Porte Saint Thomas: A Gateway to Saint-Malo's Past
Discover Porte Saint Thomas in Saint-Malo, a historic gateway offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's maritime past, inviting you to explore its rich heritage and architectural grandeur.
Porte Saint Thomas, a historic gate in Saint-Malo's formidable city walls, offers a captivating glimpse into the city's rich maritime past. Constructed in 1737, this impressive structure once served as a crucial defensive point, controlling access to the city and its harbor. Today, it stands as a testament to Saint-Malo's strategic importance and architectural prowess. Visitors can admire the gate's intricate stonework, imagining the soldiers who once stood guard. The gate provides stunning views of the surrounding ramparts, the expansive Sillon beach, and the iconic Fort National. Porte Saint Thomas is more than just a historical landmark; it's a portal to understanding Saint-Malo's enduring spirit and its pivotal role in Breton history, making it a must-see for any traveler seeking to connect with the past.
A brief summary to Porte Saint Thomas
- 1 Pl. Vauban, Saint-Malo, 35400, FR
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
- Take a walk along the ramparts starting from Porte Saint Thomas for panoramic views of the coastline and the old town.
- Check the tide times before your visit, as low tide allows you to walk to nearby islands like Fort National.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Intra-Muros bus stop, walk along the main street (Rue de la Giraudais) towards Place Chateaubriand. Porte Saint Thomas is located just behind Place Chateaubriand, near the intersection with Rue Vauban. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and well-signposted.
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Public Transport
If arriving at the Saint-Malo train station (Gare SNCF), take bus lines 1 or 2 towards Intra-Muros. Get off at the Intra-Muros stop, which is located just outside the city walls. From there, follow the walking directions to Porte Saint Thomas. A single bus fare is approximately €1.35.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from the Saint-Malo train station to Porte Saint Thomas will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. The journey takes around 5-10 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at Place Chateaubriand for the closest access to the gate.
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Driving
Driving directly to Porte Saint Thomas is not recommended due to limited parking within Intra-Muros. Consider parking at the Paul Féval parking lot outside the city walls and taking the free shuttle bus (line 2 or 2 Express) to the Intra-Muros stop. Parking at Paul Féval costs €3.30 per day. Alternatively, the Q-Park Saint-Vincent offers underground parking near the Saint-Vincent Gate, a short walk from Porte Saint Thomas, but online reservation is recommended. Parking fees vary.
Discover more about Porte Saint Thomas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Office de Tourisme de Saint-Malo
0.2 km
Explore the wonders of Saint-Malo with expert guidance at the Office de Tourisme, your essential resource for local insights and travel tips.
Appartement Jean Noel Saint Malo
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Saint-Malo from the comfort of Appartement Jean Noel, your perfect indoor lodging retreat in the heart of this historic city.
Palais du Grand Large - Saint-Malo
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Palais du Grand Large in Saint-Malo, where stunning coastal views meet exciting exhibitions and unforgettable events.
Place des Frères Lamennais
0.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Place des Frères Lamennais, a serene city park in the heart of Saint-Malo, perfect for relaxation and cultural experiences.
Parking Place de l'Hermine
1.2 km
Experience hassle-free parking at Place de l'Hermine, your gateway to the historic and beautiful Saint-Malo.
Maison Du Peuple
1.2 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant culture at Maison Du Peuple, a captivating landmark in the heart of Saint-Malo, France.
Le Vauban 2-La Grande Passerelle
1.3 km
Discover the charm of Le Vauban 2-La Grande Passerelle, a cozy movie theater in Saint-Malo perfect for film lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Plage des Bas Sablons
1.5 km
Experience the serene charm of Plage des Bas Sablons, a public beach in Saint-Malo, where golden sands meet azure waters in a picturesque setting.
La Cale - Solidor - Saint-Malo
1.8 km
Experience the finest Haute French cuisine and fresh seafood at La Cale - Solidor, overlooking the stunning harbor of Saint-Malo.
Hommage au Commandant Charcot
1.9 km
Explore the Hommage au Commandant Charcot in Saint-Malo, a magnificent sculpture celebrating French exploration amidst the beauty of the coast.
Cale de Solidor
1.9 km
Explore the picturesque Cale de Solidor, a charming harbor in France, perfect for scenic walks, local cuisine, and rich maritime history.
Solidor Tower
2.0 km
Discover the rich maritime history and stunning views at Solidor Tower, an iconic landmark in the heart of Saint-Malo, France.
Marin Malouin
2.0 km
Experience the enchanting waters of Saint-Malo with Marin Malouin's boat tours, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures along the Brittany coastline.
Plage de la Hoguette
2.1 km
Plage de la Hoguette: A serene beach escape near Saint-Malo, perfect for sunbathing, relaxation, and family fun amidst stunning coastal views.
Cale des torpilleurs
2.1 km
Explore Cale des Torpilleurs in Saint-Malo, a historic landmark steeped in maritime heritage, offering breathtaking harbor views and a journey into the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Micro Zoo Saint-Malo
0.0 km
Experience the joy of wildlife at Micro Zoo Saint-Malo, a unique blend of education, fun, and cultural heritage in the heart of a historic coastal town.
Birthplace Chateaubriand
0.1 km
Explore the Birthplace of Chateaubriand in Saint-Malo, a captivating historical landmark steeped in literary significance and maritime charm.
Pl. Vauban
0.1 km
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.
Pl. Chateaubriand
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Pl. Chateaubriand, a vibrant square in Saint-Malo perfect for relaxation, dining, and soaking up local culture.
Château de Saint-Malo
0.1 km
Explore the stunning Château de Saint-Malo, a historic fortress offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into France's maritime heritage.
Saint-Malo Castle
0.1 km
Explore Saint-Malo Castle, a stunning fortress overlooking the sea, rich in history and charm, perfect for a memorable visit in Brittany, France.
St. Vincent Gate
0.1 km
Discover the historical charm and breathtaking views at St. Vincent Gate, a must-visit landmark in the enchanting city of Saint-Malo.
Douves Garden
0.1 km
Find serenity in Saint-Malo's Douves Garden, a peaceful green space offering a tranquil escape at the foot of the city's historic ramparts.
Maison de la Duchesse Anne - Saint-Malo
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Maison de la Duchesse Anne in Saint-Malo, the oldest house that showcases the rich medieval history of Brittany.
Rue du Pelicot - historic road
0.1 km
Discover Rue du Pelicot in Saint-Malo: A historic gem with cobblestone streets, timber-framed houses, and captivating glimpses into the past.
Plage de l’éventail
0.1 km
Discover Plage de l'Éventail in Saint-Malo: a blend of history and relaxation on Brittany's scenic coast.
Poterne Aux Normands
0.1 km
Explore the captivating history of Poterne Aux Normands, a must-visit historical landmark in Saint-Malo, showcasing the city's rich maritime heritage.
Bastion de la Reine
0.2 km
Explore the Bastion de la Reine in Saint-Malo, a stunning historical landmark showcasing the city's rich maritime heritage and breathtaking coastal views.
Saint-Vincent Cathedral of Saint-Malo
0.3 km
Explore the stunning Saint-Vincent Cathedral in Saint-Malo, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a symbol of the city's rich history.
Big Gate
0.3 km
Discover the grandeur of the Big Gate in Saint-Malo, a historical landmark that showcases the rich maritime heritage of Brittany.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant panoramique Le 5 Saint-Malo
0.0 km
Discover breathtaking views and exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant Panoramique Le 5 in Saint-Malo.
Brasserie du Lion D'Or
0.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Brasserie du Lion D'Or in Saint-Malo - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Annadata
0.1 km
Experience exquisite organic fine dining at Annadata in Saint-Malo—where every dish tells a story of freshness and flavor.
Le Café de Saint Malo
0.1 km
Experience authentic French dining at Le Café de Saint Malo, where fresh seafood meets traditional culinary excellence in a charming coastal setting.
Le Chalut
0.2 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Le Chalut in Saint-Malo, where fresh seafood meets elegant dining.
Le Bistro de Jean
0.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Bistro de Jean in Saint-Malo, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
FIDELIS
0.2 km
Discover the essence of French gastronomy at FIDELIS in Saint-Malo - where every dish tells a story.
Le Petit Crêpier
0.2 km
Discover authentic Brittany flavors at Le Petit Crêpier in Saint-Malo - indulge in delicious crepes crafted from fresh local ingredients.
Grand Mère Augustine
0.2 km
Discover authentic Brittany flavors at Grand Mère Augustine, a beloved creperie in Saint-Malo offering delightful sweet and savory crepes.
le père bougeard
0.2 km
Discover authentic Breton flavors at Le Père Bougeard, where delicious crêpes meet warm hospitality in picturesque Saint-Malo.
Le Bistrot de Cathy
0.3 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Le Bistrot de Cathy in Saint-Malo – a delightful blend of tradition and local flavors.
La Tempête
0.3 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Brittany at La Tempête in Saint-Malo - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Crêperie Le Tournesol
0.3 km
Discover authentic Breton flavors at Crêperie Le Tournesol in Saint-Malo—where every crêpe tells a delicious story.
Bergamote
0.3 km
Discover the heart of French gastronomy at Bergamote in Saint-Malo – where every crêpe tells a story.
L’entracte
0.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at L’entracte in Saint-Malo – where every meal tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SAINT JAMES - Saint Malo
0.1 km
Explore Saint James in Saint Malo for a unique shopping experience filled with stylish men's and women's clothing that captures the essence of French fashion.
Sene-Breizh
0.2 km
Explore Sene-Breizh in Saint-Malo for exquisite gift baskets filled with local delicacies and artisanal treasures from Brittany.
Cinco
0.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and stylish fashion at Cinco, the charming boutique in the heart of Saint-Malo, France's historic coastal gem.
Orson Bay Saint-Malo
0.2 km
Discover stylish women's clothing at Orson Bay in Saint-Malo, where contemporary fashion meets coastal charm in a delightful shopping experience.
Boutique Marouch
0.2 km
Discover elegance and style at Boutique Marouch, Saint-Malo's premier destination for women's clothing and fashion accessories.
Côté Remparts - Saint-Malo
0.2 km
Explore Côté Remparts in Saint-Malo for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and local specialties that capture the essence of Brittany.
Joret Janick
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Joret Janick, a charming gift shop in the heart of Saint-Malo, perfect for every traveler.
Nanna Bazaar-My Little Concept Store
0.2 km
Explore Nanna Bazaar, a charming gift shop in Saint-Malo, offering unique handcrafted items and local treasures that embody the spirit of this coastal town.
GUINEMENT BOUTIQUES
0.2 km
Discover stylish men's fashion at Guinement Boutiques in Saint-Malo, where quality meets contemporary elegance in a charming setting.
L'Hermine
0.2 km
Discover L'Hermine, a unique gift shop in Saint-Malo offering handcrafted souvenirs and local treasures to cherish your French escape.
le 29 Saint Malo
0.3 km
Discover stylish women's clothing at Le 29 Saint Malo, where French elegance meets modern trends in a charming boutique setting.
La Manufacture Saint-Malo
0.3 km
Explore La Manufacture Saint-Malo, where local craftsmanship meets exquisite shopping in the heart of this historic coastal city.
Trésors de St Malo
0.3 km
Explore Trésors de St Malo, a charming store offering local crafts, gourmet treats, and unique souvenirs in the heart of Saint-Malo.
Boutique 727 Sailbags
0.3 km
Explore Boutique 727 Sailbags in Saint-Malo for exquisite leather goods inspired by nautical heritage. Unique gifts and artisan craftsmanship await you.
V'Mode
0.3 km
Discover unique women's fashion at V'Mode, a stylish boutique in the heart of Saint-Malo, where coastal charm meets contemporary style.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
L'Alchimiste
0.1 km
Experience the charm of L'Alchimiste, a cozy bar in Saint-Malo offering delightful drinks and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Saint Patrick
0.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Saint Patrick Pub, a charming spot in the heart of Saint-Malo, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
La Java Café
0.2 km
Discover La Java Café in Saint-Malo: A vibrant bar and café offering delicious treats and a unique atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.
L'Equinoxial
0.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of L'Equinoxial in Saint-Malo, where sports, Irish charm, and delicious food come together in a vibrant setting.
La Mer à Boire Saint-Malo
0.3 km
Experience the best of French wines in the heart of Saint-Malo at La Mer à Boire, a welcoming wine bar with an impressive selection and cozy atmosphere.
The Riff Magnetic
0.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of The Riff Magnetic, a top live music bar in Saint-Malo, where great tunes and good times await.
Le Galion
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood and vibrant atmosphere at Le Galion, Saint-Malo's top bar and restaurant with stunning harbor views.
Bar L'Aviso
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant blend of cocktails and Irish pub culture at Bar L'Aviso in the heart of Saint-Malo.
L'Alambic
0.4 km
Discover L'Alambic in Saint-Malo, where exceptional coffee meets a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
L’Encrier
0.4 km
Discover the coastal charm of L’Encrier, a vibrant bar in Saint-Malo offering an exquisite selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
La Fabrique Bar Saint Malo
0.4 km
Discover La Fabrique Bar in Saint-Malo: a lively spot for craft cocktails, local beers, and unforgettable live music experiences.
Le Quoicoubar
0.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Le Quoicoubar, a top bar destination in the heart of Saint-Malo.
l'Embraque
0.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of l'Embraque, a premier beer hall in Saint-Malo, offering local brews and delightful snacks in a charming setting.
La Belle Epoque
0.5 km
Discover La Belle Epoque, a charming bar and coffee shop in Saint-Malo, where vintage ambiance meets delightful beverages and local flavor.
Le Dock
0.8 km
Discover Le Dock in Saint-Malo: A delightful brasserie offering exquisite French cuisine and breathtaking waterfront views.
