A Whimsical Family Adventure: Rennes, France in 2 Days
Discover the enchantment of Rennes, where family fun meets French charm!
19 July 2023
Raymonde Gagnon
France Travel Writer
Explore the charming city of Rennes, located in the heart of Brittany, France, for a memorable family-friendly trip. Discover the enchanting blend of history and modernity as you wander through the cobblestone streets and visit iconic landmarks like the medieval Parliament of Brittany. With a vibrant cultural scene, Rennes offers countless activities for children, including interactive museums, beautiful parks, and a dynamic zoo, ensuring a delightful experience for the whole family.
Travel plan
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- Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Café Brûlerie, where heavenly croissants and aromatic coffees fuel your adventure.
- Embark on a walking tour of Rennes' historic center, admiring the picturesque half-timbered houses and charming cobblestone streets.
- Lose yourself in the mystical ambiance of the Musée des Beaux-Arts, housing an impressive collection of classical and contemporary art.
- Journey to the whimsical Parc du Thabor, a serene oasis teeming with vibrant flowers, ornate fountains, and even a delightful zoo.
- Indulge in a delightful lunch at Crêperie Saint-Georges, where the heavenly scent of freshly made buckwheat galettes will transport your taste buds to another dimension.
- Conclude your day with a visit to the stunning Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, where towering Gothic arches and captivating stained glass windows invite you to relish in the city's rich history.
- Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at Maison Bleue, a charming bakery where delectable pastries and aromatic teas await.
- Embark on a magical journey to the historic Musée de Bretagne, where artifacts and exhibits share the captivating stories of Rennes' past.
- Discover the Rue Saint-Michel, a bustling street adorned with quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and quaint cafés begging to be explored.
- Rejuvenate at Les Bains de Bretagne, where a luxuriant thermal bath experience entices you to unwind and embrace utter bliss.
- Savor a culinary adventure at Le Bistrot des Carmes, where tantalizing French cuisine meets contemporary flavors, leaving your taste buds in awe.
- End your day with a leisurely walk along the Vilaine River, basking in the enchanting sunset that bathes Rennes in a warm, golden glow.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Rennes, France by plane is to fly into Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport, which is located just 7 km south of the city center. Major airlines like Air France and Ryanair offer direct flights to Rennes from different cities across Europe.
Car
If you choose to drive to Rennes, the best option is to take the A11 motorway from Paris, which will take you directly to Rennes in about 3 hours. You can also take the N24 national road from Nantes which will take around 2 hours to reach Rennes driving.
Train
If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a TGV (High-speed train) from Paris Montparnasse Station to Rennes Train Station. The journey takes around 1h30min and offers great views of the French countryside.
Boat
Although Rennes is not a coastal city, travelers can get to the city by boat. You can take a ferry from Plymouth or Portsmouth in England and arrive at Saint-Malo Port, which is about 75 km from Rennes. From there, you can take a bus or a train to reach Rennes.
Bus
The best way to reach Rennes by bus is to take the Flixbus which offers several daily connections from Paris to Rennes. The journey takes around 4 hours and the departure and arrival points are located in strategic points of the city.