Complete Guide to Brittany (2025)

Dinan, nestled on a hill with sweeping views of the Rance Valley, resides in Upper Brittany within the Côtes-d’Armor department. This ancient Town of Art and History, encircled by impressive ramparts stretching over three kilometres, traces its roots back to the Celtic period. However, it was in the 9th century that monks first established themselves along the Rance River. The town began to flourish in the 11th century around a priory and achieved ducal town status by the late 13th century, which spurred further development.

Strolling through Dinan feels like stepping back in time. Its quaint, cobblestone lanes lined with eateries and crêperies, often adorned with medieval flair, beckon for leisurely exploration. Visitors can enjoy charming boutiques and significant landmarks that dot the town.

Léhon, distinguished as a “Little Town of Character” and located near Dinan, owes much of its historical and architectural heritage to the monastic community that settled along a bend of the Rance River. The town’s monastic roots trace back to 850, when King Nominoe founded the Benedictine abbey, a move that would shape the town’s spiritual and cultural landscape for centuries. Over time, the monastery flourished thanks to generous endowments from successive lords, enhancing its wealth and influence.

The abbey became a beacon of spiritual significance, partly due to housing the relics of Saint Magloire, which underscored the religious centre’s importance until its closure during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution. Today, a stroll along the Rance offers breathtaking views of the abbey’s noble silhouette, gracefully enveloped by lush greenery. This serene and picturesque setting serves as a living testament to the town’s rich monastic heritage, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore the depths of its historical charm.

TIP: If you are visiting Dinan & Léhon for just a day and want to make the most of your visit, you may want to consider taking a walking tour with a local guide. This is one of the most complete and best-rated tours that covers the main, must-see attractions in about 2 hours.  If you prefer exploring at your own pace read our Walking Tour of Dinan & Léhon.

Saint-Malo, located in the Brittany region, is a walled coastal city known for its striking views, lively harbor, and dramatic tides. Walking along the ramparts offers sweeping panoramas of the sea, nearby islands, and the charming rooftops within the old town. Its mix of maritime energy and medieval architecture makes it a captivating place to explore on foot.

The town has a relaxed yet adventurous feel, with fresh seafood restaurants, sandy beaches, and a vibrant local culture. Whether you’re wandering through the cobbled streets of the Intra-Muros, taking a boat trip, or relaxing by the sea, Saint-Malo offers a rich blend of coastal beauty and Breton character. It’s also a great base for discovering nearby spots like Dinard and Mont-Saint-Michel.

Cancale is a charming fishing village nestled on the edge of the Brittany coastline, best known for its oysters, sea views, and relaxed atmosphere. A visit here offers a peaceful yet flavorful experience, especially if you arrive in the morning when the tide is out and the oyster beds stretch across the bay. The waterfront promenade, lined with traditional seafood restaurants and market stalls, is the perfect place to taste oysters fresh from the sea—often shucked and served right on the quay with nothing but a squeeze of lemon and a view of Mont-Saint-Michel in the distance.

Beyond the port, Cancale invites slow exploration. You can stroll through the upper town for boutique shopping and a glimpse of daily Breton life, or head out along the coastal path for a scenic walk to the Pointe du Grouin. The natural beauty here is just as much a highlight as the gastronomy, making Cancale a perfect stop on a road trip or a day’s detour for anyone craving sea air and authentic coastal character.

Quimper is one of the most atmospheric towns in Brittany, known for its half-timbered houses, winding cobbled lanes, and strong Breton identity. The town feels effortlessly welcoming, with the Odet River running through its center and bridges connecting one picturesque view to the next. It’s a place best explored slowly—wandering from artisan shops to crêperies, pausing to listen to street musicians or admire a ceramic storefront. The city has a calm, creative spirit that shines through in its local markets and colorful façades.

One of Quimper’s standout features is its vibrant cultural life. You’ll find small galleries, regional craft shops, and regular festivals celebrating Breton music and dance, especially during summer months. It’s also the heart of Quimper faïence pottery, a tradition that’s still alive in studios and boutiques around town. Whether you’re enjoying a cider in a shaded square or walking the riverside promenades, Quimper leaves a lasting impression with its graceful mix of tradition and artistic flair.

Vannes is a picturesque town in Brittany that effortlessly blends medieval charm with the easygoing spirit of coastal life. Its compact old town is filled with half-timbered houses, flower-draped balconies, and cobbled streets that invite slow wandering. The marina, just beyond the historic walls, connects the town to the stunning Gulf of Morbihan, offering a fresh sea breeze and plenty of spots to relax with a galette and a glass of Breton cider. Whether you’re into shopping, café-hopping, or simply people-watching, Vannes feels both lively and laid-back.

Beyond its atmospheric streets, Vannes serves as a perfect launch point for exploring the natural beauty of southern Brittany. Boat trips to the Gulf of Morbihan’s islands are easily arranged from the port, while nearby beaches, gardens, and scenic trails make for peaceful afternoon escapes. Whether you’re visiting as a stop on a road trip or planning to linger for a few days, Vannes strikes a lovely balance between heritage and leisure, with just enough coastal energy to keep things interesting.

Tucked into the rugged western tip of Brittany, Brest is a fascinating city shaped by the sea, known for its powerful maritime atmosphere, sweeping bay views, and modern energy. It’s not your typical medieval Breton town—it’s more dynamic and contemporary, rebuilt after WWII with an eye toward function rather than ornament. What it may lack in old-world charm, it makes up for in maritime heritage, fresh seafood, and a strong connection to the natural world.

Brest is best explored through its oceanfront settings and innovative cultural spaces. Start with Océanopolis, an ocean discovery center that brings the marine world to life with ecosystems from Brittany, the tropics, and the polar seas. Walk the harbor and watch naval ships docked alongside sailboats, or take a ride on the Téléphérique de Brest, France’s only urban cable car, which offers panoramic views over the Penfeld River and shipyards. With its open skies, crisp salt air, and lively student vibe, Brest is a refreshing coastal detour on any journey through Brittany.

Visiting Vitré is like stepping into the pages of a medieval storybook. The moment you arrive, the cobbled streets and half-timbered houses set the tone for a town that has preserved its charm without feeling staged. The Château de Vitré dominates the skyline, its towers rising above the rooftops like a watchful sentinel. But it’s the smaller details—the creaking wooden signs, hidden courtyards, and quiet cafés—that make wandering Vitré so rewarding. The atmosphere feels authentic, not overly touristy, and a simple stroll through the old town can easily stretch into an afternoon.

Set on the eastern edge of Brittany, Vitré makes a perfect stop on a road trip through Normandy & Brittany (and Hauts-de-France). It offers a slower pace compared to bigger cities, yet never lacks for things to do. Browse the local shops, sip coffee in a shaded square, or walk along the old ramparts for views of the countryside. It’s a town that invites you to linger, even if you hadn’t planned to.