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

Discover the charm of Rennes without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Historic District

  • Start the day with a savory breakfast crepe at Crêperie Saint-Georges.
  • Stroll along the cobblestone streets of the historic district and discover the half-timbered houses and magnificent cathedrals.
  • Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts and admire masterpieces from famous artists like Picasso and Delacroix.
  • Grab lunch at La Cantine de Quentin, a local favorite for its hearty sandwiches and salads.
  • Continue your journey to the Parc du Thabor, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city that boasts lush gardens and a picturesque bandstand.
  • Enjoy dinner at Maison Bleue, a cozy restaurant that serves classic French cuisine at affordable prices.
  • Hotel recommendation: Hotel Le Victor Hugo a budget-friendly option with a central location and comfortable accommodations.
Day 2

A Day Trip to Mont Saint-Michel

  • Take a scenic day trip to Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a stunning medieval abbey.
  • Walk across the causeway that connects the island to the mainland, taking in the breathtaking views of the bay.
  • Explore the winding streets and historic buildings of the village, including the La Mère Poulard restaurant, famous for its omelets.
  • Visit the abbey and learn about its fascinating history, architecture, and religious significance.
  • Take a stroll along the ramparts to get a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
  • Return to Rennes in the evening and enjoy a late dinner at L'Endroit, a trendy restaurant that offers delicious burgers and craft beer.
Day 3

Markets, Museums, and Craft Beer

  • Start the day off with a visit to the Marché des Lices, a bustling outdoor market that sells fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade goods.
  • Head to the Musée de Bretagne and discover the region's rich cultural heritage through its art, history, and traditions.
  • Stop for lunch at La Brocante, a vintage-themed café that serves mouth-watering brunch options.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring Rennes' up-and-coming beer scene, starting with a tasting tour at La Crapule, a craft brewery that produces unique and flavorful beers.
  • Continue the beer crawl at Le Sur Mesure, a cozy bar that offers a wide selection of local and international brews.
  • For dinner, head to Le Comptoir des Colibris and indulge in their traditional Breton cuisine, featuring freshly caught seafood and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Hotel recommendation: Hotel ibis Styles Rennes Centre Gare Nord a modern and comfortable option with a convenient location near the train station.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

A Romantic Day Trip to Rennes, France

Rennes is a charming city in Brittany, France, that offers couples an array of romantic experiences. From taking a stroll through the picturesque streets of the Old Town to admiring the breathtaking architecture of the Parliament building, there's something for every type of couple in Rennes. The city's rich cultural heritage, exquisite food scene, and tranquil parks also make it an ideal destination for an intimate and unforgettable romantic trip.

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.

Rennes Family Fun Expedition: 3 Days of Adventure!

Rennes, the vibrant capital city of Brittany, France, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and family-friendly activities. Explore the picturesque cobblestone streets of the Old Town, visit the stunning Rennes Cathedral, and wander through the enchanting Thabor Gardens. Unleash your inner adventurer by visiting the Parc de Maurepas, where kids can enjoy zip-lining, climbing, and other exciting outdoor activities.

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.