Located in the heart of Brittany, Rennes is not only a vibrant university city but also the perfect gateway to one of France’s most fascinating regions. With its wild coastlines, ancient forests, medieval towns, and mystical legends, Brittany offers an unforgettable experience for curious students eager to explore beyond the classroom. In this guide, Bienvenue à Rennes invites you to discover 10 extraordinary places to visit during your stay.
As a student in Rennes, you’ll quickly realise how easy it is to explore everything Brittany has to offer. Thanks to excellent train connections, affordable bus routes, and safe cycling paths, every weekend becomes an opportunity for adventure. Whether you’re passionate about nature, history, gastronomy, or simply excited to see more of France, Rennes places you at the centre of endless discoveries. From dramatic coastal cliffs to charming medieval villages and enchanting islands, the region reveals breathtaking landscapes and new stories at every turn.
With its strategic location, rich heritage, and welcoming atmosphere, the city allows you to enjoy both academic success and unforgettable travel experiences. Among the many incredible places we recommend exploring during your exchange in France, beginning your journey from Rennes, we
The Marché des Lices is one of the must‑experience highlights for a weekend in Rennes / photo: Destination Rennes – Julien Mignot.
Saint-Malo is a city like no other — a living postcard where history and the sea meet. Famous for its towering granite walls, the city was once home to fearless corsairs who sailed the Atlantic, giving Saint-Malo its adventurous spirit. Walking along the ramparts offers breathtaking views of the ocean, nearby beaches, and the surrounding islands.
Inside the walls, cobblestone streets wind past charming boutiques, seafood restaurants, and cozy cafés, where you can taste local specialties like fresh oysters, crab, and the region’s famous crepes and cider. History lovers can explore the Saint-Malo Cathedral, the Château de Saint-Malo, and the museums that tell the city’s rich maritime past.
The city also serves as a gateway to nature: relax on the sandy beaches at low tide, take boat trips to nearby islands such as Grand Bé and Petit Bé, or go hiking along the scenic coastal paths.
Saint-Malo’s combination of history, gastronomy, stunning seascapes, and vibrant culture makes it one of Brittany’s most unforgettable destinations.
photo : personal archive
Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most iconic landmarks — a breathtaking medieval abbey rising dramatically from the sea. This UNESCO World Heritage site feels like a place out of a fairy tale, with its narrow winding streets, stone houses, and panoramic views of the surrounding tidal flats.
Visitors can explore the Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel itself, where history, architecture, and spirituality converge. Don’t miss climbing to the abbey’s top for stunning views of the bay and watching the tides sweep in, creating a magical natural spectacle.
The village at the foot of the abbey is full of charming shops, restaurants, and creperies where you can taste local specialties like omelets from La Mère Poulard (https://www.lamerepoulard.com/), cider, and freshly baked pastries. For those who enjoy nature, walking across the tidal flats (with a guide for safety) is an unforgettable experience.
Mont Saint-Michel’s combination of history, architecture, natural beauty, and culinary delights makes it a must-visit destination during any exchange program in France.
Quimper is the cultural heart of Brittany, known for its rich traditions, charming medieval streets, and vibrant arts scene. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of the old town and admire the half-timbered houses, artisanal shops, and local markets bursting with fresh produce, cider, and handmade crafts.
The city is famous for its beautiful Quimper Cathedral (Saint-Corentin), a stunning Gothic masterpiece with intricate stained glass windows. Art lovers will enjoy the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Quimper, which showcases both Breton art and European masterpieces.
Quimper is also renowned for its traditional Breton pottery, known as faïence de Quimper, which has been handcrafted in the region for centuries. Don’t miss the chance to sample Breton delicacies like crêpes, kouign-amann (a buttery pastry), and cider at local cafés and creperies.
« With its authentic Breton charm, rich cultural heritage, and picturesque riverside setting, Quimper offers exchange students an unforgettable glimpse into Breton traditions and lifestyle. / PHOTO: Quimper, Ville d’Art et d’Histoire – Office de Tourisme de Quimper Cornouaille
Carnac is a unique destination where history stretches back thousands of years. Famous for its mysterious alignments of megalithic stones — some dating back to 4500 BCE — Carnac offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric Europe. Walking among these ancient standing stones is like stepping into another world, full of legends and unanswered questions.
In addition to the stone alignments, you can visit the Musée de Préhistoire de Carnac, which provides insight into the life and culture of the region’s earliest inhabitants. Nature lovers can explore the nearby beaches and coastal trails, perfect for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the serene scenery of Brittany’s coast.
After a day of history and exploration, stop by local creperies and seafood restaurants to taste fresh oysters, mussels, and Breton galettes.
Carnac combines mystery, culture, and natural beauty, making it a fascinating and memorable stop during an exchange program in Brittany. /photo: Office de Tourisme de Carnac – Site Officiel Carnac Bretagne
Step into a world of magic and mystery in the Brocéliande Forest, a legendary woodland said to be home to Merlin, King Arthur, and the Knights of the Round Table. Located in the heart of Brittany, the forest is full of winding trails, ancient trees, hidden ponds, and mystical sites that bring Celtic legends to life.
Visitors can explore Château de Comper, where the forest’s legend is celebrated in exhibitions about Arthurian myths, local folklore, and the mysterious “Fountain of Youth.” Nature lovers can hike the many trails, visit the Val Sans Retour (Vale of No Return) — a site steeped in legend — and enjoy the serene atmosphere of lakes, streams, and moss-covered stones. For a true Breton experience, stop in nearby villages to taste local specialties like cider, crepes, and hearty stews.
The Brocéliande Forest is a magical getaway that combines nature, legend, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for exchange students eager to explore far beyond the classroom./ PHOTO: L’Arbre d’Or de la forêt de Brocéliande en Bretagne
Brest is a dynamic port city in Brittany, renowned for its rich maritime heritage and spectacular coastal landscapes. With its modern architecture, bustling harbor, and naval history, Brest offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Students and visitors can explore Océanopolis, a large ocean discovery park with themed pavilions showcasing polar, temperate, and tropical marine life. History enthusiasts will enjoy the National Maritime Museum of Brest, which presents naval history, ship models, and maritime artifacts.
The city is also ideal for outdoor lovers: stroll along the picturesque Penfeld River, take boat trips along the coast, or explore nearby hiking trails offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic. For food lovers, Brest offers excellent seafood, from oysters and mussels to traditional Breton galettes and cider in local cafés and creperies.
With its bustling port, cultural attractions, and proximity to natural wonders, Brest is a must-visit destination for exchange students eager to experience the maritime charm of Brittany.
Vannes is a picturesque town on the Gulf of Morbihan, where medieval history meets coastal beauty. Its old town is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and colorful squares, perfect for wandering and soaking up the local atmosphere.
History lovers can visit the Vannes Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre), the Ramparts of Vannes, and the Château de l’Hermine, which tell the story of the city’s rich past. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Gulf of Morbihan offers boat trips to explore small islands, coastal trails, and stunning seascapes.
Vannes also has a vibrant food scene. Try fresh seafood at local restaurants, sample traditional Breton crepes and galettes, and enjoy local cider. Don’t miss the weekly markets, where you can find local produce, cheeses, and artisan crafts.
With its medieval charm, scenic waterfront, and lively cultural life, Vannes is an unforgettable stop for students exploring Brittany during an exchange program.
Belle-Île-en-Mer is the largest of Brittany’s islands and a true haven for nature lovers. Known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, sandy beaches, and rugged landscapes, the island offers a perfect escape from the city, just a short ferry ride from the mainland.
Visitors can explore the island’s scenic trails by foot or bicycle, discovering iconic spots like Les Aiguilles de Port-Coton, famous for its jagged cliffs and spectacular Atlantic views, and the Citadelle Vauban, a historic fortress overlooking the sea. Small villages like Sauzon and Le Palais charm with pastel-colored houses, local markets, and seafood restaurants.
• Explore the Spectacular Cliffs at Port-Coton
The “Aiguilles de Port-Coton” (Port-Coton Needles) are jagged rock formations rising from the ocean, especially impressive at sunset when the waves crash dramatically against the cliffs. Monet painted these cliffs more than 30 times, fascinated by their wild beauty.
• Visit the Citadelle Vauban
Overlooking the harbor of Le Palais, this impressive 17th-century fortress offers panoramic views of the coastline. Inside, you’ll find a museum, art exhibitions, gardens, and winding paths perfect for a historical walk.
Belle-Île-en-Mer is also perfect for water sports, including sailing, kayaking, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Don’t forget to try the local specialties. PHOTO: Belle-Île-en-Mer Tourist Office – Official Website
Concarneau is one of Brittany’s most enchanting seaside towns, blending maritime charm with centuries of history. Its crown jewel is the Ville Close, a fortified island city rising proudly from the sea — one of the most remarkable examples of medieval coastal defense in France. Crossing the stone footbridge into its walled heart feels like entering another era.
Inside the ramparts, you’ll find a maze of narrow streets filled with artisan boutiques, crêperies, and small shops selling local crafts. Walking along the fortified walls offers panoramic views of the harbor, fishing boats, and the crystalline waters that make Concarneau so beloved by visitors.
The town is also famous for its long sandy beaches, including Plage des Sables Blancs, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a peaceful seaside walk. Concarneau’s deep seafaring identity is alive at the Fishing Museum (Musée de la Pêche), where you can explore exhibits dedicated to maritime culture — even stepping aboard a real fishing trawler.
For nature lovers, the surrounding coastline offers scenic hiking routes, such as parts of the GR34 coastal path, with breathtaking ocean views. Food enthusiasts will fall in love with the fresh seafood served in local restaurants, particularly the famous Breton scallops and seafood platters.
Whether you come for its beaches, history, or vibrant port atmosphere, Concarneau offers an irresistible mix of coastal beauty and centuries-old tradition — a perfect escape during your stay in Brittany.
PHOTO : Concarneau | Tourisme Bretagne
Dinan is one of Brittany’s best-preserved medieval towns — a place where every cobblestone, timber-framed house, and stone archway seems frozen in time. Perched above the River Rance, the city offers an atmosphere so magical that walking through its streets feels like stepping into a historical fairytale.
Start your visit in the Old Town, where colorful half-timbered houses lean charmingly over narrow streets like Rue du Jerzual, one of Dinan’s most iconic and picturesque pathways. Follow it downhill to reach the Port of Dinan, a postcard-perfect harbor lined with cafés and boutiques — a lovely place for a peaceful stroll along the river.
Don’t miss the Dinan Castle, a 14th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. History lovers will enjoy exploring its towers, walls, and museum exhibitions. The Basilique Saint-Sauveur is another highlight, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles in a serene, captivating atmosphere.
Dinan is also known for its lively craft shops, traditional crêperies, and local markets, where you can taste Breton specialties like galettes, cider, and kouign-amann. Its yearly medieval festival, Fête des Remparts, transforms the city into a vibrant spectacle of costumes, jousting, music, and ancient traditions.
Dinan is also known for its lively craft shops, traditional creperies, and local markets, where you can enjoy Breton specialties such as galettes, cider, and kouign-amann. Its annual medieval festival, the Fête des Remparts, transforms the town into a vibrant spectacle of costumes, jousting, music, and ancient traditions. PHOTO: Fête des Remparts | Tourisme Bretagne
The study programs developed by Bienvenue à Rennes include organized trips to several of these extraordinary destinations, such as Saint-Malo, Mont Saint-Michel, Dinan, and many more.
These excursions allow students to deepen their understanding of Brittany’s history and culture while building meaningful connections and creating unforgettable memories beyond the classroom.
Thanks to the excellent transportation links from the Breton capital and the numerous cycling routes, exploring the region is easy, enjoyable, and accessible.
Get in touch today, request a quote for your study-abroad experience in Rennes, and discover firsthand all the amazing places highlighted in this article.
We also offer exclusive travel packages for groups. If traveling in a more personalized way is what you’re looking for, talk to us!
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