Rennes, France Travel Guide

Discover Rennes, the vibrant capital of Brittany, where medieval charm meets modern culture. Explore historic sites, lush parks, and a lively arts scene in this delightful French city.

Rennes, the capital of Brittany in France, is a city rich with history, culture, and charm. Known for its medieval half-timbered houses and vibrant student population, Rennes offers a delightful mix of old and new. The city is home to the beautiful Thabor Park, which spans over 10 hectares and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. The cobblestone streets of the historic center are lined with unique shops, cafés, and restaurants, providing plenty of opportunities to indulge in local cuisine and culture. One of the highlights of Rennes is its stunning architecture, including the impressive Rennes Cathedral and the Parlement de Bretagne. The latter is a magnificent example of 17th-century architecture and a must-see for history enthusiasts. Art lovers will appreciate the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures. Additionally, the city's vibrant cultural scene is showcased through various festivals and events throughout the year, such as the famous Trans Musicales music festival. Rennes is also an excellent base for exploring the wider Brittany region. From here, you can easily visit charming coastal towns like Saint-Malo and Dinard, or venture further to the rugged landscapes of the Breton countryside. Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Rennes has something to offer every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Rennes.

Visit the Marché des Lices on Saturday mornings for a taste of local produce and specialties.
Take advantage of the city's comprehensive bike-sharing system to explore Rennes at your own pace.
If you're a fan of street art, don't miss the annual Teenage Kicks festival, which brings together artists from around the world.
For a panoramic view of the city, climb to the top of the Saint-Pierre Cathedral.
Try the local delicacy, galette-saucisse, a savory sausage wrapped in a buckwheat pancake, available at street stalls and markets.

Neighbourhoods in Rennes

Centre

Thabor-Saint Hélier

Villejean-Beauregard

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Rennes

Explore Rennes: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Rennes

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Parc du Thabor

Explore Parc du Thabor in Rennes – a stunning park with breathtaking gardens, peaceful pathways, and delightful nature experiences for all visitors.

4.7

Cathedral Saint-Pierre de Rennes

Discover Rennes' architectural marvel, Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, a blend of Gothic and Neoclassical styles with a rich history dating back to the 6th century.

4.5

Le Palais du Parlement de Bretagne

Discover Rennes' Palais du Parlement de Bretagne: a symbol of Breton history, art, and resilience, housing the Court of Appeal after a meticulous restoration.

5.0

Parlement de Bretagne

Discover Rennes' Parlement de Bretagne: A 17th-century masterpiece of Breton history, architecture, and culture, now home to the Court of Appeal.

4.4

Best landmarks in Rennes

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Parc du Thabor

Explore the stunning Parc du Thabor in Rennes, where lush gardens, historical features, and vibrant culture create a serene getaway in the city.

4.7

Parc des Gayeulles

Explore the natural beauty and recreational offerings at Parc des Gayeulles, a lush park in Rennes perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

4.5

Le Liberté

Discover the vibrant cultural scene of Rennes at Le Liberté, a premier performing arts theater offering an array of concerts and events.

4.2

Cathédrale Saint-Pierre

Explore the breathtaking Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, a Gothic masterpiece in Rennes, rich in history, art, and spirituality.

4.5

Best restaurants in Rennes

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Les Fils à Maman Rennes

Experience the heart of French cuisine at Les Fils à Maman Rennes – where tradition meets modernity in every bite.

4.5

La Saint-Georges

Experience authentic French cuisine at La Saint-Georges Crêperie in Rennes – where every bite tells a story.

4.7

La Taverne de la Marine

Experience exquisite French cuisine and fresh seafood at La Taverne de la Marine in Rennes - a culinary delight amidst historical charm.

4.4

Le Grill

Discover the culinary delight of Le Grill in Rennes – where exquisite grilled meats meet traditional French hospitality.

4.4

Best bars in Rennes

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O'Connell's Irish Pub

Discover the heart of Irish culture in Rennes at O'Connell's Irish Pub, where hearty meals and lively sports await every visitor.

4.4

Penny Lane

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rennes at Penny Lane, a lively pub featuring cocktails, live music, and an inviting atmosphere for all.

4.4

Fox and Friends Pub

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Fox and Friends Pub, a top destination in Rennes for great drinks and delicious pub food.

4.6

L'Annexe

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Rennes at L'Annexe, a stylish bar offering a diverse drink selection and a lively atmosphere.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Rennes

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1988 Live Club

Discover the pulse of Rennes' nightlife at 1988 Live Club, where live music and vibrant crowds create unforgettable nights.

3.8

The Club Suite

Discover the lively nightlife at The Club Suite in Rennes, where great music and dancing come together for an unforgettable experience.

3.0

L'Espace Club

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Rennes at L'Espace Club, where electrifying music and dancing await you until dawn.

2.3

Délicatessen

Délicatessen: Where the Night Comes Alive in Rennes with Unforgettable Music and Dance.

1.8

Best shops in Rennes

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Rennes Alma

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Rennes Alma, a vibrant shopping mall in the heart of Rennes, France.

4.2

Centre commercial Colombia

Discover Centre Commercial Colombia, a vibrant shopping hub in Rennes, offering a delightful mix of stores, dining, and leisure activities for all visitors.

4.0

La Visitation

Discover La Visitation, Rennes' bustling shopping mall filled with fashion, dining, and entertainment options for every traveler.

4.0

Galeries Lafayette Rennes

Discover Galeries Lafayette Rennes, where fashion meets lifestyle in an iconic department store experience.

4.0

Explore Rennes on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Rennes, mapped for you.

Rennes Essentials

Rennes is located in the Brittany region of France. The nearest international airport is Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport, situated about 7 kilometers from the city center. Major airlines operate flights to and from various European cities. Alternatively, you can reach Rennes by train from Paris, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours via the high-speed TGV service. Buses also connect Rennes to other major cities in France.
Rennes has an efficient public transportation system operated by STAR, including buses and a metro line. A single metro line, Line A, runs from the southwest to the northeast of the city. Buses cover extensive routes throughout the city and its suburbs. Taxis are available and can be easily hailed on the street or booked via apps. Biking is also a popular option, with many bike rental stations around the city.
The official currency in France is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout Rennes for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or markets.
Rennes is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any urban area, it is important to stay vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, and be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. The neighborhoods of Maurepas and Villejean have higher crime rates, so it is advisable to exercise extra caution when visiting these areas.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the universal emergency number in Europe. For non-urgent police matters, you can dial 17. The main hospital in Rennes is Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Rennes, which offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are also available throughout the city for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress stylishly but comfortably. Rennes is a fashionable city, and locals appreciate well-dressed individuals. Avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops and beachwear. Religion: Do respect religious customs when visiting churches. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding the metro or bus. Don't forget to give up your seat to elderly passengers or those with disabilities. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' and a handshake. Avoid overly familiar gestures such as hugs. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like galettes and cider. Don't rush your meals; dining is a leisurely activity in France.
To experience Rennes like a local, visit the Marché des Lices, one of the largest markets in France, held every Saturday. Explore the Thabor Gardens, a beautiful park that locals frequent. For a cultural experience, attend a performance at the Théâtre National de Bretagne. Engage with locals in cafés and bistros to learn more about the city's culture and history.

When is the best time to visit Rennes?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Rennes

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Rennes. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît / De rien
  [seel voo pleh / deh ryen]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
  [ehks-kew-zay mwah / deh-zoh-lay]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sa vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byen. ay voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh suh-koor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-pay-lay lah plees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-pay-lay uh may-deh-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray zah-shey...]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gahrd zheust]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-veh voo beh-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kell uhr ay-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay oon uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [deeze uhr ay duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [ma-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [yehr]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-man]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kat-ruh]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [sept]
- 8Huit
  [weet]
- 9Neuf
  [nuf]
- 10Dix
  [deeze]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...?
  [oo ay...]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kell ay lah-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-veh voo muh mohn-tray (surr lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh proh-shahn (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ...)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Rennes

Rennes, known in ancient times as Condate, was founded by the Redones, a Gallic tribe. It became a significant settlement during the Roman era, thriving as a hub of commerce and culture. Remnants of Roman architecture, such as the ancient city wall and the amphitheater, still echo the city's storied past.
During the Middle Ages, Rennes was a pivotal city in the Duchy of Brittany. The construction of the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre and the Parliament of Brittany marked its importance. The city's medieval charm is preserved in its timber-framed houses and narrow cobblestone streets.
In 1720, a devastating fire ravaged Rennes, destroying much of its wooden architecture. The disaster led to a major reconstruction effort, spearheaded by architect Jacques Gabriel, resulting in a more modern and uniform cityscape. The classical style of Rennes' city center traces back to this period.
Rennes played a significant role during the French Revolution. The city was a hotbed of revolutionary activity, and the Parliament of Brittany was a focal point for political discourse. The revolutionary fervor is reflected in various monuments and the renaming of public spaces during that era.
The 19th century brought industrialization to Rennes, transforming it into a modern city. The arrival of the railway in 1857 connected Rennes to the rest of France, boosting trade and population growth. This era saw the development of new neighborhoods and the expansion of the city's infrastructure.
Rennes endured significant hardship during World War II. The city was occupied by German forces, and many of its buildings were damaged or destroyed by bombings. The liberation of Rennes in August 1944 was a pivotal moment, celebrated annually with commemorative events.
In recent decades, Rennes has experienced a cultural and economic renaissance. The city is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, prestigious universities, and technological innovation. Modern Rennes balances its rich historical heritage with a dynamic and forward-thinking spirit, evident in its festivals, museums, and urban development projects.