Brittany’s vibrant capital of Rennes (External link) is just two hours from Paris by TGV and less than an hour’s drive from the coast. It’s a town of the past and the future – loyal to its 2,000-year heritage, and forward-thinking thanks to its popular university and numerous annual festivals. Get lost in the maze of streets in the medieval old town, admiring rows of higgledy-piggledy half-timbered houses; buy fresh market produce at the magnificent Saturday market in Place des Lices; and dine and drink to your heart’s content at the lively bars on Rue St-Michel and in numerous excellent restaurants.
For a true Breton experience, go on a treasure hunt in the streets of Rennes (External link) .
Brest (External link) is Brittany’s second-largest administrative centre and an important naval port, nestled in one of France’s most beautiful natural harbours. Gaze at the amazing Pont de l'Iroise bridge, an amazing feat of architecture that opened in 1994; take a stroll along the lively quays as far as the castle museum; and leave time for a visit to Océanopolis, the only ocean discovery centre of its kind in Europe with enormous aquariums and a ‘seal clinic’. You can explore the city on foot, by bike, by bus or tram or even from the sky on the first urban cable car, offering the best views.