Place des Merciers, Dinan

Historic Building in Dinan

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Avi1111 dr. avishai teicher

Place des Merciers is one of the must-see places in Dinan, a beautifully preserved triangular square that sits at the very heart of the medieval city. Its central granite well, now closed for safety, hints at a time when this plaza was a key gathering point for the people of the Ville Haute. Timber-framed houses in striking colours, some dating back to the 13th century, encircle the square and immediately draw the eye, creating a backdrop that feels lifted from a historic tapestry.

Among these remarkable buildings is number 3 Place des Merciers, home to the celebrated restaurant Chez la Mère Pourcel. Founded in 1927 by Alfred and Virginie Pourcel, this iconic grey-blue half-timbered structure proudly carries its Historical Monument status awarded in 1961. With its proximity to nearby landmarks like the Couvent des Cordeliers, the square is often visited on walking tours of Dinan, offering both visual charm and a strong sense of continuity with the city's past.

History and Significance of Place des Merciers
Things to See and Do in Place des Merciers
How to Get to Place des Merciers
Practical Tips on Visiting Place des Merciers
Where to Stay close to Place des Merciers
Is Place des Merciers Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Place des Merciers
Nearby Attractions to Place des Merciers

History and Significance of Place des Merciers

Place des Merciers once bore the name Place de l'Apport and formed the historic hub of the Quartier de l'Apport, where numerous medieval lanes converged. As the commercial and social core of the Ville Haute, the square bustled with merchants, artisans, and townsfolk going about their daily routines. Its distinctive timber-framed houses, many designated as Historical Monuments, recall an era when Dinan flourished as a thriving market town.

Guilds played a central role in structuring the surrounding streets, with craftsmen clustering together to form distinct zones of trade and production. This medieval urban layout still echoes in the street names today: Rue de la Poissonnerie for fishmongers, Rue de la Lainerie for wool workers, and several others that preserve this historic organisation of craft and commerce. Though their original inhabitants have long departed, the character of these narrow lanes remains.

The square’s well-preserved architecture and its relationship to guild traditions provide a rare window into everyday medieval life. Even the repurposing of certain streets tells a living story. Rue de la Cordonnerie, once home to cobblers, has transformed into Rue de la Soif-Thirst Lane-a lively stretch packed with bars and outdoor terraces. Other lanes, like the whimsically named Rue du Saut de la Puce, retain titles whose origins have faded into mystery, adding to the charm of the area.

Things to See and Do in Place des Merciers

Begin your visit by taking in the beautifully restored timber-framed façades that line the square. Each building tells its own story through carved woodwork, sloping beams, and medieval proportions, offering an immersive experience for anyone interested in architectural history. The old granite well at the centre, though no longer functional, anchors the square in its medieval context and makes for an evocative focal point.

A standout highlight is the renowned Chez la Mère Pourcel, housed in a striking 13th-century structure with a distinctive grey-blue frame. Whether you dine there or simply admire the building, it is one of the top attractions in Dinan for those who appreciate historical settings combined with culinary tradition. The establishment's long history and preserved architecture make it a beloved feature of the square.

Exploring the nearby streets further enriches the visit. Walk along the old guild lanes, now home to boutique shops, artisanal workshops, and cafés. Rue de la Soif provides a lively contrast to the quiet charm of the square, especially on sunny afternoons when terraces fill with locals and visitors. The atmosphere here beautifully captures the spirit of Dinan: vibrant, historic, and wonderfully walkable.

How to Get to Place des Merciers

The nearest major airport to Dinan is Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport, located about an hour away by road. It connects to numerous French and European cities, making it a convenient arrival point for exploring northern Brittany. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Dinan on Booking.com.

Dinan is also accessible by train, with regular services from Rennes and Saint-Malo arriving at Dinan station. From the station, a pleasant walk through the old town leads you directly to Place des Merciers. 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.

For those travelling by car, Dinan is well connected via regional roads. Parking areas outside the historic centre allow visitors to explore the medieval streets on foot, with Place des Merciers just a short walk from several public car parks. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Place des Merciers

Best time to visit Place des Merciers: Late spring to early autumn offers the best conditions for exploring outdoor squares and medieval streets.
Entrance fee in Euros: The square itself is free to visit.
Opening hours: Open at all hours, as it is a public square within the old town.
Official website: Visit the Dinan tourist office website for nearby attractions and walking routes.
How long to spend: Allow 20-40 minutes to explore the square and its surroundings, longer if dining or browsing nearby shops.
Accessibility: The square is generally accessible, though some adjoining medieval streets may have uneven cobblestones.
Facilities: Nearby cafés, restaurants, and shops are plentiful within the old town.
Photography tip: Capture the timber-framed buildings in the soft morning light for the best contrast and colour.
Guided tours: Many guided-tours of Dinan include the square due to its central historical importance.
Nearby food options: Numerous creperies, bistros, and cafés surround the area, with Chez la Mère Pourcel being the most iconic.

Where to Stay close to Place des Merciers

Dinan's old town offers several charming accommodation options within easy walking distance of Place des Merciers. Hôtel Arvor provides classic Breton character in a historic building close to key medieval sites. For a boutique experience steps from the basilica and the square, La Maison Pavie offers beautifully restored rooms with a refined atmosphere. Those seeking a quiet riverside location with easy pedestrian access to the old town can choose Mercure Dinan Port.

Is Place des Merciers Worth Visiting?

Yes, Place des Merciers is absolutely worth visiting. Its beautifully preserved timber-framed houses, centuries-old guild streets, and atmospheric setting in the heart of Dinan make it a captivating stop for anyone exploring Brittany. The combination of architectural heritage, culinary tradition, and lively nearby streets offers a memorable insight into medieval life and modern-day charm.

FAQs for Visiting Place des Merciers

Is Place des Merciers open to the public?
Yes, it is a public square that can be visited at any time.

Is the well in the centre still in use?
No, the granite well is retired for safety but remains an important historical feature.

Are the buildings around the square original?
Many date back to medieval times and have been carefully restored, with several listed as Historical Monuments.

Is there seating in the square?
There is limited seating directly in the square, but plenty of cafés and terraces nearby.

How close is Place des Merciers to other attractions?
It is centrally located, making it easy to walk to sites like Saint-Sauveur Basilica and Château de Dinan.

Nearby Attractions to Place des Merciers

Saint-Sauveur Basilica - A blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture overlooking the River Rance.
Château de Dinan - A striking 14th-century fortress forming part of the town's ramparts.
Rue du Jerzual - A steep medieval street lined with artisan workshops.
Dinan Ramparts - Walk the historic walls for sweeping views of the town.
Port of Dinan - A scenic riverside area ideal for strolls, cafés, and boat trips.

The Place des Merciers appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Dinan!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!