Rennes - Discovering France

Travelling to Rennes

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Rennes, 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 Rennes 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 Rennes, 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 Rennes for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Rennes

Rennes is a city located in the northwest region of France, specifically in the Brittany area. It is the capital of the Ille-et-Vilaine department and is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful parks, and historic buildings. The city has a population of over 200,000 people and is home to two major universities. Rennes is also a great destination for food lovers, with a wide range of local and international cuisines available. The city is easily accessible by train, bus, and plane, with the Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport only a few kilometers from the city center.

What to visit in Rennes

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Rennes, France: 1. Place des Lices: This is a popular square in Rennes that hosts a weekly market on Saturdays. It is lined with cafes and restaurants and is a great place to people watch.
2. Parc du Thabor: This is a large park in Rennes that features a range of botanical gardens, a rose garden, a French garden, and even a small zoo. It is a great place to relax and take a walk.
3. Musée des Beaux-Arts: This is an art museum in Rennes that features a range of paintings, sculptures, and decorative art from the 15th to the 21st centuries. It is considered one of the best art museums in France.
4. Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Rennes: This is a beautiful cathedral located in the heart of Rennes. It is known for its Gothic architecture and impressive stained glass windows.
5. Les Champs Libres: This is a cultural center in Rennes that houses a library, museum, and planetarium. It often hosts concerts and events and is a great place to learn about science and culture.
6. Place de la Mairie: This is the main square in Rennes, located in the historic center of the city. It is surrounded by historic buildings and is a great place to take a stroll and admire the architecture.
7. Hôtel Mercure Rennes Centre Gare: This is a hotel in Rennes that is located near the train station. It is known for its comfortable rooms and convenient location.
Overall, Rennes has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty. These attractions are just a few highlights to consider when planning a trip to 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 Rennes.

When to go on holiday to Rennes

The best time to go on holiday to Rennes would be during the months of May through September. This is the period when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed without much hindrance. Additionally, the city hosts several major events and festivals during this time, such as the Festival des Tombées de la Nuit in July and the Fête de la Musique in June. Keep in mind that summer months are the busiest and most expensive, so you may want to plan accordingly in terms of accommodations and budget.

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

How to get to Rennes

There are several ways to get to Rennes, France: 1. By plane: Rennes has its own airport, Saint-Jacques Airport, which is well-connected to other cities in France and Europe. There are regular flights to Rennes from Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and other major cities in France.
2. By train: Rennes has a high-speed train station that is connected to the rest of France and Europe. Trains from Paris to Rennes take around 1.5-2 hours.
3. By bus: Rennes is well-connected by bus to other cities in France and Europe. You can check schedules and book tickets online through companies like Flixbus and Ouibus.
4. By car: Rennes is easily reachable by car, as it is located on major highways in France.
Overall, the best way to get to Rennes will depend on your starting location and budget.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Rennes, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Rennes

Here are some typical foods from Rennes, France with a short description of each: 1. Galette-saucisse - This is a savory crepe made with buckwheat flour and filled with a grilled sausage.
2. Far Breton - A traditional dessert made with eggs, milk, flour, salted butter, and prunes. It has a rich custardy texture and a sweet flavor.
3. Kouign-Amann - A buttery pastry that is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. It is made with layers of butter and sugar.
4. Chouchen - A type of mead that is made from fermented honey. It has a sweet, slightly fruity flavor and is often served as an aperitif.
5. Cider - A popular drink in Brittany, cider is made from fermented apples and has a slightly tart and sweet taste.
6. Andouille de Guémené - A type of sausage that is made from pig intestines that are seasoned with onions, garlic, and spices. It has a smoky and slightly spicy flavor.
7. Gâteau Breton - A buttery cake that is made with eggs, sugar, flour, and salted butter. It has a slightly crunchy texture on the outside and a moist, rich flavor on the inside.
8. Cotriade - A traditional fish stew made with various types of fish, potatoes, onions, and other vegetables. It has a hearty, comforting flavor.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Rennes an expensive destination for tourists?

Rennes can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists. Prices for accommodations, food, and transportation can vary depending on the season and demand. However, compared to other popular destinations in France such as Paris, Rennes is generally more affordable. It's always a good idea to do your research and compare prices before planning your trip to Rennes. Additionally, there are many free or low-cost activities available in Rennes such as visiting museums, parks, and historical sites.

Where to find accomodation in Rennes

There are several areas in Rennes where you can find accommodation to visit the city. The most popular areas for tourists are the historic city center, the Sainte-Anne neighborhood, and the Thabor-Bourg l'Évesque district. These areas are close to many of Rennes' main attractions, including the Parliament of Brittany, the Place des Lices, and the Thabor Botanical Garden. Additionally, they offer a range of accommodation options, from hotels to vacation rentals, to suit different budgets and preferences.
You can check hotel prices at Rennes here:
Booking.com

Is Rennes a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Rennes is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Like any city, there may be instances of petty crime such as pickpocketing, but as long as tourists exercise normal precautions, they should have a safe and enjoyable visit. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid unlit or deserted areas at night.
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 Rennes.

What type of travelers will enjoy Rennes the most?

Rennes, France, is a wonderful destination that suits all types of travelers. Here are some ways to enjoy Rennes based on your travel preferences: 1. Couples: Couples will love Rennes. There are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants to explore, and you can take romantic walks through the historic center of the city. You can also visit the beautiful Parc du Thabor, which has lovely garden landscaping, a rose garden, and a duck pond. There are also various museums and art galleries to visit to get an insight into the city's rich culture and history.
2. Young people: Rennes is a vibrant and bustling city with a lively nightlife. You can find plenty of bars and clubs to hang out with friends, especially in the trendy Sainte-Anne district. Rennes is also host to Fest-Noz, a traditional dance festival featuring live music and dancing that is popular among young people.
3. Families: Rennes has various activities that families can enjoy together. For instance, the Parc des Gayeulles provides a large outdoor space, with sports fields, swimming pools and playgrounds and there is also the Le Grand Aquarium, with plenty of undersea creatures and interactive displays. Additionally, the Champs Libres, designed to entertain and educate, includes three museums being Science Center, Brittany Museum, and the Espace des Sciences, Planetarium and Observatory.

How to get around Rennes

There are several options for transportation to get around Rennes, France, including buses, trams, and bicycles. The public transportation system, STAR, operates throughout the city and surrounding area with an extensive network of bus and tram lines. Bicloo is the bike-sharing service available in Rennes, which enables people to rent bicycles and travel across the city. Alternatively, taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are also available for those who prefer a more comfortable and private mode of transportation.

What to see around Rennes

Here are some suggestions for day trips from Rennes, France: 1. Mont-Saint-Michel: This is a medieval island commune and UNESCO World Heritage site, located about an hour and a half drive from Rennes.
2. Saint-Malo: A beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, seafood restaurants and breathtaking views, located about an hour drive from Rennes.
3. Dinan: A small medieval town with a rich history and beautiful architecture, located about 30 minutes from Rennes.
4. Fougères: A charming town with a beautiful castle, medieval streets and a unique botanical garden, located about 40 minutes from Rennes.
5. Vitré: A picturesque town with a stunning castle, gothic cathedral and a historic district, located about 35 minutes from Rennes.
6. Combourg: A small village with a beautiful castle and a tranquil lake, located about 40 minutes from Rennes.
7. Brocéliande Forest: A mystical forest with legends of Merlin the wizard and King Arthur, located about an hour from Rennes.
All of these destinations have something unique and unforgettable to offer visitors.
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