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Cities and Towns in Brittany

Explore the diverse cities and towns of Brittany, France, each offering unique experiences from Rennes' vibrant cultural scene and Saint-Malo's fortified old town to Quimper's Gothic cathedral and the picturesque port of Roscoff, showcasing the region's rich heritage and natural beauty.

Brittany is home to a diverse array of cities and towns, each offering unique experiences, from rich maritime history and medieval architecture to vibrant cultural scenes and culinary delights. Here's an overview of some notable cities and towns in Brittany:


Rennes

  • The capital of Brittany, known for its vibrant cultural scene, historical timber-framed houses, and the impressive Parlement de Bretagne. Rennes hosts lively markets, such as the Marché des Lices, and numerous festivals throughout the year.

Traditional half-timbered houses in the old town of Rennes, France
Traditional half-timbered houses in the old town of Rennes

Brest


  • A major port city with a strong maritime heritage, Brest is home to the National Maritime Museum and Océanopolis, a large ocean discovery center. The city was heavily rebuilt after World War II but retains a dynamic spirit and hosts maritime events.

Tour Tanguy and Old castle of city Brest, Finistere, Brittany
Tour Tanguy and Old castle of city Brest

Saint-Malo

  • Famous for its fortified old town (Intra-Muros), Saint-Malo boasts sandy beaches, a rich history of privateering, and close proximity to the picturesque Mont Saint-Michel. It's a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and beachgoers.

Fort National and beach at high tide, in beautiful walled port city of Saint-Malo, Brittany, France
Fort National and beach at high tide, in beautiful walled port city of Saint-Malo

Quimper

  • Renowned for its Gothic Saint-Corentin Cathedral, pedestrian-friendly old town, and faience pottery, Quimper is the cultural heart of Brittany. The town's cobbled streets and riverside setting make it a charming destination.

Quimper. On the banks of the Odet in the city center. Finistère. Brittany
On the banks of the Odet in the city center

Vannes

  • A walled city on the Gulf of Morbihan, Vannes features beautiful gardens, medieval gates, and half-timbered houses. Its marina and proximity to the gulf islands make it an ideal base for exploring the southern coast.

Vannes, a medieval city of Brittany (Bretagne) in France.
Vannes, a medieval city of Brittany (Bretagne)

Lorient

  • Known for its fishing port, Lorient hosts the annual Festival Interceltique, celebrating Celtic culture from around the world. The city's submarine base, transformed into a museum, offers insights into maritime and military history.

Bretagne Lorient Quai des Indes avec la Chambre de Commerce - Brittany Lorient Quai des Indes with the Chamber of Commerce
Lorient's port and city center

Dinan

  • A well-preserved medieval town on the Rance River, Dinan boasts charming streets, a picturesque port, and an impressive castle. The town's ramparts offer scenic views of the surrounding area.

Street view at the famous Dinan town in Brittany region in France
Narrow street with old traditional houses

Concarneau

  • Famous for its 'Ville Close,' a fortified old town on an island within the harbor, Concarneau is also a significant fishing port and a gateway to the Finistère coast.

Aerial view of Concarneau, a medieval walled city in Brittany, France - Clock tower in the corner of the fortified island accessed by a stone bridge along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean
Clock tower in the corner of the fortified island accessed by a stone bridge along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean

Morlaix

  • Known for its towering viaduct, Morlaix features a blend of medieval, Renaissance, and 19th-century architecture. The town's marina leads to the Bay of Morlaix, dotted with islands and coastal attractions.

Morlaix city landscape- Brittany in France
Port of Morlaix

Roscoff

  • A small port town known for its 16th-century granite buildings, Roscoff is also the gateway to Île de Batz. The town is recognized for its thalassotherapy centers and as a departure point for ferries to England and Ireland.

Exotic Garden Beach in Roscoff
Exotic Garden Beach

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