don’t hesitate to head to Fougères Road or Jules Maillard de la Gournerie Street, both known for their gourmet restaurants. It’s said that Rennes is one of the best regions for food and culinary discoveries — we’ll see!
Sleeping in Rennes is easy. All you need is your travel companion in your pocket, Navaway. Finding the perfect hotel means venturing into Maréchal Joffre Street and the surrounding area, which are known for housing splendid establishments offering great value for money. The rooms are carefully decorated, and the staff always makes sure that their guests want for nothing. You’ll experience a dreamlike stay. The Thabor Saint-Hélier Alphonse Guérin district is also known for its beautiful buildings and peaceful setting, nestled in a green haven. This is also where the train stations and bus terminals are located. The area is served by the A metro line and is just 9 kilometers from Rennes Bretagne Airport. In other words, it’s the ideal district to stay in for your trip
Sometimes you just want to escape from your usual city and buy a ticket to Brittany (a charming destination). Rennes is easily accessible by train from Paris Montparnasse with a direct route: in fact, it’s often the cheapest mode of transport, especially if you book your ticket in advance. From Paris, it’s also possible to carpool, but this will take time, around 4 hours of driving. On the bright side, you can chat with your carpool partners, play guessing games, admire the scenery while keeping your eyes firmly on the road (especially for the driver), and take little snack breaks. The advantage of carpooling is that the GPS ensures you take a route with no traffic jams or avoids other things that might disrupt your journey.
In the city of Rennes, you can walk. Walking allows you to take a closer look at some monuments, and it’s also eco-friendly while being beneficial for your body. However, if you prefer to travel by car, know that when it comes to parking, it’s better to prioritize park-and-ride lots. These are located at various entry points to the city, and if you have trouble finding them, they are marked with “P+R” signs. In addition to being connected to the metro lines, park-and-ride lots are free as long as you present a valid transport ticket. The best part? You’ll get a parking spot for several hours and be within easy reach of all the city’s must-see monuments.
The city of Rennes covers nearly 50 km², with around 8 km² of green spaces. The best advice we can give you, in terms of the best neighborhood to stay in during your trip to Brittany, is to opt for a hotel in the city center. And we can’t deny that there are plenty of options, so you’ll have no shortage of choices! The positive side of staying right in the heart of the city is that you’ll be close to absolutely all the famous landmarks, without exception: museums, important squares, small shops for shopping or buying souvenirs, religious buildings to visit… In short, Rennes literally opens up to you, and it will be easier to get around if you’re already staying in the city center. It’s best to choose the old town, as it’s one of the quietest areas of the city and the closest to the monuments.
Visiting Rennes with the family is easy. All you need is the right references to enjoy family activities together. First, start by exploring the city on foot. Yes, it may seem obvious, but many forget to do this, missing out on a pleasant experience. Especially if you’re traveling in the summer, don’t hesitate to venture into the heart of Rennes, as its historic center, small paths, and pedestrian streets away from cars are perfectly suited for a family visit. And let’s be honest, visiting the city can work up an appetite! You’ll have a wide choice of local restaurants for a quick, tasty break. You can then continue your journey and discover the various museums and exhibitions the city has to offer: a fun and engaging way for both the little ones and the grown-ups to learn.
Often, rain is synonymous with boredom and gloom. It’s hard to decide to go out, and sometimes you might even end up canceling your plans and staying in front of the TV. But pull yourself together, dear friends, three drops of rain and a little shower won’t stop you from enjoying your trip! Head over to the Virtual Room for a rather unique experience. It’s a very famous virtual reality room in Rennes that will allow you to experience thrilling, original, and memorable sensations while immersing yourself and your team in an intriguing virtual world. You can also go to “Bubble Soccer”: a very physical activity where you have to avoid being beaten by your opponents while being locked inside a big plastic bubble. And don’t forget, on rainy days, nothing beats a pleasant time at the Rennes ice rink, where you can show off your artistic side and perform some beautiful spins on the ice.
To visit Rennes, there’s nothing better than ordering your Citypass online: it will make your life easier when it comes to transportation, museum entries, and exploring the city as a whole. With just one click on the app you’ve downloaded beforehand, you’ll have access to all the activities and attractions Rennes has to offer. First and foremost, you’ll need to stroll down the legendary Rue Saint-Georges, as it’s undoubtedly the Rennes street with the most significant cultural heritage. Indeed, you’ll find many treasures, some of which are even classified as “historical monuments”… We’ll let you discover them, and don’t forget your camera! Then, why not venture over to Place des Lices? It’s one of the largest markets in France, known for its local and fresh products. The atmosphere is lively, and it’s the perfect time to score some great deals. Plus, the vendors are known for being friendly. Of course, don’t forget to explore the monuments that make Rennes famous, such as the Jacobins Convent, the town hall, and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.
Rennes can be visited in one day. To do this, start by exploring its historic district, where the majority of its famous monuments are located, such as the Saint-Sauveur Basilica or the Saint-Yves Chapel. These works generally leave no visitor indifferent. The medieval streets are waiting for you! We also recommend heading to Place Champ Jacquet. The half-timbered houses, adorned with a brown hue, are stunningly beautiful, making it the perfect spot to capture the moment with a lovely photo. Finally, after tasting a local dish that represents the city and the season, why not finish your visit with a touch of greenery? Come take a deep breath of fresh air at the Thabor Park, also known as “the Prince of Gardens.” Fully open to the public, this botanical garden is undoubtedly the most majestic in the region, featuring its music kiosk, aviary, and greenhouses.
Around Rennes, there’s plenty to do. We suggest heading to Dinard, just 50 minutes from the city. Be sure to bring your swimsuit and beach towel, as the region is known for its turquoise waters and fine sand. Perfect for a sunny family day, but still well sheltered in the traditional blue and white striped cabins. You can also take the time to admire the splendid Victorian houses nearby. There’s also Cancale, about 55 minutes from Rennes: whether you’re traveling in winter, summer, autumn, or spring, it’s always pleasant to stroll there, and the temperatures are often mild. Many visitors enjoy having a picnic or wandering around the harbor, getting to know the fishermen and their fresh oysters! To the south of Rennes, 45 minutes away, venture into the Brocéliande Forest. Beautiful hikes await you!
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