Quimper: The Complete Guide

In the winding lanes of Quimper’s medieval centre, timber-framed houses and cathedral spires provide a story-book backdrop for intimate boltholes. Hôtel Beaumont occupies a 19th-century mansion just off Place Saint-Corentin, with refined décor that complements its original woodwork and a discreet courtyard for morning coffee. Just a block away, Best Western Plus Hôtel Kregenn blends contemporary comforts—like a serene spa and polished marble bathrooms—with classic Breton charm, while Hôtel de la Corniche perches beside the cathedral garden, offering bright rooms and views of Quimper’s historic rooftops from its rooftop terrace.

Along the banks of the Odet River and around the modern shopping quarter of Résidence du Pluguffan, waterside properties and design-led hotels capture the town’s livelier side. Odalys City Quimper provides studio apartments with kitchenette facilities and river-view balconies, ideal for extended stays. A short stroll brings you to Ibis Styles Quimper, where colorful, graphic-print interiors energize bright family rooms, and bike rentals make it easy to explore the towpaths lining the Odet.

Venturing into the rolling countryside just beyond Quimper’s ring road, rural retreats and manor-house guesthouses await amid apple orchards and oak groves. Château de Soye welcomes guests into its stone salons and refined chambres d’hôtes, with manicured gardens and an outdoor pool shaded by chestnut trees. Nearby, Manoir de Kerhuel offers spacious suites in a converted 17th-century manor, a table d’hôtes serving hearty Breton fare, and scenic walking trails that wind through the surrounding farmland.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Quimper. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Quimper in Spring

Spring is a lovely time to visit Quimper, with mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and a refreshing buzz in the air as the city awakens from winter. From March to May, the half-timbered streets are quieter, and the riverside walks along the Odet become especially pleasant. It’s the perfect season for exploring the old town, visiting pottery workshops, and enjoying a peaceful visit to the Saint-Corentin Cathedral without the summer crowds.

The Quimper pottery museum begins its cultural programming in spring, and cafés open up their terraces. While it’s not high season for festivals, the atmosphere is lively enough to feel welcoming and uncrowded—ideal for travelers who enjoy slower-paced city discovery.

Quimper in Summer

Summer is the most festive and energetic time to experience Quimper. From June through August, the city comes alive with color, music, and movement. The highlight is the Festival de Cornouaille, usually held in July, a week-long celebration of Breton culture featuring traditional dance, bagpipes, costumes, and parades. It’s one of Brittany’s most iconic cultural events and brings a joyful energy to the entire city.

The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for wandering the medieval old town, attending open-air concerts, and enjoying cider and crêpes at outdoor markets. While summer is also the busiest season, the cultural richness and long days make it a fantastic time to explore Quimper.

Quimper in Autumn

Autumn in Quimper, particularly from September to October, is calm, colorful, and full of local flavor. The changing leaves cast a warm glow over the city’s rooftops and riverbanks, and the tourist numbers begin to drop, making it easier to enjoy museums and cafés at a relaxed pace. It’s also a great time for food lovers, as regional harvests bring seasonal dishes and ingredients to markets and restaurants.

Though the big summer festivals have passed, smaller cultural events and concerts continue, and the town retains a lively but laid-back charm. For those seeking a more intimate experience of Quimper and its Breton roots, autumn is a quietly rewarding season.

Quimper in Winter

Winter in Quimper is peaceful and atmospheric, especially during the festive season. From December through February, the streets are dressed in lights, and the Christmas market fills the town center with wooden chalets, mulled cider, and handmade gifts. It’s a cozy time to visit pottery workshops, museums, and bakeries serving buttery Breton pastries.

While temperatures are cool and rainfall is more frequent, the mood is warm and authentic. Winter is also a good time for those who want to enjoy Quimper’s cultural side without the crowds, as many locals remain active in music, art, and theater even during the off-season.

Getting to Quimper by Air

Quimper is served by Quimper–Cornouaille Airport (UIP), located approximately 8 kilometers southwest of the city center. This airport primarily handles domestic flights, with regular services from Paris-Orly operated by Air France’s regional subsidiary, HOP!. Upon arrival, travelers can reach the city center via taxi or car rental services available at the airport.

For international travelers, Brest Bretagne Airport (BES), situated about 90 kilometers north of Quimper, offers a wider range of domestic and limited international flights. From Brest, you can rent a car or take a train to Quimper.

Getting to Quimper by Train

Quimper’s railway station, Gare de Quimper, is well-connected to major French cities. High-speed TGV trains run from Paris Montparnasse to Quimper, with a journey time of approximately 3.5 hours. These trains operate multiple times daily, providing a convenient option for travelers. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

Additionally, regional TER Bretagne trains connect Quimper to other Breton cities such as Brest, Lorient, and Rennes, facilitating easy exploration of the region.

Getting to Quimper by Car

Driving to Quimper offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes of Brittany. From Paris, the journey spans approximately 560 kilometers and takes around 5.5 to 6 hours via the A11 and A81 motorways, transitioning to the N165 national road towards Quimper. The route includes toll roads, so it’s advisable to have a payment method ready for these fees. [care_hire_text]

Travelling around Quimper

Once in Quimper, the city offers various transportation options for getting around:

• Public Buses: The QUB network operates local bus services throughout Quimper and its suburbs, with routes connecting key areas, including the city center, train station, and residential neighborhoods.
• Walking and Cycling: Quimper’s compact city center is pedestrian-friendly, making walking an enjoyable way to explore. Bicycle rentals are also available for those who prefer cycling.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing services operate in the area, offering convenient options for short trips or travel outside regular public transport hours.

Navigating Quimper is straightforward, allowing visitors to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage and charming streets with ease.