Capital of the Brittany region, Rennes, a villa of Art and History, amazes as much as it has fascinated its visitors for centuries. Cultural, historical and undeniably charming, Rennes is that we say it, always a good idea for stays to discover the splendours of Brittany.
There is so much to see for those who dream of discovering Rennes. Renowned for its dynamism and its marked heritage, Rennes is at once surprising, captivating, historical and so lively. Whether you visit it on foot, by bike or by metro, Rennes is a delight for holidaymakers who are curious to discover all the most beautiful faces. Are you ready for a time travel? Centuries and centuries of history have shaped the city. Head for the Old Rennes: you will discover magnificent colourful corbelled houses dating from the 15th and 17th centuries, but also mansions with elaborate facades, authentic old courtyards, arcaded buildings, loggia staircases, aristocratic residences and above all, streets with a typical local character made of old irregular cobblestones. Pass through the emblematic Portes Mordelaises of the city of Rennes, then through rue Saint-Sauveur, Place des Lices (known for its large market on Saturday mornings), but also through rue Saint-Guillaume to see the Ty-Koz house, rue Saint-Yves, rue des Dames for its Freslon de la Freslonnière hotel, rue de la Psalette or rue du Chapitre, which boasts two absolutely magnificent hotels. Take rue Saint-Michel (especially if you are hungry!), rue Pont-aux-Foulons, and stop at Place du Champ-Jacquet before visiting the Palais du Parlement, located on the Place royale du Parlement de Bretagne. The Place Royale of the Town Hall is a must, as is the Opera House (19th century), the Palais Saint-Georges (17th century) and the Piscine Saint-Georges (for the Art Deco mosaics that cover the basin). The neoclassical Cathedral of Saint Pierre and its high golden vaults, the Chapel of Saint Yves, the Abbey of Saint Madeleine and the Basilica of Saint Sauveur complete the list of monuments to see during your visit to Rennes.
After a pleasant walk through the cobbled streets, opt for a break "au vert" near the Parc du Thabor: located in the heart of Rennes, this absolutely splendid French-style garden brings a chic touch to the city thanks to its elegant fountains, statues, pools and rare species of trees from all over the world. Its rose garden and botanical garden make it one of the most beautiful parks in France, ideal for both joking and strolling. Looking for a bike ride? Go along the Vilaine! The pleasantly landscaped banks of the river are a vast open-air playground for outdoor enthusiasts who come to walk along the 45 kilometres of trails that meander along its meandering paths. Our advice: don't miss a picnic break at the Apigné ponds!
Finally, cultural and modern, Rennes is full of art galleries and other museums to visit during your Breton stay, such as the Champs Libres, the Ecomuseum of the Pays Breton, the Museum of Brittany or the Museum of Fine Arts. Always in motion, Rennes is also a fertile ground in terms of music since it attracts more and more curious people every year thanks to its avant-garde cultural events, such as the Trans Musicales, or the Festival des Tombées de la Nuit.