Visit Brest

Brest is the second administrative city in Brittany and deserves to be known. A city where Modernism, Neo-classicism, Art nouveau, Art Deco, etc., all come together. Largely destroyed during the bombings in 1944, it has managed to reinvent itself. It has deservedly won the Town of Art and History label, guaranteeing a programme of visits and cultural and heritage activities that are constantly renewed. Future-focused, Brest will surprise you with its many 20th- and 21st-century constructions.

Architectural prowess and a view of the bay

The Iroise Bridge is a very impressive construction! Spanning the Elorn, this magnificent cable-stayed bridge, inaugurated in 1994, is a technical achievement. Admire it from Albert Louppebridge, now reserved for bikes and pedestrians. From here you will overlook Brest bay.

Take a stroll on the quays

You can’t mention Brest without talking about its commercial port. A walk along the very lively Quai Commandant-Malbert will give you one of the best views of the city. From here, you can admire the hundred or so multi-coloured buoys of the Finistère lighthouses and beacons, see the boatyards that build wooden boats and admire the mythical La Recouvrance schooner and the Abeille-Flandres, one of the most powerful towboats in the world.

A 360° view

Brest boasts many innovative and unique projects, such as Ateliers des Capucins. In this immense industrial cathedral with majestic naves, the Canot de l’Empereur rubs shoulders with impressive machines that remind us that the jewels of the French Navy were once manufactured here. Not only is it worth a visit from a heritage point of view, but the vibe is exciting too! Children of all ages, dancers, art and cinema lovers, athletes, walkers and entrepreneurs all come together in a family-friendly and good-natured atmosphere. Hop on board the cable car and enjoy a 360° view of Brest and the bay! Don’t miss visiting the 70.8 scientific museum dedicated to the oceans.

Unique in Europe

Continue your exploration. The large dyke of the commercial port takes you almost to the foot of the castle and its marine museum. But don’t leave Brest without visiting Océanopolis. This ocean discovery centre, unique in Europe, has enormous aquariums and a clinic for seals. You can even touch some species of marine life! If you have enjoyed this ocean immersion, now go on a tour of the plant world at the Botanical Conservatory. Go on a journey through a 30-hectare garden with wild plants and exotic flowers. It’s a haven of peace that will delight all your senses!