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Place Vauban: Gateway to Saint-Malo's Charm

Discover Place Vauban in Saint-Malo, the perfect starting point to explore the ramparts, historic Intra-Muros, and captivating maritime history of this charming French city.

Place Vauban, nestled in the historic port city of Saint-Malo, France, is more than just a square; it's a vibrant introduction to the city's rich history and captivating atmosphere. This picturesque location, a stone's throw from the main entrance to the walled city, serves as a prime example of Saint-Malo's maritime heritage and strategic importance. Surrounded by inviting cafes, boutiques, and historic buildings, Place Vauban offers a delightful space for visitors to unwind, soak in the local culture, and prepare to explore the wonders within the ramparts. Its proximity to the stunning ramparts provides breathtaking views of the coastline and harbor, while the square itself often hosts local events and markets, adding to its lively appeal. Whether you're planning to delve into the history of the corsair city or simply enjoy the ambiance, Place Vauban is the perfect starting point for your Saint-Malo adventure, offering a taste of the local culture and easy access to the city's main attractions.

A brief summary to Pl. Vauban

  • Saint-Malo, 35400, FR

Local tips

  • Visit Place Vauban during sunset for a magical view of the harbor and coastline.
  • Check for local markets or festivals happening in the square for a taste of local culture.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone paths around Place Vauban and Intra-Muros can be uneven.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Saint-Malo train station (Gare de Saint-Malo), exit and walk straight down Rue de la Gare. Continue until you reach the intersection with Rue de l'Horloge. Turn left onto Rue de l'Horloge and follow it as it curves into Rue de la Paix. Continue straight until you reach the Promenade du Sillon, a coastal walkway. Turn right on the Promenade and walk along the beachfront towards the city center. Place Vauban will be on your left, just before the main entrance (Porte Saint-Vincent) to the walled city (Intra-Muros).

  • Public Transport

    From the Saint-Malo train station (Gare de Saint-Malo), take bus line 1 or 2 operated by MAT (St Malo Agglo Transports) to the 'Intra-Muros' stop. The bus ride is approximately 5 minutes. From the 'Intra-Muros' bus stop, Place Vauban is a short walk away, just outside the main gate (Porte Saint-Vincent) of the walled city. A single ticket costs €1.35 and is valid for 1 hour and 30 minutes on the bus.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From the Saint-Malo train station (Gare de Saint-Malo), a taxi or ride-share to Place Vauban will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is estimated to be between €10-€15. Place Vauban is located just outside the main gate (Porte Saint-Vincent) of the walled city, making it easily accessible by car.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking near Intra-Muros can be limited and expensive. Consider using the Paul Féval parking lot, located outside the city center, and taking the free shuttle to Intra-Muros. If you choose to park closer, the Saint-Vincent underground parking offers 481 spaces at the foot of Intra-Muros. Parking rates at Saint-Vincent are approximately €2.60 per hour. Alternatively, Q-Park Saint-Malo offers online reservations for parking spaces. From any parking location near Intra-Muros, Place Vauban is a short walk away, located just outside the main gate (Porte Saint-Vincent).

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Discover more about Pl. Vauban

Place Vauban, located just outside the main gate of Saint-Malo's Intra-Muros (walled city), serves as a welcoming introduction to this historic port. More than just a square, it's a focal point where the city's vibrant present meets its storied past. The square's strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Saint-Malo's many attractions, offering a taste of the local culture and easy access to the ramparts, historic buildings, and bustling streets within the walls. Historically, Place Vauban's significance is intertwined with the evolution of Saint-Malo as a major maritime power. The city, founded in the 6th century, grew in importance due to its strategic location and natural harbor. Over centuries, Saint-Malo developed into a formidable fortress, renowned for its skilled sailors and privateers. The existing ramparts, largely constructed in the 17th and 18th centuries under the direction of the military engineer Vauban, stand as a testament to the city's defensive capabilities. Place Vauban, situated just outside the main entrance, would have been a bustling area for trade, military preparations, and the arrival of visitors to the city. Today, Place Vauban retains its lively atmosphere, offering a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The square is surrounded by a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can relax at an outdoor terrace, enjoy a meal, and soak in the ambiance before venturing into the walled city. The architecture around the square reflects Saint-Malo's rich history, with buildings showcasing a mix of styles from different periods. One of the main draws of Place Vauban is its proximity to the ramparts. These impressive defensive walls, which encircle the Intra-Muros, offer stunning panoramic views of the coastline, harbor, and surrounding islands. Access points to the ramparts are conveniently located near the square, allowing visitors to easily embark on a walk along the walls and experience the city from a unique perspective. From the ramparts, you can see the Fort National, constructed by Vauban in 1689 to protect Saint-Malo's port. You can also see the island of Grand Bé, where the famous writer François-René de Chateaubriand is buried. Place Vauban also serves as a venue for various events and activities throughout the year. Local markets, festivals, and cultural performances often take place in the square, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. These events provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the local culture, sample regional products, and interact with the community. Beyond the ramparts and the square itself, Saint-Malo offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore. The Intra-Muros is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets lined with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. The Saint-Vincent Cathedral, with its stunning stained-glass windows, is a must-see landmark. The Musée d'Histoire de la Ville et d'Ethnographie du Pays Malouin, located in the Château Gaillard, provides insights into the city's history and maritime heritage. For those seeking outdoor activities, Saint-Malo boasts several beautiful beaches. The Plage du Sillon, a long sandy beach stretching along the coast, is perfect for a leisurely walk, sunbathing, or water sports. The Grand Aquarium of Saint-Malo, located just outside the city, is home to a diverse collection of marine life. Saint-Malo's unique character stems from its history as a city of privateers. These legalised pirates, sanctioned by the French crown, played a significant role in the city's development and left a lasting mark on its culture. The spirit of adventure and independence is still palpable in Saint-Malo today. Place Vauban, therefore, is more than just a place to pass through; it's a place to pause, to absorb the atmosphere, and to prepare for a journey into the heart of Saint-Malo's history and charm. It's a gateway to the ramparts, the Intra-Muros, and the many stories that this captivating city has to offer. Whether you're interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or simply soaking in the ambiance, Saint-Malo has something for everyone, and Place Vauban is the perfect place to begin your exploration. Saint-Malo's resilience is also a key part of its story. The city was heavily damaged during World War II, but its reconstruction was carried out with meticulous care to preserve its historic character. Today, Saint-Malo stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its people and its commitment to preserving its heritage. Visiting Place Vauban and Saint-Malo is an experience that will stay with you long after you leave. The combination of history, culture, natural beauty, and vibrant atmosphere makes it a truly unique and unforgettable destination. So, take a stroll through Place Vauban, breathe in the sea air, and prepare to be captivated by the magic of Saint-Malo.

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