Whether you’re visiting Rennes for a couple of days, a week or longer, hiring a car gives you the flexibility to explore the city and surrounding Brittany. Historic and modern cultures come together to form a beautiful variety of attractions in this northern pocket of France.
Amazing architecture
With history spanning more than 2000 years, Rennes retains many intricately designed buildings from eras gone by. The Parliament of Brittany is one of the finest examples, designed by the same architect as the Luxembourg Palace in Paris. Found east of the old town, it boasts similarly grand features both outside and in, including the gilded coffered ceiling in the main hall, transported over from Paris during construction in the 17th century.
A prime example of neoclassical architecture is Rennes Cathedral (or Cathédrale Saint-Pierre). This site, on the cusp of the historic quarter, has been home to religious buildings since the 6th century but the current cathedral was built in 1845. Its twin towers and columns create an imposing presence, matched by the interior splendour of its painted ceiling and magnificent organ.
From a similar era is the impressive Opera House, opened in 1836. Standing tall in Place de la Mairie opposite the city hall, its curved architecture represents the classic style of the time. Inside, the ceiling was painted in the 20th century by blind artist Jean-Julien Lemordant.
Interactive museums
Les Champs Libres is another alluring architectural feat, though in a modern and quirky way. It’s also home to one of Rennes’ most exciting museums. L’Espace des Sciences hosts plenty of exhibitions, talks and events but it’s the interactive elements that are really exciting. Experiment in Merlin’s Laboratory, play educational touchscreen games, and star gaze in the planetarium.
Also in Les Champs Libres is the Museum of Brittany. With more than 300,000 items in the collection from a variety of time periods, it can’t be ignored. Attractions range from Iron Age statues to coins minted by the medieval Duchy of Brittany.
Drive 15 minutes from the centre to Ecomusée du Pays de Rennes to be taken on a journey like no other. The 500-year-old farm is a living museum, using its rustic farmhouse setting to help guide visitors through the region’s rich history. Outside there are parts of machinery, farmyard animals, beehives and a kitchen garden to see.
Book in Bécherel
Sitting in the heart of Brittany, Rennes is well-placed for day trips to nearby towns, cities and villages of interest. Europe’s third-ever official Book Town, Bécherel is around half an hour’s drive north and a must for avid readers. There’s a book market on the first Sunday of every month, and various events throughout the year, along with a stack of bookshops, considering the town’s small size.
It’s not just books though - Bécherel is part of Brittany’s castle trail, with the Chateau de Cardeuc and its wonderful grounds that are open to the public. Hiking and cycling trails connect this landmark to the countryside and other towns and villages in the region. Try out the local dishes, from crepes to fresh baguettes, relaxing in a chic café as you indulge.
Arrange car hire at Rennes Airport and start planning all your adventures in and around the capital of Brittany.