Things To Do
in Quimper

Quimper is a picturesque town in Brittany, France, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. The town is characterized by its charming medieval streets, stunning Gothic architecture, and the beautiful Odet River winding through its heart. Quimper is also famous for its traditional pottery and the iconic Cathedral of Saint-Corentin.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and delicious local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Quimper's Historical Heart
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Cathedral of Saint-Corentin, marveling at its impressive stained glass windows and intricate facade. Afterward, stroll through the historic old town, admiring the half-timbered houses and quaint shops.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local crêperie, then visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts to appreciate its collection of fine art, including works by Breton artists. Spend some time walking along the Odet River, taking in the scenic views.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Breton restaurant, savoring local specialties. Finish off your evening at a cozy wine bar, enjoying the vibrant local atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the Parc de Locmaria for a peaceful morning walk among the gardens and historic ruins. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the river.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a pottery workshop to learn about the local craftsmanship that Quimper is famous for. Following the workshop, explore the local artisan shops.

evening
:

Have dinner at a seafood restaurant with fresh catches from the nearby coast. Experience the nightlife by visiting a local pub or attending a live music event.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$2-$4
🛒Groceries (weekly)$50-$70
🏨Hotel (per night)$80-$150
🚍Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming historical architecture and vibrant culture.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood and crêpes.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings, ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours in the off-season.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please

Places to Visit in Quimper

Visit one of these nice places.

Cathedral of Saint-Corentin

An architectural masterpiece that offers stunning views and intricate details perfect for photography.

Odet River

The river's scenic banks are ideal for capturing the beauty of Quimper's landscape, especially at sunset.

Place Terre au Duc

A vibrant square filled with colorful houses and lively street scenes, perfect for capturing the local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Quimper

Quimper offers a delightful culinary journey, showcasing the best of Breton cuisine and local specialties. From savory crêpes to fresh seafood, there's something for every palate.

Quimper Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Galettes de Sarrasin

Buckwheat pancakes that can be filled with a variety of savory ingredients, a signature dish in Brittany.

Must-Try!

Cider

A traditional Breton beverage made from fermented apples, often enjoyed with meals.

Kouign-Amann

A rich, buttery cake made with layers of pastry and caramelized sugar, perfect for dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Quimper Market

Held every Wednesday and Saturday, this market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Street Creperies

You'll find various crepe stands around the town, serving delicious savory and sweet crepes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Quimper has an oceanic climate characterized by mild temperatures year-round. Summers (June to August) are warm with average highs around 24°C (75°F), while winters (December to February) are cool, averaging around 6°C (43°F). Rain is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being November and December. Spring and autumn see moderate temperatures and occasional rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite 'Bonjour' (hello) when entering shops or restaurants is customary and appreciated.

Dining Manners

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and keep hands on the table, but not elbows.

Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance when conversing, as personal space is valued in French culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Quimper is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and markets. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious of pickpockets in busy spots.

Tipping in Quimper

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring gardens.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists, and the town is lively with festivals and outdoor dining options.

Autumn

A beautiful season with colorful foliage, ideal for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cool and sometimes rainy, but cozy cafes and festive decorations create a charming atmosphere for visitors.

Nightlife Guide

Quimper at Night

Quimper's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a variety of bars, pubs, and live music venues. The city has several establishments that offer local drinks and entertainment, often featuring traditional Breton music. The atmosphere is friendly, making it a great place to relax and socialize after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Quimper

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Douaniers

A coastal path offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Montagne de L'Arrée

A challenging hike through rugged terrain with breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Quimper by plane.

Brest Bretagne Airport

Located about 60 km from Quimper, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it the closest airport to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Quimper is highly walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town features narrow cobblestone streets, making it easy to explore on foot. Pedestrian-friendly areas are abundant, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery and local shops at leisure.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing number of young professionals are moving to Quimper for its quality of life and job opportunities in various sectors.

Retirees

Quimper attracts retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle with access to cultural and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Quimper, with local clubs competing in various leagues.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, with many locals participating in cycling events and enjoying the scenic routes around Quimper.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Quimper is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation is available, including buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Biking is also a popular way to get around, with designated bike lanes in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Quimper.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes, especially crêpes without meat.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several establishments provide gluten-free alternatives, particularly in crêpes and baked goods.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Quimper are accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available. The main hospital, Centre Hospitalier de Quimper, offers comprehensive medical services. EU citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to public healthcare, while non-EU visitors may require travel insurance.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide