Capucins Cable Car, Brest

Cable Car in Brest

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Jérémy Kergourlay

The Capucins Cable Car is one of the top attractions in Brest, a pioneering urban cableway that glides high above the Penfeld River. Opened in 2016, it was the first public-transport cable car built in France since the Grenoble Bastille line, and it remains a symbol of Brest's innovative spirit. Its two 60-passenger cabins provide a smooth three-minute journey between the bustling Siam district and the cultural Plateau des Capucins.

More than just practical transport, the ride is a scenic experience. Reaching heights of 72 meters, the cable car offers breathtaking views of the harbor, the Château de Brest, and the striking industrial architecture of the Ateliers des Capucins. With its blend of convenience and spectacle, it is a highlight of any walking tour of Brest and a memorable way to experience the city's maritime landscape.

History and Significance of the Capucins Cable Car
Things to See and Do in the Capucins Cable Car
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting the Capucins Cable Car
Where to Stay close to the Capucins Cable Car
Is the Capucins Cable Car Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the Capucins Cable Car
Nearby Attractions to the Capucins Cable Car

History and Significance of the Capucins Cable Car

The idea for the Capucins Cable Car emerged from Brest's need to reconnect neighborhoods separated by the Penfeld River and to support the redevelopment of the Plateau des Capucins, a former military and industrial site. The cable car became a practical and sustainable solution, capable of transporting large numbers of passengers while offering a dramatic crossing above the water.

Inaugurated in 2016, it marked an important milestone in French public transport as the first cable car of its kind built for urban mobility in decades. Its success has since made it a model for other cities exploring cable transit as an environmentally friendly and space-efficient alternative.

The cable car also reflects Brest's evolving identity. Once defined by its naval and military facilities, the Plateau des Capucins has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub filled with restaurants, exhibitions, and the innovative 70.8 by Océanopolis science center. The cable car helped anchor this transformation, integrating the plateau into daily city life.

Things to See and Do in the Capucins Cable Car

The main attraction, of course, is the ride itself. The three-minute flight across the Penfeld delivers panoramic views of the river, shipyards, quays, and the majestic Château de Brest. Photographers especially enjoy the changing angles between ascent and descent, making this one of the best places to visit in Brest for unique urban vistas.

Once you reach the Plateau des Capucins, you can wander through the vast restored industrial halls of the Ateliers des Capucins. Inside, you'll find cafés, exhibition spaces, climbing walls, and cultural installations. The 70.8 by Océanopolis science center offers hands-on exhibits about the oceans and maritime innovation. Back in the Siam district, you can continue exploring Brest's busy commercial streets, shops, and restaurants.

Many visitors ride the cable car multiple times, simply to enjoy the changing light on the harbor or to capture views from different perspectives.

How to Get There

The Capucins Cable Car links the Siam district with the Plateau des Capucins, both easily accessible from central Brest. Visitors arriving by air can reach Siam or the plateau from Brest Bretagne Airport in about 20 minutes. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Brest on Booking.com.
If traveling by car, parking is available near both stations, including lots around the Ateliers des Capucins. 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.
Those arriving by train can walk or take a short tram or bus ride from Brest station to the cable car terminals. 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.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Capucins Cable Car

Best time to visit the Capucins Cable Car: Sunset for spectacular harbor colors.
Entrance fee in Euros: Included in Brest’s urban transport fare system.
Opening hours: Operates daily with extended hours on weekends; schedules may vary.
Official website: Search for Téléphérique de Brest for updates.
How long to spend: 20-40 minutes including the ride and viewpoints.
Accessibility: Fully accessible cabins and stations.
Facilities: Shops, cafés, restrooms, and cultural venues on the Plateau des Capucins.
Photography tip: Capture the Château de Brest as the cabin crosses mid-river.
Guided-tours: Some city tours include commentary on the cable car and Capucins redevelopment.
Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and restaurants on the plateau and throughout Siam.

Where to Stay close to the Capucins Cable Car

For easy access to both the cable car and Brest’s cultural attractions, consider Oceania Brest Centre, just steps from the Siam district. Another convenient option is Hôtel l'Amirauté, well connected to tram and bus routes. Travelers looking for comfort and practical access across the city may prefer Hôtel Center Brest, a solid base for exploring the region.

Is the Capucins Cable Car Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Capucins Cable Car is absolutely worth experiencing. It combines practical urban transport with unforgettable views, giving visitors a fresh perspective on Brest's harbor and industrial heritage. Whether you're exploring the Plateau des Capucins or simply enjoying a scenic ride, it's one of Brest's most enjoyable modern attractions.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.2 (381)

Télécabine - Capucins at 24 Rue de Pontaniou in Brest offers a short, affordable cable-car crossing that gives striking views over the city, harbour and gulf; visitors say boarding is straightforward and the ride is an efficient way to discover or rediscover Brest, though ticketing can feel a little complicated and fare checks occur.

Alexandre LE PAPE

8 years ago

"Tremendous experience - at least the first time - this is never seen before view of Brest - for those who grew up there but didnt have access to theNavy owned section of the harbour. I recommend - to discover or re-discover the historical Brest......"

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Lee Shipley

6 years ago

"One of the poems with cabmlecars is, so often, the process of entry is complex and daunting. This was simple end inviting for an inexpensivespectacular ride across the harbour...."

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Thom Kud

6 years ago

"Not only convenient, but also allowing to have a perfect glance over the city and the gulf. Do not forget to pay the fare, controls are not so rare :)"

FAQs for Visiting the Capucins Cable Car

Yes, the short ride and large cabins make it ideal for families.

High winds may temporarily halt service, but normal rain does not typically affect operations.

Yes, the cabins are designed to accommodate strollers and small luggage.

It can be busy during peak hours, but cabins run frequently.

Yes, evening rides offer beautiful views of the illuminated harbor.

Nearby Attractions to the Capucins Cable Car

Ateliers des Capucins: A cultural and leisure space in restored industrial halls.
Château de Brest: A historic fortress housing the Musée National de la Marine.
Rue de Siam: A lively commercial street filled with shops and cafés.
Pont de Recouvrance: A dramatic vertical-lift bridge spanning the Penfeld River.
Port de Commerce: A bustling waterfront with maritime views.

The Capucins Cable Car appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Brest!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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