Car Hire Rennes Airport

Drive out of the airport and join the N136, the ring road that runs right around Rennes. From here, nine major motorways and dual carriageways branch off in every direction. Follow the E3 south towards Nantes or the D175 north to the island of Mont-Saint-Michel. Motor fans can head east along the E50 to Le Mans and eventually Paris, or west down the N24 further into Brittany.

Head straight into Rennes itself to discover the mix of narrow, cobbled streets that characterise the historic quarter and more modern, spacious neighbourhoods. Tree-lined boulevards lead from the outskirts into the busy centre on a one-way system. Be aware of the pedestrianised zones in the old town too.

Wherever you’re driving, remember to stick to the righthand side and ensure everyone is wearing a seatbelt at all times. The tight turns on the medieval streets in the centre mean the 50km/h speed limit is understandable.

In France, speed limits on most other roads vary depending on the weather. The dual carriageways and non-toll motorways, such as the N24, have a limit of 110km/h (100km/h in wet weather), while it increases for toll motorways to 130km/h (110km/h). Always check the signs to be sure, but two-lane roads on the outskirts of Rennes’ centre that are less built-up will usually have a limit of 80kmh/h (or 70km/h in rain).

Car parking is available both on the street and in central car parks. Tariffs change but the majority do charge, from 15 minutes to 24 hours. Alternatively, you can park on the outskirts where there are some free spaces and walk in to see the central sights.

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 17^th 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 6^th 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 20^th 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.