Brest: A Captivating French Day Trip

Discover the charm of coastal France in Brest.

22 April 2023

Visiting Brest, France as a tourist offers a unique experience of the French culture and history. Tourists can visit the famous National Maritime Museum, explore the charming Old Town, and indulge in delicious French cuisine at local restaurants. With stunning views of the Brittany coast and numerous outdoor activities, Brest is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering Brest

  • Begin the day with a cup of coffee and pastries from Les Caprices de Pauline, a cozy bakery with mouth-watering treats.
  • Visit the iconic Musee National de la Marine with its impressive collections of maritime art and historic boats.
  • Take a stroll through the ancient and charming streets of the Saint-Martin district, with its colorful buildings and quaint shops.
  • Enjoy lunch at Le P’tit Gavroche, a contemporary restaurant with a laid-back vibe serving up fresh and seasonal produce.
  • Take a scenic drive to the Pointe Saint-Mathieu lighthouse, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding cliffs.
  • Wrap up the day with a savory crêpe dinner at Crêperie du Port, where the local specialty dish called "kig ha farz" is a must-try.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Brest, France by plane is to fly to Brest Bretagne Airport from Paris. The flight takes around 1.5 hours and there are multiple flights per day. From the airport, take the Navette Aéroport shuttle bus to Brest city center.

Car

If you prefer to drive to Brest, France, the best route is to take the A10 and A11 highways from Paris. The drive takes around 5.5 hours and there are plenty of rest stops and service areas along the way. In Brest, there are plenty of parking options, including street parking and car parks.

Train

If you want to travel to Brest, France by train, the best option is to take the TGV from Paris Montparnasse to Brest station. The journey takes around 4.5 hours and there are several trains per day. From the station, take a taxi or bus to your destination.

Boat

While there are no direct ferries to Brest, France, you can take a ferry to Roscoff from Plymouth or Cork and then drive to Brest. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and there are several ferry companies that operate this route. Once in Roscoff, take the D58 and N12 highways to Brest.

Bus

Traveling to Brest, France by bus is a budget-friendly option. You can take the FlixBus from Paris to Brest, which takes around 8 hours. The bus arrives at Brest city center, so you can easily explore the city by foot or public transport.

More travel plans

Brest, France: The Ultimate 4-Day Budget Adventure

In Brest, France, budget-conscious travelers can enjoy a variety of activities without breaking the bank. Visitors can explore the stunning seafront views, browse local markets, and tour historical sites such as the National Maritime Museum. Accommodation and food options are also reasonably priced, making Brest an affordable destination for travelers.

Brest in Two - A Coastal Adventure

Brest, France is a picturesque port town located on the Atlantic coast with breathtaking ocean views and stunning architecture from the 19th century. The city hosts several maritime museums showcasing the town's naval history and offers tourists access to nearby islands and beaches via boat tours. Delicious French cuisine, charming cafes, and a bustling nightlife make Brest an ideal destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in French culture.

Brest, France: A 2-Day Adventure of Maritime Magic

Brest, France offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with its rich maritime history and picturesque scenery. Explore the stunning Brest Castle and Oceanopolis, an interactive aquarium perfect for children. Take a leisurely stroll along the harbor, and indulge in delicious local cuisine in the charming restaurants dotted around the town.

Brest, France on a Budget: A 3-Day Adventure

Brest, situated in the western French region of Brittany, offers a plethora of charming attractions for tourists traveling on a shoestring budget. Experience the city's rich maritime heritage by visiting its museums, such as The National Maritime Museum and The Museum of Fine Arts. Besides, explore the city's beautiful coastline and enjoy the fresh seafood delicacies at the local eateries at a fraction of the cost of more touristy cities.