Things To Do
in Rennes
Rennes is the capital of Brittany, perched along the Vilaine River with a rich medieval heritage and a lively student atmosphere. Its old town features half-timbered houses, cobbled lanes, and grand architectural landmarks that contrast with a buzzing modern café and arts scene. The city serves as a gateway to Breton culture, seafood, and easy access to coastal towns along the Atlantic.
With a compact center, abundant markets, and a welcoming vibe, Rennes is both a walkable historic site and a thriving contemporary hub.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring buttery croissants and rich coffee. Afterward, wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, marveling at the half-timbered houses that date back to the 16th century. Don't miss the stunning Rennes Cathedral, where you can appreciate its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere.
Enjoy lunch at a traditional Breton crêperie, indulging in savory galettes filled with local ingredients. Post-lunch, visit the Musée de Bretagne to immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture through engaging exhibits. Take a stroll in the nearby Parc du Thabor, where you can relax amidst beautiful gardens and a charming rose garden.
As night falls, head to the lively Place des Lices, known for its vibrant market and alfresco dining options. Treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at a bistro serving regional specialties like seafood or coq au vin. Conclude your evening with a walk through the illuminated streets, experiencing the enchanting atmosphere of Rennes at night.
Begin your day by visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts, where you can admire an impressive collection of artwork spanning from the Renaissance to modern times. Spend time appreciating masterpieces by renowned artists such as Monet and Picasso while basking in the museum's elegant ambiance. Don’t forget to explore the museum gardens for a moment of tranquility.
After a light lunch at a nearby café, make your way to the Musée de la Danse, where you can discover exhibitions dedicated to the art of dance and its cultural impact. Participate in a workshop or guided tour to enhance your understanding of this expressive art form. This unique museum experience will leave you inspired and thoroughly entertained.
Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant in the city, sampling innovative dishes that showcase local ingredients. After your meal, catch a performance at the Opéra de Rennes, where you can enjoy an evening of opera, ballet, or classical music. The combination of exquisite art and culture will make for an unforgettable night out.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch or dinner at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🚊Monthly public transit pass | $50-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant student city with medieval charm
- Excellent Breton cuisine and seafood
- Can be crowded with tourists in peak season
- Some sights are crowded on weekends
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Rennes
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic-style parliamentary building with ornate façades and a grand square—great for architectural photography and dusk shots.
Colorful half-timbered houses, bustling market energy, and charming streets ideal for street and portrait photography.
Scenic riverside views with bridges, boats, and reflections—excellent for sunset photography.
Gothic cathedral exterior and narrow lanes with stonework and stairways perfect for moody street shots.
Food in Rennes
Rennes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A buckwheat crepe filled with cheese, ham, and a sunny-side-up egg, a Breton staple enjoyed in crêperies throughout Rennes.
Must-Try!
A classic sweet crepe drizzled with salted-butter caramel—perfect as a dessert or indulgent snack.
A hearty Breton fish stew featuring various catches, tomatoes, and herbs; a coastal specialty worth trying in seafood-friendly spots.
A rich, buttery caramelized pastry from Brittany; a must-try treat at local bakeries.
Fresh Brittany seafood—oysters, mussels, and shellfish sourced from nearby coasts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Famed Saturday market in the Old Town offering fresh produce, seafood, cheese, and Breton specialties.
Central market with stalls selling seafood, fruit, vegetables, cheeses, and prepared foods; ideal for picking up picnic ingredients.
Several stalls around the historic center offer quick, authentic galettes and sweet crepes for a casual bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with Bonjour and a polite greeting; use basic politeness in shops and restaurants.
Keep hands visible on the table; wait to be seated in traditional restaurants; tipping is modest but appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Rennes
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included (service compris) in France; rounding up or giving 5-10% for good service is common in dining.
Cards (chip and contactless) are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and small vendors. Mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather and blooming parks create colorful cityscapes; good for outdoor markets and walking tours.
Warm days with lively terraces and festivals; occasional showers—carry a light jacket and sunscreen.
Pleasant temperatures and harvest markets; golden light enhances city architecture and riverside views.
Cool and damp with festive markets and cozy bistros; some outdoor sights operate on limited hours.
Rennes at Night
Hiking in Rennes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive woodland with networked trails suitable for day hikes, easy strolls, and wildlife viewing.
Countryside loop along the Meu valley with scenic villages and viewpoints, suitable for moderate hikes.
Short trips to the Brittany coast for sea views, rugged cliffs, and salt-air walks.
Airports
How to reach Rennes by plane.
A small regional airport about 7-12 km from the city center offering domestic and limited international flights; connected by shuttle, bus, or taxi.
A small Brittany airport serving seasonal and some international routes; roughly an hour's drive from Rennes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large student population shapes the cultural scene, nightlife, and youthful energy.
Residential neighborhoods with parks and schools; family-friendly attractions nearby.
Growing international presence, including EU and non-EU residents seeking Breton culture and education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local enthusiasm centers on Stade Rennais FC with a devoted fanbase; rugby is also enjoyed across Brittany.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rennes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most creperies offer vegetarienne galettes with vegetables, cheese, and eggs. Ask for no meat or fish, and favor seasonal vegetable dishes or cheese-based options.