Things To Do
in Concarneau
Concarneau is a historic Breton port town on Brittany’s southern coast, famed for its medieval Ville Close fortress rising from the harbor. The town pairs a working fishing heritage with charming streets, seawater promenades, and fresh seafood enjoyed at harborfront eateries. Its coastline features sheltered coves, sandy beaches, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Iroise Sea.
With a compact center, easy access to boat trips to the Glénan Islands, and a warm Breton welcome, Concarneau offers an authentic Atlantic France experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the cobbled streets of the Ville Close, the walled old town of Concarneau. Visit the local artisan shops and enjoy a freshly baked croissant at a quaint café. Don't miss the impressive 14th-century fortress that offers a glimpse into the town's rich maritime history.
After lunch, visit the Fishing Museum to learn about the town's fishing heritage, complete with fascinating exhibits and displays. Take a leisurely stroll along the coastal paths for stunning views of the harbor and the ocean beyond. Stop at local stalls to pick up some fresh seafood or snacks for a relaxing picnic.
As the sun sets, find a cozy bistro for dinner, where you can savor delicious seafood dishes that Concarneau is famous for. Enjoy the vibrant evening atmosphere as locals and visitors alike fill the streets. Cap off your day with a walk along the beach, listening to the sound of the waves lapping against the shore.
Take an early morning boat trip to the Glénan Archipelago, a group of stunning islands known for their beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spend your morning exploring the pristine sands of Ile du Loc'h and enjoying some sunbathing or swimming. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking coastal scenery.
After a leisurely lunch on one of the islands, engage in some water sports such as kayaking or snorkeling. Explore the unique flora and fauna of the islands while taking a guided walk or rent a bike to discover the scenic trails. Enjoy the tranquility of the islands before returning to Concarneau in the late afternoon.
Once back in Concarneau, unwind at a seafront café with a cocktail and enjoy the stunning ocean view. Consider an evening stroll through the town's lively market, which showcases local crafts and delicacies. End your day with live music at a bar, where both locals and travelers come together to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $40-70 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $4-8 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entry | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Picturesque medieval town and harbor
- Fresh seafood and Breton culture
- Compact and walkable center
- Gateway to the Glénan Islands
- Safe and family-friendly
- Seasonal crowds in summer
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Some attractions close in winter
- Coastal weather can be windy and rainy
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un bon restaurant?" - Could you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Bonne journée" - Have a good day
Places to Visit in Concarneau
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic medieval fortress perched on the water, best captured at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful boats, nets, and cranes provide dynamic maritime photography any time of day.
Wide sandy beach with dunes and views of the coast—great for wide-angle ocean shots.
Cliffs and expansive sea horizons offer dramatic seascapes at golden hour.
Food in Concarneau
Concarneau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Breton fish stew featuring cod or other white fish, potatoes, and onions, shared communally with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
A caramelized Breton butter cake, crisp on the outside and richly sweet inside.
Savory buckwheat galettes and sweet crêpes, often paired with local cider.
A custardy prune-soaked dessert that’s a Breton staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning stalls by the port offering fresh seafood and shellfish directly from local boats.
Indoor market with local produce, dairy, baked goods, and prepared dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin conversations with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir'; say 's’il vous plaît' and 'merci' in daily interactions.
Maintain a moderate tone in public spaces; wait to be seated in certain restaurants; use bread and cutlery correctly.
Respect quiet hours in residential areas; modest attire around religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Concarneau
Ensure a smooth experience
France generally includes service in the bill (service compris). A small extra tip (5–10%) for good service is customary if you’re happy with the service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and small shops; contactless and mobile payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming landscapes; carry a light jacket and be ready for showing showers.
Long days with pleasant sea breezes; peak crowds in July–August; great for beach activities and boat trips.
Cooler, variable weather with brisk sea air; seafood season remains vibrant and the town is less crowded.
Cool and often rainy with shorter days; coastal scenery remains moody and photogenic, but some attractions may have reduced hours.
Concarneau at Night
Hiking in Concarneau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic Breton coastal walk with sea cliffs, coves, and panoramic ocean views near Concarneau.
Gentle coastal routes offering sea views and opportunities to spot wildlife along the Breton shore.
Airports
How to reach Concarneau by plane.
Small regional airport with domestic flights; roughly 20–25 minutes by car from Concarneau.
Larger international airport with connections to major European cities; about 1 hour by car from Concarneau.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Year-round families with a mix of locals and seasonal visitors; child-friendly beaches and activities are common.
Seasonal influx from France and abroad, especially in summer, with heritage and maritime attractions at the forefront.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The sheltered harbor and open sea area provide excellent sailing opportunities with local clubs and lessons available.
Traditional Breton fishing culture; local charters and guided trips are available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Concarneau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy cheese galettes, vegetable-based dishes, salads, quiches, and non-meat pastries; ask for salads with local produce and check stocks of meat-based broths.