Things To Do
in Dinard
Dinard is a charming seaside town located in Brittany, France. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and stunning Belle Ăpoque architecture, Dinard is a popular vacation destination. Visitors can enjoy relaxing on the beach, strolling along the scenic promenade, and exploring the quaint streets lined with cafes and boutiques.
With its mild climate and picturesque coastal setting, Dinard offers a perfect blend of relaxation and French elegance.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the beautiful Plage de Dinard, perfect for a morning swim. Enjoy a fresh croissant from a nearby bakery as you stroll along the beach.
Head to the historic town center and explore the charming boutiques and art galleries. Donât miss the chance to grab lunch at a seaside cafĂ© with stunning views.
Dine at a local seafood restaurant and savor fresh oysters. Take an evening walk along the promenade to enjoy the sunset over the water.
Visit the Villa et Jardins de Rochebonne, an exquisite villa surrounded by gardens. Spend some time relaxing on the lawn and taking in the historic architecture.
Explore the Dinard Market, vibrant with local produce and handmade goods. Sample local delicacies and find unique souvenirs to take home.
Enjoy dinner in the historic district, where you can find an array of traditional Breton dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to admire the illuminated buildings.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful sandy beaches and scenic coastline.
- Charming historic architecture and quaint streets.
- Pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers.
- Vibrant local markets and excellent seafood restaurants.
- Proximity to other attractions in Brittany and Normandy.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Higher costs for accommodations in popular areas.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Some attractions may have seasonal hours, reducing availability.
Best Activities in Dinard
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball at the main beach of Dinard, which is known for its beautiful sandy shores and picturesque views.
Take a leisurely stroll along the stunning coastline promenade, which offers scenic views of the sea, cliffs, and charming villas.
Experience kayaking on the Rance River, where you can explore the beautiful landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding nature.
Explore the area on two wheels by cycling along the well-marked coastal paths that connect Dinard to nearby towns and offer breathtaking sea views.
Explore the historical Fort Philippe, which offers insights into the area's maritime history and provides panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.
Enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine at outdoor restaurants along the coast, offering beautiful views of the beach and sunset.
Get creative and build sandcastles on the beach with your family or friends, making for fun and memorable outdoor moments.
Play a friendly match at one of the public tennis courts in Dinard, providing a great way to stay active while enjoying the outdoors.
Tours
Uncover the best of Dinard with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Dinard
Visit one of these nice places.
The main beach in Dinard, offering stunning views of the coastline and adjacent Saint-Malo. Perfect for sunset photography and capturing the vibrant beach atmosphere.
A picturesque promenade that runs along the coastline, providing panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding cliffs, ideal for leisurely walks and photography.
A beautiful park with landscaped gardens and a view of the marina. This location offers diverse angles for nature and landscape photography.
The cliffs along the coastline provide dramatic views of the ocean and the rugged landscape. A great spot for capturing the wild beauty of the French coastline.
This historic villa offers a unique architectural backdrop and is surrounded by lush gardens, making it a great location for both architectural and landscape photography.
Various vantage points in Dinard provide breathtaking views of Saint-Malo across the bay, especially at sunset or during high tide.
Food in Dinard
Dinard Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Must-try savory buckwheat crepes often filled with cheese, ham, and egg, can be found at CrĂȘperie du Port.
Must-Try!
Savor the locally harvested mussels cooked in white wine and shallots at La Cale restaurant overlooking the sea.
Indulge in this classic French upside-down apple tart at Patisserie de la Tour.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Dinard better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this bustling market to explore fresh produce, cheese, and local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to try freshly made crepes from the street food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Dinard, it's customary to greet people with 'Bonjour' (Good day) during the day and 'Bonsoir' (Good evening) in the evening. A light handshake or a kiss on the cheek (usually two or three, depending on the local custom) is also common among acquaintances.
When dining out in Dinard, it is polite to wait for the host to start the meal or say 'Bon appétit' before beginning to eat. Additionally, keeping your hands on the table (but not your elbows) is considered good manners during meals.
Dress is generally smart-casual in Dinard. People tend to dress well when going out, so wearing neat and tidy clothing is recommended. Beachwear is acceptable on the beach but should not be worn in town or restaurants.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Dinard with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Dinard
Ensure a smooth experience
In Dinard, France, tipping is generally not mandatory as service charges are often included in the bill at restaurants and cafés. However, it is customary to leave a small amount, around 5-10% of the total bill, as a gesture of appreciation for good service. In casual settings, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Payment methods in Dinard are quite flexible. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels. Cash payments in euros are also acceptable, and it's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or markets. It's common to ask for the bill or 'l'addition' when dining out.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Dinard.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a lovely time to visit Dinard as the flowers begin to bloom and the weather warms up. Expect mild temperatures averaging between 10 to 15°C. This season is ideal for outdoor activities like walking along the beach promenade and enjoying the beautiful gardens.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Dinard. Expect warm temperatures ranging from 18 to 25°C and a lively atmosphere with various festivals and events. It's perfect for beach activities, water sports, and visiting local markets, but be prepared for larger crowds.
Autumn (September to November) offers cooler temperatures, generally between 12 to 18°C. This is a great time for fewer crowds, beautiful fall foliage, and enjoying scenic coastal walks. The weather can be unpredictable with occasional rain, so it's wise to check forecasts before your visit.
Winter (December to February) in Dinard can be quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 10°C. While this season sees fewer tourists, it provides a peaceful atmosphere. Expect some rain and wind, but the coastal views and cozy cafes make for a charming experience during this quieter time.
Dinard at Night
Hiking in Dinard
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal trail that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and nearby islands, perfect for a leisurely hike.
Located a short distance from Dinard, this area features rugged cliffs and coastal paths, ideal for adventurers looking for stunning landscapes.
A bit further out but worth the drive, this area features dramatic cliffs, rich flora, and panoramic ocean views along its hiking paths.
A picturesque trail that offers beautiful views of the estuary and is perfect for both hiking and photography.
A beautiful forest a bit inland, featuring several trails for hiking, running, and enjoying nature away from the coast.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Dinard through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Dinard by plane.
Located approximately 70 km southeast of Dinard, Rennes Bretagne Airport serves as a regional hub offering international flights.
Located about 176 km southwest of Dinard, Nantes Atlantique Airport is the largest airport in western France, providing numerous international connections.
Approximately 195 km west of Dinard, Brest Bretagne Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights.
About 200 km northeast of Dinard, Caen Carpiquet Airport offers flights primarily to the UK and other European destinations.
Located about 137 km northeast of Dinard, Cherbourg-Maupertus Airport handles mainly regional flights with some international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population, reflective of the town's appeal as a retirement destination.
This group makes up a large segment of the workforce and is key to the local economy.
Comprising students and young professionals, this group represents a vital part of the town's future demographic trends.
This demographic includes school-aged children and younger, showing the area's family-friendly aspects.
A smaller, but notable population of non-French residents, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the community.
The Soul of Dinard
Discover the essence of Dinard through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Dinard is known for its beautiful coastal views and is a popular destination for sailing enthusiasts. The waters around the town provide ideal conditions for sailing and other water sports.
The beaches of Dinard offer good surf conditions, attracting surfers looking to ride the waves along the Brittany coast.
Tennis is a popular sport in Dinard, with several clubs and facilities available for both residents and visitors.
The Dinard Golf Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in France, offering a challenging course with stunning views of the coastline.
With its scenic coastal paths and nature trails, walking and hiking are popular activities for both locals and tourists in Dinard.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dinard.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several eateries such as Chez la MĂšre Pourcel offer vegetarian galettes and vegan salads alongside traditional dishes.
Dining spots like Le Bistro du Port provide gluten-free versions of classic French dishes and desserts to cater to dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Dinard with these cultural adventures.
