Rennes is the regional capital of Brittany and is famed for its charming half-timbered houses, large, gothic cathedral and the peaceful Parc du Thabor which covers an area of over 10 hectares. The city is packed with fun and interesting things to do from exploring the cobbled streets of the old city to checking out the plethora of galleries, museums, shops and markets.
This 3 day Rennes itinerary includes all the top sights in this historic city, which is located about halfway between St Malo and Nantes. Start the first morning of your 3 day Rennes itinerary by exploring the wonderful old town Rennes Centre Historique. There has been a church on this site from at least the 6th Century, but the Cathedral as you see it today dates from the 12th Century and was made in the gothic, neoclassical style.
The cathedral is open to visitors year-round, and daily from 10 am to 7 pm and is well worth a visit to admire the architecture, which includes an altar featuring marble from the Forum in Rome which was a gift from Pope Pius IX. From Rue de la Monnaie make your way onto Rue des Portes Mordelaises to see the impressive gate of the same name that marks the entrance to the old city. This ancient gatehouse dates back to and features intricate inscriptions containing the names of French royalty from across the ages.
Walk back through the winding lanes of the old town to Basilique St Sauveur, a Roman Catholic basilica that dates to the 11th Century. The neoclassical-style building was elevated to a basilica thanks to stories of various miracles throughout the ages and currently serves as the parish diocese for Rennes. This grand governmental building was built in on the site of a former Benedictine abbey, the Abbey of Saint George. At night the building is illuminated and makes for a great picture!
This large, public park is an excellent place to come and escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy time wandering around the beautifully landscaped French and English gardens, with their intersecting paths, rose gardens and more.
