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15 Best Things to Do in Vannes (France)

An amazing 272 historic monuments are hiding within the walls in Vannes.

And these defences are something to write home about, as they fence off almost the entire old city with powerful gates and towers.

It’s hardly an exaggeration to say that you’ll be wondering what year it is when you idle along the cobbled streets and enter squares with timber houses from the 1400s and 1500s.

Then you can set sail for the Gulf of Morbihan where there’s an archipelago of 42 islands in smooth waters that are closed off from the Atlantic.

Lets explore the best things to do in Vannes :

1. Vannes Ramparts

The city was founded as Venetorum by the Romans in the 1st Century, but by the 3rd century the Roman Empire was vulnerable enough that this settlement required a walled castrum.

Over almost 1,500 years the walls were expanded and modified, and the way they look now dates from the 1630s, when the Garenne bastion was added.

After some demolition during the 1800s the walls became protected in 1911. They’re a vital ingredient in Vannes’ historic charm, being some of the only city fortifications remaining in Brittany.

The southern and western stretches are in the best condition, with towers, gates, bastions, curtain walls and fortified bridges that all have a tale to tell.

2. Jardin des Remparts

If there’s a photo that can sum up Vannes it’s the panorama from Rue Francis Drecker, over the gorgeous parterre before the walls, and with the cathedral behind.

The Jardin des Remparts may be the ideal spot to appreciate the Garenne Bastion and the three towers, Tour du Connétable, Tour Poudrière and Tour Joliette, all in a cute formal parterre with geometric lawns, flowerbeds and precise topiaries.

The garden is bounded by the Marle Stream, which had a big part to play in local life up to the 20th century, as we’ll see in a moment.

3. Les Vieux Lavoirs

On the bridge of Rue Porte Poterne, which enters the walled city by the gate of the same name you can look down and see the old washhouses on the right bank of the Marle Stream.

These timber-framed buildings with sloping roofs trick many people into thinking they’re medieval.

But the washhouses are far more recent than they appear, dating to the start of the 19th century and in use until they were closed for hygiene reasons in 1951. They’ve been looked after since then and are a fun reminder that laundry was a more rustic task before the days of washing machines.

4. Place Henri IV

At the top of the Colline du Mené, the upper part of the “intra-muros” city, Place Henri IV is a lovely old square crowded with 15th and 16th-century “colombage” houses, each painted in a different colour.

There’s a crêperie with terraced seating in the corner, so you can’t be blamed for taking a few moment to scan this romantic old setting a with a café au lait and a caramel crêpe.

There are six “monuments historiques” on this tiny square alone, and each house is cantilevered so the top floor is often a good deal larger than the granite base.

5. Musée d’Histoire et d’Archéologie

Take a moment to behold the 15th-century Château-Gaillard before entering.

You’re standing in front of what was the Breton parliament building until 1535. It’s made of granite stone, with mullioned windows and a spiral staircase twisting up a polygonal tower.

The interior has painted wood panelling, cavernous fireplaces and coffered ceilings.

Very special is the Cabinet des Pères du Désert, with 66 wooden panels painted in the 17th century.

The museum excels for its prehistoric artefacts recovered from the megaliths near Vannes at Locmariaquer and Carnac.

Feast your eyes on jewellery, polished axes and pottery that looks like it could have been made yesterday.

6. Place de Valencia

The patron saint of Vannes is Vincent Ferrer, a missionary who came to the city in the early 15th-century and died here in 1419. He was from Valencia in Spain, which explains the name of this little square within the walls.

The saint is claimed to have lived in what is now called the Maison de Vincent Ferrer on the square, an imposing half-timbered house on a granite stone base.

But this isn’t even the headline attraction on Place de Valencia, as you can get a photo of the jolly-looking couple “Vannes et sa Femme”, sculpted from granite around the 16th century on a house at the corner of Rue Noé.

Nobody is too sure who made the sculpture, but it’s a cherished piece of Vannes’ history.

7. La Cohue

This handsome half-timbered building is the venue for Vannes fine arts museum.

But La Cohue is  mostly worth a look because of what it represented in the past: The oldest part of the building is from the 1200s, and for centuries the ground floor was Vannes’ covered marketplace.

The Breton Parliament met upstairs between 1675 and 1689, while the Estates of Brittany, a kind of provincial assembly under the Ancien Régime, sat here ten times between 1431 and 1703. There are some intriguing temporary contemporary art exhibitions on the upper floor, and a concise permanent show that has a Delacroix and a Monet.

8. Vannes Cathedral

At seven hundred years in the making, Vannes Cathedral is a melange of styles , with romanesque, gothic, Italian renaissance and neo-gothic elements, all built from granite.

The oldest feature is also one of the most noticeable; the bell-tower on the facade is romanesque and from the 1200s, the only part of the original cathedral still here.

You can pick up the trail of Vincent Ferrer again, as his statue is a on a pillar in the main portal, and you can find his tomb in a chapel on the north side of the building.

9. Porte Saint-Vincent

The main southern entrance to the walled city, it is through this gate that maritime visitors would have entered Vannes from the 16th-century.

The long, finger-like harbour begins directly below Place Gambetta, and a few strides north is this baroque gateway.

The reason it has a less medieval appearance than the rest of Vannes’ defences is because the gap in the walls was only created the end of the 1500s, to allow easy access to the port, which had just been reconfigured to approach the city.

Our friend Vincent Ferrer blesses you from a niche at the top as you enter, while Vannes’ coat of arms are hewn in granite below.

10. Vannes Aquarium

A decent rainy-day choice if you have time on your hands or impatient kids, Vannes Aquarium is a few minutes southwest of the walled city.

There are 50 tanks in three main zones: Temperate seas, tropical seas and tropical freshwater environments.

The star of the warm freshwater came to the aquarium by an unusual route.

Eleanore, the Nile crocodile, was captured in the Paris sewers under Pont-Neuf back in 1984. She weighs 250 kilos and is more than three metres long.

The temperate zone is tasked with helping preserve the ocean environment of the Gulf of Morbihan, and two residents, the seahorse and cuttlefish, are on the endangered list in this part of the world.

11. Château de l’Hermine

Built into the walls is this beautiful château, best viewed high up from Rue Alexandre le Pontois.

The refined palace we see now is from the 1700s and replaced a much more formidable castle that was a residence for the Dukes of Brittany from the 1300s to the 1500s.

King Francis I stayed here in the months leading up to Brittany’s unification with France in 1532, and the building in its present form is an imposing space for exhibitions.

In May you can tap into Vannes’ maritime tradition at the Photo de Mer exhibition, held in the sweet formal gardens on the right bank of the Marle.

12. Port de Vannes

When the sun’s out you can stretch your legs by the docks in the port, which reaches down from the walled city to the Gulf of Morbihan.

Sailboats are moored for almost the entire length of the port, and there are a couple to look out for: Le Corbeau des Mers, a lobster-catching sloop from 1931, and Les Trois Frères, a special fishing vessel called a Sinagot, and the last of its kind to be built, back in 1941. Tracing the entire west side of the port is a classic French tree-lined esplanade that has just been resurfaced.

The tourist office is along here should you need some extra local knowledge.

13. Gulf of Morbihan

At the port you can board a boat for a voyage around the spectacular Gulf of Morbihan, which has 42 islands and is almost completely closed off from the ocean save for the narrow straits between Port-Navalo and Kerpenhir.

There are more than 12,000 hectares to uncover so if you want to dig deeper the possibilities are almost inexhaustible, from bike-rides and treks to island-hopping cruises, calling in at quaint little ports with pink granite fishing cottages and waterwheels.

Most of the islands and islets are uninhabited so you can go ashore for perfect peace and seclusion, and claim your own corner of this one-of-a-kind natural environment.

14. Semaine du Golfe

Every other year around the Feast of the Ascension in April or May the seascape is speckled with sails during the Semaine du Golfe, as seventeen towns around the gulf get into the seafaring spirit.

In this week there are two large maritime parades, while for three consecutive days a massive flotilla fills the bay.

On a completely different note, whenever you visit in summer you could linger for a few hours at the only beach in the Vannes area, the Plage de Conleau, which also has an outdoor swimming pool fed by the ocean.

15. Food and Drink

Seafood needs to be a high priority in Vannes, as you may never have tasted fresher shellfish.

A plateau de fruits de mer is a large platter of prawns, langoustine, oysters, crab, mussels and more.

If this tickles your taste buds then a short drive will deliver you to the oyster farms at Séné and Larmor-Baden, which put on informative talks and tasting sessions.

You can’t ignore the crêpe in Brittany, as it’s practically a way of life: Try one sweet with nutella or caramel, or go for a savoury galette, with egg, cheese and ham or saucisson.

Meanwhile, cider is pressed all around the Gulf of Morbihan, and is smooth and very refreshing, with a light acidity.

15 Best Things to Do in Vannes (France):

• Vannes Ramparts
• Jardin des Remparts
• Les Vieux Lavoirs
• Place Henri IV
• Musée d'Histoire et d'Archéologie
• Place de Valencia
• Vannes Cathedral
• Porte Saint-Vincent
• Vannes Aquarium
• Château de l'Hermine
• Port de Vannes
• Gulf of Morbihan
• Semaine du Golfe
• Food and Drink

• Destinations
• Où aller en Bretagne : les 10 destinations
• Bretagne Sud – Golfe du Morbihan

Visiter Vannes

Préparer votre séjour.

• Se déplacer

Aux alentours

Entre art, énergie et histoire.

Elle s’y connaît pour brouiller les pistes ! Aux portes du Golfe du Morbihan, à 2h30 de Paris, Vannes c’est la cité médiévale au grain de folie, le port de plaisance au petit côté rebelle. Jolie, gourmande, culturelle. Son patrimoine extraordinaire met tout le monde d’accord, comme son énergie, vibrante toute l’année. Pour le reste… essayez toujours de la cataloguer !

Liens utiles Dormir à Vannes

Bouger à Vannes

Contacter l’office du tourisme

Découvrir la destination Bretagne Sud 

Cliquez. Inspirez. Partez… Recevez la newsletter Bretagne !

Découvrir Vannes

Fortifiée, préservée, voilà une ville d’art et d’histoire dont le patrimoine en a sous le pavé. On vient d’abord pour lui, pour les remparts et leurs jardins ultra fleuris, pour la douceur de vivre d’un centre quasi tout piétonnier, pour les ruelles et leurs drôles de bustes en granit , pour les maisons à pans de bois – place Henri IV, si on prenait un petit café ? Des plaisirs encore meilleurs aux marges de l’été !

Faire le M.U.R. !

500 ans plus tard, l’art urbain est toujours dans la place et il en met plein la vue. On la croyait sage et discrète, Vannes fait fleurir les murs d’expression, M.U.R. en tête, et les fresques street art, du Palais des Arts à la rive gauche du port. Bar-ruche artistique, BREF est le lieu culturel incontournable, avec ses concerts et DJ sets, tandis que le Hangar est sur le point d’éclore, derrière la gare. Il y a toujours une expo photo à aller voir au Kiosque , toujours une surprise derrière les portes de la Cohue et ses collecs’ d’art contemporain – mention spéciale à l’œuvre lumineuse de Geneviève Asse, native du coin.

Vibrer d’énergie, toute l’année

A chaque saison, nouvelles lumières. Nouvelles saveurs et envies. De l’automne au printemps, Vannes se déguste en version gastronomie active et punchy ! En food tour , sur les marchés : les Lices, le Poids Public, les Halles sont des institutions où déjeuner sur le pouce pour le meilleur de la terre et de la mer. Les huîtres du golfe, chez Marcelle, c’est toute l’année et on croque le sarrasin façon street food ou chou crémé, aux Nuages de Gégé . Gros coup de cœur aussi pour les concept stores mode et déco, pour l’esprit Village de Saint-Patern, quartier le plus ancien et le plus populaire avec ses restos, terrasses, bars de nuit… et ses boutiques !

Vannes c’est la cité médiévale au grain de folie,  le port de plaisance au petit côté rebelle.

Le saviez-vous

Unique en France, la Rotonde Danielo !

Accolée à la cathédrale Saint-Pierre, jetez un œil à la chapelle ronde côté nord, aussi appelée la Rotonde du Saint-sacrement : c’est l’un des tout premiers témoignages du style Renaissance sur le sol français. Juste unique.

Prendre le large

Le théâtre de la plupart des festivités, animé toute l’année, c’est le port. Au-delà de ses bars et terrasses, se balader le long de ses quais, c’est déjà s’échapper. C’est pousser vers la presqu’île de Conleau, une piscine naturelle d’eau de mer aux airs de station balnéaire. A vélo, le bateau démultiplie les envies : vers la Presqu’île de Séné ou vers Saint-Armel, le long du golfe , on embarque avec sa monture sur le Petit Passeur. Une courte traversée et hop : à vous guinguettes, petites maisons de pêcheurs… Dépaysement garanti, sans la foule et à prix mini !

Hôtels, chambres d’hôtes, campings, gîtes, locations, résidences, insolite… Tout pour faire de beaux rêves !

Envie de plein air, d’aventure ? De s’accrocher aux branches, voguer sur l’eau, partir au zoo, au musée voir une expo ? Faites vos jeux !

Office de Tourisme de Vannes

• Contactez-les
• Voir le site Internet

Les incontournables

• La promenade des remparts et ses jardins
• L’ancien faubourg Saint-Patern et l’église Saint-Patern (18e siècle)
• Le quartier du port
• La ville intra-muros : les maisons en pans de bois et les hôtels particuliers, la cathédrale Saint-Pierre et son riche mobilier, la cohue (actuel musée des Beaux-Arts)
• Le musée d’histoire et d’archéologie (Château-Gaillard)

Visites guidées

• Individuelle
• Circuit d’interprétation
• Visite spécial enfant
• Petit train touristique
• Visite en bateau
• Baladodiffusion

Comment s'y rendre / s'y déplacer

Comment venir à vannes.

Avec 8 trajets par jour, Vannes est à 2h30 de Paris en TGV. Des liaisons régulières avec les principales grandes villes de France sont proposées. Par l’autoroute A11 « l’Océane », Vannes est à 450km de Paris (5h) et à 110km de Nantes et Rennes par voie express. Pour voyagez à prix doux, optez pour le car avec Flixbus ou encore BlaBlaBus au départ de nombreuses villes.

Se déplacer dans Vannes

Vannes est une ville où il fait bon flâner à pied, en bus, à vélo. De la gare vers le centre-ville comptez 20 mn à pied ou 5 mn en bus Kiceo. Vous pouvez également vous déplacer facilement à vélo, retrouvez les différents loueurs Ici . Sur le chemin des îles du Golfe du Morbihan, la gare maritime est à 10 mn en bus du centre-ville. Nouveauté : Avec le  City Pass Golfe du Morbihan Vannes , vous avez accès au réseau de bus Kiceo et à 30 sites incontournables à tarif réduit. Il est proposé en formule 24h, 48h et 72h.

Ils ont testé pour vous

• Facilitez-vous la vie : ajoutez vos pages préférées en favoris.

A Guide to the Best Things to do in Vannes

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 10th September 2022

Categories France

Last Updated on 10th September 2022 by Sophie Nadeau

Situated in the Morbihan region of Brittany, the town of Vannes is not at the top of every traveller to the region’s bucket list but nevertheless deserves more than a glance. Home to medieval architecture, a fantastic foodie scene, and a charming port, here’s your guide to the best things to do in Vannes .

What is Vannes known for?

Vannes harbour, vannes ramparts & rampart gardens (jardin des remparts), st vincent gate (porte st vincent ferrier), vannes cathedral (cathédrale st pierre), archaeological museum (château gaillard), fine arts museum (la cohue), place des lices , place valencia & vannes et sa femme, vannes hôtel de ville, enjoy the view from the connetable tower (tour du connétable), old lavoirs (lavoirs des remparts), stroll around vannes, take a day trip to auray, vannes christmas market, things to know before visiting vannes, what is the population of vannes, what are the best free things to do in vannes, is vannes safe to visit.

Vannes is fairly substantial in size when it comes to Brittany cities and towns , with a population size of over 50,000. The town is famous for its port, walled ramparts which surround the old town, 272 historic monuments, and many timber-framed houses scattered across the city.

Located in the Morbihan region, you would do well to set aside at least half a day in order to allow yourself to fully explore this Breton settlement. For more inspiration about the region, be sure to check out our guide to the best things to do in Brittany .

Best things to do in Vannes

Vannes history stretches back centuries and one of the key distinguishing landmarks of Vannes is its harbour, which lies on the fringes of the historic city centre.

It’s here where you’ll find the tourist office of Vannes, as well as several popular eateries. Vannes harbour is known as Port de Plaisance de Vannes and is where visitors will find dozens of fishing vessels gently swaying in the salty sea breeze.

One of the more impressive features of Vannes is that the historic city centre is encircled with ramparts which date back to the Middle Ages. In order to truly admire the scale of the ramparts, I highly recommend heading to the jardin des remparts.

This open green space is simply beautiful to stroll around and offers one of the best views in Vannes. Today, this area of the city is also used for outdoor concerts. At various times of the year, a larger than life shield of Vannes is created in this area of the city. The symbol of the city is an ermine wearing a cape.

After wandering though the historic port, your first sighting of historic architecture in Vannes, with the exception of a few timber-framed buildings in the port area of the city, is that of Porte St Vincent (St Vincent Gate).

The first gate was installed into the city’s historic ramparts in the 17th-century before being reconstructed in the 18th-century. Porte St Vincent Ferrier is named for a Spanish monk who lived and died in the town during the 15th-century and who has since become the patron saint of Vannes.

The impressive Vannes Cathedral features an ornately carved tympanum above the door and is constructed in several architectural styles, including Romanesque and neo-Gothic.

St Vincent Ferrier, the patron saint of Vannes is actually buried in the cathedral today. St Vincent Ferrier was born in Valencia in Spain, died in Vannes in 1419 and was canonised as a Saint in 1456. Discover more about how to visit Vannes’ most important church (including events and opening times) on the Vannes Cathedral website.

If you’re wondering what to see in Vannes on a rainy day, then you need to look no further than the museums of Vannes. One of a couple of museums in the town, the archaeological museum of Vannes is set against the backdrop of a historic medieval mansion house that dates back to the 15th-century.

The building was constructed at the behest of Jean de Malestroit, Bishop of Nantes and chancellor to Duke Jean V during the first half of the 15th-century. Set across four storeys, particular highlights of the architecture of the building include a hexagonal tower constructed out of stone.

The roots of the archaeological museum date back to 1912 when the building was acquired by La Société Polymathique du Morbihan who installed several archaeological collections there. The museum not only displays exhibitions about archaeology of the Brittany region, but is also home to the town’s history museum.

The second museum in town is that of La Cohue, which is located in the former 13th-century covered market. La Cohue was also where the Brittany Houses of Parliament were hosted from 1675-89. Today, La Cohue can be found steps away from the St Pierre Cathedral and is home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts (fine arts museum).

If you’re looking for a further insight into the local culture of the region, then you should be sure to head to Place des Lices on a Wednesday or Saturday morning throughout the year. After all, the Vannes weekly market is easily one of the top Vannes tourist attractions.

Once upon a time, this medieval square (the square dates back to the 14th-century) would have been used to host jousting tournaments. Today, a market is held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, where local vendors tout their wares.

One of the more unique secret spots in Vannes can be found on the corner of Place Valencia. After all, there, on the corner of one of the timber-framed buildings, it’s easy to spot “Vannes et sa Femme,” a set of curious painted granite carvings in the shape of human faces.

Literally translated into English as “Mr & Mrs Vannes,” these smiling sculptures date back to the 16th-century, though no one knows why they were originally carved and the sculptures were only given their name at the end of the 19th-century.

Every town and city (and many villages) in France have their very own Hôtel de Ville (town hall), though that of Vannes is particularly impressive. Situated outside of the twisted, narrow, and winding roads of the historic city centre, this part of down is distinctively different with its wide boulevards and open spaces. The Hôtel de Ville de Vannes dates back to the 19th-century.

If you’re wondering what to do in Vannes and you enjoy lovely scenery, then hands down one of the best views to be found anywhere in Vannes is that from the ramparts at the top of the steps next to the Tour du Connétable.

This tower is the highest tower in Vannes and was added to the ramparts in the 15th-century. In the past, it was also used as a home. The tower is named for Connétable Arthur de Richemont who was the Duke of Brittany from 1457 to 1458.

One of the more hidden gems of Vannes which is quite literally hidden in plain sight is that of the old lavoirs, which can be found alongside a babbling brook and close to the towns’s ancient ramparts. The wash station was built between 1817 and 1821 and were restored in 2006.

Even during busier times of the day this historic place which was once used for washing clothing and the like is never too busy and is a quiet reprise from the nearby Jardin des Ramparts, which were created during the 1950s.

As of May 2021, the opening town of the Lavoirs des Remparts are as follows; 1st October to 30th April 8:30-18:40, 1st May to 31st May 8:30-20:40, 1st June to 31st August 8:30-20:50, 1st September to 30th September 8:30-20:40.

Last but not least, one of the best things to do in Vannes is to stroll around the historic city centre and allow your feet to guide you where they may. En route you’ll spy plenty of timber-framed houses, little cobbled streets, and plenty of independent stores where you’ll be able to pick up delightful souvenirs and gifts with which to remember your trip by.

If you’re staying in Vannes over the course of a few days and don’t have access to a car, then it’s worth noting that there are several charming Breton settlements that you can easily visit as a day trip from Vannes.

One of the most beautiful towns in Brittany is the picturesque city of Auray , which is set alongside two sides of the river Loch and features treasures such as the medieval port of Saint-Goustan, a handful of historic churches, and plenty of ancient timber-framed houses. Auray can be visited from Vannes thanks to regular trains which run between the two towns and take just ten minutes.

While I would personally recommend visiting Vannes in the summer months as this will guarantee the best weather, it’s worth noting that one seasonal activity that only happens once a year is that of the Vannes Christmas market.

As well as larger than life projections on the historical ramparts, the timber-framed houses and cobbled lanes of the old town are illuminated by street lights. In the month of December, on the marina, there’s a Christmas market featuring around two dozen market stalls.

If you’re travelling around Brittany, then it’s highly likely that you’ll be visiting with a car. Though larger towns and cities are well connected with train and buses, this is definitely not the case for smaller settlements and attractions in the Western French region.

If you’re coming by car, then the best free car park in Vannes is the Parking du Capucines. We personally parked in the Capucines Car Park as it was completely free and just a few minutes gentle stroll away from the port area.

The port area is home to a Vannes tourist information office (exact address: Quai Eric Tabarly) where you can pick up a free map of Vannes, as well as the local area.

When walking around the town you’ll soon notice small bronze plaques on the floor which will indicate you’re most certainly following the recommended walking trail for the town.

Frequently asked questions about Vannes

As of 2015, the population of Vannes was 53,200.

Those visiting Vannes on a budget will be pleased to know that there are a number of low cost activities and attractions on offer. Some of the best free things to do in Vannes include enjoying the view from the castle walls, visiting the magnificent Vannes Cathedral, and getting lost in the cobbled lanes of the old town.

Vannes is generally as safe as most other destinations in Europe, though petty crime can still occur. Visitors should be especially wary of pickpockets (pickpockets operate all over Europe and so you should always keep your things close, particularly in crowds) . Never leave your valuables lying around or attended. I personally recommend always wearing a crossbody bag like these ones.

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Vannes tourism and travel guide

Visit Vannes: highlights and tourist information

France This Way comment: An unmissable highlight in this region of Brittany, the half-timbered houses in the centre of Vannes make it one of our favourite French medieval towns

Vannes is situated in the Morbihan department and Brittany region.

Important note

This page features a summary of highlights that you might like to explore near Vannes. For detailed visitor information see the Vannes travel guide .

Tourist classifications for Vannes include "town of art and history" , "secteur sauvegarde" , "ville fleurie 4*" and "aquarium" . It is unusual for a town to have 4 awards, which indicates how important Vannes is as a tourist destination!

Below you can see some of the places that we have visited and reviewed and can recommend when you are sightseeing close to Vannes in Brittany.

Popular places to visit nearby include Ile-d'Arz at 8 km and Ile aux Moines at 9 km.

Vannes, France: places to visit and attractions

Note that all distances below are 'direct' and real driving distances will be greater!

Morbihan Gulf

Ile aux Moines

Sainte-Anne d'Auray

Saint-Goustan

Port de Crouesty

Port Navalo

Locmariaquer

Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys

La Trinite sur Mer

... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Morbihan

Arrange a visit to Vannes

Book hotels, car hire and flights.

• Book a visit

Hotels in Vannes

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For great prices on car hire throughout France and Corsica please visit our recommended partner at RentalCars.com

Reserve excursions

Map of places to visit near vannes, markets in and near vannes.

Market days in Vannes: weekly market: Wednesday & Saturday;

• Vannes: market Wednesday & Saturday (0km)
• Saint-Ave: market Sunday (4km)
• Arradon: market Friday (6km)
• Larmor-Baden: market Sunday (13km)
• Surzur: market Thursday - seasonal market only (13km)
• Sarzeau: market Thursday (15km)
• Elven: market Friday (15km)
• Arzon: market Tuesday - seasonal market only (16km)
• Arzon: market Friday - seasonal market only (16km)
• Auray: market Monday (17km)

More information about Vannes, Brittany

Tourist attractions near vannes, france.

What to do at Vannes? Some places with official tourist classifications and other places of interest to visit nearby that should provide inspiration if you are visiting Vannes.

Grand sites of France

• Massif Dunaire de Gavres-Quiberon (45km)

Most beautiful villages in France

(see also beautiful French villages )

• Carnac (25km)

National Monuments

• Megaliths of Locmariaquer (17km)
• Megalithic site of Carnac (25km)

Recommended detour towns (fr: plus beau détour)

• Guerande (44km)

Regional Natural Parcs

• Briere (47km)

Remarkable gardens

• Jardins de Kerambar’h (26km)
• Parc Victor Chevassu (46km)

Sites of natural beauty

• Source - Marle (1km)
• Pont de Kérino (2km)
• Moulin à marée de Campen (3km)
• Pont du Vincin (3km)
• Vincin (3km)
• Embouchure - Vincin (Rivière de Conleau) (3km)
• Presqu'île de Conleau (4km)
• Embouchure - Marle (4km)
• Maison rose (Séné) (4km)
• Réserve naturelle nationale des marais de Séné (6km)
• Anse de Mancel (7km)
• Golfe du Morbihan (7km)
• Presqu'île de la Villeneuve (8km)
• Passage Saint-Armel (8km)
• Embouchure - Rivière de Noyalo (8km)
• Source - Vincin (Rivière de Conleau) (9km)
• Étang de Toulvern (14km)
• Source - Rivière de Noyalo (15km)
• Presqu'île de Rhuys (16km)
• Phare de Port-Navalo (17km)
• Saint-Philibert (Morbihan) (20km)
• Presqu'île de Quiberon (33km)
• Marais Salants de Guérande (39km)
• Forêt de Paimpont (59km)

Villages d'etape

(recommended place to break a long journey)

• Elven (15km)
• Josselin (37km)

Villages in bloom 4* (fr: ville fleurie)

• La Vraie-Croix (16km)
• Rochefort-en-Terre (32km)
• La Baule (50km)
• Pornichet (53km)

Zoo and/or wildlife park

• Parc zoologique du château de Branféré (28km)

Geography and distances

Vannes is in the north-west of France - it is the prefecture (capital) of the Morbihan department (general information: Vannes is 401 kilometres from Paris).

Geographical Information

Commune: Vannes

Canton: Vannes

Arrondissement: Vannes

Department: Morbihan

Region: Brittany

Postcode: 56000

Distance to Vannes

from Vannes (prefecture): 0 km

from Paris: 401 km

from Calais: 496 km

from Nice: 894 km

from Bordeaux: 356 km

from Strasbourg: 786 km

Getting here

Most visitors While most UK visitors will arrive by car from the ferry port at Saint Malo a drive of 2-3 hours is still common. For driving distances to Vannes from anywhere in France see driving distances and route planner .

We have 4 other places listed as being close (less than kilometres from ): Arradon , Plescop , Saint-Ave and Sene .

This page in French: Visiter Vannes

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• 1.1 Tourist Information
• 2.1 By train
• 3.2 By bicycle
• 3.3 On foot

Vannes ( Breton : Gwened ) is the fifth-largest city in Brittany in France .

Understand [ edit ]

Tourist information [ edit ].

• 47.6514 -2.7587 1 Tourism office , Quai Éric Tabarly ( right bank of harbour, CP23921 ), ☏ +33 2 97 47 24 34 , fax : +33 2 97 47 29 49 , [email protected] . Sep–Jun M–Sa 9:30–12:30 & 13:30–18:00 closed on Sunday; Jul–Aug M–Sa 09:30–19:00, Su and bank holidays 10:00–18:00 . Free Wi-Fi. ( updated Dec 2017 )

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ].

The high-speed TGV from Paris goes to Rennes. Switch to the regular-speed SNCF train to Vannes. NOTE: the main train direction is not marked Vannes. You can also take the TGV from Paris to Quimper which makes a stop in Vannes without switch.

By car [ edit ]

Vannes can be reached directly from Nantes or Brest by taking the highway N165. From Rennes, take the N24 and switch at Ploërmel to the N166. These roads are free.

Get around [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ]

Local buses are operated by Kicéo . A Pass Journée is €4.20 (January 2019) and allows for unlimited rides across their bus network.

By bicycle [ edit ]

A small bike hire scheme, Vélocéo [dead link] , enables you to hire bikes from a few points across Vannes, using a smartphone app.

On foot [ edit ]

Vannes is best explored on foot.

See [ edit ]

The Medieval Village

The medieval village has several pedestrian and vehicle entrances. The port-side entrance to the rempart surrounded old town is just next to the port. Follow signs on the roads to le port , there is ample parking. Outside the walls of the village, there are several cafes on the port-side. Just inside the walls, you will find many boutiques and Creperies .

The Eglise in the old village at the top of the hill. The square nearby is often graced by musicians in the summer, while the cobblestone streets are used for costumed parades calling back centuries ago. Bastille Day in Vannes is a spectacle with horse-drawn carriages, costumes for men, women and children of all distinctions, and a small zoo of live animals...

Do [ edit ]

Take a boat to one of the Islands. Though Vannes is a lovely town, if you have any time to spare, you should check out the timetables for sailings to one of the islands in the Gulf of Morbihan.

Buy [ edit ]

The Fayencerie in Vannes (located in the medieval town, near the eglise ) has beautiful pottery for sale. Though not exactly local to Vannes-proper, the pottery is very popular with locals and tourists alike.

The boutiques of the medieval town are best for prime-time shopping: find clothing, nautical-themed gifts, lingerie, home and bath goods, jewelry, and many other gifts.

The larger stores like Carrefour and Leroy Merlin are off the main highway, all centralized. There are many good independent stores mixed into the mass development.

Eat [ edit ]

Galettes are a must in Vannes: there are so many varieties, everyone is safe (carnivors, pescetarians, and vegetarians alike). Seafood is fresh and oysters are readily available. Les pizzas are also found. For dessert, similar to the galette (made with buckwheat), crepes (made with plain wheat) are a must .

If you visit the Golfe du Morbihan, there are many local restaurant gems: serving les menus gastronomique . The spa hotels of the Morbihan or les Thalassotherapies generally serve decadent meals. Every village in the Vannes area has a local favorite, not to be missed.

Drink [ edit ]

• Wines of the Loire

Sleep [ edit ]

Known as a vacation spot for French people, the Golfe du Morbihan is full of rental properties and spa hotels.

Also, with Vannes as the closest train station for the Presqu'Ile , many people rent cars in Vannes and stay near the beaches. Camping cars are popular too.

For hotels in the area, search in Vannes or the Golfe du Morbihan .

• 47.6643 -2.7538 1 Villa Kerasy , 20 avenue Favrel et Lincy ( facing the railway station ), ☏ +33 2 97 683 683 , toll-free: +33 2 97 683 684 , [email protected] . Boutique hotel with spa in the centre of Vannes not far from the train station. Each room represents a stopover on the 17th century Spice Route, to dream of far-off, exotic voyages. Each room is unique, decorated in the colors of French, English or Dutch ports of call. 4-star, "Hôtels de Charme et de Caractère en Bretagne". Free Wi-Fi. from €99 . ( updated Sep 2015 )
• 47.6544 -2.7583 2 L'Océan , 4 place Gambetta ( town center, north end of harbour, near to the main city gate Saint-Vincent ), ☏ +33 2 97 47 22 81 . 2-star hotel. 13 rooms. View on harbour. Free Wi-Fi. Dbl €59–69, Family €66–96, +€9/person for breakfast . ( updated Jan 2018 )

Connect [ edit ]

Postal services:

• 47.656 -2.7603 2 La Poste Vannes République , 25 place de la République , ☏ 36 31 . M–W F 08:30–18:00, Th 08:30–13:15 & 14:30–18:00, Sa 08:30–12:00, closed on Sunday . ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 47.659 -2.7547 3 La Poste Vannes Saint-Patern , 11 rue Saint-Nicolas ( next Saint-Patern church ), ☏ 36 31 . M 14:00–17:00, Tu–W 09:30–13:00 & 14:00–17:00, Th 09:30–12:30 & 15:00–17:00, Sa 09:30–12:00, closed on Sunday . ( updated Jan 2018 )

Go next [ edit ]

• Golfe du Morbihan
• Rochefort-en-Terre
• Ile-aux-Moines
• The Presqu'ile
• The Suscinio Castle

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SecretMoona

A Travel and Lifestyle Blog

the Best Things to do in VANNES FRANCE

Last Updated on 24/10/2020 by secretmoona

The picture-perfect walled town of Vannes is one of the most charming sights in France’s Gulf of Morbihan . With its port, cobblestone streets, colourful half-timbered houses and fortified square, the medieval city allows visitors to discover architectural remains dating back to centuries. Whether you are planning a day trip, weekend or road trip in Brittany, this guide to the best things to do in Vannes will hopefully help with your itinerary planning. 

Why you must visit Vannes, Brittany

The city of Vannes is located at the gateway to the Gulf of Morbihan, by the Marle estuary in the south of Brittany. Vannes was once the residence of the Dukes of Brittany and has a beautiful historic centre. 

The fortified town can be visited on a guided tour aboard a little train to fully understand the history of the city or on your own. 

Best things to do and see in Vannes, France

After finding a parking spot in the city centre not far from the Town Hall, start your little discovery of Vannes with some window shopping. There are some gorgeous boutiques tucked in little alleyways. Shopping in Vannes is not like in Paris, nevertheless, you can find some budget, high-street stores and designer brands too. While hopping from shop to shop, you will be able to admire the half-timbered houses centred in the historic area. 

Explore the historic centre and admire half-timbered houses

The main attraction in Vannes is the historic centre full of half-timbered houses. The houses are so pretty that you can easily spend the whole afternoon looking at them. The city has a least 170 listed half-timbered houses, most of them located around the cathedral, the port, Place Henri IV and within Place Saint-Pierre. Many of the houses have been turned into shops or restaurants. 

The roofs of some of the half-timbered houses nearly touch, some say that they “kiss”. Take a stroll around the city, since the historic centre is entirely pedestrianised, it makes strolling even more enjoyable. 

Maison de Vannes et sa Femme

This little carving of a Breton couple in the corner of Rue Rogue and Rue Noé is one of the most photographed attractions in the town. The figures craved in a historic building were named “ Vannes et sa femme ” literally Vannes and his wife in French towards the end of the 19th century. 

Take a tour inside Cathedrale St Pierre 

The gothic-styled cathedral was built on the remains of an old Romanesque cathedral. You won’t miss it, as you are bound to pass next to it while wandering the streets. We ventured inside to admire the beautiful stained glass windows. There was a little exposition detailing the evolution of Christianity. From there, walk towards the city walls.

Walk on the ramparts de Vannes

We found the stairs leading to the city’s walls by randomly walking in a little alley (rue de Vierges) leading to a courtyard. Vannes is another magnificent walled city although the ramparts are not as imposing as those in St Malo . They still offer a unique perspective on the medieval town and the garden of the Chateau de l’Hermine. A small section of the ramparts are still standing: a section of the wall, two towers, few gates and the castle. We wandered around the ramparts and explored the garden as well. 

The garden is very pretty and picturesque so it’s well worth a little stroll. It is lovely to just sit and watch the world go by. Plus, the garden has a cooling effect which is perfect on a hot day. 

Visit a museum in Vannes 

Vannes has few museums, each offering an interesting array of collections. If you have the time to visit at least one of them, I would suggest visiting the contemporary Cohue Museum of Fine Arts . Its temporary exhibitions offer visitors the opportunity to explore various facets of visual art while the permanent exhibition exhibits works ranging from the  19th and to early 20th century. The Musée d’Histoire et d’Archéologie housed in a 16th-century chateau takes visitors to the early history of Vannes and Brittany. 

Foodie break in the Saturday market

If walking makes you hungry, then Vannes is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Brittany is known for its seafood and buttery pastries, and Vannes is no exception. There are lots of bars, restaurants and creperie to try out.  After all, it would be a shame to visit Vannes and not taste some of the delicious food on offer. Crepe, galettes, biscuits or if you have sweet tooth, kouingn-amann, a traditional Breton cake. 

On Tuesday and  Saturday mornings there is a market, Place des Lices, selling reasonably priced local produce. Be sure to walk past the fish and seafood section.

Discover some street arts

After lunch, we explor some more and came across some street arts. I am always impressed by the artists’ work. They can make the most uninspiring area of the town interesting. For more street art, check out DéDalE  Cafe.

Vannes Port de Plaisance

End your day trip to Vannes with a visit to its marina and the promenade of the Place des Lices to see sailboats and fishing boats coming and going to the harbour. The harbour is packed with boats and people enjoying a leisure stroll. There are also lots of restaurants and cafes offering pretty views of the port. Be sure to get there early to secure a nice spot on a sunny day.

Travel tips to know before visiting Vannes, France

Visit the tourist office .

Start your visit to Vannes with a trip to the tourist office . There, be sure to grab a map and other pamphlets. The professional and friendly staff will give you all the information you need to make your trip to Vannes memorable. 

How to get to Vannes

Vannes is only 2 hours 30 minutes from Paris’ Gare Montparnasse via the TGV. There are several trains from other towns and cities as well. It’s easily reachable via the motorway from other cities in Brittany like Rennes, St Malo or Nantes.  Coach services are also available with companies like Flixbus, Ouibus or Isilines. 

Getting around Vannes

Vannes is a great city to explore on foot, by bike or bus. From Vannes station, you are easily in the city centre by bus (5 minutes) or 20 minutes on foot. The port is only 10 minutes from the city centre. From there, you can reach the islands or other towns of the Gulf of Morbihan (Ile aux Moines, Auray etc…) 

Where to stay in Vannes

Thanks to the TGV and easy access via Paris, Vannes makes a great day trip option. However, to enjoy all the things that the city has to offer, it is best to stay overnight. By staying the night you can explore the port by night or see the beauty of Vannes in the early hours. There are lots of hotels and Airbnb options via Booking.com . 

Give Vannes a try, it is well worth a visit…

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20 thoughts on “ the Best Things to do in VANNES FRANCE ”

Well, this town looks charming. I’ve added it to my list!

I LOVE Brittany and spent so much time there! I also loved Vannes and reading your article just made me want to go back!

I am the same, I love Brittany. I would go back every year if I could!

What an amazing location! This is such a nice escape from the busy city like Paris! Looks just like a fairytale!

Vannes sure looks like a fairytale city! And it’s so easy to get there too.

Vannes looks like a place out of a fairy tale! Looking at all the old buildings is giving us serious wanderlust! The food looks delish.. but its France where almost all food is divine. Thank you for giving us more day trip ideas for when we go back to France 🙂

Thanks, Sophia. Food is the best in France, I agree!

It looks like such a charming historic place to visit. It definitely is on my list for the next time I visit France.

Vannes truly looks every inch a great town to visit! The colorful architecture and the market are things I would like to see for myself!!!

I just claimed having no bucket list minutes ago – and you remind me that actually Brittany is sort of on the bucket list…that I don’t have. Seriously, I think that that’s a region that’s far too much under my radar since I keep going to Paris or to the Southwest since I have friends there. But Brittany will certainly be on my next itinerary for France.

Brittany is a beautiful region with unspoiled parts. I love it since it’s not as packed during the summer season as the south for example. I recommend exploring next time you are in France.

I love the idea of taking a little tour by train. That way you can see more. The houses would be interesting, as well as the market to try all that yummy food.

That’s right. The little train is a good way to explore most of the city as well as a fun activity for kids. 🙂

I’ve been wanting to visit Brittany every since I saw it featured on Anthony Bourdain’s show. This has fueled my wanderlust SO much, I really need to take a trip there. I would love to try every food that Brittany has to offer!

France has been on my list for years, but I’ve never considered Vannes before reading this post. Looks lovely! Definitely going to look more into it now!

Oh this really does look like a fairytale town! I’ve never even heard of it, but this has made me want to go!

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I’d visit just for the Sunday market! The food looks delicious! I had never heard about Vannes before but I shall add it to my list 🙂

I am absolutely in love with these pastel half-timbered houses in the fortified square of the medieval city. Incredible architecture.

What a postcard picture town.

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DESTINATIONS , Europe , France · 22/04/2023

10 Best Things To Do In Vannes: Travel Guide, France

Last updated on October 6th, 2023 at 11:07 am

Vannes is a small walled city in the Morbihan, the lower part of Britanny in the North West of France. t is known for its rich history, picturesque old town, and beautiful natural surroundings. Vannes has a population of around 54,000 and is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience Brittany’s unique culture and traditions.

Here are the best things to do in Vannes and everything you need to know to plan your trip to this quaint city of Brittany!

Things to know about Vannes, France:

• Wear comfortable shoes: Vannes is a medieval city with winding cobblestone streets, so wear comfortable shoes that can handle uneven terrain.
• Plan your visit around the market: The Place des Lices market is held twice a week on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. It is a lively event where you can sample local foods and shop for souvenirs.
• Take a guided tour: A guided tour can give you a deeper understanding of Vannes’ history and culture. The Vannes Tourist Office offers a variety of tours, including walking, boat, and bike tours. You can also book tours online and activities in Vannes on GetYourGuide.
• Sample the local cuisine: Brittany is known for its delicious seafood, crepes, and cider. Be sure to try some of the local specialities while you are in Vannes.
• Visit the Tourist Office: The Vannes Tourist Office is located in the historic city centre and can provide you with maps, brochures, and other helpful information to make the most of your visit if you feel uneasy about something. However, you should know all the best tips and things to do in Vannes with this guide, but extra help is always welcome if you have a question during your visit!
• Is there a beach in Vannes? Yes, a few kilometres south of the city, there is the beach of Conleau, the only beach in the municipality. However, there are much prettier beaches to drive to in Morbihan.

How To Get To Vannes?

→ Get To Vannes from Paris

The train is an amazing option to reach Vannes; you can rent a car here to explore more of Brittany if you’d like.

The TGV (high-speed train) and the OUIgo (slightly cheaper than the TGV) are easy to access Vannes by train from Paris,

There is also the option of overnight or day buses if trains are too expensive for your travel budget.

→ Get To Vannes from Rennes

Vannes and Rennes are very close; the TER will take you from Rennes to Vannes and vice versa. A good option to save money is to take an OUIgo from Paris to Rennes and then a TER from Rennes to Paris.

Is One Day Enough In Vannes?

As mentioned above, Vannes is easy to access from Paris with the TGV. Therefore, Vannes is a good day trip option. However, it is best to stay overnight to fully experience what the city has to offer without rushing.

Things To Do In Vannes: Travel Guide

I spent most of my childhood summers and holidays visiting my grandparents in Brittany, and most of the year, they would spend time in Vannes.

Therefore, Vannes holds a special place in my heart, and beyond all the good memories I have there, I find the city full of charms and history; it’s a must-visit if you’re travelling in Brittany!

Here are all the best things to do in Vannes during your visit!

Visit Vannes’ Old Town

Like most French (and European) cities, there is an old part of town in Vannes, and you must visit Vannes’ old town when you’re there.

In Vannes’ Old town, you will find many coloured half-timbered houses, which makes the charm of this area. You can find plenty of elements of the past, such as the architecture of the city and the former towers. The bottom floors of the buildings are usually shops, and the upper, timbered parts are housing, which was already like that in the past.

You can find plenty of souvenir shops in this part of town; I am covering the best souvenirs to bring home from Vannes later in the post!

Place Henri IV

Located a few meters from the Saint Pierre cathedral, Place Henri IV is rather small yet impressive; you will want to take photos when you stop there. It’s a joyful area where locals and tourists like to hang around.

Place des Lices

Back then, this place was where the city hosted its jousting tournaments .

Vannes Market Da Informations: Nowadays, Place des Lices is a lively square where a bustling market occurs twice a week , on Wednesday and Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Château Gaillard – Gaillard Castle

Built during the XVth century and located in the city’s centre, this castle is home to the Archeology and History Museum. It is classified as a historical monument.

In the museum, you’ll find over 1000 objects retracing history from prehistorical times to the Middle age.

2023: currently closed for renovation

Saint Pierre Cathedral

This magnificent Gothic building dominates the city’s skyline. It features a towering spire that rises 66 meters above the ground, intricate stained-glass windows, and a beautiful interior with a vaulted ceiling. Construction began in the 13th century and continued over several centuries, resulting in a stunning mix of architectural styles.

The cathedral has many important religious artefacts, including a 17th-century organ and a carved wooden altarpiece from the 18th century. Exploring this impressive cathedral is a testament to the city’s rich history and culture.

Porte Saint Vincent

Saint Vincent is one of the city’s main gates, constructed between the late XVIth century and the beginning of the XVIIth. Its main goal was to establish a direct connection to the harbour.

This beautifully preserved gate is a notable entrance to the old town. It is adorned with intricate stone carvings depicting various scenes from the city’s history, making it a captivating architectural landmark for visitors and a testament to Vannes’ rich heritage.

I love passing through when going to and from the harbour; it feels like steeping back in time, and you can get a slight feeling of how it would have been to enter the city back in the day.

Les Remparts De Vannes & Jardins

Of course, I couldn’t write a travel guide of the best things to do in Vannes without including the city’s main landmarks. It’s a key part of the city’s history. The fortified walls of Vannes and Saint Vincent Gate have been classified as historical monuments since the 11th of October 1928.

Les Remparts de Vannes in French or the Fortified Walls of Vannes in English are important to the city. As I mentioned above, Vannes is a medieval city; Vannes is one of the rare cities that kept more than 3/4 of their former enclosure.

The fortified walls of the cities were first erected between the III and the XVIIth centuries and evolved through the centuries to adapt themselves.

Exploring the fortified walls of Vannes is one of my favourite things to do in Vannes; it is such an interesting place full of history about the city. It’s also a great spot to take a stroll and admire the flowers displayed in spring and summer.

Promenade de la Garenne

Located close to the fortified walls of Vannes, Garenne Park is a quiet garden which is nice to rest in and stroll. Its location, on top of a hill, makes it perfect for admiring the Rempart of Vannes from another angle. It is considered to be the oldest park in the city.

The hills are also amazing spots to see the fireworks during summer.

Vannes Harbour

The picturesque harbour is filled with colourful fishing boats and yachts. You can stroll along the waterfront, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many seafood restaurants, or take a boat trip to explore the islands and coastal landscapes.

There you can admire “Les vedettes de Vannes”.

A great thing to do in Vannes during summer is to get ice cream from one of the ice cream parlours on the harbour and stroll around on a warm summer evening.

La Cohue – Fine Arts Museum

This museum is, like most of the city, part of the historical monuments of France; this medieval hall was created in 1982.

This museum is housed in a former 13th-century convent and features a collection of art and artefacts from throughout Brittany’s history.

Attend Events in Vannes:

There are more things to do in Vannes; depending on when you’re travelling to Vannes, you might be able to attend some amazing events. The most famous events in Vannes are:

• Fêtes d’Arvor
• Les fêtes historiques de Vannes (not held in 2023)
• Fireworks for the 14th of July (Bastille Day in France)
• Fireworks for the 15th of August
• Vannes Christmas market

Here are 10 magical Christmas markets to check out in France!

Best Souvenirs To Buy In Vannes

This could also be alternatively titled best souvenirs to buy in Brittany in general as most of what you’ll find in Vannes; you can highly likely find the same items across Brittany. Brittany is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning coastline, and delicious cuisine.

Here is a list of the best souvenirs from a trip to Brittany .

• Galettes and Kouign-Amann: These are two of the most popular Breton pastries. Galettes are savoury buckwheat crepes, while Kouign-Amann is a buttery, caramelized pastry! They make great souvenirs to bring back home.
• C ider and Breton beer: Brittany is famous for its cider and beer production. Cider is made from apples, while Breton beer is typically made from buckwheat. Both are delicious and make great gifts for beer and cider lovers.
• Artisanal pottery: Brittany has a rich tradition of pottery-making, with many artisans producing beautiful pieces that reflect the region’s cultural heritage. You can find pottery in many styles, including traditional Breton motifs. You can also customise some adorable Breton bowls with your name on them! You can also get a bowl from which to drink cider, as in Brittany and Normandy.
• Artisanal soap: The region is home to many soap makers who produce high-quality, natural soaps using traditional methods. These make great gifts for those who enjoy natural skincare products.
• Biscuits boxes: Filled with delicious “Palets Breton”, those delicious cookies are thick and airy biscuits. Those boxes are beautiful and great to reuse for storage or decorating your house.

Overall, Brittany offers a range of unique souvenirs that reflect the region’s cultural heritage, culinary traditions, and natural beauty, and you can find many of those products in Vannes.

Conclusion On My Vannes Travel Guide:

Overall, Vannes is a wonderful destination for those interested in history, culture, and architecture. Its quaint cobbled streets, impressive landmarks, and picturesque surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Brittany.

If you have just discovered this French destination, I hope those Vannes photos make you want to visit!

I have visited Vannes many times as some of my family live there, so this place will always be close to my heart, and I love to explore the city and its fortified walls every time I visit. I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I do and it answered “what do to Vannes” if you were wondering!

Vannes is also a great starting point for a road trip in Brittany. There are many amazing cities and beaches in Brittany (including the Gulf of Morbihan, Carnac, and Quiberon) close to Vannes if you travel by car.

Also, follow me on Instagram to check out my travel adventures around Europe and more lifestyle content @cpt_lyne!

Here are some more posts about French cities you might enjoy:

• Visit Mt Saint Michel In Winter
• A day trip to Giverny to visit Monet’s house and garden
• A perfect day trip to Eguisheim, One of France’s cutest village
• Best Things To Do In Colmar, Alsace
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✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip If you need help planning your next trip, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered! Here are my favourite websites and apps to plan a trip! ✈ How To Find Flights? My favourite website for booking flights is Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights. Google Flight is also a good help when it comes to comparing flights. ✈ Where To Book Accommodations? The best sites to book accommodations are Booking.com or Expedia. They both allow you to collect points for a discount; it’s worth comparing the two as they often have different pricing for the same hotels. Another perk about Booking.com and Expedia is that you can get bundle deals for flights and accommodations, which can sometimes help you save a lot of money. And don’t worry; you can also select to add accommodation for only a specific part of the trip if you’re not only staying in one place. ✈ Best Sites To Book Activities My go-to website when I need to book an activity is GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them. I always check if the price is the same, though, as the whole point is for it to be easier but not more expensive. If I don’t find the activity I want on GetYourGuide, I like to check Viator for more options! You can also check out Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…). ✈ Other helpful travel resources – Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them. It was a great help when we needed a place to keep our luggage safely while we left the city for a few days. – TheTrainline: If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe. It is very reliant and easy to use. ————————————————————————————————————- Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!

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Explore Vannes: The Ideal Breton City

Quaint timbered buildings, modern shopping, bustling harbour cafés and stunning islands – Annaliza Davis explains why Vannes is the ideal Breton city.

If you want a city in Brittany that sums up the spirit and beauty of this region, Vannes is a hot favourite. It offers the rich cultural heritage associated with northwest France, a chic harbour that brings the sea right into the city centre, a vibrant student population, plus a sense of historic elegance. Once visited, Vannes is never forgotten.

ARCHITECTURAL GEMS

The city is named after the Veneti, a Celtic tribe who traded regularly with Britain and chose Vannes for its location at the mouth of two rivers and the easy access from here to the open seas. Although the Veneti were defeated by the Romans in 56BC, Vannes itself continued to flourish, largely thanks to its harbour.

Market in Vannes © Golfe18- A Lamoureux

It seems that Vannes earned its status as a cathedral city as early as the 5th century, with several additional buildings during the 7th and 8th centuries. A quick glance at any images of Vannes will tell you, however, that its heyday came in the Middle Ages, as the town prospered and wooden buildings began to line the cobbled streets. At that time, timber was the easiest material to source and to transport, brought from the vast forests on the outskirts of the city.

The streets of Vannes are tightly packed with medieval timbered buildings but, unlike their English counterparts, they are gaily painted in blues, greens, ochres and reds. The result is a colourful crowd of very individual personalities that make up the character of Vannes and are instantly recognisable: Place Henri IV, rue Saint-Salomon, and rue des Chanoines have some wonderful examples.

The Historic Place Henri IV © Golfe18- A Lamoureux

Look upwards as you explore and you’ll notice that many of these structures seem to grow bigger as they rise – but it’s no optical illusion. This is known as ‘corbelling’, with upper floors extending out over the street, creating sheltered walkways in front of the shops that would have occupied the ground-floor space. These ancient buildings almost seem to have leant further forward with each passing decade, like curious onlookers falling over themselves to peer at the visitors strolling by.

And if you feel that you’re being observed, it could be thanks to the various sculpted figures that gaze out from the façades. One of the most famous landmarks in the centre is known as ‘Vannes et sa femme’ (Vannes and his wife). Adorning a 16th-century timbered building at the junction of la rue du Bienheureux-Pierre-René Rogue and la rue Noé, this cheerful stone sculpture probably served as a shop sign for the merchant that once stood on this corner many centuries ago. As you continue to explore, following the quirky cobbled streets and alleyways, you might be suddenly surprised by the vast, 15th-century cathedral that is modestly tucked between other buildings.

The Cathédral Saint-Pierre is a unique blend of architectural styles, from the neo-Gothic façade to the 15th-century nave, 16th-century chapel and Renaissance-style rotunda.

Presqu’île de Rhuys is one of many beautiful islands just off the coast © A.Lamoureux – Golfe du Morbihan Vannes tourisme

Back in the 1300s, Vannes was one of Brittany’s most important towns, and Duc Jean IV (1365-1399) decided to extend the impressive ramparts to enclose nearly 25 acres within the city walls, as well as building the Château de l’Hermine to house the dukes of Brittany, until 1458 when they transferred to Nantes. Vannes’ original castle eventually fell into disrepair; in 1697 Louis XIV donated the ruins to the town, and its stones were repurposed to repair other structures in the city and build the harbour quays. In 1798 the remains were demolished by an entrepreneur, Julien Lagorce, who built a hotel-restaurant on the site. Even though today’s structure is the Lagorce Hotel, locals still call it the Château de l’Hermine. To get a feel for the grandeur of the original château, visit the Tour du Connétable, which dates from the early 1400s and remains a beautiful piece of architecture. This tower once housed the ‘connétable’ – the armies of the Breton dukes – and even became a prison during the French Revolution. Despite its combative history, it offers amazing, unobstructed views across the city rooftops and now houses a fascinating roster of cultural exhibitions.

In sharp contrast to the medieval architecture, Vannes’ Town Hall (the Hôtel de Ville) is a glorious neo-Renaissance example of symmetry, with columns, marble staircase and a vast reception area. Dating from the 1880s it epitomises French architectural elegance and stands as an imposing symbol of municipal power.

HERITAGE WALKS

On your first visit to this beautiful city, there’s a good chance that you’ll miss the château ramparts and impressive gardens that line the side of the city leading down to the harbour. Frequently used as a venue for events in summer, these gardens are free to explore and provide a generous area to relax, enjoy the shade or simply walk through towards the harbour. As you pass from the gardens to the port, look for the Garenne wash-house where locals used to wash their clothes in the River Marle. It dates from 1817 but looks ancient and is a beautifully photogenic spot. Ask the tourist office for the route from Porte Saint-Vincent to Porte Saint-Jean, and enjoy a leisurely heritage-lined stroll of under 1km that will take less than an hour but provide countless photo opportunities along the way.

July Fete Medievale © A.Lamoureux – Golfe du Morbihan Vannes tourisme

CULTURE AND SHOPPING

Within the heart of Vannes, you’ll find an entertaining variety of shops, not only the national chains you would expect but also several independent boutiques, frequently tucked down side-streets and winding alleyways, so it’s worth spending time getting lost.

This is a creative city, with the CréalOuest craft market on summer Sundays and Les Nocturnes des Artisans every Friday evening in July and August, when craft stalls line the harbour.

There are also two museums in Vannes : Château Gaillard is a mansion from the 15th century and now houses the museum of archaeology, but the most famous is La Cohue, dating from the 13th century. In medieval France, ‘cohue’ was the name for a marketplace, and, over the centuries, this building has been used as a market, the Duke’s courtrooms, a court of justice and even the Breton Parliament from 1675 to 1689. These days, it is the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a generous, stone-built exhibition space with ancient arches and a fabulous atmosphere.

Vannes is fantastic for fresh seafood such as oysters © Golfe18 – A Lamoureux

A CITY FOR SEAFARERS

You can’t separate Vannes from the ever-present sea, the source of its prosperity in the Middle Ages, and a top attraction for tourists even today. The Port de plaisance is the perfect place to people-watch, particularly from the curved line of pavement cafés which act as ringside seats as well as offering a hungry traveller everything from chic French cuisine to cheap and cheerful student fare and ice-cream cones. Settle down, watch the bobbing boats, sip an apéritif and if you have the energy, follow the quayside 3.6km to discover Île de Conleau (or there are shuttle buses if you prefer not to walk!). This ‘almost-island’ is connected to the mainland by a walkway but certainly keeps an island feel, with its own little beach, shady trees and lido-style saltwater pool. For a taste of the Atlantic, food-lovers are sure to appreciate the local seafood : oysters, mussels, fresh fish, langoustines, crab and lobster are widely available, although you might need to book in advance for the full seafood platter. Try the Restaurant de Roscanvec, Restaurant L’Eden, or the charming Chez la Mère 6 Sous and bring the sea to your plate!

Of course, you cannot describe Vannes without mentioning the stunning archipelago of surrounding islands, the Archipel des Glénan . In summer, the turquoise waters dotted with tiny islands seem like a tropical paradise, where you can go scuba-diving, kayaking, paddle-boarding or even take a cruise on a boat with a transparent bottom. Pack a picnic, take a boat trip and stop off on Saint-Nicolas for long beaches of fine sand, crystal-clear water and pure relaxation.

Historic Sculpture Vannes et sa Femme © A.Lamoureux – Golfe du Morbihan Vannes tourisme

MUST-DO VANNES EXPERIENCES

Short on time? Check out our selection of the very best Vannes has to offer..

Rooftops of Vannes © SaintPattern@dherbreteau

SOAK IN THE HISTORY Whether you follow a route suggested by the tourist office or simply follow your nose, give yourself time to explore the different architectural periods of this city: the medieval timbers, the decorative stone sculptures, the meandering cobbled alleyways and the large-scale, neo-Renaissance grandeur of the city’s later buildings.

Cafe Life in Vannes © A.Lamoureux – Golfe du Morbihan Vannes tourisme

PEOPLE-WATCH AT THE PORT This is an understated pleasure, lingering in beautiful surroundings, watching the world go by and enjoying the French tradition of ‘ un verre sur la terrasse ’… in fact, it’s almost a compulsory activity in Vannes, so it would be rude not to.

Vannes fruit Market © Golfe18 – A Lamoureux

MARKETS AND FRESH PRODUCE For the most authentic open-air experience, aim for Wednesday or Saturday morning and browse the bright stalls of fruit, vegetables, fish, flowers and freshly-baked bread. On other mornings, head to Les Halles des Lices covered market (place des Lices) and the fish market on Place de la Poissonnerie, and create your own menu!

Vannes Historic City Centre NIGHT Chateau gardens © A.Lamoureux – Golfe du Morbihan Vannes tourisme

LIVE MUSIC IN THE GARDENS Even if you’re not here during the summer Jazz Festival, you’re sure to hear live music in Vannes, especially in the Jardins des Remparts.

Vannes Seascape airshot © A Lamoureux – Golfe du Morbihan Vannes tourisme

ENJOY ISLAND LIFE Whether you stroll down to Île de Conleau or take a boat trip for the full experience of the Glénan Archipelago, you should definitely see the islands while you’re in Vannes. Their Caribbean-style spaciousness provides a breath-taking counterpoint to the cosy and historic city centre.

From France Today magazine

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• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Honeymoon spot
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1. Compagnie du Golfe

2. Le Petit Train de Vannes

3. Connecti Sail

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6. Tour du Golfe du Morbihan

7. La Photo Sabotée

8. 47°Nautik

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11. mes petites visites au beurre salé.

12. Morbihan Loisirs Côtiers

13. Reveva Vtc

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Wander through the narrow medieval streets of Vannes , cycle along the Nantes-Brest Canal, island-hop between the isles of the Gulf , relish the delicious local salted butter caramel , lose yourself among the amazing Carnac menhirs, explore the world of offshore sailing at Lorient, explore the legendary Brocéliande forest , re-live the Passage to India at Port-Louis , experience the charm of the Rhuys and Quiberon peninsulas… enjoy a great getaway!

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