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Things to do in Brittany

Surrounded by the sea and bursting with character, Brittany is a truly captivating place to discover. Whether you wander around walled medieval cities, explore tranquil villages, or admire Stone Age sites, you'll never be short of things to do in Brittany.

Famed for its ruggedly beautiful 700-mile coastline, delicious food, and unique culture, there are many places to visit in Brittany so you’re guaranteed to have a wonderful time during your holiday here.

Why not upgrade to one of our Flexi tickets to give you more freedom and peace of mind when you travel with your car? Our Standard Flexi and Fully Flexi tickets allow you to take the scenic route home and not have to rush back, giving you greater flexibility in your departure time!

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Morning	02:00	04:25	06:50	09:15
Midday	11:40
Afternoon	14:05	16:30
Evening	18:55	21:15	23:40

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Beach retreats
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Medieval cities
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Historic castles
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Outdoor activities

About the city

Things to see in Brittany France

One of Brittany’s most famous features is its incredible coastline. With over 700 miles of striking beaches, hidden bays, fishing villages, and thriving resorts, the coast is a perfect place to visit in Brittany whether you are looking to relax by the sea or anyone who enjoys a coastal hike.

Western Brittany, particularly the Finistère region, is home to some of the most stunning beaches in France. On the northern coast, Ploumanac’h offers peaceful, unspoiled stretches of sand along the striking Pink Granite Coast, ideal for a quiet coastal walk. Beyond the beaches, some of the best things to see in Brittany include the medieval town of Dinan, the dramatic Pointe du Raz cliffs, and the charming half-timbered streets of Quimper.

The Crozon Peninsula south of Brest is also a perfect location for a boat trip to the gorgeous islands of Ouessant, Sein, and Belle Île, so if you are looking for a bit of adventure during your stay, this is the place to head to.

Best Places to visit in Brittany

Brittany is home to some of Europe’s most picturesque medieval towns, and Dinan stands out. Wander through its charming old quarter, with half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and artisan shops. It’s one of the top things to do in Brittany, perfect for soaking up history, browsing local crafts, and enjoying waterside dining with scenic views. Don’t miss the lively Thursday market, a great spot to experience local flavours and culture.

Known as the cultural capital of the city, Quimper is one of the best places to visit in Brittany to experience authentic Breton culture. It is home to the famous Festival de Cornouaille every July. During your time here, you can admire its Gothic cathedral, admire its atmospheric Old Town, and take a boat trip on the river.

In the region's heart is Rennes, Brittany’s gorgeous administrative capital and a hotspot for foodies. The city's famous Saturday morning food market offers some of the best places to eat in Brittany and arguably the whole of France. Make sure to stop in this city for some crepes - a true symbol of the region's delicious cuisine. You’re also sure to love wandering through Rennes’ medieval Old town and relaxing in the beautiful Thabor Gardens.

Things to see and do in Brittany

With crumbling castles, defensive forts, and elegant châteaux, Brittany has it all. Thanks to its strategically vital location along the coast, the region is full of fortifications and inland manors waiting to be explored.

The southeastern province of Morbihan is a must-visit, especially for history lovers. It has the highest concentration of castles in Brittany - 56 in total. Highlights include the fairy-tale Josselin Castle and the former royal residence Château de Suscinio. One of the best things to do in Brittany is to explore the Standing Stones of Carnac, a mysterious site featuring hundreds of ancient megaliths that intrigue visitors worldwide.

Brittany's castles are some of the best things to see in Brittany, so choosing which ones to visit may be challenging. We suggest taking in the medieval magic at the Castle of Vitré, which is now a museum where you can learn all about the history of both the castle and the town, and also exploring the magnificent Fougères Castle, which is located on the border with Normandy and offers an interactive experience.

Things to do in Brittany for families

With such a diverse landscape of moors and countryside, there are endless things to do in Brittany for kids and those who love spending time in the great outdoors. You will not regret getting your ferry to France to explore the beautiful nature and surroundings and its endless outdoor activities that everyone of all ages can enjoy.

Some fun things to do in Brittany include cycling tours around Finistère, snorkelling near the 'Coast of Legends' in Pays d'Aber, and hiking the many coastal paths with amazing views.

Brittany also has several stunning national parks that are perfect for a self-drive adventure. The marine park of Parc Marin d'Iroise, the marshlands of Brière, and the Armorique regional natural park all make for ideal day trips. If you upgrade to one of our Flexi tickets, you could have more time to explore these incredible national parks. Our Standard Flexi and Fully Flexi tickets give you greater flexibility on your departure time, giving you peace of mind on your self-drive adventure!

One of the best things to do in Brittany with families is visit Zooparc de Trégomeur. This fantastic zoo is home to a wide variety of species, including camels, tigers, snow leopards, lemurs, and porcupines. Some of the zoo's latest arrivals are a couple of pandas, offering an excellent opportunity to see these rare creatures, too.

Top 10 things to do in Brittany

Wander the medieval town of Dinan
Relax on the Pink Granite Coast near Ploumanac’h
Visit the Standing Stones of Carnac
Tour Josselin Castle and other châteaux in Morbihan
Walk the dramatic cliffs at Pointe du Raz
Enjoy fresh seafood in the walled port city of Saint-Malo
Cycle or hike along the Nantes–Brest Canal
Explore the historic streets and pottery shops of Quimper
Unwind on the beaches of the Crozon Peninsula
Experience a fest-noz, Brittany’s traditional music and dance festival

Feeling inspired to try out all of these things to do in Brittany for yourself? Book your Dover to Calais crossing today and start planning your trip to this diverse and fascinating region of France.

Feel inspired to try out all of these things to do in Brittany for yourself?

Saint Samson Cathedral in Brittany, France

FAQs:

1. Where is Brittany?

Brittany (Bretagne in French) is a region northwest of France, bordered by the English Channel to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. Known for its rugged coastline, medieval towns, Celtic heritage, and unique cultural identity, it offers plenty of things to do and see to plan the perfect getaway.

2. Is Brittany worth visiting?

Yes, Brittany is worth visiting. Its stunning coastal landscapes, charming historic towns, castles, and ancient megalithic sites offer a rich mix of culture, nature, and history. It’s perfect for road trips, outdoor adventures, and travellers looking to experience a less touristy side of France for a more slower travel experience so everyone in the family can enjoy.

3. How to get to Brittany?

There are many ways to travel to Brittany, but one of the most stress-free ways is by ferry. At P&O Ferries, our Dover to Calais crossing offers luxury from the moment you get on board. With no luggage restrictions and plenty to do and explore, like Brittany, you will never be bored. With our Flexi Ticket options, you can be in complete control when planning your trip and pick ferry times that best suit you for the perfect road trip. So, book your ferry to France today.

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