Brest - Discovering France

Travelling to Brest

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Brest, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Brest and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Brest, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Brest for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Brest

Brest is a city located in the northwestern part of France, in the region of Brittany. It is a major port city and a naval base, with a rich maritime history. The city is surrounded by hills and has a picturesque harbor, with several parks and gardens. Brest is also known for its art and culture scene, with several museums, theaters, and festivals held throughout the year. The food of Brest and Brittany is famous for its seafood and savory crepes. The climate in Brest is mild and typically rainy, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C throughout the year.

What to visit in Brest

Sure, here are some top tourist attractions in Brest, France: 1. Océanopolis: Océanopolis is a large aquarium located on the tip of a peninsula in Brest, France. It’s one of the biggest marine parks in Europe and is home to about 10,000 marine animals, including sharks, seals, and penguins. Visitors can learn about different ecosystems, conservation efforts, and the role of humans in the ocean.
2. Castle of Brest: The Castle of Brest is a military fortification built in the 14th century. It’s located on a hill overlooking the harbor and was a key defensive point for the city throughout history. Nowadays, visitors can walk along its ramparts, explore its museum of naval history, and enjoy the panoramic views of the bay.
3. Conservatory Botanical Garden: The Conservatory Botanical Garden is a serene oasis in the heart of the city. It’s home to over 4,000 species of plants from around the world, all carefully arranged in themed gardens, such as the Tropical Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Japanese Garden. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing walk or a picnic.
4. Tanguy Tower: The Tanguy Tower is a medieval tower in the heart of Brest, France. It’s one of the oldest buildings in the city and now houses a museum of local history and folklore. Visitors can learn about the Celtic origins of the region, the maritime traditions of the people, and the impact of World War II on the city.
5. Le Quartz: Le Quartz is a modern cultural center in Brest, France. It’s a hub of artistic and intellectual activity, with theaters, galleries, and performance spaces. Visitors can attend concerts, plays, exhibitions, and conferences, and get a taste of the vibrant cultural life of the city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Brest.

When to go on holiday to Brest

The best time to visit Brest is from late June to early September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the city's beautiful coastline. However, note that this is also the high season for tourism in Brest, which means there may be crowds and prices may be higher than other times of the year.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you might consider visiting in the shoulder season, which runs from May to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and you'll have more flexibility in terms of accommodations and activities. Keep in mind that the weather can be a bit unpredictable during this time, so it's a good idea to pack clothes for both warm and cool temperatures.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Brest

There are a few different options for getting to Brest, France depending on your starting location and preferred mode of transportation.
By plane: Brest has its own airport, Brest Bretagne Airport (BES), which is located about 10 km from the city center. You can find direct flights to Brest from various cities in France and other European countries. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to get to the city center.
By train: Brest is connected to the rest of France by train and has a train station located in the city center. There are high-speed trains (TGV) that connect Paris to Brest, as well as regional trains that connect Brest to other cities in the region.
By car: Brest is accessible by car, either by taking the A11 or A13 highways from Paris, or by taking the N165 coastal route from other cities in Brittany.
By bus: There are several bus companies that operate routes to Brest from other cities in France and neighboring countries. You can check with Flixbus, Ouibus or BlaBlaBus for schedules and prices.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Brest, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Brest

Brest, a city in Brittany, France, is known for its delicious cuisine. Here are some of the typical foods of Brest and a short description for each of them: 1. Crêpes: A thin, delicious pancake that is a beloved staple in pancake-houses worldwide. In Brest, they are usually served with savory or sweet fillings and sometimes cooked on a round, flat griddle called a bilig.
2. Kouign amann: This is a pastry that is similar to a croissant and is made with layers of butter and sugar that are folded into the dough. It is then baked until it is golden brown and crispy.
3. Galette saucisse: This is a popular street food in Brest, consisting of a sausage wrapped in a buckwheat galette (similar to a savory crêpe).
4. Far breton: A traditional dessert from Brittany which consists of a baked custard cake filled with prunes. It can also be made with various other fruits.
5. Rillettes de porc: This is a pork pâté that is made with minced pork meat and fat, cooked slowly in its own fat and flavored with herbs and spices. It is usually served as an appetizer on baguette slices.
6. Caramel au beurre salé: This is a delicious salted-butter caramel that is made with caramelized sugar and butter. It's often used as a topping for ice cream or desserts and has a rich, creamy flavor.
7. Coquilles Saint-Jacques: This shellfish dish is a specialty of the Brittany region and is made by sautéing scallops in butter with herbs and garlic. It's usually served with a cream sauce and sometimes mushrooms.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Brest an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other popular tourist destinations in France, Brest can be considered a relatively affordable destination. Prices for accommodation, dining and activities tend to be lower than in cities such as Paris, Lyon or Nice.
However, the cost of your trip to Brest will depend on your travel style and budget. If you are looking for luxury accommodations or high-end dining options, you may find that prices are higher than what you would pay for similar experiences in other parts of France.
Overall, Brest can be a great destination for travelers on a moderate budget who are looking to experience the culture and beauty of France without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Brest

The best areas to find accommodation in Brest, France, would be around the city center, particularly near the Place de la Liberté and the Rue de Siam. Other good areas include around the port area, around the Jardin botanique and the Bellevue neighborhood. These areas offer convenient access to restaurants, shops, and attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Brest here:
Booking.com

Is Brest a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, generally Brest is a safe place for tourists. There may be some petty crimes such as pickpocketing or theft, so it's a good idea to stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings while exploring the city. It's also always good to exercise caution when traveling alone at night, especially in unlit or isolated areas. Overall, the city has a low crime rate and tourists should feel comfortable visiting and exploring Brest.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Brest.

What type of travelers will enjoy Brest the most?

Brest, France has a variety of activities and attractions that cater to different interests and preferences. Here's a breakdown of the types of travelers who may enjoy visiting Brest: 1. Couples: Brest is a quiet and scenic city that offers romantic views of the ocean and the harbor. Couples can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the marina or the garden and visit the Château de Brest, a 14th-century castle. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes that offer intimate dining venues.
2. Families: Brest has a lot of activities for families traveling with kids, such as the Océanopolis aquarium, the Musée National de la Marine, and the Jardin du Conservatoire Botanique National, a garden with a fantastic collection of plants and flowers.
3. Young People: Brest has a vibrant nightlife and is home to several bars and clubs that offer live music, cocktails, and other entertainment. It is also a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking and surfing.
Overall, Brest is a versatile city that appeals to a broad range of travelers. It has something for everyone, from quiet and scenic spots to vibrant and fun activities.

How to get around Brest

In Brest, France you can move around by bus, tram, taxi, bicycle and private car. Buses and trams are operated by the same company, Bibus, and have an integrated ticketing system. Taxis are available from the taxi stands or can be booked in advance. There are also several car rental companies in the city. Lastly, Brest is a bike-friendly city with many bike paths and bike rental options for visitors.

What to see around Brest

Certainly! Here are some lovely places to visit in a day trip from Brest, France: 1. Crozon Peninsula: A scenic headland with rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming towns.
2. Quimper: A historic town known for its Gothic cathedral, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered houses.
3. Locronan: A beautiful medieval village filled with traditional Breton granite houses and cobbled streets.
4. Pointe du Raz: A natural promontory with dramatic sea views and a lighthouse.
5. Oceanopolis: An aquarium and ocean discovery center showcasing the marine life of the Brittany coast.
6. Concarneau: A fortified port town with a picturesque harbor and a 14th-century castle.
7. Les Abers: A scenic stretch of coastline dotted with charming fishing villages and stunning beaches.
8. Morlaix: A lovely town with a picturesque historic center that features a 19th-century viaduct and a medieval tower.
Hope that helps!
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