Activities
A city steeped in history, culture, and festivities, Rennes has no shortage of ideas to fill your days and evenings. Stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, discover its architectural treasures, take a shopping break, or enjoy a galette-saucisse at the Marché des Lices.
When evening comes, let yourself be carried away by the city's student and festive atmosphere: bars, concerts, craft beers, crêperies... there's something for everyone!
Feel like getting away from it all? The reception also offers walking and cycling tours, so you can discover the surrounding countryside or the must-see sites of Brittany's heritage at your own pace.
A student city with a lively atmosphere, Rennes offers a vibrant nightlife scene with pubs, dance bars, concerts, and nightclubs. You're sure to find the right vibe for you, from chill to party hard.
Fancy getting out into nature around Rennes? Reception can recommend walking or cycling routes to suit your ability. You'll also find lots of ideas for itineraries on the Destination Rennes website.
Rennes is easy to explore on foot and is perfect for shopping. Fashion, home decor, design, shoes, jewelry, designer goods, stationery, Breton specialties... more than 2,000 shops and stores await you.
A Rennes specialty you absolutely must try: galette-saucisse. Perfect for a visit to the Marché des Lices market, for a 100% local gourmet break.
Sample Breton craft beers in the bars of Rennes (in moderation). A great way to discover the local brewing scene after a day of sightseeing.
Extend your Breton experience in a crêperie: sweet crêpes, savory galettes... all accompanied by cider. Rennes is full of friendly and festive places to enjoy them.
Discover the Odorico House: a place that pays tribute to the mosaics of Isidore Odorico, an Italian craftsman who left his mark on Rennes in the 20th century. Now open to the public and converted into a crêperie and tea room.
Every Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the Marché des Lices market brings the Place des Lices (downtown) to life. With more than 250 producers, artisans, and merchants, it is one of the largest markets in France: ideal for sampling local Breton produce.
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The MBAR presents an encyclopedic collection from antiquity to the present day. Must-see items include objects from ancient civilizations (Egyptian, Etruscan, Greco-Roman) and non-European pieces, as well as numerous major works.
A 19th-century monument listed as a historic site since 1975, the Rennes Opera House offers around thirty opera performances each season. Tours are available depending on the program.
Built in the 17th century, the Parliament of Brittany is one of Rennes' major monuments and the seat of the Court of Appeal. After the fire in 1994, it was restored and is now open to visitors, with superb rooms decorated with 17th-century tapestries and paintings.
Fancy some contemporary art? The FRAC Bretagne has a collection of over 5,000 works. Created in 1981, it was the first FRAC in France, part of a cultural decentralization initiative.
Stroll through the historic center of Rennes and discover its half-timbered houses, a legacy of the Middle Ages. Dating back to the 15th century, just under 400 remain today, iconic symbols of Breton architecture.
A classic-style cathedral, listed as a historic monument since 1906. A must-see in the city center to complete your heritage tour of Rennes.
