Rennes, Brittany

Rennes is the capital of Brittany, and with two universities plus a prestigious medical school, it is a predictably lively place offering a wealth of entertainment and leisure facilities.

Great Nightlife

The nightlife tends to centre mostly around the cafes and bars, a great deal of which provide a diverse mixture of French rock, jazz, and traditional Breton music as entertainment for their customers. In early July, a party atmosphere really engulfs the city when the ‘Les Tombées de la Nuit’, a spectacular street festival celebrating theatre, music, poetry and dance, gets under way.

Things to do

Much of the original, medieval Rennes was destroyed in a great fire of 1720. As a result, it is now consists largely of fine 18th century architecture, with just a few pockets of remaining medieval influence, particularly around the Place de Lices. This square was once the site of fierce jousting tournaments. These days, every Saturday morning it is the setting for one of the largest markets in France, and it is only prices that are waiting to be knocked down.

Just outside the city is the Forest of Rennes, a place of incredible beauty and wild life. Well marked trails offer walkers comprehensive guidance, and you’ll come across many well appointed rest places and picnic areas.