Things To Do
in Concarneau

Concarneau is a picturesque coastal town in Brittany, France, renowned for its stunning walled city and vibrant fishing port. It boasts a rich history, dating back to the 14th century, and is famous for its beautiful beaches and the stunning blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The town is also home to the famous Ville Close, an island fortress that attracts visitors with its charming shops and cafes.

With a blend of historical charm and natural beauty, Concarneau offers a delightful experience for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Ville Close
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ville Close, wandering through its narrow streets filled with shops and cafes. Enjoy a fresh pastry and coffee at a local bakery.

afternoon
:

Head to the Concarneau Marine Museum to learn about the town's maritime history. Afterward, relax on the beach at Plage de la Croix.

evening
:

Dine at a seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor and enjoy local specialties while watching the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a scenic walk along the coastal path to the beautiful Plage des Sables Blancs. Enjoy the panoramic views and fresh sea air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Château de Keriolet, a beautiful castle that showcases stunning architecture and gardens. Take a guided tour to learn about its history.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife at a bar with live music or a cozy pub, sampling regional wines and ciders.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🥖Baguette$1.50
🍽️Restaurant Meal$15.00
Coffee$3.00
🍺Local Beer$5.00
🚌Bus Ticket$2.00

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
  • Rich maritime history and culture
  • Charming small-town atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Can be crowded during peak summer months
  • Some attractions may have limited hours in the off-season
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est..." - Where is...
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Concarneau

Visit one of these nice places.

Ville Close

The fortified island town with its stone walls and charming streets makes for perfect photography.

Plage des Sables Blancs

This beautiful beach offers stunning views of the ocean and is ideal for sunset photography.

Concarneau Harbor

Capture the vibrant fishing boats and colorful buildings lining the harbor.

Culinary Guide

Food in Concarneau

Concarneau is a culinary delight, offering a variety of fresh seafood and traditional Breton dishes that reflect its coastal heritage.

Concarneau Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Crêpes

Thin pancakes served with sweet or savory fillings, a staple of Breton cuisine.

Must-Try!

Coquilles Saint-Jacques

Delicious scallops often prepared with butter, garlic, and herbs.

Cider

A popular alcoholic beverage in Brittany, made from fermented apple juice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Concarneau Market

Held on Thursdays, this market features fresh seafood, local produce, and artisanal goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offer fast-food options like galettes (savory crêpes) and seafood snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Concarneau experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in winter to 20°C (68°F) in summer. Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being October and November. Coastal breezes can make summer evenings cooler, so it's wise to bring a light jacket.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A polite greeting is important; a simple 'Bonjour' when entering shops is appreciated.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal before eating and always say 'Bon appétit'.

Dress Code

Dress modestly and smartly, especially in restaurants and cultural venues.

Safety Guide

Safety

Concarneau is generally a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and safeguard personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's recommended to have travel insurance for added security.

Tipping in Concarneau

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Service charge is usually included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, although cash may be needed for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather with plenty of sun; perfect for beach activities and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage; this is an excellent time for photography and hiking.

Winter

Milder winters with occasional rain; fewer tourists, making it a peaceful time to explore the town.

Nightlife Guide

Concarneau at Night

Concarneau offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a mix of bars, pubs, and occasional live music events. The harbor area has several cozy spots where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the beautiful views. During the summer months, outdoor terraces become lively with both locals and tourists enjoying the warm evenings.

Hiking in Concarneau

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Douaniers

This coastal path offers stunning views and connects various beaches along the coast.

Cap Coz Trail

A scenic trail that winds through beautiful landscapes and provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Concarneau by plane.

Quimper–Bretagne Airport

Located about 20 km (12 miles) from Concarneau, this airport offers limited domestic flights and connections to larger airports.

Getting Around

Walkability

Concarneau is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance from each other. The compact size of the town encourages leisurely strolls, especially around the picturesque Ville Close. Additionally, well-maintained sidewalks and coastal paths make it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population primarily consists of native Bretons, with a strong sense of community and cultural pride.

Tourists

Concarneau attracts visitors from various regions, including France and abroad, especially during the summer.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

Due to its coastal location, sailing is a popular sport in Concarneau, with numerous clubs and events.

Fishing

Fishing is a traditional activity in the region, with both recreational and commercial practices being significant.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Concarneau is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or on foot. Public transportation options such as local buses connect Concarneau to nearby towns and cities, with regular schedules. During peak tourist season, the town may experience increased pedestrian traffic, particularly in the Ville Close.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Concarneau.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including salads and vegetable crêpes.

Gluten-Free Options

Some crêperies provide gluten-free crêpes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Concarneau has accessible healthcare facilities, including pharmacies and a local hospital. Emergency services are available, and visitors should ensure they have appropriate health insurance. Many medical staff speak English, making it easier for tourists to seek assistance if needed.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide