Rennes: The Complete Guide

Rennes France

Rennes, in the Brittany region, offers a perfect mix of traditional character and modern flair. Its half-timbered houses, winding streets, and lively squares create a charming backdrop for exploring on foot. The city feels youthful and energetic, thanks in part to its large student population and vibrant cultural scene.

Beyond its picturesque old town, Rennes has a relaxed pace and a strong local identity. From weekend markets to green parks and riverside walks, there’s always something to enjoy. It also serves as a great starting point for exploring the rest of Brittany, with easy connections to the coast and nearby historic towns.

History of Rennes

Rennes in Ancient Times (Before 5th Century AD)

Rennes began as a Gallic settlement inhabited by the Redones, a Celtic tribe. It later became part of the Roman Empire, developing into a small but organized town with fortified walls. Roman influence shaped early infrastructure and laid the foundations for the city’s layout.

Rennes in the Early Middle Ages (5th – 10th Century)

As Roman authority declined, Rennes became part of shifting regional powers and faced periods of instability. It grew in importance as a local center of administration and religion. During this time, the first Christian institutions and defensive structures began to take root.

Rennes in the High Middle Ages (11th – 14th Century)

By the 11th century, Rennes emerged as a key city in the Duchy of Brittany. It was a center for trade, governance, and religious life, with construction of churches and civic buildings. The city began expanding beyond its ancient walls as its population and influence grew.

Rennes in the Renaissance and Early Modern Period (15th – 18th Century)

Rennes continued to grow and evolve, becoming an important seat of parliament and legal authority in Brittany. After a devastating fire in 1720, much of the city center was rebuilt with more uniform architecture. This period gave Rennes a more organized, classical appearance in contrast to its medieval roots.

Rennes in the 19th Century

The 19th century brought modernization, with rail connections, industrial development, and urban planning projects. Rennes expanded beyond its historic core and saw the rise of new neighborhoods and institutions. It also developed a reputation for education and civic progress.

Rennes in the 20th Century to Present

Throughout the 20th century, Rennes balanced its historical identity with modernization and expansion. It became a major university city and administrative capital, while preserving its heritage and cultural vibrancy. Today, Rennes continues to thrive as a dynamic and welcoming urban center with deep historical roots.

Visiting Rennes for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Rennes on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Powered by GetYourGuide

17 Best places to See in Rennes

This complete guide to Rennes not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Rennes and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Place Sainte-Anne

Place Saint Anne Rennes
CC BY-SA 2.0 / TouN
Place Sainte-Anne is a vibrant square in the heart of Rennes, known for its rich history and lively atmosphere. Situated in the northern part of the city's historic center, it has been a focal point since Roman times, with archaeological findings revealing remnants of ancient structures beneath its surface. Over the centuries, the square has evolved, serving various roles from…
Location: Place Sainte-Anne, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Place Sainte-Anne

We recommend to rent a car in France through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Couvent des Jacobins

Rennes Couvent Des Jacobins
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Pymouss
The Jacobite Convent in Rennes, also known as the Couvent des Jacobins, is a former Dominican monastery that has found new life as a major cultural and convention centre. Founded in the 14th century by the Dominican Order—commonly referred to as Jacobins in France—the convent played an important religious and intellectual role in the city for centuries. Its location in…
Location: Couvent des Jacobins, Place Sainte-Anne, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Couvent des Jacobins

Explore Rennes yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Place du Champ-Jacquet

Rennes Pl Ch Jacquet
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sokoljan
Place du Champ-Jacquet is one of Rennes' most picturesque and historically rich squares, located in the heart of the city's historic center. Its name likely derives from the nearby Porte Jacquet, a former gate in the city's medieval ramparts. The square is renowned for its distinctive 17th-century half-timbered houses, which lean at various angles, creating a unique and charming architectural…
Location: Place du Champ-Jacquet, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Place du Champ-Jacquet

Place Rallier du Baty

Place Rallier Du Baty
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Luistxo
Place Rallier du Baty is a charming square nestled in the historic center of Rennes, offering a blend of medieval architecture and contemporary vibrancy. The square is renowned for its well-preserved half-timbered houses, some dating back to the 16th century, which showcase the city's rich architectural heritage. These colorful façades provide a picturesque backdrop to the lively atmosphere, where locals…
Location: Rue Rallier du Baty, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Place Rallier du Baty

Parliament of Brittany

Parlement Of Brittany
CC BY-SA 3.0 / chisloup
The Parliament of Brittany is one of the most significant and iconic buildings in Rennes, both historically and architecturally. Constructed between 1618 and 1655, it served as the seat of the sovereign court of justice for the region under the Ancien Régime. Designed by architect Salomon de Brosse—who also worked on the Luxembourg Palace in Paris—the building is a harmonious…
Location: Place du Parlement de Bretagne, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Parliament of Brittany

Parc du Thabor (Park of Thabor)

ParcDuThabor
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Abujoy
Parc du Thabor is one of the most beloved green spaces in Rennes, offering a peaceful retreat just steps from the city’s historic centre. Covering more than 10 hectares, the park combines French formal gardens, English-style landscaped areas, and a botanical garden—all seamlessly integrated into a harmonious whole. Its name derives from Mount Tabor, a biblical reference, as the site…
Location: Parc du Thabor, Place Saint-Mélaine, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Parc du Thabor (Park of Thabor)

Saint George Palace

Rennes Palais Saint Georges
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Patrick
The Palais Saint-Georges in Rennes is a historic edifice that has undergone significant transformations over the centuries. Originally founded in 1032 by Duke Alain III of Brittany as a Benedictine abbey for his sister Adèle, the site served as a religious institution for several centuries. In the 17th century, under the guidance of Abbess Magdelaine de la Fayette, the abbey…
Location: Palais Saint-Georges, Rue Gambetta, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Saint George Palace

Rennes Cathedral

Rennes Cathdérale Saint Pierre
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Fab5669
Rennes Cathedral, officially known as Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Rennes, is one of the city's most imposing and historically significant landmarks. Located in the heart of the old town, the cathedral has served as the spiritual centre of Rennes for centuries. The present structure, however, is the result of a long and complex history. Originally a Romanesque church, it underwent several…
Location: Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, Rue de la Monnaie, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Rennes Cathedral

Lices Market

Marche Des Lices Mise En Place
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Trizek
By 1658, the Lices Market had become a large square. Wealthy status-proud Parlement members built private mansions by the square. The half-timbered and stone mansions are imposing. The hotel de la Noue and the Racapé-de-La-Feuillée building are timbered. The hotel de Montbourcher and the hotel du Molant, home of Le Carre restaurant, are of stone. In the 19th century, Les…
Location: Place des Lices, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Lices Market

Place de la Mairie, Rennes

Rennes Hôtel De Ville
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Fab5669
The story of the Great Fire of Rennes begins on the night of December 23, 1720, with a drinking party in a carpenter’s workshop on Rue Tristan. A domestic dispute broke out, a lamp was knocked over, and a fire began—one that would quickly spread beyond control. In the cramped, medieval streets of the city, flames leapt from rooftop to…
Location: Place de la Mairie, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Place de la Mairie, Rennes

Saint-Yves Chapel (Chapelle Saint-Yves)

The Saint-Yves Chapel (Chapelle Saint-Yves) in Rennes is a remarkable example of late Gothic architecture and a testament to the city's rich historical tapestry. Constructed in 1494, the chapel was originally part of the Saint-Yves Hospital, established in 1358 by Eudon Le Bouteiller to serve the city's poor and sick during the tumultuous times of the Breton War of Succession.…
Location: Chapelle Saint-Yves, Rue Saint-Yves, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Saint-Yves Chapel (Chapelle Saint-Yves)

Porte Mordelaise (Mordelaise Gate)

Marche Des Lices Mise En Place
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Fab5669
Porte Mordelaise is one of the most significant remnants of medieval Rennes, offering a rare glimpse into the city's fortified past. Located on the northern edge of the historic centre, this gate once served as the principal entrance to the walled city, especially for dignitaries and royalty. Its name comes from the nearby town of Mordelles, which the road beyond…
Location: Portes Mordelaises - Site historique Rennes centre, Rue des Portes Mordelaises, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Porte Mordelaise (Mordelaise Gate)

Place de la Parcheminerie

La Parcheminerie
CC BY-SA 3.0 / chisloup
Place de la Parcheminerie is a charming and historically rich square nestled in the heart of Rennes' medieval quarter. Its name harks back to the 17th and 18th centuries when parchment vendors and tanners operated here, reflecting the area's artisanal past. Today, the square is a vibrant spot where locals and visitors alike enjoy the ambiance of its cafés and…
Location: Place de la Parchemanerie Mi, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Place de la Parcheminerie

Museum of Fine Arts of Rennes

Museum Of Fine Arts Of Rennes
CC BY-SA 3.0 / GO69
The Museum of Fine Arts of Rennes (Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rennes), established in 1794, stands as one of France's most significant regional art institutions. Its origins trace back to the French Revolution when artworks were confiscated from churches and public buildings. A substantial portion of its current collection was donated by Christophe-Paul de Robien, a former president of the…
Location: Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rennes, Quai Emile Zola, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Museum of Fine Arts of Rennes

Palais du Commerce, Rennes

Rennes Palais Du Commerce
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Jordiferrer
The Palais du Commerce stands as a prominent architectural and historical landmark in Rennes, France. Constructed between 1885 and 1929, this grand edifice was designed by architects Jean-Baptiste Martenot and Emmanuel Le Ray. Situated in the heart of the city, it reflects the ambition of Rennes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries to modernize and assert its economic…
Location: Palais du Commerce, Place de la République, Rennes, France | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Palais du Commerce, Rennes

Place Honoré Commeurec

Rennes Place Honoré Commeurec
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Pymouss
Place Honoré Commeurec is a lively square in the heart of Rennes, renowned for its blend of historical significance and contemporary culture. Named after Honoré Commeurec—a local typographer, union activist, and resistance member who died in a Nazi concentration camp in 1945—the square honors his legacy as a symbol of resilience and civic engagement. In 1949, the city renamed the…
Location: Place Honoré Commeurec, Rennes, France | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Place Honoré Commeurec

Lycée Émile-Zola

Rennes Lycée Émile Zola
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Fab5669
Lycée Émile-Zola in Rennes is one of the oldest and most respected secondary schools in Brittany, with a history that stretches back to 1803. It was among the first nine lycées established by Napoleon Bonaparte’s education reforms and has since built a lasting reputation for academic excellence. Located on Avenue Jean-Janvier in the city centre, the school occupies a distinguished…
Location: Collège & Lycée Émile Zola, Avenue Jean Janvier, Rennes, France | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Lycée Émile-Zola

Where to Stay in Rennes

For visitors to Rennes, the city center is the most popular area to stay, especially around the historic quarter. This part of the city offers easy access to key sights like the Parliament of Brittany, the Rennes Cathedral, and Parc du Thabor. It’s ideal for walking, with plenty of restaurants, shops, markets, and charming streets that show off the city’s character. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels in historic buildings to modern, comfortable stays.

For a quieter atmosphere with more space, the north side of Rennes, including areas like Saint-Grégoire, provides a more relaxed setting. It’s still well-connected to the city by public transport and is a good option for those who plan to explore the surrounding countryside or drive around Brittany. Hotels in these neighborhoods often come with larger rooms and easier parking. This is a practical and peaceful alternative for travelers who want easy access without being right in the city’s core.

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

Rennes Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Rennes

Visiting Rennes in Spring (March to May)

Spring is a great time to visit Rennes, with blooming parks and mild weather perfect for walking through the old town. Outdoor cafés and markets start to fill up, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s also a good season for exploring nearby countryside and villages.

Visiting Rennes in Summer (June to August)

Summer in Rennes is warm and full of energy, with festivals, open-air events, and long daylight hours. While it’s not as crowded as other French cities, the atmosphere is vibrant, especially in public squares and along the river. It’s a great time for both cultural outings and casual outdoor enjoyment.

Visiting Rennes in Autumn (September to November)

Autumn brings cooler air and a quieter rhythm to Rennes, making it ideal for those who prefer a slower pace. The city’s parks and tree-lined streets take on beautiful fall colors. It’s also a good time to enjoy the food scene, with seasonal produce and cozy dining spots.

Visiting Rennes in Winter (December to February)

Winter in Rennes is calm and often crisp, with festive decorations adding warmth to the historic streets. While temperatures are cooler, the city remains active with cultural events and museum visits. It’s a peaceful time to experience Rennes without the crowds.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 9°C
  • February 10°C
  • March 12°C
  • April 17°C
  • May 19°C
  • June 24°C
  • July 27°C
  • August 26°C
  • September 25°C
  • October 18°C
  • November 13°C
  • December 10°C

How to get to Rennes

How to Visit Rennes by Air

Rennes has a regional airport with flights to and from several French and European cities. It’s a convenient entry point for visitors looking to explore the city and the wider Brittany region. Renting a car at the airport is a great option if you plan to visit surrounding towns or the coast.

How to Visit Rennes by Train

Rennes is well connected by high-speed TGV trains, making it easy to reach from Paris and other major cities. The train station is centrally located, providing quick access to hotels and attractions. Rail travel is efficient and ideal for those focusing on the city itself.

How to Visit Rennes by Car

Driving to Rennes allows for flexibility, especially if you’re exploring the broader Brittany region. The city is accessible via major highways, and parking is available throughout. Renting a car is especially useful for visiting nearby countryside, historic sites, and coastal destinations.

How to Visit Rennes by Bus

Long-distance bus services connect Rennes with many other cities in France and neighboring countries. Buses are an affordable option for budget travelers and typically stop near the city center. They’re best suited for those with flexible travel schedules.

Getting Around Rennes

Rennes is a compact city that’s easy to navigate on foot or by public transport. The metro and bus networks are reliable and cover all key areas. For exploring the surrounding region, renting a car gives you the freedom to go at your own pace.

Similar Blogs