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Saint-Malo
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Discover Saint-Malo: A fortified city in Brittany, France, known for its medieval architecture, stunning sea views, and rich maritime history.

Saint-Malo, perched on the coast of Brittany, is a city steeped in history and maritime charm. Known for its impressive granite walls, this fortified city offers a unique blend of medieval architecture and stunning sea views. As you stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets, you'll find yourself transported back in time to an era of pirates and explorers.
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The city is home to several historical sites, including the Saint-Malo Cathedral and the Château de Saint-Malo, which now houses a museum. Don't miss a walk along the city walls, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the English Channel and the surrounding beaches. The tides here are some of the most extreme in Europe, making for a dramatic seascape that changes throughout the day.
Saint-Malo is also a gateway to the Channel Islands and the starting point for many sailing adventures. The city's port area is bustling with activity, offering a variety of seafood restaurants where you can sample local delicacies like oysters and mussels. For a relaxing day, head to one of the sandy beaches or take a boat trip to the nearby island of Grand Bé, where you can visit the tomb of the famous French writer, Chateaubriand.

When is the best time to visit Saint-Malo?

Best: June–August · 20–22°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January955
February950
March1044
April1335
May1632
June (best)2024
July (best)2218
August (best)2220
September1928
October1545
November1353
December1162

Getting to and around Saint-Malo

How to get there

Saint-Malo is located in the Brittany region of France. The nearest international airport is Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport, approximately 75 kilometers away. From Rennes, you can take a direct train to Saint-Malo, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly into Paris and take a TGV high-speed train from Paris Montparnasse to Saint-Malo, with a transfer in Rennes. The entire journey from Paris typically takes about 3 hours.

Transportation

Saint-Malo is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local buses operated by the MAT network connect various parts of the city and neighboring areas. For more flexibility, consider renting a bicycle or a car. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. Boat shuttles offer a scenic way to explore the coast and nearby islands, such as Dinard and Cézembre.

Best attractions in Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo, a picturesque walled city in Brittany, France, offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal views. Explore the medieval ramparts and cobbled streets of the old town, lined with charming shops and cafes. Visit the imposing Saint-Malo Cathedral and the historic Fort National, or take a stroll along the beautiful sandy beaches. Don't miss the opportunity to sample delicious seafood dishes at one of the many waterfront restaurants. With its rich maritime history, fascinating museums, and breathtaking scenery, Saint-Malo is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a taste of old-world charm.

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Best landmarks in Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo offers visitors a rich historical experience with its magnificent landmarks. Explore the ancient walled city, known as Intra-Muros, and walk along the ramparts for stunning views of the coast. Visit the Château de Saint-Malo, a fortress with a history dating back to the 12th century, and the Cathedral of Saint-Vincent, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. Don't miss the Fort National, a tidal island fortress accessible by foot during low tide, and the Grand Bé, a small island where the famous writer Chateaubriand is buried. Saint-Malo's landmarks will transport you back in time and leave you in awe of its rich heritage.

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Explore Saint-Malo on the map

Plan your Saint-Malo trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, bars and hotels are, find what's near where you're staying, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo offers a vibrant dining scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. From charming creperies serving traditional Breton galettes to upscale seafood restaurants with stunning ocean views, visitors can indulge in a variety of culinary delights. The city is known for its fresh seafood, including oysters, mussels, and lobster, sourced directly from the surrounding waters. Additionally, cozy bistros and trendy cafes line the cobbled streets, providing the perfect setting for a leisurely meal or a quick bite. Whether you're craving classic French cuisine or international flavors, Saint-Malo's diverse restaurant scene has something for everyone to enjoy.

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Best bars in Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo's nightlife scene offers a vibrant mix of traditional Breton pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and lively nightclubs, ensuring a diverse and exciting experience for visitors. From sipping on local cider while listening to traditional music in cozy taverns to dancing the night away to international beats in modern clubs, there is something for every taste. The city comes alive after dark, with the sound of clinking glasses and laughter filling the air as locals and tourists mingle and create unforgettable memories in this historic coastal town.

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Best nightclubs in Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo's nightlife scene offers a vibrant mix of traditional Breton pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and lively nightclubs, ensuring a diverse and exciting experience for visitors. From sipping on local cider while listening to traditional music in cozy taverns to dancing the night away to international beats in modern clubs, there is something for every taste. The city comes alive after dark, with the sound of clinking glasses and laughter filling the air as locals and tourists mingle and create unforgettable memories in this historic coastal town.

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Best shops in Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo offers a unique shopping experience for visitors, with a charming mix of traditional markets, boutique shops, and souvenir stalls scattered throughout the city. From locally-made products like handcrafted jewelry and Breton sweets to high-end fashion brands and artisanal goods, there is something for everyone to discover. Don't miss the bustling indoor market at Place des Lices, where you can sample fresh seafood and regional delicacies, or explore the narrow streets of the old town for hidden gems and one-of-a-kind finds. Whether you're looking for a special gift to take home or simply want to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, shopping in Saint-Malo is sure to delight and surprise.

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Saint-Malo essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Saint-Malo is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, markets, and transportation. ATMs are readily available in the city center and at major tourist spots.
Safety
Saint-Malo is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any popular tourist spot, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur. The area around the train station can be less safe at night, so it's best to stay vigilant and avoid walking alone in that vicinity after dark.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Saint-Malo. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are plentiful, and many staff members speak some English. For minor health issues, you can purchase over-the-counter medications from these pharmacies.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress stylishly but comfortably. Avoid overly casual attire when dining out in finer restaurants. Religion: Do respect local religious customs. When visiting churches, dress modestly and keep noise levels down. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding buses. Don’t talk loudly on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'Bonjour' and a handshake. Don’t use overly familiar language with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like galettes and seafood. Don’t rush your meal; dining is a leisurely affair in France.
Local Tips
To experience Saint-Malo like a local, visit the morning markets like the one at Halle au Blé where you can buy fresh produce and local delicacies. Take a walk along the city walls, known as Les Remparts, for stunning views. Engage with locals in small talk, as they are often friendly and willing to share tips about the best places to eat and visit. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby tidal island of Mont Saint-Michel, which is a short drive away.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloBonjour[bon-zhoor]
GoodbyeAu revoir[oh ruh-vwahr]
YesOui[wee]
NoNon[nohn]
Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît / De rien[seel voo pleh / duh ryen]
Thank youMerci[mehr-see]
Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi / Désolé[ehk-skew-zay mwah / day-zoh-lay]
How are you?Comment ça va?[koh-mahn sah vah?]
Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?[byan. 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]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît[zhuh voo-dray vwahr luh muh-new, 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]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Au secours![oh suh-koor]
Go away!Allez-vous en![ah-lay vooz ahn]
Call the Police!Appelez la police![ah-play lah poh-lees]
Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin![ah-play uh mayd-sahn]
I'm lostJe suis perdu[zhuh swee pair-doo]
I'm illJe suis malade[zhuh swee mah-lahd]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...[zhuh voo-dray ash-tay...]
I'm just lookingJe regarde juste[zhuh ruh-gard zhust]
How much is it?Combien cela coûte?[kohm-byen suh-lah koot?]
That's too expensiveC'est trop cher[say troh shair]
Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?[poo-vay voo bay-say luh pree?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
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 et demi[dees ay duh-mee]
MorningMatin[mah-tan]
AfternoonAprès-midi[ah-pray mee-dee]
EveningSoir[swahr]
YesterdayHier[yehr]
TodayAujourd'hui[oh-zhoor-dwee]
TomorrowDemain[duh-man]
1Un[uhn]
2Deux[duh]
3Trois[trwah]
4Quatre[kah-truh]
5Cinq[sank]
6Six[sees]
7Sept[sept]
8Huit[weet]
9Neuf[nurf]
10Dix[dees]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Où est...?[oo ay...?]
What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?[kell ay la-dress?]
Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?[poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (soor 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 Saint-Malo

Founding and Early History

Saint-Malo, located on the Brittany coast of France, traces its origins back to the 1st century BC, when it was a small Gallo-Roman settlement. The town was named after Saint Maclou, a 6th-century monk who was one of the seven founding saints of Brittany.

Medieval Fortifications

During the Middle Ages, Saint-Malo became a fortified island to protect against invasions. Its impressive ramparts, which still stand today, were constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries. These fortifications helped Saint-Malo become a formidable maritime city.

Corsair Haven

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Saint-Malo was notorious for its corsairs, privateers authorized by the French crown to raid enemy ships. The city's wealth grew as these corsairs, including the famous René Duguay-Trouin and Robert Surcouf, brought back treasures and goods from their exploits.

The French Revolution

During the French Revolution, Saint-Malo experienced significant upheaval. The city was a hotbed of revolutionary activity, and its citizens played a crucial role in the political and social changes sweeping across France during this tumultuous period.

World War II Destruction and Reconstruction

Saint-Malo was heavily bombarded during World War II, particularly in August 1944 during the Battle of Saint-Malo. The city's historic center was largely destroyed. However, post-war reconstruction efforts meticulously restored Saint-Malo to its former glory, preserving its historical charm.

Modern-Day Saint-Malo

Today, Saint-Malo is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, stunning coastal views, and vibrant cultural scene. The city's historic walled center, picturesque beaches, and annual events like the Route du Rhum sailing race continue to attract visitors from around the world.

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Saint-Malo in Photos

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Saint-Malo, France

Discover the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences in Saint-Malo with Evendo - 100% free app-based travel guide.

  • Comprehensive guide to attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences
  • Detailed information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy hotel, tour, ticket, and experience bookings
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More about the Evendo app

Evendo is your comprehensive, free travel guide to Saint-Malo, France. Explore top attractions, book hotels, and discover local tips to make your trip unforgettable.

  • 'Near Me' feature to find the best spots around your current location
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • Travel essentials and historical insights about Saint-Malo
  • User-friendly navigation and interface
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Unlock the treasures of Saint-Malo with Evendo, your all-in-one travel guide app. Whether you're intrigued by the historic walls surrounding the city or the stunning beaches, Evendo has got you covered. Discover famous landmarks such as the majestic Saint-Malo Cathedral and the iconic Fort National. Wander through the picturesque streets of Intra-Muros, the old walled city, and take a leisurely stroll on the Plage du Sillon, a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for miles.

Feeling hungry? Explore the culinary delights Saint-Malo has to offer. From the mouth-watering seafood at Le Chalut to the gourmet experience at Restaurant Le Cap Horn, Evendo provides recommendations that cater to all tastes. Navigate effortlessly through the city using our 'Near Me' feature, which shows you the best attractions, eateries, and shops around your location.

No need to stress about bookings. Evendo allows you to easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and unique experiences directly through the app. With detailed information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, you can plan every aspect of your trip with ease. Plus, our curated local tips ensure that you experience Saint-Malo like a true local.

Download Evendo today and make your trip to Saint-Malo an unforgettable adventure.

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