Things To Do
in Vannes
Vannes is a charming medieval town located in the Brittany region of France. It is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, including a beautiful old town with timber-framed houses and cobbled streets. The town is surrounded by ancient city walls and boasts a picturesque harbor lined with traditional boats.
Vannes also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with various festivals, museums, and galleries to explore.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $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
Stroll through the charming streets of Vannes, admiring the medieval architecture and the old city walls. Visit the iconic Saint-Pierre Cathedral for a dose of history and culture.
Grab lunch at a local café, trying traditional Breton galettes. Spend the afternoon at the Museum of Fine Arts to encounter art from various periods.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant for fresh seafood. Take a leisurely walk along the marina to enjoy the sunset views.
Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Parc de la Garenne, enjoying the lush greenery and serene atmosphere. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst nature.
After lunch, continue your exploration at the Jardin des Remparts, a garden that offers fantastic views of the city walls. It's a perfect spot for taking photos.
Savor a delicious dinner at a local bistro. End your day with a quiet stroll through the illuminated gardens.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, with beautiful medieval architecture
- Stunning natural surroundings, including the nearby Golfe du Morbihan
- Pleasant climate, particularly during the summer months
- Vibrant local markets and cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and regional products
- Strong community spirit with numerous festivals and events throughout the year
- Limited public transportation options for getting to and from larger cities
- Tourism can be heavy during peak seasons, making it crowded
- Higher cost of living compared to other areas in Brittany
- Some amenities may be lacking for those looking for a larger urban lifestyle
- Weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rainy spells
Best Activities in Vannes
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic coastline and islands of the Gulf of Morbihan on a boat tour
Tours
Uncover the best of Vannes with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Vannes
Visit one of these nice places.
Explore the charming medieval streets and enjoy picturesque views of historic buildings and beautiful scenery.
Capture stunning photos of the park's greenery, flowers, and the Chateau Gaillard in the background.
Marvel at the scenic harbor with its boats, colorful houses, and the imposing city walls.
Food in Vannes
Vannes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish featuring an assortment of fresh seafood including oysters, langoustines, crab, and mussels served with aioli and lemon. Recommended at La Criée Vannes for a great selection.
Must-Try!
A savory buckwheat crepe filled with ham, Emmental cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg. Le Sterenn is a popular spot to savor this local favorite.
Indulge in this delectable buttery Breton cake with layers of sugar that caramelize during baking, resulting in a crispy, sweet crust. Visit Boulangerie L'Etoile for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Vannes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling food market where you can explore an array of fresh local produce, seafood, cheeses, and other regional specialties. It's a perfect place to sample local flavors and interact with vendors.
This charming crĂȘperie offers delicious galettes and sweet crepes with various fillings, allowing visitors to experience authentic street food in a cozy, picturesque setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Vannes, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a 'bise' (a kiss on each cheek) when meeting or departing, particularly in social settings.
Being punctual is highly valued in Vannes. Arriving on time for social gatherings, meetings, or appointments is considered respectful and shows consideration for others' time.
When dining in Vannes, it is polite to keep your hands visible on the table, avoid placing elbows on the table, and to wait for the host to start eating before beginning your meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Vannes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Vannes
Ensure a smooth experience
In Vannes, France, it is customary to leave a small tip of around 5-10% at restaurants and cafes if the service was particularly good. However, tipping is not obligatory and is not as common as in some other countries.
In Vannes, France, payment is commonly made using cash, credit, or debit cards. It is also increasingly common to use contactless payment methods such as mobile payments or smart cards. Many businesses also accept popular international payment methods like Visa and Mastercard.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Vannes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Vannes, France. Mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds.
Warm and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the beaches and nearby islands.
Milder temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and fewer tourists. Great for hiking and exploring the countryside.
Cool and crisp weather, fewer tourists, and a festive atmosphere during the holiday season. Perfect for exploring the historic sites and enjoying local cuisine.
Vannes at Night
Hiking in Vannes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A coastal trail that offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. Perfect for a scenic hike.
A beautiful natural park featuring a network of walking trails through diverse landscapes including forests, marshes, and coastal areas.
A picturesque walking path along the coastline, providing access to beaches and rocky outcrops.
A large forest area offering various trails suitable for hiking and enjoying nature.
A trail that traverses through the scenic countryside and provides views of the historic town and rivers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Vannes through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Vannes by plane.
The main international airport serving the city of Nantes, located approximately 100 km from Vannes.
An international airport located approximately 160 km from Vannes, serving the city of Brest.
An airport located around 110 km from Vannes, serving the capital of Brittany, Rennes.
An airport located about 150 km from Vannes, primarily serving seasonal flights, situated near Saint-Malo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Vannes are French nationals, with a significant number living in the city and its surrounding area.
A notable demographic group includes residents from other European countries, particularly from regions like the UK and Spain.
There is a growing community of immigrants from various African countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of Vannes.
A smaller demographic group consists of individuals from Asian countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
This group includes expatriates and residents from North America, although they represent a smaller portion of the population.
There is also a minor presence of residents from Latin American countries, adding to the multicultural fabric of Vannes.
The Soul of Vannes
Discover the essence of Vannes through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Vannes, with local clubs and a passionate fan base supporting the game.
Rugby has a strong following in Vannes, with several teams playing in local and regional competitions.
Given Vannes' coastal location, sailing is a popular activity, with many residents participating in both recreational and competitive sailing.
Basketball is enjoyed by many in Vannes, with local clubs and community programs encouraging participation at all levels.
Cycling is a favored pastime in and around Vannes, with various trails and scenic routes that attract both cyclists and mountain bikers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vannes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Breton cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Vannes offer vegetarian and vegan dishes such as buckwheat galettes filled with flavorful vegetables, and fresh salads with local ingredients.
Several establishments in Vannes cater to gluten-free diets, providing options like gluten-free crepes and using alternative flours for traditional recipes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Vannes with these cultural adventures.
