Best Things to Do in Rennes, the Capital of Brittany

Rennes is beloved for its stunning architecture and beautiful greenery. Besides, due to its size, it’s best to explore walking. We walked every moment anywhere! The area is the capital of Brittany, a region in north eastern France. It takes 2 hours by train from Paris, but it does n’t look like the capital.
In truth, that’s what we like the most about Rennes. It is incredibly distinctive and distinct from the rest of the nation. That said, the foods and the wines are wonderfully French.
*This blog contains advertising links. We may receive a fee if you purchase something using these references for free.
Contents1 Getting Lost on the Roads of the Old Town2 Visit the Parliament of Brittany3 Visit the Cathedral of Saint- Pierre4 Admire the Wooden Houses of Rennes5 Visit a Museum or Two6 Spend Time in City’s Nicest Park7 Get a Float in a Traditional Pool8 Admire Contemporary Architecture9 Walk along the Canal10 Go on a Day Trip11 Where to Stay in Rennes11.1 Related articles
Find yourself lost in the Old Town’s roads.
Rennes Old Town resembles a fairy story in every way. You can actually feel inside an Asterix comics! There are numerous walking streets, and even more slopes to sit down, grab a bite, and citizens watch.
The Old Town is full of stitched roads, tiny squares, and historic architecture. The large Mordelaises Gate from the 16th century serves as the entrance to the center. Check out the Opera house and the town house.
The Basiliques Notre Dame de Bonne Nouvelle de Rennes, Saint-Sauveur de Rennes, and Saint Germain are our beloved churches in the Old Town.
Explore the Parliament of Brittany
The city’s most famous and magnificent building is the Parliament of Brittany, in the historical quarter. Design of the architecture began in 1615 and took 30 years to complete.
In 1994, fishing activists lit the roofing and most of the building collapsed. As engineers ourselves, we believe that the 5 time recovery of the house was great.
Consider the guided excursion. The Charles Errard-designed grand house was completely intact throughout the flames. Have a beverage at O’Connell’s European Restaurant at night to see the palace thoroughly illuminated.
Browse the Cathedral of Saint- Pierre
One of the best churches in Europe is the Cathedral of Saint Pierre in the Old Quarter. The church dates back 500 times! But, most of what we can see now is from 1845.
The facade’s towers are made in granite and are 164 feet ( 50 m ) tall. These are the only components of the unique church that are still present. Go outside, and make to be dazzled.
Since most of the church is from the 19th Century, it looks beautiful. The Roman Forum’s stone slabs should be seen closely. The 16th-century initial Flemish temple is present.
Admire Rennes ‘ Wooden Properties
A fireplace in 1720 burned down most of Rennes ‘ center. Luckily, some 370 third- thatched houses survived and are still standing now. These give the city a unique medieval feel similar to that of Asterix.
You’ll quickly recognize them from the bright colored doors and windows and crossed wooden beams that they have. There are several on Sainte Anne Square, next to the Notre Dame Basilica.
A circle full of historical buildings, Place du Champ Jacquet, where you can have a cocktail, is where you can find Bar du Champ Jacquet. Hotel Racape de la Feuillee and Hotel de la Louvre on Place de Lices are the two most well-known.
Visit a Museum or Two
There are around 30 galleries in Rennes! No question, considering the state’s culture and rich history. We recommend starting with the Musee de Bretagne, which is at least two, and continuing on.
The modern structure is close to the station station. It’s dedicated to the story of Bretagne. The continuous museum is open to the public for nothing. A great balcony surrounds the galleries coffee store.
One of the best in France is the Fine Arts Museum. It exhibits Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Bretagne relics. Its extensive art collection covers all models. It’s completely!
Spent Time in City’s Nicest Park
It’s quite simple to appreciate nature in Rennes because of its medium size and diversity of natural areas. The city’s entire city has many parks. Without a doubt, the best single is Parc du Thabor.
The area is a brief tour from the Cathedral. We are talking about over 25 acres ( 10 hectares ) of splendid gardens, paths, greenhouses, and playgrounds.
There’s a distinct area for dogs. Some of the buildings in the garden date back 200 years. People in Rennes trips to relax, exercise, and connect. Get a loaf and a bottle of wine, and enjoy!
Swim in a Historically Built Pool
The Palais de Saint George is a very French and historical structure. It began its existence in 1670 as an abbey. During the French Revolution, the government seized it.
We adore it because it combines beautiful architecture and character. The 19 quartz arches are a sight to behold! The top gardens are full of vibrant plants.
One of the prettiest places in the world is The Piscine Saint George! Built in 1925 it’s in mint condition. The pool is 108 feet ( 33 m ) long. You can swim in design with just one access fee!
Admire Contemporary Architecture
Not everything is outdated in Rennes. The city also has outstanding modern architecture. Visit the Belvedere Pavilion over the Rennes River to get the best opinions of Old Town.
A stunning building built in 1982 to the south of the city centre, The Judicial District. Take a stroll along Rue du Puits Mauger to love fashionable residence and business structures.
The Rennes train station’s proximity to the Space Science Museum is great. The Bretagne National Theatre is close by. South of the place, you will see three enormous contemporary buildings in the shape of stones.
Stroll along the Canal
This is our favourite walk in Rennes. You’ll enjoy it as well! The Port d’Ille et Rance opened in 1834 and is 79 miles much. Start your walk in Rue Brest, near the church.
Basically, you can cycle, kayak, or even get a boat. You will see plenty of visitors exercising. The lines are free of weed and wastes. The liquid is fresh!
We typically travel northwest for a half an hour to the Passerelle Elisabeth Vigée- Le Brun, close to the tomb, before returning on the other side of the river. Both sides have beautiful structures.
Go on a Day Vacation
Rennes is a 50-minute coach ride apart from Saint Malo. beaches in this southern charm rival those in Nice! The city’s walled city, complete with a beautiful cathedral and antiquarian structures, is extremely impressive.
We highly advise spending at least one day at the extraordinary Grand Hotel du Thermes in Saint Malo. The oceanfront home is pricey in every way.
Medieval Angers is like a little Rennes. In an afternoon and a half, a coach will take you there. Visit Nantes, which is considered to be one of France’s greatest places, if you have more day.
Where to Stay in Breton
The Old Town is where the best places to stay in Rennes are. Our favourite hotel in the city is Mama Shelter, ways from the Cathedral. The resort is the best in the city, and the suites are more luxurious.
If you have the funds to purchase, keep at the uber- beautiful Balthazar Hotel &amp, Spa a couple of stones from the Parliament. It’s got all you ever dreamed off, including an amazing top deck.
You wo n’t get better rooms at this price than at the Kyriad Rennes, next to the train station. The bedrooms are clean and extremely secure.
Relevant articles