10 Must-Do Things When Visiting Rennes, France

Rennes is the French capital of the Brittany region, and it is a city that should be on everyone's bucket list. Rennes has something for everyone, from charming cathedrals and old cobblestone streets to mouthwatering regional cuisine. There are so many things to do in this lively city, whether you want to relax, go exploring, or learn something new!

The fact that Rennes is small enough for visitors to easily navigate on foot is a great feature. Take a stroll along the Rance River's banks, take in the atmosphere, or wander the winding streets. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rennes houses an extensive collection of works of art from all over the world. One of the city's best-preserved religious structures is Rennes Cathedral, built in the 17th century.

Rennes has a lot of shops to explore if you like to shop. Take a stroll down Rue Saint Georges to see all of the unusual shops, like Ladurée, which specializes in macarons. Visit the Place Luxembourg Shopping Centre for more substantial shopping. There are a lot of restaurants and bars, as well as all of your favorite stores, here are some of the must-do things if you are visiting Rennes.

1. Roam around Parc Oberthür

Parc Oberthür was François-Charles Oberthür, the founder of the Oberthür printing house,'s private park, which served as another green oasis in the middle of Rennes.

Given its size of more than three hectares, it is remarkable that it remained private until 1960. There is woodland with sequoia, cedar, beech, oak, and lime trees, as well as beautifully maintained lawns with paths around the edges. Additionally, a substantial ornamental pond houses carp, ducks, and turtles.

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2. Porte Mordelaise

Between the 1600s and the 1800s, the city walls of Porte Mordelaise Rennes were torn down in stages. However, there are still compelling fragments to be found scattered throughout the area.

Porte Mordelaise, a gatehouse built in the 15th century with a barbican and evidence of a drawbridge, is the best of these. The gate was the main way into the city and the starting point for ceremonial processions. The coat of arms of the Dukes of Montfort, who ruled Brittany from the middle of the 14th century to the beginning of the 16th, can be seen above the arch.

3. Musée de Bretagne

Located in the Champs Libres, the regional museum Musée de Bretagne commemorated its 40th anniversary in 2016 and brings together Brittany's thousands of years of human history. The archaeological collections are actually much older and were expanded from a core of objects gathered in the 1700s by the aforementioned Christophe-Paul de Robien.

The museum currently has more than 300,000 items, including a staggeringly rich collection of 35,000 coins. The coins produced by the medieval Duchy of Brittany are the most instructive. The museum's other exhibits, such as an Iron Age statue, medieval manuscripts, and Nazi paratrooper bicycles, all help you learn about this region's long history.

4. Chapelle Saint-Yves

Chapelle Saint-Yves, a hospice chapel built in the 15th century by a mission for the city's poor after the Breton War of Succession, is one place to visit if you want to learn more about Rennes' history.

It is now the Tourist Office of Rennes, so you could stop by to get maps and guides. However, the ongoing exhibit "Rennes, Ville d'Art et d'Histoire '' can be found in the old nave. It features historical drawings, photographs, and models of the city's magnificent monuments, as well as interesting facts that you might not have known before your visit.

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5. Enjoy Day Trips

If you're looking for ideas for fun things to do while you're in Rennes, there are a lot of options.

As one of France's most recognizable landmarks, Mont Saint-Michel doesn't need much of an introduction. This medieval marvel can be reached in less than an hour.

The port of Saint-Malo, which was once a haven for pirates and is still protected by its historic walls, is the next stop. Or, La Roche-aux-Fées is a breeze to drive away from the coast: One of Brittany's captivating Neolithic monuments is a passage grave with a corridor that perfectly coincides with the sunrise on the winter solstice.

6. Visit Saint-Pierre's Gothic Cathedral

One of Rennes' most famous landmarks is the stunning Cathedral of Saint-Pierre. The cathedral, which was constructed in the 13th and 14th centuries, is famous for its magnificent Gothic architecture, which features soaring spires, intricate stone carvings, and stained glass windows that depict biblical stories.

On the inside, visitors can take in the magnificent sanctuary's splendor and view the tombs of some of Rennes' most significant figures.

7. Take in the Exciting Nightlife and Tour the Musée des Beaux-Arts:

Rennes is well-known for the vibrant nightlife there. In this lively city, there is something for everyone, from renowned nightclubs to cozy pubs and jazz bars. Try a bistro or café with a friendly atmosphere for something a little less formal. Here, you can meet locals and have some fun with friendly banter.

A comprehensive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the present can be found in this world-class museum. It has exhibitions about Brittany's history and includes works by Picasso, Monet, Matisse, and others. Visitors can also learn more about the works and their creators through lectures and guided tours at the museum.

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8. Take a trip to the Thabor Botanical Gardens and the History Museum:

The Thabor Botanic Garden is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful view. Over 5000 species of plants and trees can be found in the garden, which was established in 1891. Some of the rarer species are Mangave, Eucalyptus, and Magnolia, which come from all over the world. The garden also plays host to one of Europe's oldest and most well-known International Tulip Festivals each spring.

History buffs and anyone interested in learning more about Rennes' rich and varied past should visit the Histoire Museum. A section of the museum is devoted to the French Revolution and features collections related to the city's past. The museum also hosts lectures, film screenings, and other special events in addition to its exhibits.

9. Visit the St. Pierre Cathedral

The St. Pierre Cathedral is a stunningly beautiful and imposing example of a majestic faith. It is regarded as one of the best-preserved Gothic structures in France. One of Rennes' most recognizable structures has spires, stained glass windows, and ornately carved friezes carved into its facade, which is composed of two dramatic stone towers. On the inside, wander through the sprawling gardens and a chapel filled with some of France's most impressive works of art. The cathedral's decorations are just as stunning today as they were five centuries ago. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Rennes and the Loire Valley when you ascend the cathedral's north tower.

10. Take a tour of the Chateau de Rennes

A stunning chateau that dominates the city center and is another must-see attraction in Rennes. Since the 11th century, this structure, which was once a fortress and later a royal palace, has stood strong. Awe-inspiring antiques and valuable artifacts can be found throughout the grand halls and chambers.

Learn about the many famous people who have lived in the castle, from the French kings of medieval times to today. Explore the chateau's lush gardens after your tour, where hydrangeas and other blooming flowers create a vibrant and stunning display.

Conclusion

Rennes has something for everyone, whether they are looking for a unique shopping experience, an educational experience, or just want to explore. Rennes is the ideal destination for visitors of all kinds due to the city's diverse cultural heritage, numerous delicious restaurants, and numerous activities. So what are you waiting for? Plan an awesome trip to Rennes. We wish you a wonderful trip to Rennes, France!