Rennes, a vibrant city in Brittany, is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for an extraordinary experience in France. Located in the northwest part of the France, Rennes bristles with energy and boasts impressive culture, restaurant scenes and attractions. To begin, Rennes is regarded as one of the most livable cities in the country and is renowned for its rich medieval history. Notable attractions and monuments such as the 12th century Cathedral of Notre-Dame, the Augustinian Abbey and the Parliament of Brittany (in Great Hall) will take you back to the unique culture of the region. The city is a paradise for food lovers and boasts diverse and elegant dining options from classic French eateries to cutting-edge modern fare. Art and culture enthusiasts will also be spoiled for choice in Rennes, with the Parliament of Brittany hosting art exhibitions and wonderful galleries, as well as an active music scene ranging from small venues to larger performance halls. For visitors looking for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experience, Rennes is the ideal choice.
The History of Rennes, France
In the ancient times, Rennes, France was a small Gaulish settlement which was inhabited by the Celts. It was later taken by the Romans and this is when the town of Rennes started becoming more organized. The city was completely destroyed during the Viking invasions in the 9th century, but it was rebuilt and it became prosperous with the help of the powerful dukes of Brittany who made it their capital.
The medieval period was marked by several wars between the Breton dukes and their powerful enemies. During these wars, the city of Rennes was besieged on several occasions and was even burned to the ground, but each time it was rebuilt and by the 15th century it was considered to be the most prosperous city in Brittany. With the help of the powerful dukes of Brittany, the city of Rennes flourished and became one of the most important cities in France.
Moving on to the 15th Century, Rennes became a center of education and arts. The Renaissance period gave Rennes a golden age as intellectuals were drawn to its libraries and universities. Rennes became a place of refuge for Huguenots fleeing from the French Civil Wars and their presence was welcomed. The Catholic Church was also very influential in this period, with the churches and cathedrals of Rennes very impressive displays of the wealth and power at the time.
The city of Rennes has also served as a major cultural center through the centuries. In 1789, the revolution started in Rennes and the city was the home to the National Convention of Brittany. During this time, the city was filled with revolutionaries, and they declared the end of the monarchy. Moreover, the city of Rennes played an important role in the World Wars, being at the frontline defending France from the enemy forces.
Rennes is a remarkable city in France that offers travelers a unique mix of history, culture, art and architecture. From the ruins of ancient Celts to the relics of the World Wars, Rennes offers a unique journey through time. The city with its grand churches, cathedrals and universities, is full of history and charm. Visiting Rennes is a must for anyone who wants to explore the rich and varied history of France.
The Culture of Rennes, France
As one of the most vibrant cities in France, Rennes offers a unique landscape that reveals the proud cultural heritage of this vibrant city. With its rich history and traditions, Rennes is the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience the culture of France in a modern setting.
Rennes, the capital of Brittany, is a city of exceptional beauty, with its winding cobbled streets, striking gothic architecture, and colorful open-air markets. Rennes has a strong, traditional sense of local culture, reflected all throughout the city, from the enormous public squares to the colorful festivals, music and dancing. During summer months, visitors can enjoy a wonderfully lively atmosphere in the city, with numerous events taking place in the streets and plazas, such as daylong street music concerts, mobile street vendors, and performances of traditional Breton dances.
The cultural heritage of Rennes is also reflected in its vibrant art institutions, such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the Musée des Châteaux de Rennes. The Musée des Beaux-Arts houses some of the most important works of French art, while the Musée des Châteaux de Rennes showcases the ancient castles and fortifications of the region. For visitors who seek something on the more avant-garde side, the contemporary art galleries and studios in Rennes' center provide a glimpse of contemporary trends and innovations.
Rennes is also renowned for its culinary and gastronomic scene. From colonial-style bistros and rustic Brittany restaurants to modern-style cuisine and creperies, the city's diverse culinary offerings provide something for food lovers of all stripes. For a truly authentic experience, visitors should also wander through Rennes' renowned open-air markets, where locals sell an array of fresh produce, including seafood, cheeses, and fruits.
It is easy to see why so many people flock to the city of Rennes - a true treasure trove of French tradition and culture that stands to captivate both locals and visitors alike. With its vast opportunities to explore the culture and discover the secrets of Brittany, Rennes is the perfect destination to experience one of the most vibrant and culture-rich cities in all of France.
The Food of Rennes, France
Rennes, France expands the imagination of travelers when it comes to the culinary experience. Gracing the banks of the Vilaine, Rennes is a spectacular environment with high standards when it comes to gastronomy.
The city boasts a rich tapestry of influences, all interwoven in the city's traditional cuisine. Those searching for a truly unique experience should sample the popular galette bretonne, a type of sweet and salty pancake with a variety of fillings often including apples and ham. This dish is often served with a side of caramelized onions, adding a truly unique flavor. For more traditional French staples, Rennes has a range of classic dishes, ranging from the city's renowned beef bourguignon to more health-conscious salads.
Rennes also serves as the gateway to Brittany, the traditional epicenter of France's seafood and shellfish industry, and the seafood industry remains an important economic and cultural force for the region. Seafood lovers will revel in the chance to sample the unique local oysters and delicious mussels that Brittany is famous for. For those looking for a truly indulgent experience, the city's restaurants also specialize in serving platters of freshly caught lobsters, served up with a range of accompaniments from french fries to roasted potatoes.
In addition to fresh local produce, Rennes is home to a growing number of world-renowned breweries, which offer a wide variety of craft beers. The city's vibrant cultural scene is often enjoyed in the stunning outdoor cafes and bars, where locals and visitors alike congregate to catch up over a glass or two. After a night out, a warm creperie provides a chance to sample the true flavors of the region, with freshly made crepes stuffed with salted butter, and an array of traditional sweet and savory fillings.
No trip to Rennes is complete without sampling its renowned culinary delights, with each bite providing a momentary escape to an area of France that traces its roots through centuries of history. From traditional French classics to local specialties, traveling to Rennes, France for the culinary experience is a great way to both taste the best of what the region has to offer and immerse yourself in the traditional culture that makes the region so unique.
What to See and Do in Rennes, France
- Explore the Cabbage Market (Marche aux Legumes) of Rennes, France: This vibrant market offers a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, dried goods, and spices- enough to keep a hungry traveler coming back each morning. People congregate in the surrounding restaurants, shops and cafes to talk, eat, and relax.
- Take a Tour of the Roman Ruins: Explore the ruins of ancient Roman times at the Rennes Archeological Museum. Home to rare artifacts, pottery and coins, it provides an interesting insight into the past of Rennes.
- Sip Local Cider: Visit local cider houses and enjoy a sip of the traditional Rennes-made cider. Popular throughout the region of Brittany, this drink is delicious and easy to find.
- Attend the Jazz in Rennes Festival: Every summer, the city of Rennes plays host to the Jazz in Rennes Festival. During this time, several jazz bands, orchestras and ensembles perform in the city's central square.
- Check Out the City's Many Cathedrals: With quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture, Rennes is home to numerous stunning cathedrals. From the gothic-style Saint Pierre Cathedral to the madeleine-style St. Melaine Cathedral, they are all worth a visit.
- Tour the Grand-Île: This is the main island of the city and home to many of its historical monuments, churches, and cafés. After taking in the sights and smells of the city, wander around this charming area and take in its beauty.
- Enjoy a Boat Cruise Through the Vilaine River: Through the Vilaine River, visitors can take a boat cruise to view more of the beautiful landscapes of Rennes. The cruise will take you by many remarkable spots, including the ancient Gallo-Roman ramparts and the city's medieval walls.
- Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts: Founded in 1768, this museum is one of the oldest in France, with a rich collection of paintings and sculptures. It is a great way to spend an afternoon and to appreciate and learn more of the artistic background of the city.
- Relax at the Parc du Thabor: This 17-acre park is a perfect place to while away a few hours in the sun. It offers a wide variety of activities such as walking, cycling, roller-skating, and even an astronomical observatory.
- Explore the Rue Saint-Michel: This famous street is known for its quaint stores, restaurants and pubs. Make a point to visit the local café, browse through the store, and sample some of the local dishes.
Why You Should Travel to Rennes, France
Rennes, France is a city of adventure and beauty that has been beckoning travelers and history buffs alike for decades. Located in the Brittany region of northwestern France, Rennes is a city that offers travelers a diverse and exciting experience. A major University town, Rennes serves as a great place for a weekend away since it hosts numerous museums, galleries, and parks for tourists to explore. Art lovers will appreciate the plethora of street art, sculptures, and paintings that line the narrow alleyways.
Travelers love Rennes for the gastronomy, too. The city is home to a multitude of excellent eateries that serve up traditional French cuisine, along with more modern and international bites. The city's Sunday markets, which display a wide range of locally made products, are a must for visitors looking for fresh ingredients for a tasty homemade meal. And no trip to Rennes is complete without a trip to the crêperies to sample the sweet and savory galettes and crêpes!
No matter what it is that draws travelers to Rennes, France, the city promises an unforgettable experien
Tips & Tricks for Traveling in Rennes, France
- Buy a Rennes city pass. The Rennes city pass is a convenient way to save money on transportation and attractions in the city. It provides access to unlimited metro, bus, and Train rides, as well as discounted access to touristy spots like La Cité de Rennes and Château de Rennes.
- Take advantage of Rennes' bike sharing service. Velo Star is the city's bike sharing system, and it allows you to rent a bike at designated stations around the city. It's great for getting around quickly and it's an environmentally friendly way to explore the area.
- Book a tour of Rennes. Taking a tour is a great way to get a feel for the city and learn about the history. There are plenty of guided walking and bike Tours available to suit different budgets and interests.
- Learn a few words of French. Even if you're not fluent, learning a few key words and phrases will make navigating the city much easier. It's also a great way to show your respect for the locals.
- Stay in the city centre. Staying in the city centre means you're close to all the major attractions and amenities. It also makes it easier to use the city's public transportation system as everything is within walking distance.
- Take advantage of free public Wi-Fi. Free public Wi-Fi is available at a variety of locations around Rennes. Look out for "SFR Wifi Gratuit" and "Free WiFi Rennes" hotspots for internet access on the go.
- Bring an umbrella. Rennes can be famously wet in the autumn and winter months, so it's always a good idea to bring an umbrella. Invest in a good quality raincoat as well, as it can come in handy year-round.
- Look for student discounts. Many attractions in Rennes offer discounted admission to students showing a valid student ID card. It's worth asking if there are any deals when you purchase your ticket.
- Have cash on hand. Even though most cafes, restaurants and shops accept payments by card, you should always have some cash with you. This is particularly important if you plan on using any of the city's markets or small shops.
- Try to avoid driving. If you plan on exploring further afield, make use of the city's public transportation system as driving in Rennes can be difficult at times. Roads are often narrow and parking spaces can be hard to find.
Other Places You Might Like
Munich is a vibrant city dripping with traditional German culture and charm. With stunning architecture, a lively nightlife, and a wealth of great museums, it's no surprise that Munich is a favorite among those who love Rennes, France. Munich has its famous Oktoberfest celebration, amazing breweries, and plenty of shops and restaurants that serve German fare. Its amazing opera house draws visitors in, while its old churches and monasteries attract history buffs. Munich also boasts some of the best museums in the world, as well as parks and gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll. This beautiful city is a great place for travelers who love to explore and experience new cultures.
For more of a continental feel, Vienna is a great choice for lovers of Rennes. Vienna is home to some of the most famous artwork, music, and culture that Europe has to offer. It's home to the world-renowned Vienna State Opera and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, which are two of the best classical music venues in the world. Vienna is also well known for its fine cuisine, with classic dishes like Wiener schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel easily found in their abundance of restaurants. Vienna is a beautiful city with historic sights like the Belvedere Palace and stunning churches like the Karlskirche.
The city that started the Czech beer culture, Prague is the perfect place for anyone who loves Rennes and the cultural influence it offers. Prague is home to some of the most beautiful and best-preserved architecture in Europe, like the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. This majestic city can seem a bit like a time warp, with narrow cobblestone streets, Prague harkening back to a simpler time and its locals embodying a laidback lifestyle and an appreciation for life that's hard to find elsewhere. Prague is full of charming restaurants and cafes, unique shops for finding unique goods, and beautiful parks that everyone can enjoy.
Sometimes you just want to stay close to home, and for people who love Rennes and want to venture out a little further in France, Lyon is a great choice. Not only is it the largest city in France after Paris, it also happens to be one of the gastronomic capitals of Europe, home to some of the finest dishes and dishes-in-progress that the continent has to offer. Lyon is also rich in history, art, and architecture, and in addition to its many castles, you'll find interesting museums, cathedrals, and historic churches. Not to mention the city's excellent public transportation system that can take you around the city and its outskirts with ease.
