What to do in Rennes: the complete guide

Rennes is a lively student city, best discovered on foot: the old centre, the major museums and the Lices market are all within a fifteen minute walk.

The old town and its half timbered houses

The great fire of 1720 spared the north of the centre: this is where the half timbered houses huddle together, on Rue du Chapitre, Place Sainte-Anne and Rue Saint-Michel. The Portes Mordelaises, a remnant of the ramparts, and the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre are close by.

The Parliament of Brittany

Home to the court of appeal, the Parliament can be visited with the tourist office, booking required. The Grand’Chambre, with its painted and gilded ceilings, is one of the most beautiful rooms in Brittany.

The museums

At Les Champs Libres, near the station, the Musée de Bretagne tells the story of the region, and the Espace des sciences presents the “Fourmis” exhibition until 7 March 2027. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, on the quays, ranges from the early masters to Picasso.

The Lices market, on Saturday morning

Every Saturday morning, the Lices market fills the square and the Halles Martenot: it is one of the largest markets in France. Grab a galette saucisse on the go, it is a tradition.

The Thabor and the banks of the Vilaine

The Parc du Thabor, with its rose garden and formal garden, is the most beautiful garden in the city. Along the Vilaine and the Ille-et-Rance canal, the towpaths lead by bike out into the countryside.

Around Rennes

The Paimpont forest, the Brocéliande of Arthurian legend, is forty five minutes away. Bécherel, the book town, Combourg and its castle, Vitré and Fougères and their fortresses each make a half day trip.

Where to stay in Rennes