Weekend Adventure: Rennes, France in 2 Days.

Discover the charm of Brittany's capital city, Rennes.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, you can explore the historical sites, charming medieval streets, and the vibrant culture and nightlife of Rennes, France. Visit the iconic Parlement de Bretagne, Place des Lices for its Saturday morning market, and the Thabor Botanic Gardens to soak in the natural beauty of the city. Sample traditional Breton cuisine, hop on a bike tour, and attend a live music event to experience the best of Rennes.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Rennes

  • Check in to the Hôtel Mercure Rennes Centre Parlement, a chic and modern hotel in the heart of the city.
  • Start your day with a croissant and coffee at La Belle Équipe, a charming café with a vintage vibe.
  • Stroll through the Jardin du Thabor, a beautiful botanic garden filled with exotic plants, flowers and fountains.
  • Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a stunning art museum housed in an 18th-century palace, showcasing works by some of France's greatest artists.
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Place des Lices, a buzzing market square full of local vendors selling their wares.
  • End your day by indulging in some delicious French cuisine at La Saint Georges, a cozy restaurant serving up traditional Breton fare.
Day 2

Delving into Brittany's history

  • Head out to the seaside town of Saint-Malo, just a short train ride from Rennes, and explore the imposing fortress walls and charming old town.
  • Visit the Château de Fougères, one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe, where you can step back in time and discover the rich history of Brittany.
  • Take a short drive to the charming village of Dinan, perched on the banks of the river Rance, and wander through the cobbled streets lined with timber-framed houses.
  • Learn about the region's famous embroidery traditions at the Museum of Lace and Embroidery in Pont-l'Abbé.
  • Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk along the Canal d'Ille-et-Rance, a picturesque waterway that winds its way through the Breton countryside.
  • Rennes is a vibrant and charming city with plenty to see and experience. Spend two days exploring its history, culture and cuisine, and you'll leave feeling like a true Breton.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Rennes

Looking for a place that's easy to spell and fun to visit? Look no further than the charming city of Rennes, where the streets are lined with creperies and the locals have a knack for making even the most mundane activities seem chic.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

A Delightful 4-Day Adventure in Enchanting Rennes

Rennes, located in the heart of Brittany, France, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. Known for its rich history and enchanting medieval streets, Rennes offers a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages. From exploring the beautiful Parc du Thabor to discovering the interactive exhibits at the Ecomusée du Pays de Rennes, families will have a truly memorable experience in this charming city.

Rennes Adventure: A Budget-friendly Itinerary

On a trip to Rennes, France, visitors on a limited budget can explore the charming city's rich cultural offerings, including its historic architecture, art museums, and public gardens. For affordable accommodations, hostels and rental apartments are easily available, and visitors can save money by sampling local cuisine at markets and cafes rather than fine dining establishments. Exploring the city by foot or bike is also an excellent and cost-effective way to take in the sights and sounds of Rennes.

Rennes, France: 3 Days of Culture, Cuisine & Fun

Visitors on a tight budget can still enjoy the charm and beauty of Rennes, France. Walking around the picturesque old town is free, and the weekly Saturday market offers an opportunity to experience local cuisine. Budget-friendly accommodations can be found in hostels or affordable hotels outside of the city center.

Romantic weekend in Rennes, France

A romantic trip to Rennes, France promises a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern-day sophistication. The city's Gothic-style cathedral and charming cobblestone streets offer a romantic background for leisurely walks and intimate moments. Couples can indulge in the local cuisine and wine, which is exquisitely prepared and served in charming restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the city.