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Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.
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Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.
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Brittany is for explorers. Its wild, dramatic coastline, medieval towns and thick forests make an excursion here well worth the detour off the beaten track. This is a land of prehistoric mysticism, proud tradition and culinary wealth, where fiercely independent locals celebrate Breton culture, and Paris feels a long way away indeed.
Rue du Jerzual & rue du Petit Fort
Brittany
Lined with half-timbered houses, this astonishing cobbled street has been here since at least the 12th century. It leads downhill at a steep angle all the…
Rennes
Extensive collections span the 15th century to the present at the Museum of Fine Arts, plus there is a section devoted to antiquities. The Pont-Aven…
St-Malo
Château de St-Malo was built by the dukes of Brittany in the 15th and 16th centuries, and is now the home of the Musée d'Histoire de St-Malo, which…
Brittany
A short drive from Cancale brings you to this sublime and stormy headland. Rock cleaves the water and fantastic views range over islands and rocks to the…
Brittany
Dominating the town, Vitré's medieval castle rises on a rocky outcrop overlooking the River Vilaine, and is one of the most impressive in Brittany – a…
Île du Grand Bé & Fort du Petit Bé
St-Malo
At low tide, cross the beach to walk out via Porte des Bés to Île du Grand Bé, the rocky islet where the great St-Malo-born, 18th-century writer…
St-Malo
Containing over 600 species of marine creature, this very popular aquarium about 4km south of the city centre features a 'Nautibus' ride – a simulated…
Palais du Parlement de Bretagne
Rennes
This 17th-century former seat of the rebellious Breton parliament has, in more recent times, been home to the Palais de Justice. In 1994 this building was…
Best Things to Do
From its medieval villages to a pink-hued granite coast, you'll love the cosy crêperies, traditional lighthouses and unique festivals of Brittany.
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Art and Culture
You'll see this everywhere: traditional Breton music and dancingJul 15, 2024 • 5 min read
Nov 28, 2023 • 4 min read
Jul 24, 2023 • 6 min read
Nov 23, 2019 • 2 min read
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