Visit Rennes

At the heart of history

Enter the narrow streets and courtyards: the old town unveils its charms in its stairways and suspended galleries. You’ll recognise the 15th-century half-timbered houses, with very obvious corbels, and the later ones with vertical façades. Rue Saint-Sauveur, Rue du Chapitre, Place du Champ-Jacquet, Rue Saint-Michel, etc., are as beautiful as they are lively with their cafés and terraces. More formal and luminous, Palais du Parlement illustrates the arrival of royal art in the 17th century. This magnificent building was rebuilt after a terrible fire in 1994. The Grand’Chambre is the masterpiece.

A city with a “happy chic” vibe

Here, enjoyment rules. The Marché des Lices, one of the most beautiful indoor markets in France, bursts with colours and flavours. Why not share a plate of oysters on the terrace opposite the market? For a breath of fresh air, Thabor Park has formal French gardens, a botanical garden, a superb rose garden and the Orangerie café-gallery. The trendy boutiques and designer addresses make for a delightful shopping spree.
After a break in a lounge bar or pub, try a restaurant highlighting local produce. Or perhaps you would prefer a traditional crêpe restaurant. The party continues in a café-concert or a city centre nightclub. It seems that the people of Rennes have found a magic potion!

From Asterix to artistic audacity

From the foundations of Condate (1 B.C.) to the very architectural Champs Libres created by Portzamparc, centuries of history have shaped the city. Around the two royal squares – Parliament Square and Town Hall Square – half-timbered houses and Renaissance hotels line up. In the cobbled streets, heritage is expressed with elegance. The creative spirit welcomes other influences in the Odorico Art Deco mosaics or Thabor Park. There is always something going on!