Romantic Long Weekend in Rennes, France

Fall in love all over again in the charming city of Rennes, France.

22 April 2023

A romantic trip to Rennes, France would be an ideal getaway for couples seeking a serene atmosphere. The charming city is known for its lovely gardens, historic buildings, and delectable cuisine. From strolling hand in hand through the lush parks to enjoying a candle-lit dinner at a gourmet restaurant, Rennes will immerse you in an unforgettable romantic experience.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into the charming and cozy Hotel de Nemours, with its tudor-style facade and romantic decor.
  • Visit the Rennes Cathedral, an impressive gothic structure from the 18th century.
  • Walk around the historic center of Rennes, admiring the colorful timber-framed houses and quaint streets.
  • Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and macarons at the famous Patisserie Sainte-Anne.
  • Head to the Marche des Lices, the largest outdoor market in Brittany, for a gastronomic tour of local cheeses, breads and seafood.
Day 2

Culture and Art

  • Start the day with a delicious brunch at Cafe Albertine, a chic spot with a Parisian vibe.
  • Visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses a collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative art from the 15th to 21st century.
  • Wander through the Thabor Gardens, a beautiful English-style park with a orangery, a rose garden, and a botanical garden.
  • Discover contemporary art at the FRAC Bretagne, with its innovative exhibitions and creative projects.
  • Savor Breton crepes with cider at the traditional Creperie Le Menec.
Day 3

Nature and Adventure

  • Hike the GR 39 trail, which runs through the beautiful Broceliande Forest, famous for its Arthurian legends and fairy tales.
  • Visit the Chateau de Comper, a medieval castle with a fascinating museum of legends and mythologies.
  • Take a boat tour of the River Vilaine, admiring the scenic countryside and charming villages along the way.
  • Try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding at the nearby Lac de Trémelin, a peaceful and picturesque lake.
  • Have dinner at the cozy and intimate Bistrot La Taverne de la Marine, known for its fresh seafood and friendly atmosphere.
Day 4

Relaxation and indulgence

  • Enjoy a leisurely morning in bed, and order room service from the Hotel de Nemours' excellent breakfast menu.
  • Treat yourselves to a spa day at the Les Bains d'Orient, a luxurious oriental-inspired spa with Turkish baths, massages and beauty treatments.
  • Visit the Rennes Opera House, a stunning neo-classical building with a diverse program of concerts, plays and ballets.
  • Sample fine wines and gourmet tapas at the trendy Wine Bar l'Univerre, with its eclectic decor and friendly staff.
  • End the day with a romantic stroll along the Place des Lices, watching the sunset over the colorful market stalls and the lively crowd.

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, 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 week-long escape to Rennes, France

A romantic trip to Rennes, France promises a charming escape full of stunning architecture, indulgent cuisine, and relaxing strolls through quaint streets. Couples can explore the city's medieval heritage in places like the ancient Palace of Parliament and the stunning Saint-George Palace while indulging in delicious crepes and other gourmet delights. Rennes's gorgeous parks and gardens further offer a serene backdrop for intimate moments and sweet memories.

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.

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.