3-Day Adventure: Rennes, France's Art and History

Discover medieval charm and modern energy in the heart of Brittany - Rennes, France.

03 May 2023

As a tourist in Rennes, France, you will be captivated by the city's rich history and cultural heritage. You can explore its medieval streets and admire the stunning architecture, visit the many museums and art galleries, or take a stroll through one of the beautiful parks or gardens. Don't forget to indulge in the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Breton crêpes.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploring

  • Check into the funky and stylish Hotel des Lices in the heart of Rennes
  • Head to the historic Place des Lices, home to the city's famous Saturday market
  • Visit the impressive Rennes Cathedral, with its striking stained-glass windows
  • Explore the charming, narrow streets of the medieval old town
  • Treat yourself to a coffee and a croissant at one of the many quaint cafes in the area
  • Finish the day with a traditional Breton meal at La Petite Bretonne, sampling some of the region's famous crepes.
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Start the day at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the finest art museums in France
  • Admire the impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts from the 15th to 21st centuries
  • Head to the Place Sainte-Anne to see the beautiful 17th-century Église Sainte-Anne
  • Take a stroll through the stunning Parc du Thabor, a popular spot for picnics and relaxation
  • Have lunch at the trendy La Table de Balthazar, which serves delicious modern French cuisine
  • Finish the day with a show at the famous L'Ubu, a legendary Rennes nightclub known for its eclectic lineup of live music and DJs.
Day 3

History and Nature

  • Begin the day with a visit to the ancient Romanesque abbey of Saint-Sulpice-la-Forêt, located just outside of Rennes
  • Take a hike in the nearby Foret de Rennes, a stunning forest filled with hiking trails and wildlife
  • Have lunch at the rustic Chez Germaine, which serves traditional French cuisine in a cozy atmosphere
  • Visit the Musée de Bretagne to learn more about the history and culture of the region
  • End the day with a stroll around the picturesque Villejean University campus, known for its beautiful park and architecture.

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.

More travel plans

Rennes in 4: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

Explore the charming city of Rennes in France on a limited budget. Wander around the historic Old Town, marvel at the stunning architecture, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the place. Plan your stay in wallet-friendly accommodations and indulge in delectable local cuisine at affordable prices.

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.

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.

Weekend Adventure: Rennes, France in 2 Days.

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.