Follow the art trail in RennesAn inspiring and inspired stroll at the Gateways of Brittany

Trip idea

Follow the art trail in Rennes

Urban art, contemporary art… and the art of living. Tick off some beautiful discoveries and creative surprises in the streets of Rennes and the charming towns of the Gateways of Brittany.

Suggestion for break in

3 days

At a glance

From the creative energy of Rennes to the proud castles of Vitré and Châteaugiron, this itinerary is not lacking in inspiration. It combines cultural and architectural heritage, artistic dynamism and the gentle lifestyle. Take time to stroll around the capital of Brittany, where urban art never fails to arouse surprise and emotion. Contemplate centuries of history, but also surprising contemporary creations in the centre of striking medieval fortresses. Go to the market, have a drink on a terrace, smile and… appreciate!

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3

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Rennes, via urban art and street art

Have you arrived safely in the Breton capital? Take time to stroll around its streets to discover the numerous works of art scattered all around.
Keep an eye out! They are often in unexpected places, such as public buildings, gardens, squares and even in underground car parks. What’s this cut-off head near the City Hall? It’s the fountain by Claudio Parmiggiani. What about the “baigneuses pas très académiques” sculptures on Place de Bretagne? They are the Greek goddesses of Gérard Collin-Thiébaut.
Street art is also everywhere in Rennes. Set off to find the numerous creations on walls, bridges and the banks of the Vilaine. You’ll find graffiti, collages, stencils and stickers. Look for the robot by Blu, the aliens by SpaceInvader… Don’t miss the giant meerkats by War!, the “Rennes Banksy”.

The FRAC in Rennes is home to one of the largest collections of contemporary art in France. You can get there by crossing a forest of granite columns designed by Aurélie Nemours.
For a tasty and arty pause, opt for Bretone. This crêpe restaurant, with a unique atmosphere, is in the former house of mosaicist Odorico.

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The art of living at Rennes market and medieval atmosphere in Vitré

Do you want to live like a Rennes resident? Then go to Marché des Lices on Saturday morning. At this market, you’ll find “cocos de Paimpol” (beans), Plougastel strawberries, artichokes from Saint Pol de Léon, “coucou” chicken from Rennes, and more. Don’t forget your shopping bag. Around the Halles Martenot, try a galette-saucisse (sausage rolled in crêpe). It’s a local institution!
In the afternoon, take a stroll in Vitré, a charming Town of Art and History. Its old streets, its half-timbered houses with porches and its medieval castle will take you several centuries back in time.

Vitré will take you through several centuries of history in a medieval castle.
From May to September, escape in the Jardins des Arts in Châteaubourg. Stroll and contemplate the statues scattered around the magnificent Ar Milin’ park.

Contemporary art in Châteaugiron and monumental sculptures at Château des Pères

This morning, visit the “small town of character” of Châteaugiron, also called “The thousand-year-old town”. Discover its impressive castle. Its moat, its 13th-century keep and its Clock Tower are reminders of its military vocation.
Go into the castle’s former chapel. Today it is the backdrop for the contemporary art centre, the 3 Cha. Here, artists are invited to create on-site, inspired by the architecture and the spirituality of the place. The result is always surprising.
End this arty escapade at Château des Pères. Its 31-hectare park is scattered with monumental sculptures. In stone, bronze, steel or wood, they are the work of renowned artists and up-and-coming talents. Discover and admire them over a 2-km trail punctuated with pine trees and ponds. Enchanting!

Conviviality and simplicity are the watchwords at Re-Père, with its large tables for families or groups of friends, while La Table des Pères offers creative and bold cuisine inspired by the vegetable garden. It’s a feast for the taste buds!
If you’re staying a few days, settle down at EssenCiel, an astonishing hotel that looks like a tree. You are guaranteed to switch off!

We like

Entering the prestigious showcases that Rennes reserves for art: Frac, Fine Arts Museum, Jacobins Monastery… but also the many galleries and alternative studios in the city.
Awakening the senses at Lices market in Rennes, with stalls coloured by the best of Breton products. Ideal for creating a beautiful painting on your plate too!

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